Business casual
There is no general agreement on the definition of the term "business casual."
"It depends on several factors including the industry, size of the company, number of employees, amount of interaction between employees and customers, geography, climate, culture, and average age of the workforce," Price said.
At most companies, however, the "business casual" dress code encourages employees to project a "professional, business-like image while enjoying the advantage of more casual and relaxed clothing," Price explains.
Appropriate business casual dress typically includes slacks or khakis, dress shirt or blouse, open-collar or polo shirt, optional tie or seasonal sport coat, a dress or skirt at knee-length or below, a tailored blazer, knit shirt or sweater, and loafers or dress shoes that cover all or most of the foot.
Always make sure your clothing is ironed and not too revealing.
Smart casual
"Smart casual" is also interpreted differently in many workplaces.
At most companies, however, the "smart casual" dress code is a step up from "business casual," but not as formal as "boardroom attire." It's neat and professional — but still informal.
"The key look in this dress code is a chic, put-together ensemble," Price said. "It fashionably combines elements from the other dress codes, such as a nice pair of dark slacks, with a coordinated dressy blouse, jacket, and scarf, or a nice pair of trousers with a button-down shirt and sport coat."
HR expert Susan M. Heathfield writes in an About.com article: "The smart casual look allows flexibility for personal taste in fashion and includes jackets, outfit-enhancing jewelry, dress pants, dress shirts, skirts, tailored sweaters, vests, ties, matching leather accessories, and leather pull on shoes and boots. Smart casual dressing is often adopted by employees who want to look ready for their next promotion."
Also remember to keep your hair and makeup work-appropriate ... and don't overdo it on the cologne or perfume.
Boardroom formal
Being a member of the C-suite, or a business partner or guest of the C-suite, "comes with the need for some kind of tactfulness and respect — and what you wear plays a big role," Sylvie di Giusto, author of "The Image Of Leadership," told Business Insider.
When it comes to the "boardroom formal" dress code (also known as "business formal"), employees are expected to project a professional image and convey executive presence, Price added. "Most often, employees following this dress code are meeting face-to-face with customers, clients, senior management, and key stakeholders in the industry who expect and require the proper protocol of professional business attire."
The standard "boardroom formal" attire for men is a dark suit (navy, black, or charcoal), a white dress shirt, a subtle-patterned tie and socks, and black dress shoes. "I also recommend a high-quality accessory, including a wristwatch or attaché case," di Giusto said. "Less is more."
For women, appropriate boardroom attire includes either a two-piece matched pantsuit, skirt suit, or dress (hem no higher than one inch above the knee) in traditional colors such as black, navy, grey, or brown; a collared dress blouse or shell; black or neutral hosiery; closed-toe dress shoe, such as a pump; and conservative accessories, Price said.
"In general, paying attention to the visual details of your look conveys preparation, planning, and respect for those whom you meet," di Giusto added. "The way you respect yourself also sets the standards on how others will respect you."
