In Vietnam, the question of “what to wear to work” might not be as urgent as it is elsewhere. However, globally, after nearly two years of Zoom calls, pajama lounging, and a laid-back "who cares" mentality, work attire has once again become a hot topic. People are eager to understand how the standards of professionalism and office etiquette have evolved since the pandemic changed everything.
Let’s explore five key questions about the 2022 version of “business casual” and find that sweet spot between comfort and formality at work. Hopefully, this article will help you strike the right balance.
(This article references content from The Wall Street Journal)
What kind of pants are too casual for work? Can sweatpants or jeans be worn?
The office is definitely not the place for sweatpants or joggers. However, there are plenty of stylish pants with drawstring or elastic waistbands designed to be both comfortable and professional. Modern jeans can absolutely work in an office setting - just stick to dark, solid-colored pairs. Leave the ripped jeans for the weekend!
“I wore Crocs every day while working from home. Crocs have become a part of me. Is it okay to wear Crocs to the office?”
Unless you're a doctor or a chef, Crocs will never make the cut for a professional setting. Don’t worry, there are plenty of alternatives to traditional Oxfords. Look for minimalist sneakers from brands like Common Projects, CQP, or Artisan Lab. These options give off a more formal vibe without being too flashy. Not a fan of laces? Loafers are a great alternative and work well with both long and ankle socks!
What type of jacket should I choose?
According to Mark Cho, co-founder of Armoury, a menswear tailor in New York and Hong Kong, demand for blazers and sport jackets is on the rise. Their clients range from office workers to tech professionals and artists. One key trend is the shift toward more relaxed colors like light blue, burgundy, olive green, and brown, which are becoming increasingly popular.
Casual jackets like bomber jackets and shirt jackets are also in demand. Their simplicity and versatility make them perfect for most work environments.
Has the formal suit lost its relevance?
If you need to show respect at an important meeting or presentation, nothing beats a well-tailored suit. That said, the number of men wearing suits daily has dramatically decreased since pre-pandemic days. Even those who once wore ties every day have embraced a more relaxed approach to their wardrobe.
Mixing and matching separates has become the norm, as flexibility is now key. Men are focusing on coordinating colors, rather than wearing an all-matching suit. For example, a brown blazer paired with beige chinos can look just as polished. And underneath? It doesn’t always have to be a dress shirt - it could just as easily be a t-shirt or sweater.
What about ironing clothes?
Wearing wrinkled dress shirts and pleated trousers is still a no-go, of course! However, many have shied away from the iron, and that’s where polo shirts and sweaters come in. They don’t require the same level of upkeep and can be worn multiple times before needing a wash. Plus, they can be folded and stored neatly, making them a much easier choice compared to the classic dress shirt.
The 2022 business casual style is all about adapting to the new work environment. Comfort and versatility are now at the forefront, but that doesn’t mean professionalism takes a back seat. It’s all about finding the right balance.
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