smartcasual

Smart casual is a dress code that blends elements of business attire with casual wear. It is more polished than everyday casual but more relaxed than traditional business or formalwear. The exact interpretation varies by setting, region, and host, but it generally calls for well-fitted garments and an overall tidy appearance.

Key components include tailored pieces and quality fabrics such as wool, cotton, linen, and blends. Tops include collared shirts, polo shirts, lightweight sweaters, or neat blouses. Bottoms typically are chinos or tailored trousers; dark, clean denim may be acceptable in some contexts. Footwear should be polished rather than athletic; loafers, brogues, derby shoes, and smart flats are common. Accessories should be restrained.

Context matters: in many offices, smart casual sits between business formal and casual Fridays, and guidelines vary by company culture. For events, a smart casual outfit should be more refined than casual wear yet less formal than a suit. Women may wear a tailored dress or a blouse with a skirt or trousers, while men may wear a blazer with a collared shirt and chinos. Regional differences exist; in some places jeans are acceptable with a neat top, in others they are discouraged.

Tips: when in doubt, lean toward a more polished option and ensure good fit and grooming. Avoid sportswear, graphic tees, ripped jeans, or overly flashy accessories. Examples: men — blazer, button-down shirt, chinos; women — tailored blazer, blouse, and trousers or a midi dress with smart flats.