Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

The Best Sustainable Outfit for a Business Casual Look

best sustainable outfits for casual look

The business casual dress code has become ubiquitous in today’s office culture, yet there still seems to be some confusion (or perhaps rebellion against?) this style. It’s meant to be a comfortable yet professional mix of both business and casual attire, but people sometimes lean too far into the causal side of their closet. It’s almost impossible to dress too nice in a business casual office since it includes suits and collared shirts. The only distinction between business and business casual in terms of suiting is that you don’t have to wear a tie in a business causal office and can unbutton that top button.

Again, most people tend to err on the side of casual. You should not wear jeans (not even that brand-new dark pair), nor any sneakers (suede and designer sneakers are still a nope), and of course, no tee shirts. The low end of business casual should be chinos, sweaters, printed button-down shirts, and clean dress shoes. If your company allows for more casual attire than that, it’s more accurately considered a casual attire office.

Related Videos

Now, if you’re shopping for business casual wear for the office that comes from ethical and sustainable companies, here’s a look you can feel good about wearing.

Sweater

Everlane Felted Merino Cardigan

Everlane: Felted Merino Cardigan

I love the texture of this piece. The ribbed binding and soft, flecked wool add just enough detail to this office-ready classic. Everlane works with ethical factories in Asia, South America, and Europe, profiling each of these facilities on its website. That way, you can see the supply chain for yourself and decide if it meets your standards. The company is proving that “Made in China” doesn’t always mean a product is made under poor conditions.

Shirt

H&M Conscious Oxford Shirt

H&M Conscious Oxford Shirt in Taupe

This 100% organic cotton shirt has an unbleached look that offers just the right pop of contrast to the charcoal sweater. H&M’s Conscious label is working toward using 100% recycled or sustainable fabrics by 2030 and requires manufacturers to adhere to a contract that stipulates fair wages and good working conditions. Fast fashion companies like H&M are often demonized in the sustainability movement, but a company of this size making positive supply chain changes can have a huge impact on the environment and workers, while still offering affordable clothing. If you want to shop responsibly but budget is an issue, check out the rest of the Conscious collection.

Pant

Taylor Stitch Slim Chino

The Slim Chino in Organic Coal

This slim-fit cut is flattering and I love the twill fabric. It’s a soft, organic cotton with a touch of stretch. I chose this rich, coal color because black and charcoal pieces are great for the workplace and, unlike khaki and chambray, can also be worn for nights out and weekend adventures. I featured Taylor Stitch in a casual styled look because this company is doing a great job creating quality pieces with excellent designs.

Boots

Thursday Boot Co. Scout Chukka Boot

Thursday Boot Co. Scout Chukka Boot

This is another company we’ve featured before because it is dedicated to ethically producing beautiful men’s shoes at reasonable prices. The chukka boot is perfectly paired with a chino. This pant/shoe combo will be your new go-to because they both hit that sweet spot between professional and casual. The black color will also make these useful as a daily shoe — just make sure they don’t get too scuffed to wear to the office. Get a nice shoe shine kit and polish them as needed. Regular upkeep will make the leather more durable and handsome.

Bag

Peg and Awl All Black Waxed Canvas Tote

Peg and Awl All Black Waxed Canvas Tote

This unisex tote is a real looker. The waxed canvas body and vegetable-tanned leather straps give it an old-world charm that’s still clean and handsome enough for the biz-casual office. The inner pocket can hold a 13-inch laptop and there are six side and interior pockets for quick access to your phone, keys, and wallet. Peg and Awl is a husband and wife-owned business with about ten employees. The brand uses upcycled and sustainable materials to make home products and accessories in its factory in Philadelphia.

Editors' Recommendations

The Best Men’s Jeans Under $100 to Buy on Amazon

If you're looking for the best men's jeans, then you'd be hard-pressed to find a better one-stop shop at the moment than Amazon's extensive fashion archives. And we'll do you one better: If it's a pair of the best men's jeans under $100 that has caught your attention, then you're also going to be in luck (big time) at Amazon.

To help you begin your search and head out on the path to denim greatness, we put together our guide to the best men's jeans under $100 (from some of our favorite men's clothing brands) that you can buy at Amazon, and we think you're going to be mighty pleased with these pants options we have to offer. From straight to slim-fit jeans, you're bound to find a go-to pair at an affordable price.
Lucky Brand Men's 223 Straight Fit Jeans

Read more
The Best Golf Clothing Brands for Men To Wear At the Country Club and Beyond
Lululemon Golf

For years, golf has struggled to appeal to a younger audience. The stereotype of the old white man golfing at a posh country club surrounded with high-grade security swiftly snubs out any thoughts of taking up such a sport.
Related Guides

Best Clothing Brands for Men
Best Athleisure Brands
Best Men's Workout Clothing Brands

Read more
The 10 Best Packable Jackets That Every Serious Outdoorsman Should Own

A great packable and lightweight jacket can be one of the best items in your backpack for a number of reasons. From unexpected rain showers and a drop in cooler temperatures to a makeshift pack cover or even a pillow in a pinch, packable jackets are always good to have on hand. That's why you should have several different kinds of packable jackets in your closet waiting to be packed for your next adventure.

Depending on where you live or when you plan to explore the outdoors, there are three kinds of jackets you should pick from. The first is a packable shell that is lightweight and just right to keep you dry during wet weather. The second is a down jacket with some sort of stuff sack to keep you warm when the temperature dips. Finally, the last kind of jacket that is nice to own and keep on hand is a combination of the two — a thermal waterproof packable jacket. Fortunately, we've rounded up the best options on the market at the moment all of which are worth taking along on any adventure.

Read more