Receiving an invitation to an event is usually a pleasant thing. However, if you read the invitation and the dress code is “Smart Casual”, there could be a problem.
For men, the dress code for smart and casual is really unclear. Some people claim that it means informal, while others interpret it as a semi-formal dress code that means they have to dress up a bit.
But we’re here to clear up the confusion.
In this article, we look at the smart casual dress code for men, determine what it means and explain the ideal attire you should wear to events with this dress code.
Read on to learn more.
What does Smart Casual mean?
Most people look online for inspiration when they are invited to an event with a dress code. The problem with smart casual is that image searches will return mixed results. According to the internet, smart casual can mean anything from shorts and flip flops to jeans and t-shirts.
This is because smart casual dressing is very vague and non-specific. There are many ways to interpret the dress code, so it’s important to pay attention to the event you’re attending.
There is a formal and informal type of smart casual style. If you’re going to lunch with a dress code, it’s probably informal. However, if you’re coming to a gathering with a smart casual dress code, this might be a little more formal.
However, the best way to interpret elegant casual wear is somewhere between casual and formal wear. So this is still a dressy way of styling, but it’s not as strenuous as a formal dress code.
A man’s guide to the rules of smart casual dressing
If you’ve been invited to a smart casual event and aren’t sure what to wear, here’s a quick guide.
Cannons
We recommend wearing a collared shirt for the more formal side of smart casual. Although you don’t have to wear a house shirt, a polo shirt, open-neck shirt or something similar will do. Even if the event is not that formal, we might advise you not to wear plain T-shirts when the dress code is smart casual.
If you are looking for good stylish and comfortable shirts, be sure to check out Fresh Clean Threads.
bottom
Jeans would make a great bottom when going to an informal smart casual event. However, go for clean and well-fitting navy blue jeans for the event, as anything else might be too casual.
If you want to be a little more formal, you can choose chinos, which are probably one of the most versatile bottoms out there. If you’re going to an outdoor event on a boat or by the beach, you may be able to get away with shorts, but we recommend wearing pants to be safe.
Shoes
There is a little more freedom when choosing elegant casual shoes. With this dress code, you can wear anything from loafers to classic shoes to nice and neat sneakers, which makes styling for a smart casual event a lot of fun. You can even add comfortable inserts to your favorite shoes without worrying about it affecting your style.
Outer layer
For jackets in an elegant casual event, it is best to choose a sports jacket or a nice blazer. These jackets really bring an outfit together and can elevate your style immensely.
Conclusion
There aren’t many men’s dress codes that spark as much debate as the smart casual dress code. This is one of the dress codes that is usually very open to interpretation and depends a lot on the event.
So, if you’re struggling to decide what to wear to your next smart casual event, feel free to refer to any of the recommendations above as they’re sure to be fashionable and dress code appropriate.