On the other hand, flip-flops and baseball caps aren't right for a professional setting.
Most people live much farther from their offices than they did before 2020. But that doesn't mean you won't come across the sometimes dreaded, often ambiguous "business casual" dress code again.
Business Insider asked two stylists and three designers to share which clothing pieces are always considered business casual and which never will be to help demystify the term.
Here's what they said.
Trousers are a wardrobe must. Trousers are a good staple, and they come in different materials and colors.
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Trousers — for any gender — are always appropriate for work, according to Monica Diaz, personal stylist and owner of Monica Diaz Mode.
"These can be in wool for winter and cotton in warmer weather," she told BI.
Polo shirts offer comfort and professionalism.Polo shirts are typically associated with golf, but they're great for business-casual events too.
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A polo is clean-cut and nice without being overcomplicated, according to Melony Huber, founder and design director of La Peony.
"A polo can take you straight from the meeting room to the networking event or out to dinner or golf," the designer told BI.
She said it's a versatile top that should be on everyone's list when packing for a business-casual work event.
Chino pants strike a balance between formal and casual. Chinos can be a comfortable option to reach for.
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Chino pants are a great midway point between casual and formal, according to Patrick Kenger, personal and celebrity stylist and image consultant at Pivot.
Diaz also touted the simple pants and said they should fit well (not too oversized) and be neutral in color (black, blue, brown, or tan).
Tailored dresses are an easy and appropriate option. Opting for a tailored dress can help you look more professional.
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According to Kenger, tailored dresses are widely considered to be an appropriate choice for business-casual environments.
"It's a good idea to opt for styles that are not too tight or revealing, and perhaps consider pairing it with a blazer or cardigan for some added warmth and polish," he told BI.
Loafers are great for a business-casual look. Finding comfortable and professional shoes can be hard, but loafers are a safe bet.
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Footwear can seem especially challenging when it comes to putting together a business-casual look, but Kenger said loafers are a fairly safe bet.
Opt for leather or suede options in neutral colors.
A blazer can instantly elevate your ensemble. If you put a blazer over a T-shirt, the whole outfit looks professional.
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A well-fitted blazer adds a touch of class to any business-casual outfit, according to Kenger.
"Tailoring is a good move here, as is investing in a piece with a neutral color like navy, black, or charcoal gray for maximum wearability," the designer told BI.
Sweaters are always a safe bet. Sweaters can look polished, but they'll also keep you warm in chilly office spaces.
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Sweaters have been a go-to for decades of professionals, according to Huber. Plus, they're comfortable and layer nicely.
"I would recommend a fitted sweater that is not too baggy or oversized — otherwise, it makes it feel a little too casual, like loungewear," the designer told BI.
On the other hand, flip-flops are never the right shoe choice. Flip-flops aren't appropriate for the office, business meetings, or other business-casual events.
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Casual sandals, like flip flops or slides, are never considered business casual, according to Jamie Lewin, fashion designer and founder of Vetted.
Consider more formal footwear options such as loafers or ballet flats, which can provide similar comfort levels without sacrificing style.
Graphic T-shirts can be distracting and inappropriate. Stick to solid colors or simple patterns on T-shirts.
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According to Britt Barkwell, designer and cofounder of T. LINE, graphic or slogan T-shirts are often considered distracting.
"You never want your clothing choices to start a conversation," she told BI.
Instead, Lewin recommended pairing a plain round or V-neck T-shirt with a blazer if you're after comfort.
Save your distressed denim for the weekend. Ripped jeans aren't professional-looking.
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Oversized or distressed denim shouldn't be worn to work, according to Barkwell. Instead, reach for a more appropriate fit and wash.
Huber recommended classic dark-wash denim without any embellishments.
Ball caps and snapbacks are not appropriate for work.Hats, in general, aren't needed in indoor settings — and ball caps are absolutely a no.
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