09.10.07
Business Casual Broken Down
If you are a woman working in the corporate world, you have probably pondered the question of what business casual actually means. Here, according to Judith Rasband’s Style Scale is a pretty easy definition for you to keep in mind.
The Softly Tailored Level of Dress
Key Element = The Jacket
Predominantly tailored design elements, mixed and softened with some untailored design elements. It’s the mix, or combination, of design elements from different levels that creates the message appropriate for business casual.
Messages - Accessible, influential, capable, receptive, less formal, consistent, dependable.
Examples - Unmatched skirt and jacket with shirt or blouse; unmatched dress and jacket or blazer; unmatched slacks and jacket with shirt or blouse; shirt dress.
Casual Tailored Level of Dress
Key Element = A Collar
Messages - Approachable, influential, flexible, cooperative, informal, conscientious, relaxed.
Examples - Skirt and shirt with collar, with sweater or vest; pants and shirt with collar with sweater or vest; skirt and shirt with collar or polo shirt; pants and shirt with collar or polo shirt or turtleneck; knit dress; float dress or jumper.