Casual Fridays have become popular in recent decades as a way for employees to relax and feel comfortable on the last day of a traditional workweek. The term is something of a misnomer, however, since most companies frown upon truly casual clothing such as faded jeans, sweatpants and tank tops.

Instead, workers should wear clothing classified as “business casual” on Casual Fridays. The goal is to still present a professional image while enjoying wearing more casual attire. This means clean clothing with no visible discolorations or stains. Here are a few more tips to get you dressed appropriately for a Casual Friday.

Women`s Business Casual Clothing

Acceptable business casual attire for females should be neat and conservative. You need to avoid showing too much skin, so keep your cleavage, midriff, shoulders, back and upper legs covered.

A pair of pressed, dark trousers or knit pants combined with a thin sweater or an unwrinkled cotton blouse would typically be deemed appropriate, as would a sweater set and a casual skirt that hits no higher than an inch above the knee.

Your accessories can be more colorful, but make sure your choices don`t interfere with work performance. Leave your noisy bangles and charm bracelets at home.

Some companies maintain a closed-shoe policy even on Casual Fridays. If your company doesn`t, it`s a good idea to forgo wearing your strappy sandals and stick with sling backs or mules, both of which are cute shoe styles that still look professional. Ballet flats and low-heeled pumps are also appropriate, but never, ever wear your flip-flops to the office.

Men`s Business Casual Clothing

Men`s business casual attire should be neat and modest, keeping the shoulders, stomach and chest covered. Appropriate items typically include pressed chinos or khakis and a shirt with a collar.

Some offices require the guys to wear a pressed, button-down shirt, while other companies allow golf and polo shirts as long as you tuck the shirt in. Most workplaces with Casual Fridays don`t require the men to wear blazers, but a nice sports jacket can make a handsome addition to your business casual wardrobe.

Leather oxfords or nice loafers complete the look. Keep your shoes polished and in great condition to appear more professional.

The Do`s and Don`ts of Denim

Blue jeans are allowed on Casual Fridays at some companies, but certain kinds of jeans are sure to raise eyebrows. Avoid wearing boyfriend jeans, distressed denims and faded jeans.

Wear clean, dark-colored jeans, preferably in a higher-waist trouser cut. That way you can tuck in your shirt for a more polished appearance.

One way to keep your jeans from fading to the point where they are not business casual appropriate is to have your dry cleaner press them about once a month. The creases last through several washings.

Know Your Company`s Culture

If you are still uncertain about what is or isn`t appropriate business casual attire, look at what your bosses are wearing on Casual Fridays. You don`t want to outdress your boss, but you shouldn`t significantly underdress either. Dress in a way consistent with your company`s leaders and culture.

It`s a good rule of thumb to bring a dressier outfit with you to the office on Casual Fridays. Then if you have a surprise meeting with a client or manager, all you`ve got to do is slip on the other outfit and some classic looking jewelry such as that sold at www.cooksongold.com/Jewellery-Tools/ and you`re all good to go.

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