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How to Dress

Business professional, business casual, and casual: the three dress codes you'll run into most, and how to tell which one a workplace actually expects.

Quick rule of thumb: when in doubt, dress one notch more formal than you think you need to. It's far less awkward to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Most formal

Business Professional

The most formal workplace dress code. Think interviews, law firms, banks, and formal client meetings.

Typically includes:

  • Tailored suit or blazer with matching trousers/skirt
  • A tailored dress or long skirt in place of a suit
  • Button-down dress shirt or blouse
  • Tie (optional but common for men)
  • Closed-toe dress shoes, polished
  • Minimal, neutral accessories
Middle ground

Business Casual

The most common everyday office dress code. Polished, but not stiff. Common at internships, startups, and offices most days of the week.

Typically includes:

  • Blazer, cardigan, or sweater (optional)
  • Collared shirt, blouse, or polo
  • Dress pants or a knee-length skirt
  • Loafers, flats, or clean closed-toe shoes
  • No jeans, sneakers, or graphic tees (usually)
Most relaxed

Casual

Relaxed, everyday wear. Common at some startups on casual Fridays, informal team events, or when a company explicitly says "casual."

Typically includes:

  • T-shirt, henley, or casual top
  • Jeans or comfortable pants
  • Sneakers or casual shoes
  • Still clean, fitted, and free of rips or logos with offensive content

🔍 How do I know which one to wear?

You're not expected to guess. Companies almost always tell you, directly or indirectly:

  • Check the company's website. Many "careers" or "about us" pages include photos of employees, or an explicit dress code policy in their employee handbook or FAQ.
  • Read how they invite you. If a recruiter emails "come in business casual" or "dress professionally," that's your answer. If nothing is said, it's fine (and smart) to just ask: "What should I wear for the interview?" is a completely normal question.
  • Look at the industry. Finance, law, and consulting lean business professional. Tech, marketing, and startups often lean business casual or casual. Interviews are usually one step more formal than the daily office dress code.
  • When still unsure, ask or overdress slightly. Employees you'll meet would rather see you take it seriously than show up underdressed.