If you work remotely, chances are your daily wardrobe leans toward casual and comfortable. But when a business trip pops up, shifting to business casual can feel like a challenge, especially when you want to pack light. The good news? You don’t need to overhaul your wardrobe. With a few key styling tricks, you can easily dress up your casual outfits for a professional setting while packing light and fitting everything into a carry-on. Here are easy ways to dress up your casual wardrobe for a work trip.

What Does Business Casual Really Mean?

Business casual is the balance between traditional office wear and everyday casual. It’s polished but relaxed—put together without being overly formal. For women, this often includes:

• Blouses or structured tops
• Tailored pants, midi skirts, maxi dresses, or dark-wash jeans
• Blazers or cardigans
• Comfortable yet stylish shoes

The goal is to look professional while still feeling comfortable. And, of course, every company will have its definition of what business casual is in their organization.

Packing Smart: Fitting Everything into a Carry-On

Packing efficiently will save you time and stress. I’m a chronic over-packer, but I finally have it dialed down and can fit everything into my carry-on suitcase. Here’s how to do it:

1. Stick to a neutral color palette to create multiple outfits with fewer pieces.
2. Choose versatile staples – A blazer elevates any outfit, and a simple dress can go from meetings to dinner with a quick shoe change.
3. Use the 3-2-1 Rule – Pack three tops, two bottoms, and one layering piece to maximize outfit combinations.
4. Wear your bulkiest items – If you’re bringing boots, sneakers, a blazer, or a heavy cardigan, wear them on the plane to save space.
5. Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics that don’t require ironing. I love pieces from Clara Sunwoo (PINK for 10% off).

How to Dress Up Jeans for a Business Trip

If you’re used to wearing jeans every day while working remotely, you can still wear them on a business trip. Here’s how to make denim look polished:

• Choose the right fit – Dark-wash or black jeans with a slim, straight, or bootcut fit look the most professional. Avoid distressed styles.
• Pair with an elevated top – Opt for a silky blouse, structured sweater, or tailored button-down.
• Add a blazer, cardigan or jacket – This instantly makes jeans look more business-appropriate.
• Wear polished shoes – Loafers, ballet flats, and booties all elevate denim effortlessly.
• Accessorize thoughtfully – A structured handbag and simple jewelry complete the look.

What to Wear on the Plane

Dressing comfortably for travel doesn’t mean looking sloppy. I wear my Spanx Air Essentials set on long flights. When I flew to Nashville recently, I knew I was going straight from the airport to dinner and wore the 1/2 Zip with my slouchy jeans and block-heeled sock booties.

Dress Up Your Casual Wardrobe: Outfit Formula

When in doubt, follow this easy outfit formula for a business trip:

Base layer: A fitted top or blouse
Bottoms: Tailored pants, a midi skirt, dark-wash jeans, or a maxi dress
Layering piece: Blazer, cardigan, or jacket
Shoes: Loafers, boots, or ballet flats
Accessories: A professional tote bag, dainty jewelry, and a belt

I hope these tips will help you to dress up your casual wardrobe for your next work trip! What’s your biggest struggle when dressing for a business trip? Let’s chat in the comments!

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Other posts you might like:

Five Casual Outfits with Blazers

What’s in My Travel Tote

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