Get Professional: Spring Business Casual

This article was contributed by Kelly Budisch

Business casual means exactly what it says; it combines the best of professional attire with the comfort of your weekend wardrobe. When constructing your perfect business casual outfit, it is easy to get lost in the neutrals of the professional world. However, you do not have to sacrifice style in a business setting. To welcome in the spring season and a new quarter of interviews, here are a few ways Cal Poly gals can play up their best business casual.

From Class to Work

There is much debate about incorporating pants instead of trousers in your business casual outfit. However, balancing your favorite pair of black, straight leg pants with a structured blazer will take the lazy out of your look. If you are worried about trading in your trousers, do some investigating and research the industry’s dress code. Keep the look young and fresh by tucking in a bright button-up blouse (spring trend: emerald). Avoid sheer fabrics that show too much skin, loud prints, and revealing necklines. Show your personal style by adding cute flats and gold accessories.

I Mean Business

You can’t go wrong with a classic pair of trousers. To adjust the look to the spring season, ditch the black and search for neutral pants. Pair with a bright button-up shirt by tucking the ends into your pants for a professional silhouette. Play with style by adding fun flats (spring trend: subtle metallics) and cute accessories (spring trend: black & white).

The Diva

An additional classic bottom is the pencil skirt. For the best fit, find a skirt that hugs your widest area and drops straight down above your knee. Pair your skirt with a feminine top. Look for tops with interesting details such as print or shape (spring trend: peplum top). With a louder top, tone down the look with a solid cardigan. Complete your ensemble with simple heels and elegant accessories.

Business Casual in SLO

Once you have an idea of how you want to construct your outfit, now comes the fun part: shopping! Keep your eyes peeled for pieces in these college budget friendly shops around SLO.

• Blazers: Forever 21, Banana Republic
• Trousers: Ross, Old Navy, Banana Republic, Kohl’s
• Blouses:  Old Navy, Target, Forever 21, Ross, Kohl’s
• Shoes: Target, Ross
• Accessories: Forever 21, Target

• business casual
• internships
• professional
• style