For business casual work, pair tailored trousers with a knit or button-up shirt and loafers.
Use your office dress code as the starting point. These guides compare leggings and shorts with tailored trousers, knits and shirts for the Work occasion.
Published outfit guides
Common questions
What is a simple business casual outfit?
The published work guides show tailored trousers with a cream knit and loafers, and linen trousers with a light blue shirt and loafers. These give you two starting points without requiring a suit. Choose the combination that fits your workplace, remembering that ATE evaluates the visible outfit rather than your office’s specific dress policy.
Can I wear leggings to a business casual office?
The leggings guide describes them as gym or lounge wear in most business casual settings, especially with sneakers. Its saved suggestions include tailored black trousers and black loafers. For similar comfort, the guide suggests ponte or pull-on tailored trousers. A long sweater can make leggings feel more covered, but it does not replace checking the office dress code.
Are shorts okay for work in hot weather?
Some relaxed offices allow tailored shorts, but the published work guide describes denim shorts with a tank and sandals as weekend clothing. Its warmer-weather alternatives include linen or cotton trousers, a midi skirt and a shirt dress. Check your own workplace’s rules before choosing shorts; a photo score cannot confirm that a particular office permits them.
What shoes go with business casual trousers?
Loafers appear with both the knit-and-trouser outfit and the linen-trouser outfit in the published work guides. The leggings example also has a saved suggestion to replace white sneakers with black loafers. Flats are another option named in the warm-weather work guide. Use those examples as starting points, then follow your office’s expectations for footwear.