Smart Casual Dress Code: 4 Outfit Ideas

You’ve woken up to find an invitation to your friend's anniversary, sadly on the invitation, it states a smart casual dress code. We say sadly because what is smart casual? An oxymoron that puzzles the mind. How can you dress smart but also casually? And with its increase in popularity, it doesn’t look like it's going away anytime soon. 

Currently, if you don’t understand what a smart casual dress code is it may induce panic and fear. However, it doesn’t have to be like that and that’s why we’re going to ensure this blog keeps you informed. The smart casual dress code is a cool thing. Smart casual essentially means being smartly dressed while also being relaxed and comfortable. These types of outfits can be worn straight from the office to your date. Without the worry of being dressed inappropriately, providing you confidence and esteem from everyone else.  How is that possible you ask? Well, check out the outfit ideas below to get a better idea. 

Nonetheless, if you’re outfit has no personality to it, at its worst, it could just look plain boring. For example, matching jeans with a suit is not smart casual but rather sad. Instead, you’ll have to compliment the right garments and don’t look too out of place and fit the smart casual dress code. And if you’re not sure how to go about the smart casual dress code or are just a little low in inspiration. Here are some mind-blowing ideas to keep you looking your best. 

Differentiated smart casual:

Smart casual will not be the same for everyone or the occasion. For example, the smart casual dress code will be different at graduation and on a Friday date night. 

This dress code is not consistent everywhere. And so it is vital to consider certain things such as where you are going. And who are you going with? As that insight can aid you in deciding how smart or how casual you need to dress. In essence, if you’re going to graduation it typically tends to be rigid and formal. A blazer is required to fit in and wearing clothes on the smart side of the spectrum will be a symbol of respect for those graduating.

However, for a date, a blazer might be a one-way trip to overdressing depending on where you go. Thus, it’s better to dress down and maybe where something smarter on your lower half like tailored trousers and boots but on the upper half keep it rather casual and wear a T-shirt and a jacket. 

Sexy Smart Casual Outfits 

Minimalistic black:

Ever heard the saying ‘when in doubt go black’ well it’s true cause it never fails if done correctly. Black clothing provides you with a sophisticated and clean look. Not to mention an all-black outfit can also make you appear slimmer. It also can send a buoyant vibe that other bright colours can’t. 

Ensure you use a range of different fabrics to enhance your look, for example, leather cotton and wool. Different materials aid in visual interest and keeps your outfit from looking plain and boring. 

You can wear fitted black chinos trousers with a black T-shirt and a black leather jacket or bomber jacket. Finish the outfit with shiny black oxford shoes or black trainers. Keep in mind this smart casual dress code falls under the date category of slightly more casual than smart. 

Source: Google

Leave the tie at home

This outfit is on the smarter side of the smart causal spectrum. And so for example, if you’re heading for a graduation try wearing a suit without the tie. We know it sounds simple however, this is a great outfit which also comes with a few rules. Ensure the suit is relaxed and laid back thus, look for one rather unstructured for example a single breast cut. Pair this with denim or an oxford shirt. 

In terms of footwear, you can put on loafers or boots. These subtle swaps from the traditional smart wear will ensure you look unique and not someone who just came from work. Thus, this outfit fits the smart casual dress code. 

White bottoms

White trousers or jeans work excellently with the smart casual dress code. These bottoms are used more in warmer climates such as Italy. Thus, these bottoms are inspired by their country making them great for a beach or cocktail party. 

If you want to give these bottoms a run, we recommend dressing them down with navy or brown jackets or sweatshirts. Brown or white footwear also works great with this outfit. Remember to keep yourself tidy and clean when wearing white as that is the real concern in this outfit.

Smart fabrics, casual wear

At the end of the day, the smart causal was designed to make you look smart while being comfortable and that is exactly what this outfit is. Thus, in this outfit find the casual clothing you already like and swap them out for the same cuts but in luxurious fabrics. For example, bomber jackets in leather, knitwear in cashmere and T-shirts crafted from wool. These garments are all rather casual but look smarter in these higher-quality fabrics. Thus producing a smart casual look.

Source: Google

Pair either one of these tops with chinos trousers and leather boots or trainers for a smart fabric look. 

These were 4 smart casual outfits ideas. If you feel like we missed something or should add something to the list let us know on social media. We hope you were entertained and now have an idea of what the smart casual dress code is. Moreover, if you feel like trying one of these smart casual looks tag us and we’ll certainly check it out. 

If you’re looking for smart casual clothing there isn’t a better time to find your perfect clothing. Head over to branded10 for the best smart casual clothing and 100% guaranteed made-to-last garments.

FAQ:

Q: What is smart casual dress code for man?

A: Smart casual essentially means being smartly dressed while also being relaxed and comfortable. These types of outfits can be worn straight from the office to your date. For example, something smarter on your lower half like tailored trousers and boots but on the upper half keeps it rather casual and wear a T-shirt and a jacket. 

Q: How do men style smart casual?

A: 1) Rich fabrics enhance garments and make them look smart casual.

     2) Wear a suit without a tie.

     3) Wear a completely black outfit.

     4) Wear white jeans or trousers and pair them with something rather causal on top (eg- T-shirt & Jacket)

Q: Are jeans OK for smart casual?

A: Yes, but not always as it depends, smart casual will not be the same for everyone or the occasion. For example, the smart casual dress code will be different at graduation and on a Friday date night.