When you picture business professional attire, you might remember the first suit you ever owned—probably something you bought in college or right after for job interviews: It was ill-fitting and itchy, and you worried you’d never make it in the working world if you had to dress like this every day.
But business professional attire today isn’t like that horrible suit at all. It’s much, much more fashionable than that.
Business professional is a step up from business casual and likely on par with what you’d wear to an interview at most workplaces. It’s typically defined as more conservative in cut, color, and pattern, though a lot of those factors are dependent on fit and presentation. As many of the outfit ideas below show, pattern and color can make you stand out in the best way when the clothes are tailored and well-kept.
Tips for choosing business professional attire
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If you’re unsure how to properly dress for your office, start with neutrals like black, gray, brown, navy, or cream. Work in accessories as you become more comfortable.
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Make sure all clothes are neat, clean, and tailored. No, you can’t tumble dry the wrinkles out of your clothes, you’ll need an iron or a clothes steamer.
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In the past, business professional would have required you to remove all facial piercings and cover up tattoos. As culture around this changes, ask your manager—this will now depend on workplace.
- Save the power clashing for your off-time. Wear jewelry that adds to and doesn’t distract from your outfit.
28 business professional outfit ideas
We call this look “courthouse chic.”
Vibe: The public defender.
Yes, my contract does require a company car.
Vibe: The decision-maker.
This boss business woman bringing personality to the board room.
Vibe: The trailblazer.
For no-stress dress-up, opt for all-black attire and simple jewelry.
Vibe: The project lead.
Blazers and knits make chilly offices year-round bliss.
Vibe: I’ll take that raise now.
Traditional yet playful.
Vibe: I own my own business.
Forest green is the new black
Vibe: One day, this company could be yours.
How sweet is her curly haired’do with that subtle cowl neck?
Vibe: Don’t underestimate me.
Here, Ms. Anyoh proves business professional doesn’t have to be boring. Vibe: Color me promoted.
This monochrome stunner makes every presentation a showstopper.
Vibe: It’s power hour.
High waist, animal prints, and a look that says, “Yes, I will make partner one day.”
Vibe: The standout candidate.
Every accessory matters.
Vibe: The disrupter.
This belted trench is the creme de la cream.
Vibe: There’s no need to ask for references.
It’s the outfit we always dream we can pull off—and then we do.
Vibe: These boots are for ladder climbing.
Her other suit is a lawsuit.
Vibe: Fearless leader.
Oh, how we love an ascot.
Vibe: Thank you for coming to my TED Talk.
A pop of color dresses up versatile basics.
Vibe: I’m leading this meeting.
Perfectly put together double-breasted plaid.
Vibe: Management material.
It’s the blue pumps that give this outfit lift.
Vibe: The best boss you’ve ever had.
Business professional is a cinch.
Vibe: CEOs just wanna have fun.
View this post on InstagramThe lovely @gwenhyfarartemis in a three-piece #suit with contrast lining!
This three-piece is the power move.
Vibe: Expert brand manager.
A rarity: The elusive business professional open-toe look.
Vibe: Young, qualified, and competitive.
Have we mentioned black is very, very easy to dress up?
Vibe: Laid back but powerful.
This blazer is giving us Pretty in Pink feels.
Vibe: The networker.
Simply chipper, from her topknot to her pointed toes.
Vibe: Social media whiz.
We can’t believe she gets away with wearing silk in Texas either.
Vibe: I’m meeting a client for dinner. It’s Tesla.
