Casual Fridays

"The best thing about casual Friday is that it makes those of us who decline to observe it look really, really good." -- Esquire

My office doesn't have casual Friday's, but I do think it's a good day to loosen up a bit--and no, I don't mean a belly shirt or patriotic underpants a la Will Ferrell.  For me, it means giving my neck a day to let it all hang out--that's right, no necktie.  It took me some getting used too, and it felt a bit immodest at first--but I think I've been able to make it work.  I also avoid suits, obviously, unless I have to wear one.  But that's as casual as I get, and I would even recommend the same to young professionals who have the option of wearing jeans on Friday.  I suggest an informal seasonal sport coat, a pinpoint oxford button down in a not-so-basic color or pattern, and some trousers.

I like that this sport coat has a rough tweedy texture, and some subtle color woven into the fabric that goes well with blues and lavenders.  It's also on the shorter side, so its a bit more fun and casual that way.

Also, my pinpoint oxford is a very soft lavender, but it has a slight sheen.  And the collar has a great roll--when it's buttoned, the collar doesn't just lay flat but curls a bit from the top to the point.  It keeps your neck a little more interesting, and gives brings a relaxed, well worn attitude.  

I think the trousers really complete my casual Friday get-up--they're charcoal, but a wool synthetic blend that have an almost denim-y texture.  And they have a slim, modern cut.  I don't think anyone would notice the texture on first glance so they're safe for my conservative office.

So I still put some thought into my dressed-down Friday outfit--it's not complicated, but still coordinated, incorporating color and interesting textures.

N.M.C.