Relaxed, yet elegant. Simple, yet stylish. Versatile, yet sophisticated.
You've probably heard all about smart casual style for men, but this look continues to be an enigma. While it can be open to many stylistic interpretations - which can be an advantage for your personal style - you can perfect your smart casual look without much effort.
Together with Tudor Tailor fashion advisors , we have prepared a guide for you about smart casual style, exemplified with many smart casual outfit ideas depending on the important moments in your schedule. On the website, we have prepared a wide range of casual suits for men , in line with trends and easy to integrate into your wardrobe.
Find out how you can adopt the perfect look for this dress code with the help of simple but effective pieces that will reinvent your every outfit!
What does Smart Casual mean today?
Smart is about how you integrate the pieces: they don't have to be the same color or the same material, but they have to look like they were made to be worn together. It's a bit more elegant than the jeans and t-shirt combination, but it's a cool, simple look.
Casual refers to a daytime look, suitable for many occasions, that offers freedom, comfort, and creativity.
So, the smart casual label refers to a refreshing mix'n'match, more courageous and expressive than business style, but more elegant than casual style.
The smart casual look is the preferred choice of young and modern gentlemen, as well as suit enthusiasts, who know when to bring the elegant outfit into the contemporary, more relaxed zone - whether for daytime meetings, brunches or weekend parties.
Basically, you will combine sophisticated pieces with basic, everyday ones, in shades that flatter you and are suitable for the season and the chosen occasion. We help you with special pieces of casual men's pants , casual jackets , and even unique models of casual men's shirts to compose your outfit simply and quickly.
Tudor Collections. Personal Tailor awaits you with stylish smart casual outfits that best express your personality.
Smart casual vs Business casual: what are the differences?
The two styles are often confused these days, as trends intersect and innovate. It's natural, because both dress codes are quite fluid and involve relaxed and clean clothing .
But there are a few differences between business casual and smart casual:
- Business casual is a style suitable for a professional environment, more formal, but without requiring the wearing of a men's suit and tie
- Smart casual is a style suitable for more intimate occasions, integrating elements from the professional area with everyday ones ( casual sports shoes , a more atypical blazer)
- A business casual outfit for men is a standard in companies where there are no strict dress code rules, but it requires attention and elegance, an added touch of refinement.
- A smart casual outfit is more nonconformist and may be acceptable in an unconventional start-up, but most of the time it is appropriate for a night out.
Examples of essential clothing pieces in smart casual outfits
Here are the specific elements of a smart casual outfit for men:
1. The jacket (or blazer), the statement element of the outfit
One of the essential items for a smart casual look is the jacket . We're not talking about the suit jacket, which should only be worn with trousers made of the same material for formal appearances.
For smart casual outfits for men, defined by simplicity and ease and a neat look, casual jackets are a perfect fit .
It is the statement piece for the modern man who prefers this relaxed look. You can choose to wear casual jackets with a single row of buttons or even double-breasted, for more formal appearances.
A safe choice is black, gray, navy or beige jackets, as they ensure simplicity and elegance. But you certainly don't want to adopt an old-fashioned or predictable image every time.
Wear jackets with confidence in navy or sun-kissed shades, autumnal colors or seasonal prints ideal for both casual and business outfits, along with the right pair of pants (jeans or chinos, or plain pants or flannel).
Although they are seen differently, blazer and casual jacket refer to the same thing : a garment worn independently of a suit, in formal attire. The term blazer was first used in 1825, referring to the red jackets worn by members of various Cambridge clubs, and later to those of any color.
In the Tudor Tailor collection, you have dozens of casual jacket models to complement your most successful smart casual outfits , without too much effort. All are cut from very durable and pleasant premium fabrics and blends, all-season or seasonal.
Order your unique model from the Tudor Tailor men's casual jacket collection
2. Cardigan or jacket
Cardigans, leather jackets , and bomber jackets are also acceptable in a smart casual wardrobe. However, they are more appropriate in a more youthful, urban casual style.
However, you can maintain a balanced look if you match a simple cardigan with a classic white shirt and a pair of chinos, plain or in a discreet check.
Also, because leather or bomber jackets are casual, streetwear, you can balance them very well with a simple, premium quality shirt and definitely a pair of elegant shoes or boots.
The more balanced and minimalist, the more appropriate!
3. Casual shirt, simple or with a classic pattern
Another essential element in smart casual attire is the shirt . You can choose almost any type of shirt in your outfits, both button up and button down (with buttons on the collar).
If in the case of a jacket we talk about freedom, color and boldness, in the case of men's casual shirts it would be ideal to opt for classic colors and traditional patterns . It is a stylistic balance that never goes out of style, on the contrary.
A smart casual look is intelligent and attentive to detail, timeless, although it allows for many variations.
A white shirt looks great with a jacket in bold colors and classic jeans, and a printed shirt with a simple jacket and a pair of chinos in neutral, warm shades will look great on you.
White shirts and shirts in shades of pale blue or navy will always have a great effect, while checkered prints such as gingham or tartan are highly appreciated because they give you a neat, classic masculine look.
If you choose shirts in simple, pale shades, choose a jacket in these checkered prints for a tasteful and refined appearance.
For a more relaxed smart casual look for summer outings in the city, simple denim shirts can become a fresh and elegant element if matched with a plain pair of chinos (or) shorts and a pair of loafers.
Shirts in shades of blue look best in smart casual attire for men
4. Men's briefcase
An interesting alternative to the classic shirt, especially in the cold season, is the men's turtleneck (or turtleneck). It is a classic piece of clothing and appreciated for its comfort and simplicity, but also for the sophisticated retro, 60s-inspired allure it gives to the wearer.
Suitcases are tighter on the body, therefore they are recommended for those who have a defined and fit body, for a harmonious look.
Slim models in delicate and pale shades go great with light-colored pants and jackets for daytime outfits; similarly, sober ones are suitable for a charming look in a business environment or at more special events.
When it comes to suitcases, leather jackets go really well with simple chinos, especially for outdoor outings when the weather is cold. It's a very cool and stylish combination, even when you're in a hurry.
5. T-shirt or sweater
You can sometimes wear them with more basic smart outfits, if you choose quality pieces that are made to measure , so that they give a unified and neat look.
6. Classic jeans
A true pair of jeans is also an ideal element for a relaxed yet finished look.
A unique and always pleasant appearance is ensured by the combination of classic jeans, in equally classic shades, along with a casual jacket and a plaid shirt . It is an elegant and comfortable statement look.
Jeans look great in modern smart casual outfits.
It's inspiring to wear jeans in a smart casual outfit only if they are made of quality materials and fit you perfectly.
If you're looking for such a pair, the Tudor Tailor casual pants collection awaits you with custom-made jeans , tailored specifically to your measurements, or ready-made to be included in relaxed fall outfits, even at the office.
7. Chino or flannel pants
If you're not a fan of jeans and are looking for more comfortable and versatile alternatives, chinos or flannel pants are a must-have in the wardrobe of a creative and stylish gentleman .
You can wear them very successfully with a casual jacket or a sweater with a shirt at more relaxed, but also more conservative, business events.
To invest in a pair of quality chinos , make sure they are made of classic twill fabric (100% cotton). Unlike jeans, they come in different colors, suitable for every occasion: autumn tones (brown, burgundy, crimson, red), navy shades (blue, green, turquoise), neutral tones, etc.
Chinos are a perfect choice especially when the dress code of the event you are going to is vague and you don't know how elegant to dress. They can be worn in different interesting combinations, but if you want a more classic look, choose colors like khaki, navy or beige.
Chinos are a much more stylish version of jeans, ideal to wear in the warm season.
In the cold season, you have another elegant option in the smart casual dress code: flannel pants , with a simple or plaid pattern , made of wool for extra comfort.
Both chinos and flannel pants come in a variety of colors and patterns to please more eccentric men, as well as those who value quality and image.
Discover the entire collection of men's casual pants from Tudor Tailor and choose the ones that suit your style!
8. Shoes that match smart casual style
This modern style gives you a lot more freedom of choice, but your look must be unified. Therefore, footwear is also versatile, but must be chosen according to the outfit.
You can wear different types of casual men's shoes: Oxford or Chelsea boots, leather loafers, even sneakers.
Oxford
If you want to maintain the label of elegance and impress with a mature and responsible style , then choose to wear Oxford shoes with smart casual outfits. Just be careful not to wear them in patent leather, which is only suitable for formal events.
These men's shoes are more demanding than other options, but they give a finished look and maintain a versatility and comfort that you can explore in more casual areas.
Order your favorite pair of Oxford shoes from the Tudor Tailor collection
Chelsea boots
For stylish gentlemen, there are also stylish boots known as Chelsea boots. They are some of the most stylish, minimalist and appreciated types of boots for men , always in trend.
They have a classic and timeless look that goes perfectly with any outfit, especially in the cold season. If you want an investment you won't regret, choose a pair of boots in brown shades, which complement many outfits.
These boots look extremely successful in smart casual men's outfits, because they provide you with an elevated and cool, very modern look , even with classic or basic clothing pieces.
Loafers in discreet shades
Moccasins - or loafers - are a refined and minimalist choice that never goes out of style. These casual shoes for men await you in a variety of colors, with simple designs or interesting ornaments.
Loafers are comfortable, practical and easy to integrate into various sunny looks, especially during vacations and travel, in relaxed summer outfits.
Simple, white sneakers
If you're a big fan of sneakers, the smart casual look allows you to wear such a pair for relaxed and fresh outfits. To achieve such a look, it's important to choose a pair of super-simple and neat white leather sneakers.
9. Smart casual accessories
The smart casual dress code can also be enhanced with accessories. If you want to adopt a look that is as neat as possible and at the same time discreet, without being striking, then you can choose to wear a simple but stylish watch and a pair of sunglasses , if necessary.
Ideally, you should ditch the tie and choose to wear pocket squares instead. interesting , not very pretentious.
And the brown belt is a must-have in modern smart casual attire. You can choose the right model for your suits and shirts, from the collection of leather belts for men Tudor Tailor .
Smart casual outfit ideas: when and where do you wear them?
Because every look a gentleman adopts conveys a certain image, smart casual styles also require different clothing combinations, depending on the occasion and even the season.
To make it easier for you to choose those perfect pieces for different events or moments of the day , we have prepared some examples of smart casual outfits to serve as inspiration:
1. Relaxed and modern attire, for a job that doesn't require a dress code
Unlike a business dress code, which requires a more refined and conservative look, smart casual attire is not a dress code that is acceptable at work. This can be the case for those working in startups, for example.
However, because we are talking about a dress code that requires professionalism and natural elegance, the best stylistic combinations are made up of a jacket, shirt, and casual pants.
The tie and suit are not mandatory and are only appropriate if they have unexpected designs for a youthful and unconventional look and are accessorized atypically.
To look professional, but at the same time confident and mindful of your image, rely on modern and simple clothing pieces, especially when you're not sure about the dress code.
The keywords for smart casual office attire are balance and courage. And you can achieve this by choosing jackets in shades of gray, blue or navy, even garnet or emerald green (ideal for the cold season) along with accessories in contrasting colors.
Chinos or flannel, depending on the season, should be in complementary shades to the jacket, which create a pleasant contrast. The perfect shirt for the professional environment is white or in pale colors, because it is a versatile choice. You can forgo the jacket; your look will remain just as smart and relaxed.
Casual shoes that you can wear with confidence are Oxford or Chelsea boots, and if you wish, you can bring the outfit out of anonymity with a more extravagant pocket square, especially if you have chosen a jacket in neutral colors such as blue, navy, and gray, for example.
2. Refreshing and cool outfit for city dates
On days when you go out with friends or colleagues to your favorite restaurant or get ready for a walk in the park or even a romantic afternoon, you can "play" with the pieces you choose to wear, to highlight your unique personality.
You can opt for a casual jacket with a bolder pattern and a simple white shirt, without a tie of course, to maintain a more finished and mature, but very nonchalant, relaxed look.
Another successful combination is matching a casual striped or checked shirt with a simple and cool jacket in a neutral shade and a pair of casual pants in a statement color, this time.
For colder days, you can choose casual jackets made of premium fabrics, carefully tailored to let your skin breathe, but which provide you with long-lasting comfort. Your appearance will be memorable if you choose autumnal colors such as burgundy or green.
If you prefer a slightly more casual everyday outfit, you can opt for the sweater and shirt combination or a simple cardigan, if the jacket seems too much for the occasion.
You can opt for classic Oxford shoes, although a pair of Chelsea boots will provide a modern and relaxed appearance in the cold season. In the summer, wear loafers in interesting but not overwhelming colors, especially if you choose stronger colors in your outfit.
And a pair of white sneakers looks OK in this urban, fresher look.
3. Smart casual outfit for a day party or a city break
You can ensure a charismatic and tasteful look, even when you want to take a break and enjoy various fun and relaxing events.
Smart casual style is an excellent choice when you want to feel good in the clothes you wear, but look like a charming gentleman without too much effort.
If it's a look you resonate with, then you can choose some very bold and colorful smart casual outfit ideas for vacation days at the seaside and even parties on a yacht.
Choose casual jackets made of light and breathable materials that allow you to feel free and uninhibited, in navy or sun tones. You can choose to wear the jacket with a simple and quality t-shirt or, ideally, a casual white or pale-colored shirt, plain or striped, made of light and loose materials.
Loafers are the best choice for summer outfits that you wear to a cocktail or garden party or on vacation.
If your outfit is minimalist, choose a pair of Loafers with ornaments - the Tudor Tailor moccasin collection offers you the opportunity to customize your shoe yourself, from the sole and material, to these details that make the difference.
Dos and don'ts in smart casual style
Can you wear shorts in smart casual?
Summer can be very hot, which is why many men wear shorts with more dressy outfits. As long as they are simple, fit above the knee, and made of very good quality materials, they are OK for smart casual summer style.
If you don't know what to wear to a more special event, choose a smart casual pair of long pants, which can be worn very cool with a casual jacket and a white shirt.
Wear jeans with interesting blazers
The most pleasant combination with a pair of simple, dark jeans is a jacket with an interesting pattern.
Leave no room for creases
Even though this style is relaxed and fresh, it doesn't mean that the outfit doesn't require effort. It's important that the pieces you wear are ironed and crease-free, and that your shoes look neat - otherwise, you risk a sloppy look that's not at all suitable for smart casual.
Choose a pleasant dark-light contrast
If you want to go smart casual, you definitely won't wear a green bomber jacket with a white t-shirt, faded jeans, and sneakers. Swap the jeans for dark ones, and the jacket for a gray or navy coat, and your outfit will already look smarter. If you have an outfit in too dark shades, replace two elements with light ones.
If you choose a t-shirt, choose a simple one.
Often, in smart casual men's style, t-shirts are worn with a blazer, cardigan, or sweater. And it's important to keep them simple and in classic shades to balance the outfit and not take it into sports casual territory.
Wear long-sleeved shirts
The most elegant and safe option is to opt for long-sleeved shirts instead of short-sleeved ones - which look far too casual.
… and with a pattern
Unlike t-shirts, shirts look very cool and smart in this style, if they have an interesting pattern, such as plaids or stripes.
Don't forget your coat.
Often, for relaxed or more intimate outings in the city - where smart casual outfits are best - you can replace the jacket with a simple coat that looks good with the outfit. After all, the jacket can also be taken off at any time.
Choose pieces tailored to your measurements
Of course, smart casual outfits for men look best and most elevated if they fit you and enhance your image. Choose fitted pieces, perfectly tailored to your measurements, to avoid creases and clothes that are too loose or tight, which do not leave a pleasant impression at all.
Update your wardrobe with new smart casual outfits from Tudor Tailor
Now it's easier to create a mature and charismatic look that will make you feel extraordinary and enjoy your time in the most stylish way. Tudor Tailor casual men's suits they are an experience of masculine elegance that you must try, especially for a flawless and effortless appearance.
You can also choose separately from numerous jackets, shirts, and casual pants tailored with balance and attention to detail, in classic models and unique prints, which you can combine as you wish.
Their premium fabrics have very fine and breathable textures, and the unexpected colors and combinations will elevate any outfit, whether you choose a slim fit or a more relaxed regular cut.