Business Casual for an 18-Year-Old?

Question

I just turned 18, and I'm a jeans-hoodie-and-sneakers kind of dresser, described by many as a "tomboy".

So, I just got a job in a small clinic as a file clerk, and the dress code is "business casual".

How can I conform to the dress standards without being super uncomfortable? A skirt is foreign to me, and wearing slacks makes me feel like I'm 35. I'm also a wuss - I tried wearing "professional" shoes and at the end of the day, my feet were drenched in blood (no joke). I still have trouble walking due to all the cuts and scabs I still have - the shoes were my size.

How can I make "business casual" comfortable for me, and appropiate for my young age? I hate sounding like I'm whining, because I know that's just the way the workforce is, but I'm stumped. LOL.

Answer 1

I was a jeans and hoodie girl myself before I started working. Fortunately, there are ways to make business casual comfortable and even fun.

Unfortunately, you're probably going to have to compromise somewhere. Since it sounds like skirts aren't your think, I'd recommend taking a walk through your local Abercrombie. You'll see racks of khakis, cords and other non-jeans. Pants made for someone your age will be much more fun and a lot more flattering than more traditional slacks. And they should still be business casual appropriate as long as they're not ripped or frayed.

If you want to try a skirt, you can always pair it with a pair of tights or opaque nylons and ballet flats to make it more comfortable.

Most importantly, I don't know what you mean by "professional" shoes, but a good pair of shoes, even a pair of stiletto pumps, should never leave your feet bloody! (Tired - yes, bloody - no.) Your shoes may not have been broken in or they may not have fit properly, despite being the correct size.

After your feet heal, you can try wearing them around the house with a thick pair of socks to "break them in." If that doesn't help - throw them out!

And don't feel like professional shoes means 3" heels. There are plenty of cute and professional looking flats out there. Ballet flats are comfortable and stylish and are available everywhere in just about every color imaginable. And Sketchers has some shoes that are nice looking but still feel like your favorite pair of sneakers.

Whatever you choose to wear, make sure you're comfortable in it. After all, confidence is always your best asset, and you'll never be confident if your feet are bleeding and your clothes make you miserable!

Answer 2

Business casual is pretty much the same for 18 as it is for 38. No jeans, hoodies or t-shirts. That doesn't mean you have to wear a skirt. .
Any kind of pants that aren't jeans should count as business casual. If you're a tomboy then an oxford button up kind of shirt or anything with a collar should work.
Just remember if it's ripped, distressed or has writing on it then you shouldn't wear it.
As for shoes there are plenty of shoes you can wear that aren't uncomfortable. If it's not a "sneaker" or other athletic shoe you should be Ok. Sketchers makes great work/play shoes.

PS Kudos for being 18 and caring enough to get a job!!

Answer 3

Unfortunately, you have to leave the jeans, (t-shirts), hoodie and sneakers at home while you work. How about a nice pair of khaki slacks that fit but aren't too tight, some tops from Ross or other discount store that is form fitting but not revealing (and covers your butt), and the sleek sneaker that doesn't look as much like a sneaker? That would be the perfect "outfit" for such an office...it's comfortable but not too dressy to make you feel uncomfortable. After a month or so, you will get used to it, I promise.

Answer 4

I'm thinking that slacks will be your only option if you don't do skirts and dresses.

You can get some very comfortable work-like Skechers that would look great with slacks and a polo shirt.

You can always find nice tops a Old Navy or Target to go with you slacks.

Answer 5

I would just get a couple pairs of plain black pants and different colored shirts that are of a nice material and mix and match them. For shoes, just wear black flats, there are tons that are comfortable. In my office, business casual can be a nice pair of jeans with a nice top. Add accessories to make the outfit look dressier

Answer 6

You don't necessarily have to wear slacks, but I like to wear khakis or Dockers (even mens brands) with polo shirts and loafers. I look kind of tomboyish (okay let's be straight about it -- I look pretty darn "butch" most of the time LOL) but biz-caz doesn't have to be uncomfortable! I haven't worn "nylons" since 2nd grade and I've been at a business-casual job for 10 years!

Good luck!

Answer 7

The first and most important thing about shoes is that you break them in before you use them for any extended period of time.

Uncomfortable or not, this is the real world and you have to dress for it. I am autistic and I can assure you that as uncomfortable as you may be in business clothing, it is much worse for me.

Find clothes that are comfortable and stylish, but not revealing or 'sexy' for work. Wear them at home before you wear them at work.

Also practice good posture and manners, as you will need them.