The smart casual dress code: informal yet neat to the office
The holiday period is almost over and normal work life begins again. So unfortunately, going out in slippers and shorts is no longer an option. But what do you wear to the office then? The time when you were expected at the office in a three-piece suit is over. At many companies, an informal, or rather casual dress code more common. Comfortable clothing like jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers fits here. If you want to look a bit neater, for example because you regularly have business appointments, then you can smart casual dress code apply. This way, you are much more dressed up than with ordinary casual clothing, without sacrificing comfort. In this blog, we tell you what smart casual means and how to apply it in your office outfit.
What exactly is smart casual?
Smart casual is basically casual clothing, but with a ‘smart’ edge. Smart here means neat. The principle is that you wear comfortable clothing, but with a neat twist so you are prepared for anything. With this dress code, you can combine items playfully, as long as the overall look is well-groomed. Neat items like trousers, shirts, and blazers form the basis.
Smart casual is the most common dress code in the business world, especially at companies with an informal work atmosphere. It also regularly applies as a dress code at weddings and other semi-formal occasions. Smart casual is generally a safe and stylish clothing choice in many situations.
Smart casual for men
Smart casual stands for simple, everyday clothing, but neat and dressed up. For men, smart casual means a shirt as the base. Over that goes a blazer, if the weather allows. If it’s too warm, you can leave the blazer at home. You can wear a tie, but it is often a bit too formal for this dress code.
Several types of pants fit the smart casual dress code. You can go relatively formal with trousers, but you can also choose chinos or even neat dark jeans. By combining your shirt and blazer with chinos or jeans, you keep your outfit casual.
Smart casual for women
Smart casual for women means a well-groomed outfit, but not too overdressedThink of a skirt or trousers paired with a neat sweater or blouse. A dress or trendy jumpsuit combined with a blazer or cardigan also fits this dress code. Complete your outfit with elegant accessories, but keep it subtle.
Women can choose a black pair of jeans alongside trousers for the smart casual dress code. Just make sure they are unwrinkled and without holes. Denim jeans are not suitable for a smart casual outfit. Also, ensure the overall look remains stylish: a deep neckline, short skirt, and spaghetti straps do not fit this dress code.
