The definition of workplace attire has shifted dramatically in the last decade. The era of the mandatory daily suit and tie is fading in many industries, replaced by the ambiguous dress code known as “Business Casual.” For many men, this freedom brings confusion. Does it mean a polo shirt? Jeans? A suit without a tie?
At DuanTailor, we define Business Casual as “relaxed elegance.” It is the art of looking professional enough for a client meeting but comfortable enough for a creative brainstorming session. And the cornerstone of this look is not the Hoodie, but the separates: the standalone blazer and the perfectly cut pair of chinos.
The Power of the Unstructured Blazer
The mistake many men make is trying to wear their orphan suit jacket with jeans. It rarely works; the fabric is too smooth, the structure too rigid. The solution is the dedicated sports coat or blazer.
For the tropical climate of Ho Chi Minh City, we recommend an “unstructured” construction. By removing the heavy padding and canvas, the jacket fits more like a cardigan—soft, pliable, and incredibly comfortable. Texture is key here. We steer our clients towards open-weave fabrics like Hopsack or wool-linen blends. These fabrics breathe exceptionally well and have a matte finish that pairs effortlessly with denim or cotton trousers.
As the best tailor in HCM for versatile wardrobes, we help you design jackets that work double duty—perfect for a Monday morning presentation and equally stylish for a Friday evening cocktail.
The Death of Baggy Khakis
Nothing ruins a look faster than ill-fitting trousers. The “dad khakis” of the 90s—pleated, baggy, and pooling at the ankles—have no place in the modern office. However, the skinny fit trends of the high street are equally inappropriate for a professional setting.
The sweet spot lies in the middle: a tapered leg that follows the line of the thigh and calf without hugging them. At DuanTailor, we craft chinos from high-quality cotton twills that offer stretch and durability. We adjust the rise (the distance from crotch to waistband) to ensure the trousers sit naturally on your waist, lengthening your legs and cleaning up your silhouette.
Building a Capsule Wardrobe
The beauty of custom tailoring is the ability to build a modular wardrobe. With just two custom blazers (one navy, one grey check) and three pairs of tailored trousers (beige, charcoal, and olive), you can create six different outfits.
Business casual does not mean “dressing down”; it means dressing smarter. It requires a keen eye for fit and fabric combination. By investing in high-quality separates tailored specifically for your body, you ensure that you are always the best-dressed man in the room, regardless of the dress code.
