Smart casual (or “a little loose”) is one of the controversial styles. They say and write quite a lot about it, but it is difficult to formulate an exact definition. Smart casual clothing is preferred by men who want to look respectable, but at the same time informal. Next, we will try to analyze the features of the dress code and its main elements.
Smart casual dress code definition
Different sources contain different interpretations of this stylistic trend. In each state or company, the meaning of the dress code is individual. After all, what is acceptable in one place may look inappropriate and even indecent in another.
Smart casual does not provide a strict framework; it can successfully combine classic and trendy clothing elements.
The emergence of Smart casual
It is believed that Smart casual originated in the USA at the beginning of the 20th century. This was the era of the development of large corporations that did not make special demands on the appearance of employees. The style gained its popularity only in the middle of the century, when white-collar workers appreciated the convenience and sophistication of the outfit. The first images looked rather timid and unconvincing. For example, men began to wear a simpler cotton version instead of a formal jacket.
Key elements of a smart casual dress code for men
The main condition when creating a smart casual look is to find harmony between classic and informal things. With the advent of this style, men became more free in their choice of clothing. Even with a small number of items in your wardrobe, you can combine several interesting looks.
Men's shirts
The basic item in the Smart casual style is a dark blue shirt. It goes with all wardrobe items and will never lose its relevance. The main thing is to choose the right shade. Ideally, you should have as many shirts as possible in different colors and cuts.
Important! A checkered or striped shirt will help to emphasize the individuality of the look.
T-shirt
It will look perfect in an office style plain T-shirt with a shallow neckline. It is important that it matches the color of the rest of the clothing. A jacket or blazer is worn on top, which can be easily removed if desired.
Blazer and jacket
Many men confuse a blazer and a jacket, because in appearance they are very similar. However, they are worn on different occasions. So, for warm weather, a cotton or linen blazer in muted brown, beige or green is suitable.
A men's blazer can be worn instead of a vest under a jacket.In cool weather, you should opt for a tweed jacket.
Cardigan
In a conservative version the cardigan should be made of thin fabric or knitted. The collar can be either v-shaped or shawl-shaped. Sports models are fastened with a zipper, and classic ones with buttons.
Tie and other accessories
A spectacular tie will add a fresh touch to your look. However, in the case under consideration, it is not a required attribute. If the event requires its presence, then opt for a thin knitted tie.
It is better to abandon standard office models. The tie can be matched to the color of the pocket square. Among the accessories, it is worth paying attention to sunglasses and a tie clip.
Trousers
When choosing trousers, image makers advise abandoning classic models with smoothed creases and straight shapes. The best choice is khaki and chinos style items.
Important! The color of the trousers should match the shade of the top of the suit, belt and shoes. Light colors are chosen by young people, while dark colors are chosen by more mature and respectable men.
And here You need to choose jeans in Smart casual carefully, so as not to break the border and not go casual.
Attention! The highlight of the look can be trousers rolled up at the bottom in combination with loafers on bare feet. The sleeves of a shirt and jacket can also be rolled up.
Belt
The belt is chosen depending on the type and color of the trousers. Since the style is quite free and relaxed, it is permissible to use different things of opposite colors in one look.
For chinos, a narrow belt that matches the color of your shoes is recommended. And for jeans, the usual classic version is suitable.
Men's footwear
When choosing shoes, it is better to show your imagination and experiment.However, the model should be as close as possible to the classics. There are no restrictions on color, but it is still better to replace black with bright brown.
Socks
Of course, some boot options are more practical to wear on bare feet. However, in most cases you will need socks. They should match the color of some detail of the image, for example, a tie.
Fashionable men's looks Smart casual (smart casual)
Let's consider variations of images in the Smart casual style:
- Classic look. The selection of clothes begins with a shirt. It should be one color or with a simple print. You can skip the tie and wear a blazer on top. Neutral chinos pair well with chocolate-colored shoes and a belt.
- Free. In this option, jeans, a white shirt and a dark jacket are appropriate. A vest with a tie or a cardigan would also be suitable.
- Multi-layered image. To create it you will need a one-color shirt, jumper, jeans, cardigan. The more clothes, the better.
- In cold weather. Insulated wool trousers and a turtleneck are a must. You can wear a blazer on top.
- Sports look. The main attribute here will be fashionable sneakers. In this variation there is a fine line between Smart casual and casual styles, and its transition can be very difficult to notice.
Successful combinations of clothes and colors
As with any style, there are the most successful clothing combinations. Thus, according to most famous designers, a blue blazer is a universal item in a smart casual wardrobe that suits any look.
A good combination would be combination of dark top and light bottom. For example, a dark blue sweater with beige trousers. A white shirt is also an integral element.
The main colors of the dress code will be black, white, grey, beige, brown, shades of blue and burgundy.
Advice! If you still decide to give up the tie, then it is better to leave the top button of the shirt undone.
Smart casual can be called a connecting component between business formal attire and comfortable, practical clothing. In terms of comfort, it is second only to the sports style. The uniqueness of the dress code is hidden in its minimalism. After all, you can have basic things and, with the right approach, combine them for a specific situation.
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