This post was originally published on July 28th, 2016.
The business-casual dress code is one of the most difficult to define, and that might have something to do with the fact that it's a complete oxymoron — seriously, how can one be "business" and "casual," at the same time? Plus, it depends on where you work or where you're going. For some, the look may veer more toward the uber-professional. For others, a more laid-back, less dressed up aesthetic is the norm. Either way, you've likely found yourself in front of your closet at one point or another with a giant question mark hovering over your head.
To navigate the business casual world, we've decided our definition includes looking polished, while still leaving a little wiggle room for fun via subtle ruffles, prints, and unexpected cuts. As long as your outfit adheres to your office dress code, there's no reason to not get creative. That's why we're supplying you with the essentials that will get your workwear wardrobe on track. With a collection like this, that question mark is about to disappear.
A versatile printed trouser goes a long way.
Gorman Penn Pant, $199, available at Gorman.
It's bootie season, and you need to find one that's polished enough for the 9-to-5.
Cecelia New York Marianne High, $245, available at Cecilia New York.
Silk tops are an easy go-to that still looks polished.
Lou & Grey Luster Crossback Top, $69.50, available at Lou & Grey.
Slip-on loafers are the mullet of the business-casual world: business in the front, party in the back.
Nicholas Kirkwood Beya Grained-leather Backless Loafers, $348, available at MatchesFashion.com.
A badass blazer is a must.
Rachel Comey Needham Blazer, $690, available at Rachel Comey.
Give your slacks a casual twist with a more oversized fit and waist-tie detail.
COS x Agnes Martin Tie Detail Straight-Leg Trousers, $125, available at COS.
An LBD that can take you from work to happy hour. Need we say more?
Curriculum The Poplin Doll Dress, $165, available at Curriculum.
Try an oxford with a metallic touch.
Miista Shantel, $295, available at Need Supply Co.
A wrap dress will never let you down.
AYR The Collapse Dress, $395, available at AYR.
You can wear your PJs to work.
Nanette Lepore Silky PJ Pant, $398, available at Nanette Lepore.
A chic trench is a must for the transitional season.
Front Row Shop Beige Wide Sleeve Pocket Trench Coat, $79, available at Front Row Shop.
Try a knit dress for your next casual Friday.
Petite Studio Nolita Pola Knit Dress, $89, available at Petite Studio.
A layerable cashmere turtleneck will be your best friend come fall and winter (and a great way to make non-work-appopriate wardrobe pieces work-appropriate).
& Other Stories Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater, $195, available at & Other Stories.
For those with a more classic office dress code, try a less buttoned-up take on the pencil skirt.
Finery London Deloraine Tie Split Front Jersey Skirt, $65, available at Finery London.
Experiment with trend-forward tops that are still sophisticated, like this blouse with exaggerated sleeves.
H&M Wide Sleeve Cotton Blouse, $29.99, available at H&M.
Shorts probably won't fly at the office, but structured culottes sure will.
Tibi Anson Stretch Cargo Pants, $365, available at Tibi.
Find yourself wearing the same-old striped button-up every single day? Swap out your classic style for one with a fun print or detailing.
Equipment Collarless Slim Signature Clean Shirt, $298, available at Equipment.
Never underestimate the power of a simple (yet sturdy) black tote.
Less Bore Libe Tote, $420, available at Nyerie.
This dress is giving us Goth Taylor Swift vibes, and we surprisingly don't hate it.
Opening Ceremony Lotus Check Dropped Ruffle Zip Dress, $425 $128, available at Opening Ceremony.
A pleated wool skirt is the ultimate transitional staple.
Babaton Jude Skirt, $195, available at Aritzia.
Ballet flats are back, and this color-blocked pair with contrasting trim definitely has you thinking twice about your worn-in black ones.
J.Crew Gemma Suede Flats, $98, available at J.Crew.
Just because you're going business-casual doesn't mean you can't make a statement. Try a refined single earring for something subtle but sleek.
124 Numbering Earring, $209 $188, available at W Concept.
The. Perfect. Layering. Piece. (But...actually.)
Everlane Silk Tank, $58, available at Everlane.
If you're going to do a tee, try a dressy version.
Finery Litcham Corsage Detail Jersey Top, $45, available at Finery.
These trousers look like business as usual...until your eyes get to the surprise at the bottom.
Reformation Mesa Pant, $178, available at Reformation.
Mules: The secret to wearing heels without the pain.
Topshop Nino Leopard Print Mules, $100, available at Topshop.
A midi-ring can add some subtle sparkle to your more reserved looks.
Amarilo Jewelry Faye Ring, $114, available at Local Eclectic.
Any 9-to-5-er's BFF.
C/MEO Collective Break Even Skirt, $145 $108.99, available at Need Supply Co.
Try wearing an oversized button-up as a tunic over some trousers.
Nois Two Color Stripe Shirt, $90, available at Nois.
Who says jumpsuits are only for the weekends? This retro option still checks all the work-appropriate boxes.
Staud Ziggy Jumper, $265, available at Staud.
Any piece you can wear multiple ways is a win — break this dress out for a Friday, or throw it over some sharp trousers for a Monday.
Zara Long Tunic with Slits, $49.90, available at Zara.
Get your hands on a polished black bag that still has a super-modern feel and silhouette (not to mention an adorable charm).
Camelia Black Leather Shoulder Bag, $116, available at Camelia.
If you can get away with a pair of jeans at work, stick to a dark wash with minimal distressing and a sophisticated cut.
3x1 M2 Military Cropped Jeans, $265, available at Moda Operandi.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
The Sneaker Styles Flooding Your Instagram Feed
Every Bit Of Bling You Need For Dressing Up This Holiday Season