The first day at work can bring a mixture of emotions, but it is still important to wear an appropriate outfit. Post-pandemic dress codes have certainly changed, but most employers expect their new employees to wear smart casual attire.
What exactly is smart casual clothing? That is a professional style of clothing that combines fashionable items into an outfit to create a semi-formal appearance. You can choose from a wide variety of clothing items, including trousers, shirts and blouses, jackets, skirts and dresses. Informal smart casual and business casual clothing are similar because they are both a clothing style that gives you a professional appearance without having to wear formal work clothing such as a suit.
The biggest difference is that smart casual clothing can include trendy pieces such as colored jeans, structured T-shirts and trainers.
A smart casual wardrobe should have a variety of clothes that work together to create a range of outfits for the workplace.
Smart casual clothing covers a wide range of formalities, including two categories for specific work situations.
On special occasions
In formal situations it is wise to opt for the dressiest smart casual clothing. Such situations include presentations, award ceremonies and open evenings. On these occasions it is better to be overdressed, so consider wearing a suit, crisp shirt, dress and appropriate footwear.
If you choose smart casual attire for an informal job interview, aim for a dressier look. Blouses, crisp shirts, overcoats are a few examples of suitable clothing for such occasions. The brand Olaf offers many suitable smart casual items.
During important meetings
Many employers apply a smart casual dress code. This is usually the case for jobs where you do not have direct face-to-face contact with customers or clients. Items to consider for a more relaxed look include sweaters, blouses, jeans and sneakers.
Smart casual for men
A few fundamental items form the basis for a smart casual wardrobe. Mixing and matching is a great way to create different styles and looks. This look should include formal and informal items such as: jackets and blazers; trousers; shirts; shoes and accessories.
Jackets and blazers look good in both formal and informal settings. They are a great option for creating different outfits. Trousers like jeans provide a classic look that fits in many different environments. Invest in a good quality pair of jeans with straight legs and a tailored fit. Casual cotton trousers can also serve as a good basis for a smart casual look. Depending on the situation, you may need to choose pants instead of jeans for a more professional look. Smart casual shirts include button downs with short and long sleeves and classic T-shirts. If you opt for a T-shirt, choose a polo without any graphics or striking designs. Investing in a pair of professional shoes is a good idea. Classic accessories such as a wristwatch and a leather belt complete this smart casual look.
Another option for a neat look are contact lenseswhich help you see clearly without the added weight of glasses. This can complete your look, especially if you want to maintain a professional appearance.
Smart casual for women
There are many options for women when putting together smart casual looks. Versatile garments such as skirts, jeans and blouses can be combined with other items in your wardrobe to create a smart casual look.
Some examples of this type of clothing are: pants and skirts, tops and dresses. Trousers, including chinos and jeans, work well with a blouse or jacket. Long skirts, or skirts that reach just below the knee, in different fabrics go well with plain tops and jackets. Pants and skirts with a subtle design go well with different tops. Smart casual tops include blouses, t-shirts and sweaters. Dresses can be an easy option on days when you’re short on time. For a more formal approach, pair your dress with simple jewelry and a pair of low heels. For a less formal look, you can wear more fashion jewelry with casual shoes and perhaps a denim jacket.
Gender neutral smart casual clothing
There are many options for anyone who wants to look professional yet stylish. The most important thing to remember is that you should feel comfortable and confident in the clothes. Some simple and attractive smart casual outfits can be considered gender neutral, such as a plain black jacket, a white button-up shirt and a pair of gray chinos. Other gender-neutral smart casual clothing items can include: T-shirts, cardigans, jackets, blazers, button down shirts, cardigans, chinos, jeans, boots, sneakers, watches and loafers.
With the right combination of formal and casual clothing, you will feel confident, comfortable and versatile in your work environment. Be creative with your wardrobe, mix and match your clothes and feel good and confident at your workplace.
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