Here’s What Business Casual Actually Means For Women

Everyone needs a button-down that’s as comfortable as it is chic, and this one checks all the right boxes – plus, it’s offered up to size 40.

Pencil skirts may seem stiff, but they’re actually fairly versatile. Pair them with an oversized turtleneck in the winter or a T-shirt in the summer to keep things as fun as possible.

An ankle-length pant feels modern and young while still being appropriate for almost any office environment. Consider pairing with a T-shirt  or cashmere sweater to complete the look.

A classic A-line dress that is comfortable enough to wear all day is a must-have for any business casual wardrobe.

Another wardrobe staple for any business casual wardrobe is a dress that can go from a meeting to a date night flawlessly. This highly-rated faux leather tie neck dress would look just as good with flats as it would with sneakers or heels.

It’s always worth having a layering piece in your closet to give an outfit a more professional edge. Plus, it looks just as good with jeans as it does with dress pants.

Rain or shine (or snow), this belted midi dress by Something Navy is office-friendly. It hangs well below the "two inches above the knee" requirement recommended by Garcia and the long sleeves and higher neck line are appropriately conservative.

According to Garcia, a closed-toe pointy pump in black or nude is a must. "They are timeless, universally considered professional and match with every outfit — immediately adding polished style to any look," she explains. 

The midi skirt is slightly more comfortable and versatile than the pencil skirt, and it should be a must-have for any business casual wardrobe.

White button-downs are a year-round staple, according to Garcia. "Pair them under your blazers with dark denim or black slacks/faux leather leggings in the fall/winter," she says. "In the spring/summer, team your white button down with crisp khaki slacks or a midi skirt."

Cute and comfortable, flats are a win, always. "While heels can add an element of high-style, being on your feet all day in the extra height can get tiring," Garcia says. Off-price stores like Marshalls are the stylist's go-to destinations for on-trend yet refined flats with texture and embellishments, at affordable prices. "With both comfort and style, flats are a perfect supplement to the pointy pumps."

We all know that one minute you're hot and the next your office suddenly feels like Antartica. We suggest keeping this staple black cardigan on your chair, because you never know when you'll need to throw it on.

"Use handbags as a way to express your personal style," Garcia says. "A pop of color or pattern on your bag is a practical way to look fashion-forward and appropriate in the office." In addition to being chic, this mustard-colored tote is both affordable and large enough to fit all of your work essentials.

When shopping for work jeans, always avoid lighter wash jeans or ripped denim, Garcia recommends. The darker color looks sleeker and more professional. 

"A lightweight scarf can also add a touch of color or pattern to your look," Garcia says. This sheer leopard scarf can be your go-to whether it's summer or winter. 

According to Garcia, chunky turtlenecks are a staple for wintertime. And with this cold weather, we bet you'll be looking forward to throwing this oversized sweater on before work.