September 7th, 2006
I am frequently asked how to put together a smart casual look (which shouldn’t be confused with semi formal or business casual dress codes). The simplest route is by dressing up smart jeans. Denim is not the only bottom option, (stretch cotton twill pants or skirts are another alternative), but it is the more adaptable choice. It can be worn with most colours or fabrics, and manages to tone down anything dressy that you put with it.
Smart casual dressing is about following a formula. Here are the components:
- Smart Jeans: get the darkest blue wash that you can find. Black and grey denim have made a comeback this season and are good substitutes – but blue is best. No holes, tears, faded areas or bleach marks. Trouser cut denim styles are another excellent option.
- Dressy top or collared shirt: select styled knitted tops in better end fabrications, woven girly tops or tailored collared shirts. Plain cru-neck T’s will not be smart enough.
- Knitwear or jacket: layer a fine-knit cardigan, pullover or fitted jacket over your first layer when it starts to get chilly.
- Trench coat or coat: top it off with a fitted trench or woolen winter coat.
- Heels: wearing smart shoes with some sort of heel is key. Fancy flats can be smart too, but are never as chic as heels.
- Bag: adding a dressy bag completes your smart casual look.
This dress code is extremely versatile. It can take you to work, shopping, date night, the theatre, PTA meetings, dinner parties, and evenings out. It’s my favourite way to dress.
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10 Replies
Posted on Thursday, September 7th, 2006 at 7:11 am
[...] Add drama to your wardrobe with a voluminous sleeved top or jacket this season especially if you are pear shaped. It’s extremely ladylike and the perfect update to smart casual dressing. [...]
Posted on September 20th, 2006 at 6:21 am
[...] Whether it’s elegant or edgy, knitted or woven, plain or printed – no wardrobe is complete without a few pretty girlie tops. If you’re not one for frills and flounces then simpler kimono cuts and tuxedo styles can be just as alluring. Their increasing popularity is due to their tremendous versatility. Girly tops are perfect paired with jeans for smart casual dressing; and slacks or a skirt for business casual attire. Add the drama with ultra-dressy separates and the right accessories, and your outfit is appropriate for any semi-formal occasion. Contrary to what you might think, girly tops are easy items to put together in outfits. Here’s how: [...]
Posted on September 28th, 2006 at 8:06 am
[...] If you wear jeans every day you’ll need at least four pairs. Five if you don’t do laundry often. You can vary the lengths and washes as you wish, but ensure that you have options for flats, heels and smart casual dressing. [...]
Posted on November 30th, 2006 at 8:45 am
[...] Trouser jeans are an absolute wardrobe essential. Their versatile, seasonless and ageless appeal make them an item that almost anyone can wear. They are a fundamental component of smart casual dressing and the perfect chic alternative to regular denim. I have been wearing them for years and I’m constantly on the look out for updates. [...]
Posted on February 9th, 2007 at 9:45 am
Please post more pictures of your suggestions. Photos really help some of us (me, at least) see how it all works, especially those of us who are trying to be chic when most choices out there are best for the 20-somethings (I turned 40 yesterday!). I’ve just discovered your site and am enjoying it. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Posted on September 21st, 2007 at 7:33 am
This is a fantastic post! Please consider doing an update of it for Fall/Winter 2008-9. I wish I had read this when it was first published. I am enjoying your blog – thanks for sharing what you know!
Posted on December 1st, 2008 at 11:17 am
I love your site!! I have recently started becoming addicted to fashion and found your site and love all of the tips. I too would benefit from seeing some pictures of smart casual. I am a pe teacher and sometimes I spill my sweats and t-shirts into my casual days. I can’t do that anymore. I will be 30 this year and need to update. Can you show a few pics of smart casual dress? And also some pics of knitwear? Thanks.
Posted on January 6th, 2009 at 9:21 am
Hi! You surely have helped a lot. Now I know smart casual atttire REALLY is.
Posted on January 24th, 2009 at 5:36 am
What about those occasions when denim is unacceptable?
I am attending an awards ceremony at my university, and the dress code is “smart casual” but I was told not to wear jeans. 
Hmm..
Posted on March 7th, 2009 at 3:22 am
Black trousers are always an easy thing to dress up or down. How about a tailored trouser with a pair of killer heels and a belted white shirt?
Posted on April 2nd, 2009 at 5:25 am
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