Smart casual clothing Is a somewhat ambiguous dress code that allows for the use of elements of informality for women. However, despite the seeming negligence, each component of the outfit must be well thought out, since the image as a whole should not be too "flashy".
How to find the edge that will allow you to look quite original and, at the same time, not go beyond the business style, is described in this article.
What is smart casual dress code?
Smart casual for women is one of the most controversial clothing styles. If translated literally, its name means "smart casual wear." There is no exact definition for this style, however, according to the rules for combining garments and colors, it falls between the more strict business-casual (business-casual) and the casual street-casual (street-casual).
The main feature of smart casual is a combination of elegant, classic things with more comfortable and practical ones.
The “smart” component of the look meets the requirements of a formal business style, indispensable at work in the office and at formal events, while “everyday” elements (for example, a T-shirt or jeans) are suitable for a more relaxed, relaxed atmosphere and create a bright look.
Style history
It is impossible to determine the exact time when this style was born. It was inspired by the general trends in fashion and culture of the early 20th century, when bulky clothing was replaced by a simpler, practical cut. The term "smart casual" itself first appeared in 1924 in the American press. However, this style existed before, but was not yet defined within the outlined framework.
Initially, smart casual was understood as a leisure suit, which differs from a business one by unconventional colors and sewing from a simpler, “everyday” fabric. A more “frivolous” cut and details, the color of which differed from the general range, were allowed. Since the 1950s. smart casual actually played the role of business casual, bringing zest to the formal dark suit made of dense fabric.
The phenomenon of youth counterculture in the 1960s finally approved free style in fashion and buried the classic. Pantsuits have become fashionable everyday women's clothing, and their cut and color are more daring. Simplicity and minimalism defined the main fashion trends of that era.
In the 70s. XX century Italian designer Giorgio Armani proposed a combination of a women's blazer with a translucent blouse, which a little later, in the 90s. transforms into a typical casual outfit - a classic jacket, jeans and a T-shirt.
At first, such an image was only a symbol of the street direction, but gradually it was perfected by designers and became one of the most popular trends in modern urban fashion. This is how a style arose that combined minimalism, classics and everyday life. This trend - to make clothes more versatile and functional - is the most characteristic of our time.
Style principles for women
Smart casual for women is a style whose main principles are as follows:
- the main aspect is the intermediate state from an office dress code to an informal event;
- clothes should be well-fitted and of high quality tailoring;
- the general image is not allowed to be flashy, too bright or too careless (for example, as if a woman had just come from training);
- despite some informality, all things, including for everyday wear, should be clean and carefully ironed;
- basic elements are best chosen in solid colors with additional trim details (strips, buttons, and others) that match the office setting;
- for a more casual look, you need to focus on choosing the right accessories or clothing with unique design elements;
- detail is a characteristic feature of this style, but the number of accessories should be kept to a minimum;
- the outfit should be multipurpose - so that you can go to work, a social event, a friendly party and a meeting to meet;
- Make-up should correspond to the general image, use of a large number of eye shadows is not allowed, and decorative cosmetics are preferable to natural shades.
One of the easiest ways to create a smart casual look is to use a basic business outfit, replacing 1-2 items with more casual ones, such as a blouse for a T-shirt.
The same effect is achieved by using a fabric of a different texture (instead of a suit fabric jacket - a fleece or tweed jacket). If you initially take a set of things in an informal style, then switching to darker colors will help to give them a touch of "formality".
Popular colors and style prints
According to fashion designers, smart casual is the style most open to interpretation. In warmer months it is recommended to wear clothes in fresher, lighter colors and pastel shades, made of light and soft materials (linen and cotton), while in winter darker shades and structured fabrics (wool, cashmere, tweed) are preferable.
A characteristic feature of this style is a dark base - a skirt, jeans or trousers in brown, blue or black and a brighter, chic top.
However, other combinations are also allowed - if the pants or skirt are colored, then the top should be more muted.
The main thing is that classic things of strict cut “compete” with another element, which has a brighter color or print, accents in the form of various details (pockets, frills and others).
Focusing on color, pattern, and proportion is the hallmark of smart casual style.
However, it is recommended not to overdo the patterned details. It is best to choose a geometric print. "Simple and clean" lines, calm colors are always in fashion and look advantageous for any occasion.
Basic things in everyday wardrobe
One of the important advantages of this style is that if a woman already has sets of business clothes, then the wardrobe does not have to be changed much, since some things are suitable for both business and smart casual.
Combinations of formal and informal elements are based on the following basic things:
- jeans;
- straight-cut skirts and trousers, trouser suits;
- blazers;
- sweaters;
- coat;
- t-shirts;
- blouses;
- everyday dresses;
- cardigans;
- high-heels.
The use of accessories adds personality to the everyday look. The only and basic requirement for clothing is that it should fit well to the figure, so it is advisable that trousers, cardigans and blazers were made to order, with an individual fit.
Jeans
Black or navy jeans with a straight or tapered fit and tight thighs are a versatile staple. However, if you plan to use them as business attire, then you need to make sure that the rest of the employees follow the same dress code.
Ripped jeans are not allowed, as this is more in line with the street-casual style than the classic one.
The best option for jeans is a combination with a bright blouse of a complex cut, a blazer and shoes (or ankle boots) with heels. The last element is especially important, as it is he who gives a touch of elegance to the everyday look.
Pants
The combination of well-tailored trousers, classic silk shirt and high heels is a more formal option than the previous one. For a casual outfit, an ensemble of black trousers, blouses with a medium-sized print and additional elements such as a tie or piping in front are also suitable.
But if you are planning a party, you can create a less "boring" look by using trousers made of elastic leather or with a patterned print (texture). It is recommended to wear them in combination with a longer shirt and an elegant blazer or jacket.
Smart casual also allows shorts for women. However, in this case, regular denim models are not suitable. Better to go for a more glamorous option that goes with a long blouse, jacket or blazer.
T-shirt for a set with trousers should be of high quality knitwear. Cheap, for home wear will add unnecessary negligence to the outfit. Designers also do not recommend using low-waisted trousers and shorts; it is better to give preference to classic models.
Shirts
The long-sleeved white shirt is a versatile smart casual item. However, blue, checkered blouses made of light chintz fabrics will also be appropriate. Things with an adjacent cut are usually tucked into clothes - trousers, jeans or a skirt. If you need to create a more informal look, then models with a loose fit are suitable.
In the cold season, a stylish long-sleeved blouse will look great paired with a perfectly cut skirt or trousers. It is recommended to wear a turtleneck sweater over the blouse.
T-shirts
A more informal look to a set with classic trousers is given by T-shirts and tops with bare shoulders.
Since they themselves are already an element of "casual", the rest of the things in the outfit should be made in a more austere style and in calm colors.
Classic white or gray tees are also great and can be the basis for any smart casual outfit.
It is recommended to choose the option with horizontal stripes from prints. To make this look not “cheap”, T-shirts and T-shirts must be of high quality.
A more formal look will help give a wide belt that contrasts with the rest of the garment.
T-shirts can be used as a standalone piece of clothing, or they can be worn under a knitted cardigan. In this case, it is worth focusing on accessories - a fashionable handbag and high-heeled shoes.
Dresses
The most optimal option for a smart casual dress - a simple cut, without lace, deep neckline and cuts that expose your back or legs too much. Stricter models are suitable: shirt dress, sheath dress or slightly flared at the bottom.
Its color should be neutral - white, black, beige are welcome... Length - knee-length or slightly higher. Maxi dresses and cocktail options give the look an overly informal touch.
The main rule is that the cut of such a dress should be comfortable and suitable for an official event. It is better to combine it with low-heeled shoes, and focus on a handbag and everyday accessories.
Jacket
Wearing a blazer over a T-shirt with jeans is the easiest way to transform your smart casual style. It can be either long or short sleeves. A classic jacket is suitable for a trouser suit and jeans.
It is recommended to choose things for this in basic colors - white, black, dark blue, beige, brown, gray. For a more informal setting, a jacket with an original cut or a bomber jacket is suitable.
The jacket is also worn over the dress, in this case, if it is made in a strict classical style, then you can experiment with the texture or color. If an informal event is planned during the day or in the evening, then preference should be given to lighter colors or textured fabrics, since black or dark blue will look heavy.
Skirts
Knee-length pencil skirts are a classic option.If a mini-skirt is preferable, then it is best to wear a blouse with a long sleeve and a shallow cut on the chest.
During warmer months, you can experiment with skirts made of lighter fabrics and patterns.
Selection of women's shoes and accessories
Smart casual for women is a style for which it is necessary to avoid "informal" shoe models, it is better to use classic shoes with thin, graceful heels. Shoes or boots with a narrow toe are ideal for an outfit designed for informal events, but they can be inconvenient for everyday wear.
Thick heels, mules and moccasins are more practical options. It is not recommended to wear sandals, as they give a too informal look and are not suitable for the office.
The handbag should also harmoniously fit into the overall ensemble. It is best to choose a small model that can be carried in the hands or over the shoulder. Bulky bags and backpacks should be discarded.
In color, it can be classic, calm shades, or brighter, the same as one of the garments or shoes. A large bag should be combined with other things, preferably beige, brown or black.
The belt can also play different functions in the outfit. If the clothes are mostly monochromatic, then you can focus on a belt with a pattern or contrasting color. This will add a bit of variety to the overall look. For the office, more modest options are suitable. Thin leather straps go well with dresses, and wide ones with long skirts.
If the whole outfit consists of dark-colored garments, then you can combine it with a brighter, graphic scarf that will play the role of “casual”, diluting the strict style.
Tips from fashion experts
Smart casual for women is a style that requires a harmonious balance between formal dress code and informal events.
Fashion designers are advised to adhere to the following recommendations:
- if there are doubts about the advisability of a particular piece of clothing, then preference should be given to those made in a more conservative style;
- it is not necessary to buy new things, you can combine various combinations of existing costumes;
- when choosing clothes and accessories, you need to consider where the event will take place (for example, for a cocktail party, it is better to choose a more casual option);
- the overall image should be refined and elegant;
- for the lower part of the outfit, it is best to choose classic trousers, skirts or jeans;
- the most suitable option for outerwear is a white blouse in summer and a stylish sweater for the cold season;
- dress should be classic and neutral in color.
In the table below, you can choose several ready-made sets of clothes for different occasions in smart casual style.
| Clothing items | Summer option 1 | Summer option 2 | Party outfit | Autumn kit |
| Top | A white blouse | Blue blouse | Beige dress | White t-shirt, blazer |
| Bottom | Regular fit blue cotton trousers | White pants | — | Dark blue jeans |
| Shoes, accessories | Brown high heels | Shoes to match the blouse | Red shoes and handbag | Shoes or low shoes with heels |
Semi-formal style for women and men Smart casual is often interchangeable with more formal businnes casual. Their difference lies in the fact that smart casual is intended not only for work, but also for other events - a friendly meeting, party, wedding and other informal events.
Therefore, first of all, when choosing things for such an outfit, it is necessary to take into account its purpose and use possible combinations with a strict business style.
Smart casual style video
How to create smart casual looks: