Are open-toed shoes business casual? (2024)

FAQs

Does business casual allow open-toe shoes? ›

In all business formal and many business casual environments, closed-toe shoes are a must. Even in smart casual offices, this is usually true for men year round. For women, there are some more casual offices where it is acceptable to wear peep toes or nice leather sandals in the warmer months.

In most cases, open-toed shoes are looked down upon in the workplace. The tech industry is one exception to this rule, though, and there may be other companies in different industries that allow it. Typically, you should not wear any of these footwear choices with a business casual outfit: Sandals.

In terms of footwear, there are a few options that are suitable for business casual. The most popular choice is dress shoes. These shoes can be made from a variety of materials such as leather or suede, and they come in different styles, including oxfords, loafers, and brogues.

Business casual includes trousers, pencil skirts, slacks, khakis, blouses, button-down shirts, polos, sweaters and sports coats. Accessories may include simple jewelry, belts or ties. Business casual shoes include loafers, lifestyle sneakers (with leather or canvas), mules, flats, Oxfords, boots and heels.

4.2 Leather Sandals

Leather sandals are a step up in terms of professionalism. They offer comfort while maintaining a more polished appearance, making them a viable option for certain business casual settings.

If you simply love the look of sandals or prefer to be comfortable on your commute, you can always wear sandals and keep a pair of office-appropriate footwear at the office to change into when you get there!

Open-toed shoes or sandals are generally too casual for a job interview, regardless of the company's dress code. Sneakers or athletic shoes. Even if the company has a casual dress code, it's best to avoid athletic shoes for an interview.

Business casual attire for women typically involves a blend of professional and relaxed elements. Key items include tailored pants or skirts, blazers, structured tops, modest dresses, and smart-casual footwear like flats or low heels.

What is a business casual woman shoe? ›

Business casual footwear bridges the gap between formal and casual, offering a polished look without the strict formality of traditional dress shoes. This category includes loafers, ankle boots, Oxford shoes, and selected sleek sneakers that can be appropriately worn in most professional settings.

Shoes: You can wear low heels, fashion boots, loafers, clean tennis shoes, flats or open-toe shoes, though some organisations prefer closed-toe shoes. Accessories: Aim for simple jewellery, handbags, scarves and belts that coordinate with most of your outfits to get the most versatility.

Event Formality

For more relaxed or industry-specific events, open-toed shoes can be perfectly fine and even stylish. However, at formal gatherings, opting for closed-toe options is advisable to convey a higher level of professionalism.

Fashion advice also centers around the amount of appropriate toe cleavage. A pump (court shoe) with a "slightly low vamp for a hint of toe cleavage" should not be "too racy for a conservative office". Financial guru Suze Orman says it is "the only cleavage that should be shown around an office".

Improper footwear causes about 24 percent of slips and falls, according to the NFSI. All restaurant workers, whether working in back or front of house, should be wearing low-heeled, closed-toed slip-resistant footwear for safety.