What is a smart casual dress code? (2024)

FAQs

What is a smart casual dress code? ›

Smart casual is professional but a little relaxed - a polished take on more casual pieces of clothing as well as casual or fun items paired back with smarter pieces. Items are typically less structured and the formality downgraded from traditional corporate wear.

Jeans can definitely feature in any smart casual look, but you need to choose the cut and colour carefully. If you want to wear jeans in a smart casual setting, opt for a straighter, slimmer fit rather than anything too relaxed or baggy. Darker washes usually fit better in a more formal setting, too.

What Should I Avoid When Dressing Smart Casual? Loud prints and patterns. Even though it's casual, it's not loud. Smart also means put together without making a big statement.

The main contrast is that smart casual attire may include trendy pieces such as coloured jeans, structured T-shirts, and trainers. A smart casual wardrobe should have a variety of clothes which will work with one another to create a range of outfits for the workplace.

Yes, you can wear sneakers as part of a smart-casual dress code for women, men and gender-neutral styles. You can pair sneakers with jeans, khakis and chinos. You may even wear sneakers with some skirts for a more athletic smart-casual look for women.

Smart casual is professional but a little relaxed - a polished take on more casual pieces of clothing as well as casual or fun items paired back with smarter pieces.

Clothing that should come to mind when hearing smart casual dress code are polos, sport jackets, short or long sleeves collared button-downs, fun patterned dress shirts, casual dress pants, chinos, dark wash jeans, and sensible yet professional foot-wear.

The key difference between smart casual and casual lies in sophistication. Smart casual steps up from the basic casual look, focusing more on a polished appearance.

Smart Casual: If you are wearing a casual shirt by itself leave it untucked, however, if you are wearing a shirt paired with a casual jacket or coat, tuck it in for smart casual occasions. Business Casual: Whether you are sporting a blazer, sweater or just a shirt, always have your shirt tucked in.

For smart casual attire, you want to take your casual wardrobe and just elevate it slightly. Instead of sneakers, try loafers, Chelsea boots or Derby shoes (Oxfords are borderline, but can work with the right outfit). Instead of your weekend kick-about jeans, try dark denim with a sharp double cuff.

Are leggings smart casual? ›

Naturally, business-casual attire will vary depending on your industry, but now more than ever, leggings have become an acceptable item of clothing to wear to work, and we're not complaining.

Is A T-shirt Smart Casual? A t-shirt can be smart casual. Choose a crew-neck style in a high-quality material. Avoid prints and style untucked with the hem just on the beltline.

A polo shirt is also a very safe choice, with 82% saying this can be worn as part of a smart casual outfit.

According to Debretts, jeans can be smart casual, but only on the condition that the event or place you're heading to is a more laid back one. (Jeans would not be welcome at a smart casual wedding, for example.) However, the denim in question should be immaculate - so give the ripped knees a miss.

Can shorts be smart casual? Yes! But there are rules. Shorts should always be tailored, first and foremost.

Do wear smart shoes. You don't have to wear heels but stick to sandals, pumps or smart boots to elevate your look. If you want to wear jeans, opt for dark washes and clean cuts. If in doubt, keep it classic!

For instance, you could pair a neat tailored blazer (business) over some dark jeans (casual). Avoid articles of clothing you would never wear in the workplace as a rule of thumb. You don't want to turn up in a t-shirt and jeans but you don't want to overdo things with a full business suit either.

Yes, depending on the style and fit. Stick to well-tailored, crisp jeans—think classic slim or straight fits, skinny jeans, and boot cuts, avoiding baggy boyfriend fits or loose, stretched out jeans.

Jeans are usually considered business casual, with some exceptions. Business casual jeans should be clean and in good condition, free of any tears, fading or fraying. Avoid bright-colored jeans or styles that have flashy details, in favor of classic styles that you can pair with accessories or layers as needed.

Bottoms: Pants like chinos, silk pants, or dress pants are a great choice for a smart casual look. Dark-wash denim jeans are acceptable, but they should be tailored and distress-free.