Business Clothing Customs: Austria's Professional Attire Expectations

Austrians tend to dress quite formally and stylishly, and this extends to their business attire. The customary business clothing in Austria is typically formal and smart, with dark colours being popular. For men, this means a dark suit or smart sports jacket with trousers and a tie, while women usually wear smart business suits or dresses. In general, casual clothing such as t-shirts, baseball caps, and athletic wear is avoided in business settings.

Formality and style

Austrians tend to dress quite formally and stylishly, and this extends to their business attire. In general, business dress code in Austria tends towards the more formal, and people take pride in their appearance. It is therefore recommended to wear smart, business-like clothing for first meetings to make a professional impression.

For men, this means a dark suit or a smart sports jacket with trousers and a tie. Younger Austrian men do wear jeans occasionally, but most other ages do not, so it is best to opt for smarter trousers.

For women, the recommendation is to wear smart business suits or dresses. Austrian women generally do not wear jeans, except perhaps in the evenings at an outdoor venue. The majority of women wear dresses and skirts, and high heels are reserved for the evenings.

In terms of colours, dark and solid colours are generally more popular.

When it comes to footwear, cobbled streets abound in Austria, so comfortable and stylish flat shoes are a must. Sneakers are not usually worn.

It is worth noting that, as with many Western countries, attitudes towards what constitutes business-appropriate clothing are changing rapidly. If in doubt, it is best to check with a local contact in advance.

Dark and solid colours

When it comes to customary business clothing in Austria, dark and solid colours are the way to go. For men, a dark suit or a smart sports jacket paired with trousers and a tie is the recommended choice. Younger Austrian men may occasionally wear jeans, but it is best to opt for smarter trousers to fit in with the general business culture. As for colours, dark hues such as black, navy, and dark grey are preferred.

Women in Austria typically wear dresses, skirts, or smart business suits. It is important to note that jeans are generally not worn during the workday. When selecting colours, darker shades such as black, navy, or deep purple are considered more professional and elegant.

In terms of footwear, Austrians tend to favour stylish and comfortable flat shoes. Sneakers are usually avoided, and cobblestone streets make heels impractical for everyday wear, so be sure to pack a pair of elegant flats or low-heeled shoes.

When packing for your business trip to Austria, remember to consider the season. Winters can be freezing, so make sure to bring warm layers, including a thick coat, hat, gloves, and scarf. Summers can be quite hot, but it's a good idea to have a lightweight jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.

Overall, Austrians take pride in their appearance, and business attire tends to be formal and stylish. Dark and solid colours are a safe choice, and by following these guidelines, you will fit right in with the local business culture.

Traditional clothing

The traditional clothing of Austria is called 'tracht'. This term was once used to identify a person's social and legal status, as well as their origin or trade. Today, it is used to describe clothing reminiscent of rural communities, and is worn for special and formal occasions like weddings or receptions.

Women's tracht is called 'dirndl' and consists of a close-fitting bodice with an apron in a different colour. The dirndl is sometimes sleeveless and worn with a cotton and lace blouse, and other times it has sleeves and a high neck. Women also wear hats, which vary according to occasion and region. The 'Goldhauben' is worn in Upper Austria, and the 'Bollenhut' in the Black Forest region of Germany, but only for festive occasions.

Men's tracht is made from leather, linen and wool. 'Lederhosen' are knee-length trousers or short pants made from leather and are worn with rustic shoes and wool socks. The 'Steireranzug' is a greyish garment with green embroidery that is now worn across Austria for semi-official occasions.

In addition to the above, there are regional varieties of tracht, and jackets and hats vary according to region and occasion.

Business attire for women

Austrians tend to wear clothing that is quite formal and stylish, and this extends to their business attire. Appearance and presentation are very important to Austrians, particularly in business. Even when dressed informally, they are neat and conservative, and their clothes are never ostentatious.

For business, women should wear either fashionable business suits or conservative dresses, complemented with elegant accessories. Loud colours are not acceptable. Dark colours are generally more popular, as are solid colours. A stylish pashmina or shawl is a must-pack item.

Austrian women generally don't wear jeans, except perhaps in the evenings at an outside venue but definitely not during the working day. By far the majority of women wear dresses and skirts.

High heels should be saved for the evenings. For daytime business meetings, opt for comfortable and stylish flat shoes – but definitely no sneakers.

In summer, a lightweight jacket or sweater is useful for the evenings, which can be cool. A light raincoat is also useful, even in the summer months, as is a travel umbrella. In winter, you will need warm layers, a thick waterproof coat, a warm hat, gloves, and a warm scarf.

Business attire for men

In Austria, business attire for men tends towards the formal and conservative. To make a professional impression, it is best to wear a dark suit, a smart sports jacket with trousers, a tie, and polished shoes. Dark colours are generally more popular, as are solid colours.

When it comes to footwear, it is important to consider the cobbled streets of Austrian cities. Comfortable and stylish flat shoes are recommended, but sneakers should be avoided.

If you are attending a social event, such as a dinner party, gala, or after-work drinks, it is important to dress elegantly. While punctuality and a friendly demeanour are also important, your attire will help to make a good impression.

It is worth noting that Austrian business culture is evolving, and if you are unsure about what to wear, it is best to check with a local contact. Additionally, remember to pack clothes that are appropriate for the cold Austrian weather.

Frequently asked questions