Smart casual is one of the hardest dress codes for women, covering elements of professional, cocktail and casual attire. Picking out the perfect outfit can be daunting but it doesn’t have to be hard — you may already own all the elements required.
What exactly is smart casual?
Smart casual outfits are all about finding the perfect balance between relaxed and still professional. Think tailored pants with a tee or jeans paired with a blouse or blazer.
A smart casual dress code can also depend on the type of event. Is it during the day? Is it for work? Once you’ve sorted out the feel of the event then you can decide what sort of clothes work best. For something outside of the office, a more casual dress will work, while an outfit for a professional event could be smartened up with a blazer.
We’ve rounded up the do’s and don’ts of choosing the perfect smart casual dress code outfit below — because getting dressed shouldn’t have to be painful!
The do’s
Opt for smooth materials like silk and viscose, or structured pieces made of high-quality cotton and linen.
Add a blazer. It’ll usually dress up any outfit!
Choose accessories that complete your look. Earrings, necklaces, rings and even a handbag can all help dress up casual or dress down professional for the right smart casual mix.
Wear comfortable shoes with a bit of style. They don’t have to be heels, but steer clear of sneakers or anything dirty. The aim is to look professional without being too overdressed.
Are jeans OK for smart casual dress codes?
Yes, you can wear jeans as part of a smart casual outfit but make sure they are on the smarter side, with high-quality denim and a flattering cut. A nice pair of black jeans are usually the safest bet. In fact, black jeans have even been worn in the Parliament of Victoria by women including Fiona Patten and Ali Cupper.
Just avoid styles with rips, frayed edges or slouchy cuts that appear too casual or off-duty. If in doubt, check with the event organiser that jeans are OK
The don’ts
Don’t wear too many prints. Unless you’re going to a creative event, a smart casual dress code usually means muted neutrals with maybe just a pop of colour. Blacks, whites, creams and beiges are always a safe bet. If you do want to wear a print, opt for something tailored and dress up the rest of your outfit to match. For example a patterned blouse with black slacks.
Don’t just wear business clothes. Smart casual for women doesn’t really mean a pencil skirt and white shirt. If you’re attending a wedding or other non-work event, you could opt for a polished knee-length dress or chic pair of trousers — both of which can be just as dressed up as a blazer in the right context.
Don’t go too casual with your clothes. Revealing tops, super short skirts or shorts should not be part of a smart casual outfit. The same goes for leggings and other activewear. The ideal smart casual outfit should be one you could wear from the office to drinks without too many changes.
What to wear for a smart casual wedding
Smart casual is one of the most popular dress codes for weddings. Although it offers a fair amount of freedom, be sure not to get too dressed up — it’s not quite cocktail attire. But also, don’t go too casual.
Depending on the time of day, a failsafe outfit is a knee length to midi cut dress, paired with nice shoes and a dressy bag. It’s the right mix of smart and casual, and you can find versions of this outfit that are flattering for pretty much all women.
What do I wear for a smart casual dress code in summer?
Summer is the easiest season for a smart casual outfits, as a polished dress can often suffice. For something different, you could go for a collared shirt paired with a sleek slip skirt and a pair of chic sandals.
What do I wear for a smart casual dress code in winter?
In winter, smart casual can mean anything from a warm dress with coat to a pair of trousers and a shirt. Take cues from the invite and go with your gut. Remember, a classic blazer or coat will instantly dress up a more casual outfit. But make sure what’s under the blazer or coat also fits with the smart casual dress code so you’re not stuck wearing it if you get too hot.
I still need more inspiration!
Sometimes, it helps to view examples of women wearing smart casual outfits so you can choose your own. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite celebrities wearing various forms of the smart casual dress code below.
