Style Counsel
Smart Casual
Picture a professor giving a lecture. His look must support his presentation and properly represent all the time, energy, analysis and intellect of his work. Smart casual is hardly a clear cut concept. We’ve seen definitions that insist on dress pants. Others encourage well-pressed khakis, even good jeans. But most agree you cannot go wrong with a long-sleeve dress shirt, and a belt that matches the shoes. The shirt can be worn with an open collar, ideally with an undershirt. Loafers or rubber soled leather shoes are the best footwear choice. Sandals, runners or worn-out shoes don’t cut it. You should still be able to throw a sport coat on with this look.
Business Casual
Like the Smart Casual look, Business Casual implies something a little more relaxed but still office-appropriate. The exact definition varies from industry to industry. The financial sector may require a jacket and tie. Khakis and a polo shirt may work for more creative fields. If your office has declared Casual Friday, human resources should have clear guidelines. Your presentation must still convey professionalism. At its most relaxed, Business Casual is a look a sport coat could easily complete. If you normally wear a suit and tie to the office, a conservative interpretation of Business Casual would be to take the tie out of the equation.
The Job Interview
Your first impression counts. Every industry has a dress code. If you’re interviewing in the banking or law professions, best wear a suit and tie. Navy, dark grey or black are appropriate colours. Your tie should be conservative. Your shirt should anchor your look. Your belt should match your shoes. Everything should be pressed and polished. If the company you’re interviewing with is less formal, business casual is a good rule of thumb. Well pressed slacks or khakis with a well-pressed, button down shirt ought to make a good impression. Your belt should still match your shoes. A briefcase or proper portfolio for documents pulls a look together much better than a dog-eared manila folder. Go easy on the cologne. This is not where you want to leave your scent.
Semi-Formal
Wear a tuxedo to this occasion and you will likely be overdressed. An invitation that requests semi-formal attire expects male guests to dress in a full suit and tie. The tie could be straight or bow, worn with a dress shirt. The semi-formal suit should be made of wool, cashmere or a wool blend. Linen and lighter fabrics aren’t quite dressy enough for semi-formal.