Giving every man the edge of being formal and casual at the same time, the smart casual dress code is not going down anytime soon. It is here to stay and be celebrated.

It seems very unfair to have only two options to choose from; dressing freely or too strictly. Especially for men, deciding between these garment styles can be exhausting. To save you from the drama, we represent the Smart Casual. Classy, relaxed, and stylish, this dress code fits most events and bring out the best of every man.

What Is Smart Casual? 

A dress code that falls between casual and formal attire is known as smart casual. This dress code is appropriate for either of the two settings: a professional event with a bit relaxed environment or a casual get-together where more people are coming. To put it simply, you can wear a smart casual in a relaxed event requiring a certain level of professionalism.

Compared to casual clothing, it requires a bit more effort. Casual dress-up would simply be sweat pants and a t-shirt but upgrading it to smart casual with require adding a bit of formality. For example, in this dressing, you can replace the trousers with straight jeans.

What Is Included in Smart Casual? 

The details of what you include in a smart casual depends on context, as it includes a wide array of clothing articles. Generally, it includes well-fitted clothes that are not too buttoned-up. Shoes of all kinds except flip flops, and less often, office boots. Minimum accessories and unbuttoned coats. Whatever you wear, the goal is to look sophisticated but still friendly.

Some things you have to keep in mind while deciding are the type of event, the number of guests, and what are you representing with your presence. For example, a date night would require you to look classy but office boots and blazers will be too much. Similarly, you can go for a blazer paired with denim jeans for a convocation event.    

Some of the clothing Items in a smart casual dress-up are as follows;

  • Shirts

There are many shirt options to choose from for a smart casual outfit. The best ones are those having collars. Whether a polo shirt or a dress shirt, choosing a collared one makes you look sophisticated by many times.

Polo shirts fit so perfectly here as the center-point between casual and formal. They suit all smart-casual affairs. Apart from these, oxford shirts or button-down dress shirts are some classy options. T-shirts may also work in plain colors, especially when you have to add another layer on top.

  • Blazer 

The Blazers look dope in semi-formal events. They make you feel attractive and the “main lead” all while keeping you cozy. Dark, dull-colored blazers like navy blue or khaki are trending in 2023. Checkered ones are also a smart choice for a smart-casual day.  

  • Pants 

What you choose to wear on the bottom matters a lot in this dress code. Go for denim jeans without ripped texture or pop-colored ones. Prefer dark ones with lesser wash effects.

On the second, we have chinos or cotton pants. Chino pants work well on most occasions and are also lightweight and breezy. You can grab a chino pants for outdoor summer activities with preferably khaki, neutral, or beige colors. These pants are enough to get you through most of your summer days.

  • Accessories 

Men have very few accessories to choose from. Still, those who are into jewelry can find many. Chains, lockets, rings, and earrings are generally not preferred for a professional look. Since smart casual is still about professionalism, it’s better o avoid these items.

What you should be choosing is a stylish strap watch that fits perfectly. Black, silver, or brown colors are okay but you can also choose some trendy designs. Just ensure that the dial is not too sparkly.

Men’s Smart Casual Tips For 2023

  • Choose What Fits You the Best

Now, by fit, we don’t mean tight clothes. Well-fitted clothes are the ones that give your body its best shape. Always opt for fitted clothes, not too loose or tight, for smart casuals.

  • Prefer Collared Shirts

Collared shirts like button-downs or polo shirts are the best for smart casual dress-up. You can layer them with jackets or leave them alone. T-shirts may feel too careless and blazers too serious for smart casual.

  • Stick To Plain Colors

Checkered or striped polo shirts can be good but what could be great is plain, pastel colors. specifically prefer bottoms in these neutrals.

  • Pay Attention to the Grooming 

As an outfit is not meant to be perfect in this dress-up, you have to put effort to make minimum things look perfect. Pay attention to your belt type and if it matches your shoes. Groom your hair, and nails, and shine up your shoes.

  • Minimum Accessories

Rings, chains, lockets, or caps, none of these look picture-perfect with smart casual outfits. You can keep the watch for a classy look but that’s it. Even a tie or studs will make you look bossy or too work-inclined.  

What To Avoid with Smart Casual Dress Codes 

Choosing too loose or too tight clothes for smart casual is a big no. Anything that takes out professionalism is strictly not in this dress code.

Avoid overly-casual garments like baggy clothes, sandals, or shorts. Anything with cuts, stains, or ripped prints must also be prevented. All these mentioned clothes types make you look like you just rolled straight out of bed.

Similarly, anything too formal like a dress suit may also add a strict impression. It will make you look too sturdy, work-oriented, or even rude. Avoid wearing anything that shows too much skin.

Final Thoughts 

A smart casual dress code lies on the thin line between casual and formal. It is meant to be relaxed but too reckless. You can mix and match staples of casual and strict wear to make a balanced, smart outfit. It is ideal for most important but non-business events.

You can choose this clothing style for a date, get-together, party, outing with boys, traveling, or even as everyday office wear. The list of items to choose from is wide so you can be creative with variety and different styles. If you ask me, I love this dress code. It simply allows you to prefer your personal style while still being professional.