You’ve heard about smart casual for men at your last gathering, but you don’t know what it means exactly. This guide will detail all you need to know about smart casual outfits. You will learn to master them for every occasion.
I’ve had many questions about smart casual style. So, I spent days (and some money) researching and fitting. In the end, I found contradictory opinions on the subject. So, I decided to put everything I learned in this article. It will give you the exact info you need to nail your style.
This article will clarify the smart casual dress code for men. It will guide you through the essential pieces. We’ll also show you how to create perfect outfits for any occasion.
What is Smart Casual?
First, let’s define the style “smart casual.” The term “smart casual” is from the 20th century. It helped to tell apart the heavy, formal business suits and more relaxed clothes. The latter had lighter materials and smoother lines. Today it’s closely related to the business casual style, which is a more formal version of it.
Today it’s a trending style for men that tries to find a good balance between casual clothes and formal pieces. A smart casual outfit is a nice opportunity to feel comfortable in your clothes while maintaining a great sense of fashion.
This is helpful at events that require some smartness but not too much. Talking about friendly receptions, classy restaurants, and other relaxed gatherings. This style will also give you many outfit options. You can do this with just a few clothes. It will let you easily switch for the occasion.
Find a good balance on the formality scale.
Yet, if you are not careful enough, you can still go wrong when trying to wear a smart casual outfit.
The main mistake is struggling to balance “smart” and “casual” for your event. To give you an example, you don’t want to have the same outfit for a wedding and a date. While you are still able to wear smart casual, sometimes you’ll prefer to go to the smarter side of it, and vice versa.
You must know the key pieces and their purpose in an outfit. This will help you avoid mistakes in the future. For that, I’ve prepared a list of the eight essential pieces you need for smart casual for men and some other important tips for you.
Table of Contents
8 essential pieces for smart casual.
Unstructured Blazer
The unstructured blazer is a very relaxed version of your traditional suit jacket. Compared to its counterpart it usually contains little or no padding on the shoulders and no internal canvasing. It allows it to drape naturally over your shoulders and hug your shape.
This makes it less formal which is suitable for the smart casual look. The unstructured blazer is a bit lighter and very comfortable with good mobility.
Wear it with your smartest chinos, paired with a T-shirt or a polo shirt for casual elegance. Accessorize the outfit with simple sneakers to complement the laid-back style. Whether going to a casual workplace meeting or just going out for brunch on the weekend you are set with this blazer.
Blazer Bomber Jacket
The blazer bomber jacket integrates blazer stiffness with the comfort of a bomber jacket. It appears to be highly fitted with the ease of a bomber jacket and comes with ribbed cuffs and waistbanding.
This jacket is not as formal as a blazer, making it a great choice for smart casual ensembles. This is something one can wear virtually anywhere and is fashionable but comfortable at the same time.
Combine it with dark jeans or tailored slim-fit chinos and an Oxford shirt for a balanced look. Minimal sneakers or Derby shoes should be added to the outfit. The blazer bomber jacket makes it easy to dress for whichever occasion one has in mind whether it is a regular working day or a night out.
Oxford Shirt (Button-Down)
The Oxford shirt is also a very classic piece of clothing that blends formality with comfort. This makes it one of the essentials of smart casual ensembles. It is constructed of sturdy Oxford cloth, the collar is button-down and the fabric is slightly ribbed. With this, it affords it a polished laid-back feel.
Well, this is rather intellectual combined with relaxed. It allows one to easily dress up or dress down.
Best worn with chinos or dark wash jeans for men for a clean preppy style. It can be worn with a blazer or bomber jacket. Finish with minimal sneakers or Derby shoes. No wardrobe is complete without this elegant piece.
Chinos
Chinos were first designed as army uniforms for French and British soldiers in the mid-19th century. They now have become part of casual clothing. Nowadays, people wear them to get a fresh and tight look, but they are not too formal which makes them popular.
Chinos suit a smart casual dress code for men; they are comfortable yet sophisticated. They can handle lots of washing, are comfortable to wear, and can be of any color, so they are good for every event. Navy for a more formal look and beige for a classic casual look will do the trick.
For a better fit, it is advisable to tailor your chino to perfectly match your leg shape.
Drawstring Trousers
To one’s surprise, drawstring trousers have a rich history. These gained popularity in the early part of the twentieth century as athletic wear. It was due to their comfort and flexibility. Over time, fashion designers realized the potential of wearing them daily. They integrated them into modern styles but did not forget to maintain their original comfort.
Today, they are considered an indispensable part of many outfits due to their versatility in combination with comfort.
These trousers feature a drawstring or elasticized waistband. They fit relaxed but look polished. This is usually achieved with comfortable material that is often soft and allows ventilation for the skin all day.
Dark Jeans
Jeans are one of the basics of casual outfits, and everyone has this piece in their room. However, you can easily go wrong with it. So, we want to emphasize the “Dark” version. It will suit a smart casual outfit for men. It will give a smarter look than a regular blue jean (the “Darker = Smarter” rule always works).
Combined with an Oxford shirt and minimalist sneakers, it is a classic of the style. As for the size, go for a manageable size, a regular fit will usually do the job.
Minimal Sneakers
For smart casual outfits, you mostly have two choices when it comes to shoes. Minimal sneakers are one of them, casual yet clean you cannot go wrong with it. Their smooth lines and subtle design make them a versatile addition to any wardrobe. They suit many outfits.
Minimal sneakers gained popularity in the early 2000s. The fashion world began to favor simple, functional designs over flashy ones.
Be sure to prefer a good quality pair made out of leather, which will help them last longer and ensure your comfort. For the color, especially if it’s your first pair, go with the completely white version that works everywhere.
Derby Shoes
The other footwear that comes to mind for smart casual is Derby shoes. These are on the formal side compared to sneakers and will be a great asset in your shoe collection if you want to elevate your style a little bit.
Their open-lacing system gives a sleek look and a comfy fit. Which is perfect for a smart casual wardrobe. Their timeless design allows them to be dressed up or down with ease.
Pair Derby shoes with chinos or dark jeans for a refined yet relaxed look. For a modern touch, choose Derbys with a chunkier rubber sole. It gives a stylish look and a good grip in bad weather. Color-wise, you can go for black or brown.
Outfits for smart casual
Urban Elegance
Blazer Bomber Jacket + Oxford Shirt + Drawstring Trousers + Minimal Sneakers
This outfit incorporates the formal aspect of a blazer and the casual design of a bomber jacket. It is suitable for today’s modern and city style. The Oxford shirt makes it slightly formal yet the drawstring trousers are comfortable and not too restricting. Minimal sneakers maintain the aesthetic’s modernity, which is perfect for navigating city life with ease.
Classic Comfort
Unstructured Blazer + Knitted Polo + Dark Jeans + Derby Shoes
The unstructured blazer offers a relaxed fit, it is appropriate to wear it with this slightly formal but comfortable knitted polo. Dark jeans are somewhat classy but not too formal. Derby shoes are great to finish the image. They are comfortable and nevertheless classy and suitable to be worn during casual as well as slightly formal occasions.
Casual Chic
Oxford Shirt + Chinos (slim-fit) + Blazer Bomber Jacket + Minimal Sneakers
The Oxford shirt and slim-fit chinos set the professional yet relaxed tone. A blazer-bomber jacket perfects the look and joins the tradition of a modern theme. These minimal sneakers make the look laid-back and casual. Perfect to wear at, informal occasions this ensemble is chic, vibrant, youthful, and beautiful.
Winter Sophistication
Roll Neck + Dark Jeans + Unstructured Blazer + Derby Shoes
A roll-neck sweater is fashionable and keeps one warm; thus, ideal for the cold months. Dark jeans maintain the aspect of the look formal but still relaxed. The unstructured blazer makes the clothing elegant, but not overly formal or stiff. The classic touch of the Derby shoes complements the appearance. This outfit is ideal for rather cold days.
Layered Ease
Shirt & Knits + Drawstring Trousers + Minimal Sneakers
Layering a shirt with knits adds depth and texture to your outfit, making it both stylish and practical. Drawstring trousers are comfy all day. Minimal sneakers keep the look modern and relaxed. This ensemble is perfect for a laid-back yet stylish appearance.
Timeless Blend
Blazer with jeans + Oxford Shirt + Derby Shoes
Wearing jeans with a blazer helps one look smart yet comfortable. Incorporating an Oxford shirt brings an element of professionalism, Derby shoes give a smooth finish. This is perfect wear for business meetings and other events where one needs to dress smart but not overly formal.
Relaxed Henley
Henley Shirt (Shirt substitution) + Chinos (slim-fit) + Minimal Sneakers
A Henley shirt offers a casual alternative to the traditional shirt, adding a relaxed vibe to the outfit. The chino is stylish and adds formality, it should be slim-fit to achieve the tailored touch. Minimal sneakers maintain the look while keeping the comfort in check. This outfit is good for weekend and casual events, and for pick-up occasions.
Elevated Casual
Elevated casualwear (Sweater + Shirt) + Dark Jeans + Derby Shoes
Combining a sweater with a shirt is such a classic way of dressing that is relaxed yet it eludes class. Dark jeans make things a little more formal, while Derby shoes bring it home for a finalized style. I like to call this outfit elevated casual because it looks polished, but you aren’t suffocating or too restricted.
Monochrome Sleek
All black (Unstructured Blazer + T-Shirt + Chinos + Shoes)
Wearing all-black clothing gives an individual a classy and stylish outlook. The unstructured blazer and matching trousers create a sleek silhouette. A black T-shirt and shoes also serve to complement the outfit. This one-colored outfit is ideal for power dressing and creating an image of a businessman who knows what he wants.
Summer Breeze
White Chinos (White legwear) + Oxford Shirt + Blazer Bomber Jacket + Minimal Sneakers
This look with a white shirt and white chinos gives a fresh look especially appropriate for the summer. It is enhanced by the Oxford shirt’s classic look while the blazer bomber jacket adds a modern twist. Minimal sneakers keep the look light and casual. This outfit is perfect for summer activities and informal events.
Tips for Smart Casual
Now, we provided an insight on how to get the basics of smart casual for men right. That being the case, let us look at its variety. We will also indicate what should not be done in order not to make fashion errors.
For that, we have made a list of DO’S & DON’TS and a few general tips which you are most welcome to try by yourself.
DO’S
- Invest in quality pieces
This one is maybe one of the most underestimated criteria to fit to the smart casual look.
Buying well-fitted, durable, and elegant clothes is a worthy investment. They must be free from defects. Good quality clothes and well-stitching can turn any plain attire into an extraordinary one. They help you to look fashionable without having to do much.
- Keep it simple
Elegance in smart casual dressing can easily be captured if profound simplicity is achieved. Be simple and choose neutral colors along with timeless cuts. Stylish designs or flashy patterns should not be used for the clothing line. The general rule is that a simple, well-coordinated outfit often looks more elegant and sophisticated.
- Mix casual and formal pieces
The essence of smart casual is based on the combination of both relaxation and sophistication. Do not overdo the casual or formal looks. It should be a mix of both.
- Start casual, add smart after
Start with a casual base, and later add smarter parts. For instance, begin with a T-shirt and jeans. You can then layer the outfit with a blazer or sophisticated shoes. Using this approach, you can diversify your outfit according to the occasion that you expect to attend.
- Pay attention to details
Details can make or break an outfit. Ensure your clothes are clean, well-fitted, and in good condition. Pay attention to accessories like belts, watches, and pocket squares, as they can add a touch of elegance and complete your look.
- Choose appropriate shoes
Shoes are one of the essential accessories in people’s clothing. Choose the models that are neutral like minimal sneakers, Derby shoes, or even loafers. These choices enhance the variety of smart casual attires and guarantee the overall look is neat and refined.
- Adapt the style to the occasion
Smart casual does have the potential for being flexible and should be adjusted according to the situation. Knowing the context prepares you for keeping a good balance between smart and casual. It shows that you get the right outfit for a given occasion.
DON’TS
- Avoid overly casual clothing
Avoid clothing items that are too relaxed, especially t-shirts with prints, hoodies, and any sportswear. These pieces go a long way in eradicating the smart aspect of smart casual. Rather go for items that are more polished but at the same time reasonably comfortable.
- Don’t overload outfits
Refrain from wearing too many accessories or layering excessively. The addition of too many items creates an aura of disorderliness in the attire. Keep it simple and let each piece stand out.
- Avoid poorly fitting clothes
Proportionality is key in formal dressing, especially in smart casual. Both too-tight and too-loose clothes are considered not to be very appropriate as they make one appear sloppy. Ought to make certain your garments match well and accent your figure, so that you will look neat and trendy.
- Don’t neglect accessories
While it’s important not to overload, the same extends to not using accessories at all. An appropriate choice of a belt, a watch, or even sunglasses may complement one’s dressing sense. Accessories should complement your outfit, not overpower it.
- Avoid mixing too many different styles
Maintain a cohesive look by avoiding the combination of too many different styles. Mixing bohemian with preppy or sporty with formal can create a confusing aesthetic. Make sure to not go overboard in choosing accessories and garments that do not relate to smart casual wear.
- Don’t forget personal grooming
It is important to look neat to achieve a polished look, so personal grooming is one of the secret factors. Ensure your hair, nails, and hygiene are well maintained. A polished look goes hand in hand with your clothes and increases the beauty of the dress code.
TIPS
- Experiment with Accessories
Don’t be afraid to add personality to your outfit with accessories. Do not only stick to a specific color for the belts, watches, scarves, or even the hat. Accessories can easily enhance one’s appearance and at the same time express one’s mood.
- Vary Textures
When you are comfortable with the notions of smart casual. Another element that adds depth is the combination of different textures as it makes the outfit non-boring. A wool blazer can be paired with a cotton shirt and suede shoes may be worn with denim jeans. Combining various fabrics creates a visually appealing and dynamic look.
- Mix Shades and Tones
Experimenting with the colors and hues supplements your smart casual looks and style. Light and dark shades must be used so that there is confrontation and balance. For example, wear a black blazer with a bright-colored shirt and semi-formal pants of a neutral color.
- Layer Up
Layering is one of the smart avenues that you can incorporate in your dressing to increase the class of the clothes you are putting on besides the flexibility in case there is a change of weather. Choose, for instance, a shirt as the base layer and then wear a sweater as the mid layer and then top it up with a blazer or jacket. Extra layers make it possible to regulate temperature, and it is easier to add or remove something in comparison with wearing a single layer. Generally, it would be ideal to keep it at 3 at most.
- Choose the right watch
A good watch can take your outfit up a notch. When choosing a watch, you should pay attention to its design, whether it’s a classic leather strap for a refined look or a minimalist design for a modern touch. The right watch helps pull an outfit together and make it appear to be much more thought out and put together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you wear jeans in smart casual?
Of course, jeans can be considered for smart casual outfit. So choose dark and well-fitted jeans because they look more respectable than light and distressed jeans. Best worn with an Oxford shirt and a blazer or a Knitted polo and Derbies for that perfect smart casual look.
This combination strikes the perfect balance between casual and refined.
Can I wear sneakers for smart casual?
Minimal sneakers can be worn in smart casual attire. They are comfortable to wear and at the same time have a classy design. Select sneakers that are not too flashy and do not come in very bright colors. They will complement your outfit without looking too sporty.
Match them with chinos and an Oxford shirt. Or drawstring trousers and a blazer bomber jacket for a contemporary look.
What about a polo shirt?
A polo shirt is one of those clothes that can be easily linked to the smart casual clothing category. It is a notch up from the simple t-shirt but not as formal as the shirt. It can be worn for casual business meetings with dark jeans and complemented by an unstructured blazer. Or, matched with chinos with good fitting and minimal shoes.
This provides a clean and serene appearance, raising the outfit’s sophistication level (refer to Classic Comfort and Relaxed Henley ensembles).
What is smart casual at work?
Smart casual at work is a combination of formal and casual clothes. While it is professional the look also has to be friendly. For instance, you can wear chinos or dark jeans with an Oxford shirt and an unstructured blazer. For the footwear, use derbies shoes or minimalist sneakers depending on the organization’s dress code. They will complement it.
This style ensures one to look and feel professional yet relaxed at the workplace.
What is the smart casual dress code for a wedding?
Smart casual when going to a wedding therefore requires looking polished without being overly formal. For comfort, wear a well-fitted unstructured blazer or a bomber blazer. Pair it with an ironed Oxford shirt and chinos or tailored trousers. Minimal sneakers could be okay for a laid-back wedding but Derby shoes are probably the best for most weddings
Choose subtle accessories and ensure your outfit is well-coordinated to honor the event.
What’s the Difference Between Casual and Smart Casual Dress Code?
To close this smart casual guide I want to remind you of the main difference between casual and smart casual dress codes.
It mainly lies in the level of polish and refinement. Casual dressing is freer and may comprise t-shirts, jeans, and sneakers. Smart casual is a mix of casual wear, with a touch of formality to achieve a harmonious outfit (Blazer, Derby Shoes, etc). The key is to maintain comfort while adding sophistication and style.
Here is “The scale of formality.” On the far left is the most casual style (Casual). In the middle, you have smart casual and on the right, business casual.
What to do next?
You’ve learned about smart casual in this article for relaxed events. You may want to know how to dress for a formal event, like a job interview. So check out our guide on Business casual for men.
