Smart Casual

Smart casual? Say wut?

I've been seeing this pop up lately so I wanted to keep you guys up to date on what my interpretation of it is.

As we can agree, "dress codes" are NOT on the rise. If anything, it's pretty casual for most of you these days and rules are merely suggestions.

As even business casual is waning, I'd keep my wardrobe prepped for what's currently known as smart casual.

A less stuffy version of business casual, meant to take you from everyday life, into the office and out to dinner.

It's an outfit you'd choose when you want to feel well dressed but where the occasion doesn't require strict compliance.

It's a style that opens you up to a variety of combinations. My basic recipe is to wear a sport coat along with a more casual shirt and dress pants or nice denim. Perhaps a knitted sweater during autumn and winter.

Ties can work well for a smart casual outfit too (it slightly raises the formality). Feel free to choose a more casual material, such as wool or grenadine.

For the shoes, oxfords or derbys are the best options if you want to reinforce formality. A loafer, a minimalist sneaker or suede boot gives a more relaxed impression.

As with all things ABBEYDALE, Fit is First and should always be considered over everything else.

Remember, the idea behind smart casual is to dress 'smart' by looking professional while also being approachable and ready for any occasion.

If you comprise your wardrobe with well-fitting items in solid colors that are elevated above your casual wear, then you'll be good to go.

As an example, this is not the time to use a cheap T-shirt that's wrinkled and doesn't fit properly.

The tee you'll wear under a sport coat needs to definitely be nicer than the tee you're wearing to the gym.

You're supposed to look smart but casual, not like you're tee'd up for a workout later.

Let me know if I can help in any way.

With purpose,

DW