The business casual dress code is a recent concept. Not so long ago, it used to be true that everyone who went for a job interview in Canada had to wear their best suit. Then once they started their new job in Canada, they would have to maintain that professional look every day. This type of dress code is known as business formal. In the past, many companies required their employees to adopt business formal attire in the office environment. Business formal still has a place in the modern workplace, and you will still be required to wear it for an interview because first impressions count!
Recently, however, companies have adopted a more lenient dress code called business casual. The business casual dress code gives employees more freedom with their attire in the workplace while still maintaining a professional look. Be that as it may, there is one problem with the term business casual; it is too vague. So, it can be confusing and leave you wondering what is acceptable and what’s not acceptable. Get helpful guidelines to navigate the business casual dress code in Canada.
For newcomers, understanding the Canadian workplace can help you to succeed. And, understanding the dress code is an important part of understanding the workplace.
So What Exactly is the Business Casual Dress Code in Canada?
There is no one accepted definition for the term business casual. What might be considered business casual in one workplace might be completely unacceptable in another. Different companies define business casual differently. It can vary depending on the company’s culture, goals, and public image. However, the overall goal of business casual attire is to allow employees to be comfortable while still looking professional. Essentially, the business casual dress code combines traditional business wear with less formal clothing. The resulting style is still suitable for the work environment while also being more comfortable for employees.
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However, the business casual dress code has yet to make its way into every Canadian workplace. So, take responsibility to learn what is suitable office attire. It is always best to dress a little smarter than you have to in the first few days until you have figured out what people wear day to day. You can always drop the tie or unbutton the top button to make an outfit more relaxed if you need to.
Speak to Your Human Resources Representative
If you are not sure what is required from you when it comes to your attire, you can always give HR a visit. The Human Resources department will be able to guide you regarding the dress code. The company may even have a formal policy that specifically addresses the dress code. Another suggestion is to observe how formal or casual your coworkers are dressing and find a good balance for your attire.
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Benefits of a Business Casual Dress Code
Business casual is a great option for businesses that have no real reason to maintain a formal dress code. Allowing employees to dress more casually can contribute to higher morale, productivity, and creativity. It may also boost employee morale. Business casual attire allows employees to personalize their clothing and stay more comfortable in the workplace. Since professional wardrobes can get quite expensive, business casual also helps employees save money.
Business Casual Do’s and Don’ts
While a business casual dress code can be confusing, here are some helpful tips to consider.
Do:
- Choose appropriate casual wear that fits well and suits the office environment
- Wear denim with a dark wash (lighter-coloured denim can look too casual)
- Consider what other employees are wearing and dress accordingly
- ‘Think of the “beach rule”, if you can wear it to the beach, it’s not acceptable for the office.
Don’t Wear:
- Ripped or torn clothing (even if it’s in style, ripped or frayed jeans are not appropriate in an office)
- Clothing with extreme graphic designs or messages
- Worn sneakers or flip-flops
- Shorts or mini skirts
- Tank tops or strapless shirts
- Athletic wear.
Go Shopping
After you have an idea of what business casual wear is suitable for the office, it’s time to go shopping. The salespeople, especially at stores that sell business attire, are well-informed and will be able to guide you. Recently, many businesses have adopted dress codes that are quite lenient and encourage business casual. All you have to do is mention the office dress code and the sales associate can show you a wide array of clothing styles. You may be pleasantly surprised by how many options work with both your personality and the office environment.
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Make Sure to Wear a Smile!
Yes, that might sound a little cheesy, but it is true. No matter what clothes you are wearing, having a smile on your face can go pretty far. Smiling radiates confidence and makes you a more likable person from the first impression. As you start your new career in Canada, just being happy will help you start it on the right note.
For information, tools, free webinars, and more visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!
My name is Zain Usmani and I am a freelance content writer who currently resides in Mississauga, Ontario. I immigrated from Pakistan to Canada 5 years ago and have lived in many cities ever since. I have lived in Calgary AB, Edmonton AB, Regina SK, London ON, and Mississauga ON, while visiting over 40 Canadian cities and towns. I have a great passion for writing and I love helping people through it.
