Believe it or not, smart casual has been around for roughly 100 years (it was coined in 1924 after an Iowa newspaper used it to review a dress).
However, it rose to popularity alongside Silicon Valley before securing its spot as the most popular dress code during the ‘Zoom’ era. It's been the standard workplace get up ever since. So much so that 33% of surveyed full-time employees would rather quit their jobs than have to adhere to a formal dress code.
Despite that, "What is smart casual," remains an often-searched query. Understandably, people feel it's hard to hit the nail on the smart casual head. So, allow us to make it simple.
What Does Smart Casual Mean?
Smart casual is simply a way of dressing professionally that blends classic staples and trendier pieces to look clean and professional without the overly formal vibe. You're aiming for approachable yet put together. Think a knit polo with a decent jacket, dark jeans (not ripped or baggy), and Chelsea boots or leather trainers. As a Forbes author succinctly puts it, you're trying to make an impression without dressing to impress.
Put simply, don't look like you're slacking, but don't look like you're trying too hard, either.
Smart Casual VS Business Casual
Both terms "smart" and "business" seem to cancel out their "casual" partner, ultimately meaning the same thing. But there are indeed differences between the two. Business casual is more formal and restrained than its smart casual cousin. In other words, business casual is less formal business wear, while smart casual is a less formal version of business casual.
Granted, it's still a confusing distinction to wrap your head around (let alone put into practice), so we've broken down the differences in the following table:
Smart Casual Outfits for Men
You've got the differences between smart casual and business casual down, but with these foolproof examples below, you'll never need to stress when you see the dreaded "dress code" section of the invitation ever again:
Lounge Suit
The lounge suit we know and love today first appeared in the 1860s. However, its roots go back to the mid-17th century, when royalty wore long coats, cravats, waistcoats, and knee breeches.
Obviously, we've moved far beyond this time, so it's unsurprising that our lounge suits are less elaborate — they're simply single or double-breasted suits cut from the same cloth, like The Gregson, our slim-fit, two-piece Italian grey suit.
While they're designed to wear with a dress shirt and tie, you can dress them down for smart casual events by pairing it with a rollneck jumper or knitted polo shirt.
Unstructured Blazer with Slim Leg Trousers
Unstructured blazers are perfect for almost any occasion, from work outings to family dinners. Pair one with an Oxford shirt, a cashmere knit, dark jeans, or slim-leg chinos/trousers for the ideal smart casual aesthetic.
Classic Knit and Jeans
A classic knit, cardigan, or sweatshirt can change your entire outfit. Pair it with jeans and a slim-fit rollneck for events like birthday dinners or tailored trousers for a relaxed wedding get-up.
Attire to Avoid
Thanks to these super achievable examples, you're well on your way to mastering the smart casual dress code. But if you're looking to add a touch of your own personality into this way of dressing, allow us to give you some definite don’ts so you can avoid missing the mark:
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Loud patterns and prints — Casual doesn't mean loud. Aim to look put together without making an unwanted statement.
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Athletic wear — Leave the tank tops and nike tech for the gym. It's way too casual.
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Suit and tie — Unless you're dressing it down (our lounge suits will help you with this), avoid the overly corporate coordinated look.
Buy or Rent? The Best Smart Casual Option for You
If you don't need to wear smart casual outfits regularly, your best bet is to rent a lounge suit for your upcoming event. That way, you won't clutter your wardrobe with unnecessary garments, and it'll save you a lot of money in the long run
Mastering the Smart Casual Look
Consider yourself your friends' (and colleagues') all-new fashion advisor! You'll never be stumped by those pesky "smart casual" dress codes again.