“We have a smart casual dress code, by the way!” You read the message, and then re-read it again. You’ve been told to dress “smart casual,” but you’re not entirely sure what that means. Whether you’re type: entry-hyperlink id: 3sdOIHJvcecidag0XSVAMT or it’s your first day at a new job, you want to show up in the office looking sharp and ready to impress.

What is a smart casual dress code?

First up, what is this look all about? Put simply, the smart casual dress code blends elements of a formal wardrobe (read: traditional office wear) with trendier or more casual items. That means you can bring in your own style, making your professional look your own. 

It’s all about getting the balance right – you want to appear approachable without looking too relaxed. Often enough, people find this hard and either swing too far one way or another. Neither a full-blown suit nor jeans and a pair of trainers fit the smart casual dress code.

How to create a smart casual outfit: top tips 

Getting the smart casual dress code right doesn’t have to be difficult. Instead of overthinking it, check our our wardrobe tips below:

1. Start with simple trousers or a skirt 

While you may be tempted to wear jeans, don’t. Denim is decidedly casual and you’ll struggle to dress it up enough to become “smart.” Instead, start with a pair of tailored trousers or a classic skirt as the foundation for the rest of your outfit. 

Go for slim-fit or straight-leg trousers, as they tend to reflect a sense of professionalism. Of course, if the mood takes you, you can play around with colours and patterns here. Feel free to go for something creative to balance a plain top.

Skirt-wise, make sure that it’s below the knee as a general rule. Styles to look out for include A-line and midi skirts, or the classic pencil skirt.

2. Add a complementary top 

When it comes to the tops you wear, you have a lot more flexibility. Here’s a rundown of the types you can explore to add some flair to your outfit: 

• Blouses or shirts 

• Plain, nice t-shirts or tops 

• Crew-neck or V-neck jumpers

Avoid anything with pictures, slogans, or logos on them. However, so long as the top is somewhat plain and stylish, you can probably get away with it for the smart casual dress code. 

3. Complete the look with a blazer 

You don’t need to do this every time! But if you want to elevate your look and make it more smart than casual, a blazer can work wonders. Choose one that’s well-tailored and fits you properly. If it’s too big, it can look a tad too casual – something that’s more suitable for spring and summer. 

On colder days, a blazer won’t cut it. Be sure you have a nice, classic coat that’ll keep you looking professional, no matter the occasion at work.

4. Choose comfortable but professional shoes 

Unless your boss gives you the green light, trainers shouldn’t be worn to the office – they tip the balance well over into casual rather than smart. However, comfortable shoes are still a good option. 

Look for loafers or shoes that fit more into the formal category. Alternatively, you may choose to wear heels, if that complements the rest of your outfit.

5. Include some accessories 

The fun thing about the smart casual dress code is that you can afford to include accessories that showcase your personality. For example, you may accentuate your outfit with cute jewellery pieces, such as simple earrings or a necklace, a stylish belt, a watch, or even a brooch. You do you!

What to avoid when styling your smart casual look 

Now that you have a basic understanding of the smart casual dress code, let’s talk about some workplace faux pas you want to steer clear of. You’d want to type: entry-hyperlink id: 3H357wcuNyfxVR4vF53PIM, especially as you’re just starting out: 

Dressing too casual for the environment 

Jeans, trainers, shorts, and t-shirts with logos on them are all examples of clothing that’s too casual for most workplaces. If in doubt, always err on the side of caution here. 

Going OTT with colours or patterns

There’s nothing wrong with a splash of colour here or a quirky pattern there. However, if your whole outfit clashes, that’s a problem. Tone it down a bit for the office. 

Not paying attention to the fit of clothes 

You might be getting every other part of the puzzle right, but if your clothes don’t fit you well, people will notice. Ideally, choose clothes that are neither too small nor too large on you. 

Being overly concerned with “trends”

Trends come and go but that doesn’t mean you need to change your wardrobe every couple of months. Instead of adhering to trends, go for classic pieces you can keep for years. 

Wearing uncomfortable clothes 

If you’re not comfortable with what you’re wearing, it will show. One of the biggest mistakes people make is wearing something they think is smart casual but feels wrong to them. Try out a few different styles before settling on the right one for you.

Dress to impress now! 

Mastering the smart casual dress code doesn’t have to be hard. Use the advice we’ve shared in this guide to help you get started. Remember, the clothes you wear have the power to type: entry-hyperlink id: 24WgGEUYbJF9G12jz8CYbS on the people around you. Don’t waste that opportunity. 

You’ve dressed to impress, but what about your CV? Make sure it hits the mark with a free CV review by one of TopCV’s experts. 

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