Smart Casual Style: 5 Key Smart Casual Pieces
We’re hearing more and more about Smart Casual Attire, but what does this term really mean? Smart casual is a style that blends two seemingly contrasting worlds: comfort and elegance. Probably a response from the fashion world to the growing demand for versatile garments that can be suitable for various contexts and occasions. Let’s discover 5 key smart casual pieces to wear in order to be fashionable.
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What is the difference between casual and smart casual dress code?
In recent years, the casual dress code has become extremely popular. Defined by comfortable clothing, this style is often used for everyday life. However, an increasing number of people have been attempting to blend this style with more stylish pieces, leading to the emergence of smart casual attire.
In fact, despite their similarities, the key distinction between these two styles lies in the details. Casual wear emphasizes comfort, while smart casual combines comfortable pieces with a fashionable and stylish flair. So, smart casual men’s dresses can be defined as “sophisticated clothes with a relaxed style”.
Blazer and bomber jacket
Blazers and bomber jackets are two iconic staples of smart casual style. Both pieces enhance a variety of outfits, providing effortless elegance for any occasion. The bomber jacket, with its zippered closure, adds a practical touch to any ensemble without sacrificing style. Meanwhile, the patch pockets bring the perfect balance of sophistication and functionality to the garment.
If you are unsure what to wear for a smart casual look, the relaxed fit of a blazer makes it an ideal choice. Originally designed as a lightweight jacket worn over athletic uniforms at British colleges, the blazer often still features pockets and metal buttons. What sets the blazer apart is its versatility - adding a casual yet polished touch to more refined outfits.
Unstructured blazer
An unstructured blazer refers to a type of jacket that, with its modern and linear cut, effortlessly conforms to the body’s shape. Men who opt for an unstructured blazer choose a contemporary, comfortable and versatile piece that offers freedom of movement without compromising style.
Chambray shirts men
If you are seeking a versatile addition to your smart-casual wardrobe, men’s chambray shirts are an ideal choice. Chambray is a plain-weave fabric, often made from 100% cotton or blended with materials like linen. Though it is commonly mistaken for denim due to its characteristic light blue color, chambray offers the perfect balance for a shirt that’s both polished and casual.
Dark jeans
Jeans have long been seen as the go-to casual wardrobe staple. Available in a wide selection of washes, from dark to light, they are incredibly versatile and, with a few styling tricks, can easily be dressed up for more polished occasions.
For example, pairing dark jeans with a crisp white shirt creates a simple yet sophisticated look that works just as well for casual outings as it does for more upscale occasions.
Examples of smart casual get-ups
Smart casual attire should be simple and versatile, yet refined and stylish at the same time. But, if you are still wondering what smart-casual dress for men is, here are some examples to inspire your next outfit.
Outfit for the office
A classic casual outfit for the office that can easily transition into smart casual with a few tweaks is the pants and sweater combo. Opt for dark gray wool trousers paired with a light, loose-knit sweater to achieve a look that’s both sophisticated and understated.
To elevate it for a day-to-night transition, layer a crisp white button-down shirt underneath the sweater for an effortlessly elegant ensemble. Another option can be a sharp blazer paired with dark jeans. This match not only exudes easy style but also offers comfort, making it ideal for casual working meetings.
Outfit for casual yet chic evening
For a casual outfit that is still chic enough for an evening out, men’s tuxedo pants can be a great choice. Typically worn as a part of a formal tuxedo with jacket and bow tie, these pants - without pockets or belt loops - can be dressed down by pairing them with a simple ice-blue shirt and skipping the tie or bow tie. This achieves a polished yet relaxed look that’s stylish without being too formal.
Conclusion
With smart casual attire, combining classic pieces with more relaxed ones, you can create versatile outfits suitable for both professional settings and social occasions. Boglioli, a historic men’s clothing brand known for its haute couture but unconventional approach, offers distinctive pieces that cater to the modern man.
The collection features a diverse range of garments designed for those seeking a whole new style, somewhere between classic and casual.
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