Are Sandals Business Casual? Find Out More!

Sandals are popularly worn for outdoor casual occasions such as beach trips, festivals, backyard barbecues, and trips to the store, but are sandals business casual?

Normally, it’s not appropriate to wear sandals to work. Depending on the sector you work in as well as the specific business you are employed by, there might be some exceptions to this rule.

Are you ready to learn the proper and improper ways to wear sandals to the office? Now that you have your briefcase, let’s begin!

Table of Contents

What Qualifies as a Sandal?

Before we start talking style choices, let’s first define what a sandal is. There are many misunderstandings regarding what constitutes a sandal.

Some individuals believe that the shoe must be flat, but that is not entirely accurate. Any open footwear with a strap-secured sole is considered a sandal.

Both the instep and the ankle may be covered by the straps. even have heels on some sandals!

In general, sandals are not considered to be business casual footwear. In some cases, if the sandal is more dressy and tasteful, women can wear it with a business-casual outfit.

In the majority of cases, wearing open-toed shoes to work is frowned upon. Although there are some companies in other industries that might be an exception to this rule, such as the tech sector, it is not universal.

When Can You Wear Sandals to Work?

There are a few instances where it may be acceptable to wear sandals to work.

For instance, if you work in a more laid-back sector like retail or hospitality or if the dress code at your place of employment is casual.

Additionally, some offices may have “casual Fridays” where employees are allowed to dress down for the day. Consult the human resources department at your place of employment.

If you get the green light to wear sandals to work, then keep a few factors in mind.

First off, compared to flat sandals, heels are typically seen as more professional. Platforms are best avoided, though, as they tend to be too informal.

Second, stay away from any kind of embellishments, like sequins or jewels. Some styles of sandals that you may be able to pull off as business casual include:

Slingbacks: The name of these sandals refers to the strap that goes around the ankle.
Mules: Flat or heeled mules are both acceptable. Since the heeled options are thought to be more elegant, they can be worn to work.
Peep-toe sandals: The majority of the feet are covered by these sandals, which have heels, but the toes are left exposed.

Decide on a neutral shade, like black, brown, or bare skin, as your third option. Last but not least, make sure your sandals are clean and in good shape.

You should also keep in mind the material the sandals are made out of. Espadrille or cork styles might be acceptable. You should stay away from plastic sandals, though.

Conclusion: Are Sandals Business Casual

Making the ideal work outfit can be challenging. Harmonizing comfort and style is difficult.

The best way to find out if sandals are business casual in your specific company is to take cues from veteran employees on business casual dress days.

Always err on the side of caution and wear business-casual attire with your sandals.

Are Open-toed Sandals Business Casual?

Open-toed footwear is not appropriate for business attire.

Are Sneakers Business Casual?

For a business casual workplace, the standard lace-up sneaker can be a great fit.

Does Business Casual Have to Be Closed Toed?

Typically, women’s attire that combines skirts, jackets, blouses, closed-toe shoes, and various other items can be considered business casual.

Are Sandals Business Casual? Find Out More!

What Qualifies as a Sandal?