Business managers and human resource professionals have been bemoaning the difficulty of maintaining a business casual dress environment for the past several years. Although the dot.com implosion has basically eliminated the jeans and tee shirt approach to business dressing, many men still struggle with the concept of business casual. This week we will focus on putting together a business casual wardrobe, keeping in mind one basic concept: going to work and playing golf are two entirely different activities, and should be dressed for accordingly.

Start with 4-5 pairs of dress trousers. 100% wool trousers are most appropriate for a business environment. Gabardine is the perfect September through May fabric, while 120’s tropical merino wool is a good choice for warmer seasons and climates. During the winter months, wool flannel trousers will help keep you both comfortable and in style. If you prefer an alternative fabric during the warmest times of year, both linen and silk choices are available and appropriate. Gray, navy, brown, tan, olive and black shades provide a great deal of flexibility in matching shirts, knitwear and sportcoats.

The sportcoat is a mainstay of the business casual wardrobe. Wool and silk fabrications are both quite popular, depending on the time of year. Select a solid or subtle pattern; stick to tasteful, easy to coordinate colors. Choose one garment in the gray/black family and another in a shade of green. A navy blazer, of course, is always appropriate.

Almost any pattern or color woven dress shirt will work in the business casual environment. Don’t be afraid to wear a necktie occasionally to demonstrate your independence. If you are conservative by nature, or simply undecided, a timeless and classic buttondown collar pinpoint dress shirt is always acceptable. Finally, add a pullover or cardigan vest to complete your look.

Fine gauge knits, in a polo, crew, v-neck or mock turtle style, are an excellent alternative to a woven dress shirt. Merino wool is the ideal fall/winter fabric; while spun silk is a great spring/summer alternative. Our favorite luxury blend, silk cashmere, is a comfortable medium weight for multi-seasonal wear. Fine gauge cotton is also appropriate throughout the year. We suggest that you leave the golf shirts in the closet during the week.

Finally, round out your business casual wardrobe with a selection of pima cotton tee shirts. They serve as a great layering piece for both dress shirts and knits. Add several pairs of shoes, belts and socks, and you will be ready to take on the business casual monster.

If you have any additional questions, please email us at PFadvisor@paulfredrick.com

Click here to view a selection of business casual pieces from the Paul Fredrick Collection.