Stylish and comfortable: this is how to wear the smartcasual dress code

The name says it all. The smart casual dress code is casual but with a chic edge. An elegant, fashionable and neat look is the starting point. You are super free in your choice of clothing, which is why this dress code is becoming increasingly popular. But that also makes it difficult to assess which outfit is appropriate. You can read exactly what the smart casual dress code entails here!

What is smart casual?

Smart in this one stands for neat. So the name of the dress code actually says exactly what it means. In a creative and playful way you combine your clothes to get that perfect balance. But this dress code is not so easy to describe in a short summary. Because smart casual is super broad and can be interpreted in many different ways. What is appropriate depends on the occasion. We tell you how to apply the smart casual dress code for a wedding.

Smart casual for ladies

Smart casual for ladies means a neat look, but not too overdressed. It’s about finding the perfect balance between comfortable and chic. Think of a nice, trendy dress or skirt. Or choose trendy pants or a modern jumpsuit with a blazer or cardigan.

Smart casual is an accessible and informal dress code. Whereas in formal dress codes the use of colors and prints is often a real no-go, here it is actually encouraged. Make your outfit personal and unique with bright colors and cheerful prints. As long as you keep the balance between casual and chic, you can let your creativity run wild.

Just keep in mind not to make your outfit too sexy. Go for a classy look and don’t leave too much skin uncovered. Although smart casual is a free dress code, it is still a wedding. So avoid shorts, jeans and flip-flops as well.

With your accessories and shoes, you create endless possibilities. Are your clothes just a little too casual? Then compensate with a neat pump. Is your outfit just a little too chic? With colored jewelry you can give your outfit a casual touch. Keep in mind that the smart casual dress code calls for subtlety when it comes to accessories. Eye-catching statement jewelry is best avoided.

Smart casual for ladies in brief

Casual clothing with a chic twist
A semi-formal outfit
Colors and prints are allowed
Avoid shorts, jeans and flip-flops
Create balance with the right accessories

View our women’s fashion collection

Smart casual for men

For men, too, it’s all about a comfortable but neat outfit. Therefore, at the base of the smart casual dress code is a neat shirt. Pair your shirt with neat slacks if you are going for a classier look or choose a nice chino if you are leaning more towards the casual look.

Jeans are too casual in many cases. Especially the ones with holes, rips or bold washing don’t need to leave the closet with this dress code. If you do go for a neat black skinny jeans, choose to make the rest of your outfit just a bit more chic with a neat shirt and a tie.

Is it a bit colder on the day of the wedding? Then you can choose to wear a trendy jacket. Just be careful not to make your outfit too chic with it.

Complete your smart casual outfit with the perfect shoes and accessories. A tie is allowed but also makes an outfit immediately more formal. An accessory that is definitely not necessary for this dress code.

Sneakers are often just too casual for the smart casual dress code at weddings. Is your outfit fairly chic? Then a decent pair of sneakers will get you away with it. Otherwise, leave those sneakers in the closet and opt for a neat slip-on or lace-up shoe.

Smart casual for men in brief

Smart Casual is casual clothing with a chic twist
A semi-formal outfit
A neat shirt is the foundation
Avoid shorts, jeans and flip-flops

View our menswear collection

Do’s & don’ts of smart casual

Ladies

Do’s

Use colors and prints
Wear neat shoes
Create balance with your accessories
Keep it classy

Don’ts

No shorts or jeans
Do not wear flip-flops or sneakers
Avoid eye-catching statement jewelry

Men’s

Do’s

A neat shirt is a must
Wear slacks or neat chinos
Pair with neat shoes

Don’ts

Avoid shorts or jeans
Do not wear flip-flops or sneakers

The difference between smart casual and casual chic

The terms “smart casual” and “casual chic” are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the two dress codes. Both styles mix casual and formal elements, but they have different nuances and accents.

Formality:
Smart casual is slightly more formal than casual chic.

Focus:
Smart casual focuses more on a neat, groomed look, while casual chic focuses more on fashion and trendy elements.

Accessories:
Smart casual keeps accessories subtle, while casual chic may include more striking and fashionable accessories.