‘I’ve just had the official invite for a work launch event come through, and the dress code is smart casual. We’ve had events before where the dress code is black tie, which is a little easier to get right. I feel like smart casual can go wrong – what if I look way too laid back? Or so smart that I look silly? What’s the right balance? And what should I wear?!’
Leona from Ipswich
Dress codes are the bane of my personal life, Leona! If a party invite doesn’t specify, then I’ll ask the host for one (no, seriously) – even finding out what they’re planning to wear gives a helpful pointer to the vibe. And if it does specify a dress code, then I’d always want clarification on what is actually acceptable to wear, so I understand your concerns.
A quick Google states that it means ‘casual wear but with smart components,’ which isn’t the most helpful, especially considering a tracksuit counts as casualwear. But ultimately, I’d recommend a 2:1 mix, so for every two ‘smart’ parts of your look, you have one ‘casual’ part to ground it and stop it feeling too dressy.
I’d go as far as to say this dress code is the reason jeans and a nice top became A Real Thing. A pretty top and heels = two ‘smart’ elements, and those blue jeans in between = the casual part. It’s the formula that likely springs to mind when you think of the dress code. Where a pair of dressy trousers or a silk skirt would have felt too prissy for a low-key event, the fancy top and glam heels are nicely balanced with laid back denim. It just works.
So back to the 2:1 mix. It can work with any version of an outfit, as long as you stick to this ratio. A smart pair of white trousers with strappy metallic mules and a plain T-shirt ticks the box just as well as a silk cami dress with white trainers and a sharp blazer does. The event itself should determine which elements that you pick to suit the ratio.
For example, I’d say bottomless brunch is a smart casual event, and while those white trousers might feel a tad too much for a pancakes and prosecco date at 12pm, they’re ideal for your work event. Similarly that sexy slip. While mingling with your boss at your launch, you might feel a little exposed in it, but it’s super cute for a tabletop photo opp at your brunch with the gals.
So now that we’ve got the 2:1 plan down pat, and we know that smart casual differs from event to event, here are the components to shop to make sure you get it right in style:
Dresses
Typically, I’d say these fall under the smart element, although a denim mini dress with heeled ankle boots and a cute mini bag is a great smart casual look. That’s the exception, though. Since a dress takes up so much of the outfit and has the ability to sway the vibe completely, I’d recommend sticking to smart.
Which means silk, satin, structured shapes, sleek prints, and bold shades. I’d wear this Ghost dress with a cream blazer, gold hoop earrings and simple slingback flats for your work launch. Chic, effortless and ticks the dress code box beautifully.
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Trousers
A polished pair of trousers can elevate a look easily. Just think of the difference they make when worn with a printed blouse and heels, compared to the same look with jeans. For any kind of work do, I’d recommend using them as one of your ‘smart’ options, and you could pair them with strappy heels, jazzy earrings and a plain T-shirt for a stylish high-low look.
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Tops
If you’re opting for a dressy bottom half and heels, you can afford for your top to be low-key, in which case, a minimal knit (no bells and whistles for a smart casual look, please) or a T-shirt are the best options.
If it’s one of your smart options, go for a silky blouse or wrap top which will dress up jeans nicely. My favourites are from & Other Stories and Kitri.
A bodysuit is the in-between here. In a fitted jersey style, it’s as comfortable as a T-shirt but less fussy than a blouse or shirt.
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Shoes
Footwear will make or break a smart casual look. While it depends on the occasion, I think if you’re wearing trainers, a box-fresh pair is a must. After all, do you really want your grubby Converse spoiling your chic outfit? It leans way too far into the casual spectrum.
On the other hand, heels can feel OTT depending on the event, but if it’s in the evening and in a fancy location, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than under.
Sparkly flats are my failsafe, and I have three pairs in my own arsenal. With trousers, silky skirts, jeans and dresses, they just go. They’re glam and easily walkable, what’s not to love?
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Jewellery
By its very nature, jewellery is sparkly, golden and eye-catching, so it falls under the ‘smart’ side here. I wouldn’t say it counts within your ratio, but it does help to lift the vibe of a look that falls on the more casual side. Just think a cropped jumper, high-waisted trousers, heels and sparkly drop earrings – cute!
If you’re looking to invest, get By Alona and Daphine on your radar. Both are female-founded brands, and it shows: both have glitzy earrings that were made for a cocktail night.
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Three smart casual combinations to try this season
Knit + trousers + heels
For an evening event, I’d throw a red lip and sparkly earrings into the mix to really elevate this pared-back outfit.
Mini dress + chunky boots + jewellery
Sheer tights and glowy make-up really add to the dressy feel of this look. Go for leather, silk and satin dresses to eer on the smart side.
Pretty top + jeans + heels
When you’re sat at a dinner table, your jeans go unnoticed, so why not opt for a comfy pair with heels and a cute top? The OG smart casual look.
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