In reality, smart casual means nothing – so, rather handily, it can mean almost anything. To keep things simple, consider it an umbrella term for the sort of clothing that could be worn to a drinks reception, a smart restaurant or a hospitality box at a sporting event. Essentially, it’s anything that’s smarter than a T-shirt and jeans, but less formal than a suit and tie.
While smart casual is a fusion of two contrasting dress codes (smart and casual), it has evolved over time to settle on a style that allows for great flexibility, allowing men to play with different shapes and materials, and to not feel too pressured to adhere to the ‘rules’. As such, it can be interpreted, in its most basic state, as neat attire that retains an informal edge.
Know Your Smart Casual Audience
The golden rule of smart casual — as, indeed, with any dress code — is to know your audience. As smart casual is so broad in scope, it’s important that you select your outfit to take into account the specific event, location, and what, if any, activities will be taking place. After all, while a pair of tailored jeans, crewneck jumper, suede boots, and down jacket are ideal when enjoying some corporate hospitality at the Six Nations, it’s not necessarily suitable for a drinks party. You might want to stand out, granted– but make sure it’s for the right reasons.
Is There a Simple Way to Create a Smart Casual Look?
You’re in luck – there is, actually. A simple yet surprisingly effective way to nail the look is to swap smart pieces for casual ones and vice-versa so that there’s a balance of smart and casual garments in your outfit. For example, consider a razor-sharp suit with box-fresh leather or suede trainers. While the suit is ultra-formal, the trainers are resolutely casual. Teamed together, they tick the smart casual box perfectly.
Mastering the ‘One-Two’ Trick for Simple Smart Casual
The ‘One-Two’ approach helps you easily create a smart casual look. You simply start with a casual outfit and swap in smarter alternatives. For example, swap trainers for suede loafers, and a T-shirt for a fine-gauge turtleneck.
How long is a piece of string? Quite simply, when worn with the right items, almost any items of men’s clothing can be part of a smart casual ensemble. However, there are, of course, a few smart casual staples that every well-dressed man might like to consider.
Blazers are perhaps the most popular foundation for men’s smart casual, but that’s not to say they’re essential. However, a well-fitting blazer has an unrivalled ability to elevate the look of the rest of a man’s outfit. When selecting a blazer, look for one that complements the rest of your outfit and is season-appropriate. Lighter fabrics are ideal for summer, while wool works nicely during the cooler months.
If a blazer isn’t your style, a swacket (a cross between a jacket and a sweater) or a sleek bomber jacket can be a stylish and contemporary alternative. Ensure your jacket complements your trousers and shoes for a well-rounded smart casual outfit.
Certainly – but it needs to be the right style. A bomber jacket should be slimmer than the bulkier MA-1 style, ideally in dark colours like navy, and made from more luxurious fabrics such as wool or cotton, rather than the conventional shiny nylon.
Shirts are a go-to choice for smart casual. Opt for long-sleeve button-down collar shirts in materials like Oxford cloth or chambray. Patterns like sober Paisley or gingham can inject personality without overwhelming your look.
Yes, a T-shirt can qualify as smart casual, but only if it’s wrinkle-free, logo-free, and made from quality cotton. Pair it with smart pieces like a tailored blazer or chinos to ensure it still fits within the smart casual framework.
Absolutely! A fine-gauge knit in merino wool, cashmere, or cotton is an elegant addition to any smart casual outfit. Be sure to choose a slim design over bulkier styles for a more polished look.
Polo and turtlenecks can easily pass as smart casual, especially when paired with a tailored blazer. Stick to plain, monochrome designs to maintain the balance between casual and smart.
Chinos are the failsafe trouser style for smart casual. Dark, tailored denim can also work, provided it’s not distressed. Flannel or linen mixes are great options for more formal occasions.
Yes, shorts can qualify as part of a smart casual outfit, but they must be tailored and made from high-quality fabric, such as cotton or cotton-linen. Avoid anything too sporty or overly casual.
Smart casual footwear includes wingtips, Derbies, Chelsea boots, and loafers. Trainers can also work, but opt for clean, minimalist styles made from leather or suede. Avoid athletic sneakers, and steer clear of sandals.
Accessorise with a smart leather belt, pocket square, or elegant watch. Keep it simple and avoid overdoing it—less is often more with smart casual.
Err on the side of caution and place the emphasis on the smart side, rather than casual. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
