Smart Casual Attire

If you’re looking to build a sophisticated wardrobe that pairs well with business casual attire then it’s important to explore smart casual. Smart casual style is attire that combines well-fitting, polished businesswear with components of casual wear.

What Makes a Look Smart Casual?

There’s no one way to pull off smart casual. What’s smart for one person may be casual for another. Smart casual is meant to be fun and chic rather than stuffy like your typical professional wear. With that said, when trying to achieve a smart casual aesthetic, lean smarter not more casual. Invest in classic pieces that won’t go out of style like t-shirts, jeans, denim jackets, sweaters, and sneakers. To start, stick to neutral colors and basics to make coordinating a little easier.

How To Build You Smart Wardrobe

Here’s a couple of helpful tips to get you started:

Blazers

A blazer jacket can be worn in a variety of ways, which is why it’s a perfect garment to add to your smart wardrobe. Whether you’re going for a simple look or an edgy one, the blazer is extremely versatile. It can be layered with a t-shirt, button-up, sweater, turtleneck, or coat. I would avoid wearing blazers that are too formal. Instead, opt for a lightweight blazer, one made with more flexible fabrics like linens and tweeds or a less structured blazer overall.

Shirts

Since we are aiming for a sophisticated yet informal look, button-up shirts will always work with our smart casual dress code. Those traditional colorways like crisp white, blue, black, and navy are a no-brainer, but don’t be afraid to experiment with less traditional colors like salmon, yellow, chambray, burgundy, or green. While polo shirts and short-sleeved button-ups aren’t great for your business attire, they’ll work well with your smart wardrobe so lean into those styles more as well.

T-shirts

A T-shirt is my go-to option! A t-shirt is a great way to elevate a more sophisticated yet casual look. However, I will say that fit is king or should I say Q’wing 🤔! No, but for real, you want to make sure your t-shirt is well-fitted. This does not mean that your t-shirt has to hug you tightly, but it should match the overall tone and fit of your ensemble. Similar to shirts, choose a solid color or color block t-shirt for more variety and versatility in your overall wardrobe.

Jeans

Jeans are always a good idea when leaning into your smart casual look. In terms of versatility, I recommend starting with a well-fitted dark pair of jeans. Darker jeans can allow for more of an elevated look while lighter jeans are for more casual occasions. With that said, lighter washes are perfect for the summer months.

Sweaters

One of the things I thoroughly look forward to in the Fall and Winter months is being able to incorporate sweaters and turtlenecks into my wardrobe. A merino wool sweater over a turtleneck or a button-up paired with jeans or smart pants and sneakers screams sophisticated yet casual. As the temperature drops, try a cotton sweater, cable knit sweater, or turtleneck. If you’ve been following me for a while then you know chunky cardigans are my vibe. All of these sweater options are extremely versatile and offer endless style possibilities.

Jackets

There are quite a few jackets to choose from to round out your smart wardrobe. Leather jackets like biker jackets or suede bombers are timeless and can even add a bit of edge to your smart casual style. Similar to a trench coat, a Mac jacket not only keeps you dry on rainy days, but its minimal silhouette will help elevate your smart look with jeans or trousers. Let’s not forget the denim jacket. Denim jackets will always be in style and are extremely versatile. Similar to dark wash jeans, I opt for dark denim jackets for more versatile wear

Shoes

Last but not least, my favorite part of the ensemble, the shoes! There’s a lot of wiggle room when it comes to shoes and your smart casual aesthetic. If you’re someone who loves business shoes then opt for suede brogues, derby’s, or even boots. As of late, I’ve been avoiding business shoes, however, when I want to appear a tad more sophisticated, I’ll slip on a pair of chelsea boots. Depending on how you style them, chelsea boots can help make your ensemble look smarter or even more casual. Lastly, my fellow sneaker heads, this is for you! Minimalist sneakers in leather are my go-to smart casual shoes. They work well with everything from well-fitted cashmere joggers to smart pants. Who says you can’t wear sneakers and look smart.