The infamous “smart casual” dressing—a sweet spot where style and comfort shake hands, though it's easy to find yourself in a bit of a style maze. Navigating the blend between polished and laid-back can be a head-scratcher. But worry not, because in this journal post, we're unravelling the laid-back elegance of smart casual fashion.

Smart casual dressing strikes a balance between the relaxed feel of your weekend errand outfit and the polished look of your business casual attire. It embodies a style that is laid back yet refined, offering versatility for a range of occasions. The easiest way to tackle this balance is by combining a casual staple (denim, sneakers, tees, polos) with a few more elevated pieces (tailored jackets, dress trousers, loafers).

At Working Style, a fool proof recipe for a smart casual look often includes a combination of a t-shirt, a tailored jacket, chinos or dress pants, and a stylish loafer. The secret ingredient that elevates this ensemble into the smart casual realm is the t-shirt, effortlessly balancing out the sophistication of the other three pieces. Now we’re not suggesting your rummage through your wardrobe for the most casual band tee you own to prove your case that you’re casual enough – a plain, crisp t-shirt in a timeless colourway will do the job.

Another way to nail the smart casual look is by trading your usual elevated trousers for your favourite pair of denim jeans. Consider the typical business casual ensemble: a tailored jacket, cotton button-up shirt, dress trousers, and a pair of loafers or lace-up shoes. Now, shake things up by substituting those dress trousers with your favourite denim wash, instantly transforming the outfit into a smart casual masterpiece.

To sum this up, achieving this look is all about making smart swaps: trade your more formal lace-ups for a classy sneaker, ditch the jacket for a laid-back vibe and sport a tucked-in polo with your tailored trousers. Or, throw on your favourite jacket over a pair of simple cotton shorts for an effortlessly stylish twist. It’s safe to just pick one element of your look that you are going to casualise, and frame the rest of the pieces around this.

Drop by your preferred Working Style store and meet our friendly team for expert advice on curating your next smart casual ensemble. We're here to help you navigate the world of style and elevate your wardrobe with a touch of sophistication.

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