How to pull off the “Smart Casual” look.

It’s the in-between look that can often be the hardest to pull off. Everyone has heard the dress code “Smart Casual”, but what does it actually mean? And when you go to your wardrobe, how do you put an outfit together that fits the bill?

 Here’s how you can pull off looking effortlessly stylish in a casual way – the Smart Casual Look.

If you’re a casual kinda gal…

Image: Pinterest

Casual is your normal, your comfort-zone. But you’re heading out, so now you want to wear something other than your go to jeans and T-shirt. Here is how you can dress up your look to make it look smarter:

1. Swap out the T-shirt for a dressier top. A crisp white shirt, a silk blouse, a top with interesting details or patterns can uplift the causal jeans and T-shirt combo.

2. Elevate your pant game. If you just love a T-shirt, then opt for a dressier pant. Leather pants are this season’s new trend and has put the humble jean on the backburner. Alternatively, opt for a cotton blend tailored pant with belt. You will instantly dress up that white T-shirt.

3. Add your ‘Smart’ element. The smart causal look is all about blending the work and play, so lift your look by adding a dressier item. A tailored blazer, a beautiful wool coat, a pair of high heels, a good quality handbag and accessories. All these things will lift you look to effortlessly cool.

If you find it hard to dress down…

Image: Glamour

You’re a professional, suits may be your go to, and you have very little ‘smart casual’ outfits in rotation. Here’s some ideas for you to try:

1.       Take the suit and make is more casual. Change the white cotton shirt for a branded T-shirt. Or put on a sexy cami or corset for the evening. For daytime looks, keep the white shirt and blazer but swap out the pants for jeans, or in warmer weather a pair of tailored shorts and trendy sandals. The options are endless (especially if you have beautiful suits).

2.       Have you heard the saying “shoes make or break and outfit”? Change the shoes to turn your look casual. Add a sneaker, a chunky sandal, or a strappy heel to a suit. This will breathe casual vibes into your outfit. Those pointed singbacks can be left at the office.

You love wearing a dress…

Image: Pinterest

Dresses are a great go to option for the smart casual look. I’m not talking ball gowns. I’m talking about your everyday dress. But make it look smart by adding a sleek belt or a pair of heels. Mixing textures can be a fun way to elevate your casual outfit. For example, team a silk dress with a denim or leather jacket. Or wear your floral wrap dress with a blazer and knee-high boots.

The take home message…

Smart casual is a fun dress code. Play with mixing and matching your typically causal outfits (think: jeans, trackpants, T-shirt, sneakers) with your smarter wardrobe items (think: blazers, heels, accessories, tailored pants and fabulous coats).

Have fun with expressing yourself through your own style!

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