Guide

Smart casual for work — how to style it

Smart casual is the most common dress code for modern office environments. It sits between formal and relaxed and requires you to understand what signals respect without being stiff.

1. Step 1

   Choose the bottom

   Dark jeans without distressing, chinos in a beige or dark green tone, or a dark mid-rise trouser or skirt. Joggers, shorts or ripped jeans don't belong here. The length should be clear — either cropped at the ankle or at the ankle bone.

2. Step 2

   Build the top in layers

   A t-shirt layer is too informal; a blouse or shirt is the base. Add a knit, a blazer or a cardigan over it. Two layers is the minimum to not look underdressed.

3. Step 3

   Choose shoes that tie it together

   Leather shoes or minimalist sneakers (white, beige or black). No running shoes, no heels over 5 cm. The shoe should sit cleanly under the trouser and not distract from the rest.

4. Step 4

   Keep accessories controlled

   A watch, a pair of discreet earrings or a fine chain, a bag in leather or canvas. No statement jewellery, no visible logos. The belt is matched to the shoe in tone.

5. Step 5

   Adjust to the company culture

   At a law firm, smart casual is closer to formal; at a tech company, closer to casual. Look at the manager — dress one level above your colleague, one level below your manager. That's the safe zone.