The State of American Men’s Business Casual

The State of American Men’s Business Casual

By: Hailey Layne

For many young professionals, the thought of a dress code known as “business casual” conjures the image of muted neutrals and oddly-shaped garments that are arbitrarily labeled as workwear. According to The Atlantic, the category of “American Business Casual” was invented in Silicon Valley alongside the growing high-tech industry. 1980s workwear assembled a uniform consisting of khakis, button-downs, and closed-toe shoes.

Although there are elements still present in today’s business casual related to the 80s look, introducing women in the workplace supplemented the standard uniform. Working women added texture, color, and shape to the clothing found in the office. So, where is American Business casual headed? 

Beginning in 2014, J. Crew accumulated approximately 1.7 billion dollars in debt as profits fell. The distinctly preppy brand had once been known across the country by working men and women. As the pandemic swept the world, J.Crew was ultimately forced to file for bankruptcy in May 2020; the combination of their debt and their lack of following was too much for the American brand to combat. After converting their debt to equity, J.Crew resumed operations as U.S. stores began to reopen following the initial waves of the pandemic. When deciding on their new approach after their reopening, the company maintained some of their distinct preppy styles, but ultimately turned to the streets for inspiration. Street style has become the guiding influence for the new wave of business casual clothing in the U.S. 

While there is not one single definition of street style, in every version the individual is at the center. Street-style is not about following the trends, but about changing the trends to fit the person wearing the clothing. In the boulevards, avenues, and roads of American cities, runway looks and comfort intersect. These street-style looks have flooded Pinterest and even have been featured inVogue. 

Looking again at the J. Crew revitalization effort, Brendon Babenzien was hired in May 2021 to reimagine the menswear collection. He previously worked as a Design Director at Supreme. The goal was to recapture a following for the brand that would be based around sustainable business practices and what a modern American man looks like. Babenzien spoke about taking classic silhouettes and making them looser and more free-moving, mixing grunge looks with classic prep styles could result in a positive direction for J. Crew’s menswear. 

Americans are shifting in what they consider workwear to be. With many companies turning towards flexible hours and working from home, the uniform that was so stable will likely change along with the worker. Instead of being limited to the office, the new business casual may be crossing the street, eating at a cafe, or strolling through the park. Work has changed, and now fashion’s job is to keep up with the individual and their lifestyle. 

To stay up to date with everything UM Square Magazine, make sure to follow us on Instagram at @um.squaremagazine.

All images belong to their respective owners.