Business formal usually means a blouse, trousers or a skirt, a jacket and smart shoes in a well-kept, professional combination. It is more formal than business casual and occurs mainly in formal business environments. The exact interpretation differs per sector and organisation.
What is business formal?
Business formal is a formal business dress code. It is more formal than business casual and calls for a fully coordinated whole: a jacket, smart trousers or a skirt, a blouse and closed shoes. In some legal, financial or administrative environments this level is still regularly asked for. More important is that the outfit suits the organisation and the occasion.
The difference from business casual lies in the details. Where with business casual you can choose a knitted polo or a cardigan, with business formal you choose a blouse and a jacket, in a material with structure.
The components of a business formal outfit
| Component | Business formal | Business casual |
|---|---|---|
| Top | Blouse with collar or V-neck | Fine polo or knitted top |
| Bottom half | Straight trousers or knee-length skirt | Chinos or flared trousers |
| Layer | Jacket or blazer | Cardigan or jacket |
| Shoes | Closed pumps or loafers | Loafers or smart sneakers |
| Colours | Navy, black, charcoal, white | Also light and soft shades |
The blouse: the starting point
A good blouse is the piece that makes the most difference. Delphine is a fitted blouse with princess seams in white, made of 35% bamboo, 30% microfibre, 30% polyester, 5% elastane. The princess seams shape the waist, which works well with a jacket. Seraphine is a fitted blouse with white collar and cuffs in light blue, made of 60% cotton, 40% polyester. The white collar gives extra contrast.
Would you like a softer variant? Rosamund is a blouse with lavallière collar and satin look in white. Under a jacket the collar becomes a subtle accent instead of a statement.
The bottom half: trousers or skirt
Arabelli is a high-waist pleated trouser in black. The high waist and straight leg give the trousers a clear line. Anyone who prefers a skirt chooses Rosa, a knee-length skirt in black. Whether knee length is appropriate depends on the dress code and personal preference.
How to put it together
- Start with the bottom half in black, navy or charcoal.
- Choose a blouse in white, light blue or cream, plain or with a fine stripe.
- Add a jacket that matches the colour of the bottom half, preferably in the same material.
- Choose closed shoes with a low to medium heel, in black or dark brown.
- Finish with small jewellery and a smart bag or briefcase.
Colours that work
Dark and neutral shades are common within business formal. Black, navy, charcoal and dark grey form the base. White, light blue and cream work as a blouse. A single subtle colour, such as burgundy, can serve as an accent, for example in a scarf or bag. If you want to keep it formal, choose limited prints and calm accessories.
What you had better leave out
- open shoes or sandals;
- deep necklines and short skirts;
- a lot of shiny or large jewellery;
- creased clothing or loose hems;
- strong perfume.
For a job interview
For a job interview, business formal can be appropriate if it fits the organisation. You show that you take the occasion seriously. Choose an outfit you feel confident in, and wear it once beforehand so that you know everything fits well. Bring a light bag that fits your documents, and make sure your shoes are clean. Above all, make sure the clothing is clean, well fitting and comfortable.
Business formal in spring
At the start of March it is still fresh, so a long coat is part of the picture. Choose a coat in navy, camel or black that fits over your jacket without pinching. On a slightly warmer day you keep the jacket on and leave the coat at home. Also think of a light scarf as an accent: it finishes the look and keeps your neck warm. Pay attention to how your clothing behaves in motion: does everything sit well when you sit, walk and raise your arms?
Business formal in different industries
The strictness of the dress code depends on the sector. At a law firm or bank, a jacket and trousers or skirt in the same colour are expected. At a consultancy or government body, a blouse with a blazer is often enough. If you are unsure, ask about the dress code or look at what is customary within the organisation. It is easier to take a jacket off than to look for one at the last minute.
Examples of complete outfits
- White blouse, black high-waist trousers, black jacket and black closed pumps: the classic for board meetings.
- Light blue blouse with white collar, navy trousers, navy blazer and brown loafers: business-like with a soft look.
- Lavallière blouse, knee-length skirt, matching jacket and low heels: for those who want to dress a little more feminine without compromise.
Fit and care
With formal clothing, the fit stands out even more. Have trousers altered if necessary, so that the hem hangs just above the ground. Check buttons and iron only according to the care label. You can read more about care in the washing instructions. See the Office for Women collection and our blouses for more options, and read about Signature Occasions for women for formal occasions outside the office.
Shop the look
Delphine: fitted blouse with princess seams, white
Seraphine: fitted blouse with white collar, light blue
Rosamund: lavallière blouse, white
Arabelli: high-waist pleated trousers, black
Rosa: knee-length skirt, black
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between business formal and business casual?
Business formal calls for a jacket, blouse and closed shoes in muted colours. Business casual leaves more room for knitted tops and lighter shades.
Which colours are the safest?
Black, navy, charcoal and dark grey for the bottom half, and white, light blue or cream for the blouse.
May I wear a skirt?
Yes. Choose a style and length that suit the dress code and in which you sit and move comfortably.
Can I return something if it does not fit?
Yes. Check the current return conditions on the returns page.
