Does your company have a casual dress code? Business casual dress has become the norm in many major firms. More than half of white-collar workers now wear casual dress attire to work every day and 90 percent are permitted to wear it at least occasionally. However, I have observed that some organizations could use a little help in defining what the word "casual" dress means. Here are some thoughts.

There is business casual and then there is careless casual. Some companies allow employees to dress any way they want, wearing cut-off jeans and T-shirts without collars - sometimes the rattier the better. Companies like that don't need any kind of a dress code because anything goes.

If your organization has a business casual dress code, it often needs some interpreting. Some employees are unable to distinguish between casual and sloppy, careless dress. Others think that if it is the latest fashion, it must be okay to wear to the office. Wrong! Halter-tops and other revealing fashions are inappropriate for any work environment.

There is more to business casual attire than comfort. Even though it is very much in fashion right now, stay away from denim unless it is a logo denim shirt given to you by the company or everyone else wears jeans, even your boss. Many people equate denim with very casual events and therefore it does not fit the definition of business casual. Also, avoid sweat suits, sleeveless or collarless T-shirts, military fatigues and any garment with a message in questionable taste like liquor ads.

Instead of jeans, wear casual slacks like Dockers for men or a comparable look for women. Be sure they are always pressed and in good condition. Stay away from linen as it wrinkles too much. Long skirts for women are an option too, but watch out for mini length - too short is never good.

Tops can be both short and long sleeved, but avoid anything sleeveless, as it is too casual for the business environment. A jacket or vest over your shirt and slacks will give you added authority when you need it. Women can wear the popular sweater sets, but make sure they do not fit too tightly.

Grade yourself. Even though you are dressed in business casual, are you still projecting a professional image - one that will gain you the respect you deserve?

I have a program that incorporates these ideas and others on image called "Professionalism and Its Impact On Your Career." Contact me for more information.