What is the smart casual dress code?
Asked by: Lauretta Runte | Last update: July 17, 2025Score: 4.6/5 (71 votes)
Smart casual includes items like blazers, sports jackets, dresses, sweaters, trousers, khakis, skirts, blouses, button-down shirts, polos, dress shoes, boots, heels, flats, scarves and jewelry.
What does a smart casual dress code mean?
A smart casual dress code refers to a desired style of dress that is more kempt than casual and less flashy than formal. Finding the right balance between comfortable and fashionable is tricky, but most people can likely create a smart casual outfit based on what they already own.
Can I wear jeans in smart casual?
Versatile pieces such as skirts, jeans, and blouses can be paired with other items in your wardrobe to create a smart casual look. Some examples of this type of clothing include: trousers and skirts; tops; and dresses. Trousers, including chinos and jeans work well with a blouse or jacket.
What is not allowed in the smart casual dress code?
Tracksuits, athletic wear or athletic shoes — way too casual. (And see more in sneakers below.) Hoodies and sweatshirts — generally these are going to seem too casual. Unkempt hair, dirty nails, and a generally unshowered look.
Can I wear sneakers in smart casual?
Yes! You definitely can! In fact, sneakers are one of the best options for smart casual. Have you seen the main attire of people in Silicon Valley? That is the best example of smart casual!
OVER 150 CASUAL WORKWEAR OUTFITS | Master the Smart Casual Dress Code
What is not smart casual?
Then smart casual might be your go to for the office. You can wear a plain, toned-down t-shirt under a jacket for smart casual look, any t-shirt that has a print of some sort is more of a casual look, not smart casual. If you wear a t-shirt without a jacket, it is more of a casual look.
What footwear is smart casual?
For smart casual attire, you want to take your casual wardrobe and just elevate it slightly. Instead of sneakers, try loafers, Chelsea boots or Derby shoes (Oxfords are borderline, but can work with the right outfit).
What is inappropriate for smart casual?
Generally, business casual is not jeans, T-shirts, overly tight or revealing clothing, athletic wear, beach-type clothing, flip flops, hoodies, hats, crop tops, visible undergarments, and torn clothing.
Does smart casual have to be tucked in?
Smart Casual: If you are wearing a casual shirt by itself leave it untucked, however, if you are wearing a shirt paired with a casual jacket or coat, tuck it in for smart casual occasions. Business Casual: Whether you are sporting a blazer, sweater or just a shirt, always have your shirt tucked in.
Are leggings smart casual?
Are Leggings Business Casual? Despite the idea that leggings are exclusive to working out and lounging, we all know that our humble leggings can be much more than that. Leggings can be business casual when paired with work-appropriate pieces that look more suitable in an office than on the gym floor.
Do black jeans count as smart casual?
Jeans can definitely feature in any smart casual look, but you need to choose the cut and colour carefully. If you want to wear jeans in a smart casual setting, opt for a straighter, slimmer fit rather than anything too relaxed or baggy. Darker washes usually fit better in a more formal setting, too.
Are shorts ok for smart casual?
An ideal in-between to casual jeans and joggers and smart suit trousers. In the summer months, tailored shorts are a potential choice for smart casual garden parties and other events. Avoid denim or baggy shorts in favour of chino styles, which you can pair with a short sleeved shirt.
What is smart casual attire for men?
Smart casual for men is a dress code that strikes a balance between formal and informal attire. It creates a polished, sophisticated look without the strictness of a suit. The smart casual dress code typically includes well-fitted trousers, a collared shirt and optional elements like a blazer or knitwear.
What is the difference between casual and smart casual?
Casual is the most relaxed, focusing on comfort and simple style. Smart casual is the middle ground, offering a blend of casual ease and a touch of formality. Business casual is more polished, suitable for professional environments while still being less formal than traditional business wear.
Do I need a jacket for smart casual?
Key elements of a smart casual wardrobe can include quality items such as pants, skirts, tops, jackets and blazers, and professional shoes and accessories.
What is smart casual dress code called?
AKA: "Business casual," "trade-show chic," "town dress," "urban chic," "city dress."
What is not allowed in smart casual dress code?
Avoid cotton T-shirts or tops with large-printed graphics or slogans. Bottoms: Pants like chinos, silk pants, or dress pants are a great choice for a smart casual look. Dark-wash denim jeans are acceptable, but they should be tailored and distress-free.
Can you wear sneakers for smart casual?
Informal smart casual options can also include sneakers, dark-coloured jeans and nice, structured t-shirts. A smart casual wardrobe should include versatile clothes that are comfortable and can work with one another to form a variety of outfits for your professional life.
What are the best jeans for smart casual?
Dark denim is the epitome of smart-casual. It's dressy enough to handle a night out but still relaxed enough for daytime activities. The deep indigo colour pairs well with everything from a structured blazer to a casual Henley. Dark wash jeans are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down with ease.
What is smart casual for ladies?
For women, this means that items such as a classic two-piece suit or corporate dresses can be avoided. To nail the smart casual look, choose items such as: Tops: Neutral or colourful and/or print blouses and shirts, smart cardigans in dressy fabrics such as crepe knit, silk button up shirts or collared shirts.
What the heck is smart casual?
Australia's national dictionary, Macquarie Dictionary, defines smart casual as "well-dressed in a casual style". Oxford defines it as "neat, conventional, yet relatively informal in style, especially as worn to conform to a particular dress code".
Is jeans allowed in smart casual?
Smart casual attire is more about comfort and style, with more scope for personal style. Smart casual outfits include well-fitting jeans, chinos, polo shirts, and light sweaters or blazers.
Can I wear open toed shoes for smart casual?
In all business formal and many business casual environments, closed-toe shoes are a must. Even in smart casual offices, this is usually true for men year round. For women, there are some more casual offices where it is acceptable to wear peep toes or nice leather sandals in the warmer months.
Are white sneakers smart casual?
White sneakers are often worn with a business casual look. They are best suited for this because white sneakers are usually elegant and simple - as long as they are clean.
Can I wear sandals for smart casual?
When it comes to a smart casual look, we recommend avoiding jeans with multiple rips and raw hems. For evening, opt for wide-leg denim jeans and a pair of chic mules or strappy heels. For daytime, opt for sleek sandals or loafers.