5 Tips For Casual Friday - Guest Blogger Vesna Cavic

I just don't know how to dress for casual Friday anymore, because it is so easy to make mistakes. Whether you're a business owner or you work for someone else, dressing for casual Friday is still a challenge. So, here are five ideas to help you create outfits that are work-appropriate, yet casual. Outfits that balance professionalism and relaxation, you'll be able to look in the mirror and say, Yes, I look professional. Yes I look put together.

When attempting to create your own casual Friday style, first assess the nature of your job. For example, if you work in a graphic design firm your workplace style is probably much more casual than if you work in a legal service business.

Denim

Denim pants and denim skirts: wearing denim rather than dressy suits are great ways to introduce a casual element into an outfit.

When wearing denim at work, remember to never wear denim with rips, wild washes or skin tight denim cuts. The best denim colors are dark blue or black. White and brightly coloured jeans should be avoided, as well as sloppy boyfriend jeans.

Not all places allow denim, so check what's appropriate for your work.

dark wash denim

dark wash denim

Dark Wash Jeans from Target

Pointed toe flats

Pointed toe flats instead of formal pumps can dress down an outfit just enough to make it look casual, but still professional. Equally, rounded toe ballerina flats or sandals can be too casual at work, and should be saved for weekend outfits at home.

blue flat shoes

blue flat shoes

Flats from Nine West

Ditch the suit jacket

Introduce a sharp, rich textured jacket instead of the conventional suit jacket or classic blazer. A textured jacket helps to dress up a pair of jeans and take them from casual to classy.

Another fun look is to use tuxedo jackets or jackets with leather or other combination of fabrics. This will give your outfit personality and unique style.

white tuxedo jacket

white tuxedo jacket

Living Doll Tuxedo Jacket from Birds Nest

Prints and patterns

Introduce a patterned blouse or dress instead of a plain black dress or business shirt.

Incorporating patterns into your casual Friday's look is a fun way to soften up business attire. Opt for a minimalist pattern, rather than a loud, bold pattern.

floral dress

floral dress

Dress from Jag

Funky jewelry

Introduce some eclectic and funky jewelry instead of classic, minimal business jewelry.

Wearing more interesting bracelets, bangles and earrings can be appropriate on Fridays. Just make sure that they are tasteful, not too big or overly gaudy.

black funky bracelet

black funky bracelet

Cuff from Lovisa

As Friday is the first day of the weekend, let's have fun with our casual Friday looks!

What's your favourite Casual Friday outfit? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy styling and Happy Friday!

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About our guest blogger:

Vesna Face photo 1

Vesna Face photo 1

Vesna's love for fashion and style developed when she was just a child growing up in Argentina, where fashion was infused within the local culture and the latest European were paraded daily.

She is the director of Adelaide-based fashion consultancy, Vesna Personal Stylist and she strongly believes that style can make you feel more empowered and stronger.