• Business casual style for men. Business casual style basics for men

    30.07.2019

    A man's wardrobe cannot be called more saturated than a woman's. Firstly, due to the low level of male “shopaholism”, and perhaps even avoidance of clothing stores. Secondly, the main thing for a man is to have several basic, that is, basic sets of clothes, which can be alternated and combined from time to time. One of the components of the standard men's wardrobe is a business suit, but it is not suitable for all occasions and not in all situations. In order to dilute a man's wardrobe, it is necessary to include a men's jacket in a casual style. Its usual name is a sports jacket.

    A casual jacket can be easily combined with trousers of different colors, jeans and even shorts. Such combinations in clothing will give a man’s look a symbiosis of attractiveness and everyday life. If you want to go beyond the formal business style, then a casual jacket is created just for you!

    History of appearance

    The prototype of this piece of outerwear originated in England during the reign of King Edward VII, when a casual jacket began to be worn for hunting. Following the hunters, jackets of this type became popular among athletes. Subsequently, it was appreciated by professors and business people who wanted to look respectable, but less strict and formal.

    The casual jacket itself is very comfortable. Compared to a classic jacket, it is comfortable in the chest area and does not hinder the movement of your arms.

    Sewing a casual jacket is carried out from various types of fabrics - wool, cotton, tweed, corduroy, suede. And the choice of patterns is even greater, it all depends on your taste. In America, clothes in this style have already been akin to another type of jacket - the blazer. But in fact, a casual jacket is made of thicker fabric and can be worn both in warm and cold seasons.

    What to wear with a men's jacket in a casual style? Casual style is distinguished by its informality and everyday life, and speaks for itself. He does not expect trousers of the same color and style to be worn in his ensemble; on the contrary, the bottom of a man’s look should be in contrasting shades.

    Nothing goes better with men's jacket in this style, like dark blue denim. Most men wear a jacket under jeans. When choosing jeans, it is worth considering that they should not be wide or too skinny, and should not be frayed or have fashionable holes. Here you need to find a middle ground.

    If you want to make an impression at a club party and have chosen an ultra-fashionable bright casual jacket, then in such a situation jeans with scuffs and holes will be quite appropriate and stylish. But to highlight a less formal and formal style in your work look, opt for classic jeans. Regarding trousers, gray warm trousers made of wool are suitable, they are more relevant in cold weather and can replace jeans. In addition, among the trousers there are excellent options - cargo, trousers with patch pockets on the sides, as well as cotton chinos with or without creases, mostly in light colors.

    The clothes under the jacket are quite varied. Here you can get creative and use many compatible options. A men's jacket can be combined with a plain shirt, a checkered shirt, a thin sweater, a turtleneck and even a T-shirt. The main thing is to ensure that the combination looks appropriate and that the clothing items are in the same style.

    When choosing shoes, also focus on the style on which you focus the attention of others. You can choose stylish leather shoes, be it classic black shoes, tall boots, or beige boots, or stop at sports shoes wearing moccasins or sneakers. Sneakers, as seen in the photo, will look more ridiculous among other options. But you can also choose shoes of this kind, in which case the image will look complete and harmonious.

    When choosing accessories, the win-win options are a tie, a bow tie, a silk scarf, a scarf in chest pocket jacket A leather belt will also be noticeable and must be combined with the chosen shoes.

    It can be noted that the jacket has its own versatility, because depending on what image you want to emphasize, you can adjust your choice towards formality or non-formality, towards casual style, smart casual or business casual. Your accents when choosing clothes are your style.

    We were able to offer you the most basic options for creating a harmonious look in an ensemble with a men's casual jacket. Now your task is to create a complete image, successfully combine clothing elements, styles, textures of fabrics and colors to look not only casual, but also sophisticated! A man wearing such a jacket is immediately assessed as a person with a certain taste and his own unique style.

    Everyone understands that men largely influence career success various factors. And appearance occupies a separate position. Suitably selected business style makes a person more confident, which increases self-esteem and the attitude of colleagues. Business style in a man’s clothing is a combination of things that speaks about a person’s image and taste. The necessary attributes without unnecessary decorations in this style of clothing will emphasize the success of a modern careerist.

    History of business casual

    Business style for men has enough rich story. The first business suits, reminiscent of the modern appearance of a successful employee, appeared in the 19th century. Not everyone could afford to buy these things made of rough material, and they were not always allowed to wear them: only on major holidays or to go to church. Over the course of 50 years, different variations of business clothing have appeared in the form of separate styles and suits.

    Today, designers have developed a whole line business suits for various events: for sports, for a wedding and even for going to a carnival. The business style of clothing, passing through time, has remained virtually unchanged, consisting of a jacket, trousers, vest, complemented by strict accessories. According to many, Europe dictates the rules for wearing such clothing. It was European stylists who allowed the business casual style to conquer the whole world. German and Italian quality men's clothing is highly valued and considered an ideal, and for good reason.

    Many countries have national versions of the classic style for business people. China can be taken as an example. For Mao Zedong, the leader of the People's Republic of China, stylists specially designed “Mao Suit” suits. In addition to general European fashion, there are Japanese, Indian, and Chinese motifs in clothing. But a domestic businessman is dressed according to all European rules, the only difference is in strict standards and disabilities combining parts. Only over the past ten years has the tailoring of men's business clothes become more in line with the latest fashion trends.

    Business casual for men

    This style is not widely used today. The shape of clothing is selected based on several factors, depending on the business “level”: what the person does in the company, the scale of activity, the number of employees, the number of business meetings, the country and climate, the culture of the state and the company, as well as age characteristics.

    Many fashion houses decipher the “business casual” style within the boundaries of a strict, businesslike look, where a little freedom with a relaxed atmosphere in the elements of clothing is acceptable. It is similar to smart casual, but with stricter rules for combining clothes.

    This business style should include dark trousers, a classic shirt, a blouse with an open collar or a polo shirt. A tie can be worn if desired. A sports jacket is an optional addition to the suit. For informal settings, a jumper or dark knit sweater is suitable. The shoe buries most of the foot. Preference is given to loafers or simple shoes.

    Accessories for men's business style

    Laptop bags.
    If a man’s duties involve constant work with a laptop and documents, it will be required. It holds folders, a computer, a smartphone, documentation, office supplies and other items necessary for running a business. The briefcase has a long strap, making it easy to carry. Those who consider a purse too small and a briefcase too large prefer high-quality men's cross-body bags made of genuine leather without unnecessary details.

    When choosing an accessory, you should pay attention to the following features:

    • material, neatness of stitching;
    • which interior decoration and lining;
    • fittings (snakes and buttons must withstand loads);
    • compartments (a large number of them guarantee ease of use);
    • appearance, convenience and personal comfort.

    Wallets.
    Preferred material is: Genuine Leather, neutral dark tone, which will match every leather item in clothing, especially a bag. It should also match a trouser belt or loafers, but this is less practical.

    In business style, preference should be given to traditional black and brown color. But unobtrusive dark shades are allowed: from dark brown to cognac.

    Universal for modern man It is considered a wallet of modest size with a minimum of accessories, but having different compartments where you can place money and credit cards. It is not recommended to store business cards in your wallet; for this purpose, buy a business card holder or organizer.

    Watch.
    Many successful entrepreneurs give the main place to this detail in business casual style. It is this accessory that emphasizes the status of the owner and indicates the presence or absence of taste. To maintain a laconic image, an addition is preferable mechanical watch arrows and genuine leather belt. Quartz watches are more practical and easier to wear, but they simplify your look.

    When choosing a watch, you should avoid excessive expensive models, where the price of each part is measured in hundreds of dollars. Buy a solid watch popular brands with an affordable pricing policy. Current accessories from Rolex, Bulgari, Swatch, Rado.

    Tie.
    Sometimes a tastefully chosen tie replaces the entire set of accessories. Most European fashion houses noted that this particular item completes the look, making a man more elegant and serious.

    Selection rules of this element wardrobe:

    • ties made in the same tone are in harmony with outerwear in thin stripes or checkered patterns;
    • the shade of the tie and the pattern on the shirt should not be contrasting;
    • a patterned accessory is matched to a plain shirt;
    • A tastefully chosen tie should end at the level of the trouser belt buckle.

    Cufflinks.
    You need to know that cufflinks with a pin securing the tie should be a single set that adheres to a strictly business-like men's style with a designer design. The shapes and materials are restrained, which allows you to emphasize sophistication.

    They are considered an important wardrobe detail, the impression of which does not depend on size. Although this item of clothing is small in size, it completes the image, with the most bright accent. At the same time, an accessory that is worn in an inappropriate situation, or of poor quality, completely ruins the look.

    Cufflinks are worn in the following cases:

    • when wearing a shirt with double cuffs;
    • at evening look when not using a suit with double cuffs.

    If desired, you can wear other jewelry in the form of rings, chains - cufflinks should look like a single set.

    Convenience is an important point. If the accessory is uncomfortable to wear, shirts must be worn with single cuffs. This decoration elevates a real man one step to the ideal image of a leader.

    Modern business style - a complete business casual wardrobe

    In order for a man to achieve the ideal stylish look, he needs to choose the right basic clothes in addition to accessories.

    Shirt

    • Print and color scheme. White is considered the most safe color in business men's style. But in some cases it can get boring quickly. In certain situations (business interviews, meetings) White color the top is the most profitable. In a more immediate case, it requires conservatism using soft, muted shades or small prints: stripes, checks. Transparent or see-through material is not acceptable in this business men's style.
    • Size. Shirts should look harmonious. If a man wears shirts suitable size, but they don't fit right, not enough long sleeves, then the overall image will be spoiled. A tight collar does not give the desired look and puts pressure on the neck if you wear a tie. With loose collars, a ridiculous look is guaranteed. First of all, you need to make sure that the sleeves with a collar look good in size.
    • Buttons. Each button on the shirt is fully buttoned, as are the sleeves. The collar should also be buttoned so that the buttons under the collar do not stick out randomly.

    Trousers

    • Light colors are excluded. To create a semi-formal atmosphere, experimenting with a shirt and tie in moderate tones is allowed. But the lower part of the suit requires rigor. If you choose pants in several shades and attend an official event, the man will look funny.
    • Size. Like any other thing, pants should fit the person. If trousers are too long, they should be shortened. This item of clothing should be at the waist and have the required length so that the edges of the trouser leg touch the top of the shoe, forming a slight fold. If this part begins to wrinkle, then the pants need to be shortened. And, conversely, if the trousers are not long enough, their owner will look ridiculous.
    • This piece of clothing should fit perfectly at the waist. Tapered and tight pants are less comfortable. And if the thing dangles, then the overall look will seem baggy.
    • Without cuff. Nowadays, pants with cuffs have lost their relevance. Although critical fashion does not prohibit their use, their use in tight pants would be inappropriate.
    • No tucks. The business dress code, as well as the smart casual style, has long been getting rid of pintucks from trousers. It is recommended to avoid this element.
    • Blazers and jackets can be worn with dark jeans or trousers. Shirts, turtlenecks or thin jumpers are allowed.

    Shoes and socks

    • The shades are in harmony. You cannot combine brown shoes and a black belt, for example. The color of the shoes should be in harmony with other leather items. In this masculine style, only black or dark brown colors are allowed for a man. And business trousers are available with belt loops, requiring the mandatory use of a belt.
    • Business shoes must be appropriate for business men's style. This means that even black leather sneakers don't go well with a formal look. But the shoes that a man wears when visiting the office and public places may fall short according to some criteria. high level. In this case, it is necessary to have at least one pair of very expensive and high-quality shoes; these are the ones that are emphasized. Such a thing will last more than one season, since it will need to be worn only in exceptional cases. A pair of elegant shoes will allow a man to complete his look with sophistication and uniqueness.
    • Excludes business casual wearing of flashy socks. Regardless of whether it is a formal event or a casual meeting, conservative socks are acceptable. They should have a universal color; if there is a print, it should be a small one, for example, polka dots in the same shade as the socks themselves. The color of this casual detail matches the shade of the suit. Acceptable colors: black, dark blue, burgundy, white.
    • The shape and material are selected. This means that a business man will not wear sports socks to business negotiations. For such purposes, a businessman always has a pair of smart socks. They should be of sufficient length so that bare parts of the legs are not visible while sitting and walking. In addition, a business sock should be relatively thin. But not ultra-thin nylon ones, which will only bring discomfort. You also need to take into account the quality so that the foot does not sweat or the material does not stain the foot.

    Men's casual style requires the presence of at least a dozen mandatory elements of the image in the wardrobe of a business man. But it is this style that conveniently differs from other formal business images, leaving the opportunity to experiment within the boundaries of what is permissible. A man can use interchangeable things to achieve originality and sophistication.

    There is no better solution for a men's everyday wardrobe than casual clothing. It is good because it is appropriate in many looks: from street to office. Casual style for men combines freedom of expression, practicality, and a mix of classics street style. The combination of seemingly incompatible things produces interesting results. The everyday image turns out to be self-sufficient, expressive and reflective of the character of its owner.

    It cannot be said that a casual wardrobe has strong limitations, although the main attributes are quite clearly visible. Casual does not tolerate overly strict things, as well as overtly militaristic themes, although camouflage prints may be present in the image.

    Ethnic motifs and specific elements of clothing, which are more characteristic of subcultures, do not fit well into a casual wardrobe. Despite the fact that the image may contain things in a sports style, truly sports attributes and elements of equipment do not correspond to an everyday look.

    Casual style in clothing tends to natural fabrics, practical colors, knitwear, suede and denim.

    Available for men various styles jeans, chinos and slacks, as well as without the characteristic sporty shade.

    Various types of sweaters also correspond to the casual format. These can be thin long sleeves, sweatshirts, sweatshirts, as well as knitted jumpers with a V-neck and high-neck sweaters.

    Men will not have to give up their usual shirts and shirts, but they will acquire a completely different design. Comfort is a priority soft fabrics

    , loose fit, practical but original colors. Checkered shirts are quite suitable for every day looks, and are also suitable for office looks and outfits for meetings with friends.

    Even within the same casual style, there are several separate trends. Thus, business casual clothing is recommended for the office, and urban or smart casual style for the street. Let's talk a little more about each of the directions.

    Smart casual

    Mandatory components of a smart casual look are:

    • shirts or long sleeves with polo clasp;
    • straight or slightly narrowed dark palette without unnecessary decoration;
    • comfortable shoes such as moccasins, topsiders.

    For men 40 years old

    Mature fashionistas will like slack trousers in a light palette, knitted sweaters with a turn-down collar or plaid shirts, white T-shirts in combination with denim jackets, put on top.

    For men over 40 years old, suede and corduroy blazers and jackets, chinos and jeans in a dark blue or brown palette are suitable. An office look will benefit from a plain shirt and knitted jumper with a V-shaped neckline.

    For men over 50

    Men over 50 are also willing to wear smart-casual clothes. It is not as provocative as the casual street version, but it is quite comfortable, modern and pleasingly compatible. For men over 50, straight wool trousers in gray or brown tones are suitable. They can be worn with khaki or knitted sweaters with melange effect.

    ABOUT casual style Quite a lot has already been said and written. About this lung casual look they know it, they adhere to it with pleasure. It is not surprising that men who follow fashion ask a completely logical question - how to adapt this rather free style to a strict office style.

    If, in accordance with the internal regulations established in the organization, your image should be presentable, but not strict, choose a wardrobe in the smart casual style.

    Pictured is smart casual for men

    Smart casual style for men translated from in English means "dressy, casual style." The uncertainty and vagueness of the stylistic direction in clothing is explained by the fact that the concept of dress code in each organization, country, and at each event is individual. For this reason, there are no strict, specific standards for style.

    Various dictionaries present different definitions this stylistic direction:

    • Australian National Dictionary – attractive, relaxed style;
    • Oxford University Dictionary – neat, traditional, moderately informal style;
    • English slang dictionary - a ridiculous dress code that is suitable for attending parties, concerts and sedentary work in the office.

    Wikipedia also provides a rather vague definition based on opinions fashion magazines and specialists.

    According to designers, smart-casual style is an informal dress code that combines classic and modern elements wardrobe

    For the first time, people started talking about a “casual” dress code as a separate style at the beginning of the last century in America at a time when large corporations were actively developing and did not make serious demands on appearance employees. However, the new trend in fashion did not become popular.

    Only by the middle of the twentieth century, office workers and young business people appreciated the comfort and sophistication of the style. The first smart-casual images turned out to be timid - young people exchanged a strict, classic jacket for a more casual one, made of cotton, and this was the end of the transformation in the image.

    Today, the main requirement when putting together a wardrobe is to maintain a balance between the formal and informal dress code. It's not easy to learn how to combine classic clothes with fashionable details.

    Smart casual dress code for men

    With the advent of this style, office employees received greater freedom in choosing clothes - jeans replaced classic trousers, formal jackets were replaced by blazers and jumpers. A distinctive feature of the style is flexibility, and this is especially true for men with a modest wardrobe. Even a small amount of things can be combined, attracting any detail, experimenting and imagining.

    Shirts


    Shirt is a basic element of smart casual style

    Shirts are the central element of any smart-casual look. IN in this case You will need a lot of shirts of different styles and colors.

    First of all, choose a classic Oxford shirt in a rich blue color; it will always be relevant, will not go out of style and will go with any detail of your look, be it jeans, chinos, a tie or a jumper. In addition, the right shade blue will do to any person - with fair skin and dark-skinned, blondes and brunettes, regardless of eye color. If you want to create the most modern look, choose a shirt without a collar.

    A striped and checkered shirt would not be out of place in your wardrobe. A pocket square of a similar color in your jacket pocket will highlight your individuality and style.

    Stylist tip: If you decide not to wear a tie, unbutton the top button of your shirt.

    T-shirt

    The T-shirt can be worn under a jacket or blazer, make sure that it matches the color palette of all accessories. Most a win-win- a plain T-shirt with a small neckline.

    Blazer and tweed jacket


    Blazer – stylish look in warm weather

    Many men, due to the similarity of a blazer and a jacket, confuse these two wardrobe items. Outwardly they are similar, but each will be appropriate in certain situations and conditions. In modern fashion, a blazer is called a club jacket.

    For the warm season, a cotton and linen blazer is suitable; for cool weather, thicker fabrics are selected. Concerning color palette, calm, natural tones - brown, beige, green - look most harmonious.


    Tweed jacket - an elegant look in cold weather

    A tweed jacket is a great alternative to a blazer when the cold weather sets in. Thanks to its dense structure, tweed warms, and the fabric, made from untwisted, thick thread, is durable and looks very attractive.

    Cardigan

    This element of the men's wardrobe is named after the man who brought the cardigan into the fashion world - James Brudnell Earl Cardigan. During the Crimean War, he commanded British troops and, above all, valued practicality and functionality in clothing. His favorite part of his wardrobe was a vest with ties, thanks to which clothes could be easily and quickly removed.


    Cardigan - practical and comfortable

    The classic cardigan is made of knitted fabric, knitting can be fine or large; models with an elegant V-neck and shawl collar are also distinguished. Models in a more sporty style have a zipper, while classic cardigans are fastened with buttons. If you want to create an original look, pay attention to cardigans with ties.

    In smart-casual style, a blazer is used instead of a vest, with a jacket on top - this option is considered the most formal and businesslike. A tie will complement your stylish look.

    Tie and other accessories

    A tie is not necessary in this case, just unbutton the top button of the shirt. If the situation requires a tie, choose a thin or knitted model, they will highlight your smart-casual style.

    The bright clip on the tie looks original and Sunglasses. When choosing a tie, avoid classic styles and standard models that have become familiar in the office.

    Trousers


    Pants - no arrows or strict lines

    First of all, you should avoid the classics - the smart casual style completely excludes smooth arrows and clear lines. The best solution is khaki and chinos pants.

    When it comes to jeans, stylists have different opinions. According to some fashion designers, jeans are tilting the look towards a loose, casual style. But there is also an opinion in the fashion world that jeans of a certain style and shade may well become basic element a smart casual look for an office employee.

    The color scheme of the trousers should have something in common:

    • with a touch of a jacket, blazer or cardigan;
    • with the color of the belt and shoes.

    The dark palette gives solidity and seriousness, light shades more suitable for young guys who do not need to adhere to a too strict dress code.

    Shorts

    For hot weather, shorts are an excellent choice; only loose-fitting beach models should be avoided. The optimal solution is a shortened version of chinos without unnecessary decoration and stripes.

    Belt


    Choose a belt that matches your shoes

    The choice of belt should, first of all, be based on the style and model of the trousers. For chinos-style trousers, stylists recommend choosing a narrow belt in the same color scheme as the shoes. However, details of different colors are also allowed in one look, because the smart casual style itself implies some recklessness and freedom of action.

    Jeans are best worn with a familiar, classic belt.

    Shoes

    • brogues - shoes decorated with perforations;
    • loafers - slip-on shoes with hard soles and low, chunky heels;
    • chukka or chukka - ankle-high boots, they are comfortable and versatile, look like desert boots, they are worn with any trousers and jeans of different styles;
    • Monks are the most classic shoe option for smart casual, shoes with two buckles and a low heel; it is recommended to wear them with tapered trousers so that the edges of the clothing do not catch on the fastener.

    There are no restrictions in the choice of color; stylists recommend avoiding the classic black color in shoes and choosing shoes in brighter colors.

    Socks


    Socks - more color and mood

    Of course, some shoes can be worn on bare feet, however, in cool weather it would still be better to complement the look with socks. Choose shades and patterns that go with a specific wardrobe item, such as a tie.

    Smart casual clothing for men - several stylish looks

    1. Smart casual look in its purest form.

    Classic smart casual in its purest form

    Basic elements: chinos, shirt, jacket and any smart casual shoes.

    Start by choosing a shirt; it can be plain - white, blue or pink. If you want to add personality to your look, choose a model with a simple, unobtrusive pattern.

    In this case, you don’t need to use a tie; just unbutton the top button of the shirt.

    Throw on a blue blazer on top - this is the most versatile item that will suit any smart casual look. According to stylists, such a blazer should be first on the list of must-haves have masculine wardrobe

    Chinos in a safe gray or beige color pair perfectly with chocolate shoes and a narrow belt of the same shade.

    2. The second look is smart casual in the “free Friday” style.


    Smart casual style for denim lovers

    This option, close to denim, is suitable as a dress code for offices where the “free Friday” law flourishes.

    For this option, jeans in dark colors are quite appropriate; for the warm season, light colors are also suitable. Modern, stylish smart people prefer to wear jeans in indigo tones.

    The height of elegance will be White shirt paired with a dark jacket. As an alternative, a vest with a tie and a cardigan in dark shades are suitable.


    Smart casual for the office where “free Friday” reigns.

    The stylish “highlight” of the look is suede desert boots with laces, medium height (up to the ankle).

    3. The third image is when it’s cool outside.

    Autumn smart casual looks great with a turtleneck or sweater

    For rainy and cool weather, purchase trousers made of wool, tweed or corduroy, which go harmoniously with warm turtlenecks. If such a tandem is not to your liking, replace the turtleneck with a polo shirt and cardigan. You can throw a vintage blazer over a turtleneck and wear desert shoes.

    Layering is an easy way to add warmth to your look while maintaining style. You will need:

    • simple, classic, plain shirt;
    • V-neck knitted jumper;
    • jeans;
    • cardigan;
    • socks imitating the same knitting, but thin.

    If desired, you can complement the look with a tie.

    5. Image five – if movement is your way of life.


    Sneakers are an unusual and stylish element of smart casual style.

    An active lifestyle is invariably associated with comfortable sneakers. These shoes are the most comfortable and go well with the smart casual style. Although in this variation your style will turn out to be more casual than smart.

    Let's sum it up

    If we evaluate current styles in men's fashion in terms of comfort, smart casual will undoubtedly be in the top three, second only to sporty style. In addition, by combining clothes according to your own taste, you can create strict outfits in accordance with the dress code or light looks for fun get-togethers with friends.

    The uniqueness of a smart casual wardrobe lies in its minimalism - you don’t have to fill your closet with a lot of clothes, just buy basic pieces and combine them, depending on the specific situation and own feeling style.

    Regardless of the look you choose, smart casual style is based on one rule - you should look stylish and good, but not at the expense of comfort. Give preference exclusively natural materials, choose shoes made of genuine, glossy leather. Find your style, experiment and improve.

    Now the English phrase “smart casual” can be seen and heard everywhere: in glossy magazines, on TV screens, from reviews of fashion bloggers, in various articles on the Internet, etc. So what is this style? How much do you really know about him? Let's look at what smart casual is, as well as its history, features and advantages.

    What is smart casual?

    Translating the expression “smart-casual” into Russian is not as easy as it might seem at first glance. In all kinds of dictionaries it is indicated different meaning this phrase. The most accurate and well-established definition is “smart-casual.” The Oxford Dictionary states that smart casual is a casual and neat, but slightly informal style. In principle, this definition characterizes smart casual well. After all, it combines things in a strict classic style with fashionable and everyday wardrobe items.

    History of appearance

    The exact origin of the expression “smart casual” is quite difficult to trace. Many sources claim that this term became established in the 1980s, but was widespread throughout the 20th century. The phrase “smart casual” first appeared in an American newspaper in 1924, and it described a sleeveless dress. But only in the 50s of the last century did this term become popular among business people and office employees, first in the USA, and only then in Europe. Back then, going smart casual was as easy as swapping out your classic blazer for a more casual cotton one.

    What is smart casual today?

    Nowadays, there are many more demands placed on smart casual than in the last century. The main thing is to correctly combine formal business and casual styles in one look. Of course, you can't wear a jacket with sports trousers for training and go to work like this. It is important to maintain a balance between formal wear and casual wear. To create a harmonious image, the first thing you need to take as a basis is elegance. Only then do you need to dilute the onion casual clothes. To make it clearer, let's give a few examples.

    Examples of smart casual style

    Smart casual wear typically uses a blazer or jacket as the top. It is best to wear a shirt underneath. Moreover, both a single-color version and striped or checkered models are suitable. To add a touch of chic, choose a pocket square in the exact same color as your shirt. It can be neatly folded into your jacket pocket. A tie is optional in this case. If it is not there, then it is advisable to unbutton the top button of the shirt. And if you still want to wear a tie, then give preference to thin or knitted models. You can complement it with a colored clip.

    By the way, you can wear not only a shirt, but also a T-shirt under a jacket or blazer. However, remember that the color should match the accessories that you have chosen to create your look. The ideal T-shirt for smart casual style is a plain model with a not very large neckline.

    As for trousers, stylists recommend avoiding in this case classic options. No clear lines straight arrows! Chinos and khakis are perfect. Jeans can also be worn in a smart casual style. The main thing is that they do not have overly provocative decorative elements. Therefore, choose more modest models.

    Cropped trousers can also be worn in smart casual style. But keep in mind that these should not be beach shorts. Most suitable option– shortened chinos without stripes, ropes and other decorative elements.

    There is a strict requirement for smart casual shoes: they must be exclusively classic. You can choose anything: oxfords, monks, loafers, brogues, but not sneakers! And don’t focus only on black shoes, otherwise you will look like an ordinary office worker. Be sure to experiment with color schemes!

    Why is smart casual so popular?

    Smart casual is one of the most favorite clothing styles among men. He is preferred by representatives of the stronger sex of different ages and all kinds of professions. It is perfect not only for office workers, but also for creative individuals. Smart casual is chosen by active, business-minded and confident men who want to look perfect in any situation. Even Hollywood stars and famous designers do not ignore this interesting style.

    But why is smart casual so popular among men? It's simple! Firstly, this style is very convenient because it does not require a tie, buttoned shirts and classic trousers with arrows. Therefore, when choosing smart casual, you will feel free and comfortable in your clothes.

    Secondly, the smart casual style can rightfully be called universal. It is great for working in the office, attending various events where there is no strict dress code, going on a date, and just for everyday wear. Thirdly, smart casual does not have too strict boundaries, like, for example, business style. Therefore, it allows men to experiment when creating an image. And most importantly, smart casual always looks relevant and sophisticated, despite the constantly changing fashion trends.

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