You may already be familiar with business, business casual, and casual as dress codes. Smart casual, however, is less clearly defined and often less familiar. It is a versatile way of dressing that is worth understanding. So what does smart casual actually look like in practice? This article will guide you through it.
What is smart casual?
To summarize the description in one sentence, smart casual is slightly less formal than business casual. The dress code includes appropriate and well-fitting pieces suitable for most types of occasions while being more put-together than a casual outfit. The term itself also gives a hint; you're supposed to look smart and casual, but not too casual. Dressing smart casual also gives you the freedom to experiment with different materials, structures, and colors.
Quick guide: Wardrobe essentials for work
Smart casual and its history
Although the exact origin of the term smart casual is difficult to trace, it has been used throughout the last century and began to describe menswear in the 1950s. It is often linked to the business casual dress code. At the time, business casual was associated with work, while smart casual was seen as the more relaxed alternative. Today, both dress codes can work in more formal settings, including the office, as long as smart casual still feels neat, considered, and well dressed.
How to dress smart casual
So, how do you dress smart casual in a way that feels considered? Smart casual is guided more by intention than by strict convention. That means the focus is less on specific items, such as a particular tie, pair of shoes, or suit brand, and more on how the outfit comes together. A clean t-shirt worn under a tailored blazer, paired with well-fitting jeans, is one example of a smart casual look.
Darker colors are generally seen as more formal, which is why black, gray, and navy are a smart base for smart casual outfits. A navy blazer over a sleek t-shirt is a reliable combination.
When styled well, a smart casual outfit can work in business casual, casual, and more dressed-up settings. As mentioned earlier, smart casual is as much about intention as it is about the individual pieces. When you are fully dressed, you should feel confident and comfortable in what you are wearing. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures, weaves, and colors. Does your outfit feel too casual? Swap the jeans for a pair of well-fitted chinos. Does it feel too formal? Choose a more casual shoe or a t-shirt in a lighter color.
We hope this article has given you a clearer understanding of smart casual and inspired you to try the style for yourself. Remember, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable in what you wear, but a perfect fit always helps.
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