Most men are at sea with what to wear when they get an invitation which has “smart casual” as the dress code. I would like us to see the dress code as somewhere between formal and informal wear – the right mix of formal and casual. I also left a few buttons undone to give a relaxed feel and the clothing items are really light and easy.

Check out a few key tips for putting together a smart casual look:

  • Wear a blazer or jacket which could be structured or non-structured, a pair of trousers or chinos, a shirt with a collar and a pair of smart shoes- not trainers or sandals.
  • Comfortable shoes are allowed but never wear flip-flops. It’s okay to wear driving shoes or a pair of loafers.
  • You can wear colours, unlike formal outfits which mostly restricts you to darker colours.
  • If you are unsure of the dress code, err on the side of formal. As the saying goes, it’s better to be overdressed than under-dressed (I paraphrased lol).
  • Also, ironing your clothes can make a whole world of difference!
  • Finally, fit is everything! As much as possible try to avoid loose fitting clothes as they tend to look less polished.

Three Ways To Style A Smart Casual Look :

For the first look, I am wearing a checkered blue and black blazer, black shirt, a black pair of jeans and a pair of gold shoes. I have accessorised with gold neck pieces. Notice I have a few buttons undone to give it that relaxed feel.

For the second look, I am wearing a navy-blue blazer, a silk patterned blue and white shirt, a pair of white linen trousers and navy-blue loafers. I have accessorised with a gold brooch.

For the third and final look, I am wearing a short-sleeved tribal print shirt, a pair of white linen trousers and a pair of burgundy mules. I have accessorised with neck pieces. In all my looks, my shirts are tucked in and my clothes are properly ironed; it’s important for the smart casual look.

 

Credits:
Photography: Femi Akeusola | @femiakeusola
Outfit details: Black shirt & Tribal print shirt – Vintage Muse | @_vintagemuse
White linen pants – Ili | @ili.official