Smart casual

Definitions

• dress code
  A style of dress that is neat and presentable but not overly formal, typically consisting of a combination of casual and more formal clothing items

Examples of Smart casual

• For their company's annual award ceremony, Michael was instructed to dress in smart casual attire.

  The phrase "smart casual" refers to clothing that strikes a balance between looking professional and comfortable at the same time. This dress code is often required for semi-formal events or office settings where a more relaxed atmosphere is desired. While it may vary from place to place, smart casual typically involves pairing dress shoes, dress pants, and a collared shirt with khakis, dresses, or skirts that fall above the knee. This style allows for some creativity and personal style, but it's still important to avoid overly casual or revealing items. IN ANOTHER

• For their upcoming company event, the dress code is smart casual. This means that while a jacket and tie are not necessary, dressing neatly and comfortably is still expected.

  Smart casual is a style of dress that falls between the more formal business attire and the laid-back casual wear. It typically involves wearing smart and presentable clothes, such as collared shirts, dresses, or chinos, paired with comfortable shoes like loafers or flats. The idea is to strike a balance between looking polished and feeling relaxed.

• In order to navigate smart casual fashion, Alexis chose a white blouse, a black midi skirt, and a statement necklace. She paired this with nude pumps and a sleek handbag. The outfit was smart enough for the occasion but also let her move comfortably.

  In this example, the smart casual dress code is being interpreted in a stylish way that maintains both formality and comfort. By opting for a tailored blouse, a midi skirt, and a complementary accessory, Alexis looks polished and put-together. Meanwhile, the nude pumps and handbag ensure that she can move around easily, which is important for any smart casual event where there might be a lot of walking or mingling.

• When Ravi received the smart casual dress code for the company event, he was unsure about what to wear. He didn't want to show up wearing jeans and a T-shirt, but he also didn't want to wear a full suit. He settled on khaki chinos, a polo shirt, and brown loafers.

  As Ravi's example shows, smart casual can sometimes be a matter of interpretation. While there are general guidelines, such as avoiding ripped jeans or flip-flops, the specifics can be more flexible. By choosing a polo shirt and khaki chinos, Ravi is striking a balance between smartness and comfort. The brown loafers are a smart casual shoe choice that are dressier than sneakers but still comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Conclusion

The idiom "smart casual" is commonly used to describe a dress code that is a step up from casual but not as formal as business or formal attire. It is often used in professional or social settings where a more relaxed dress code is appropriate, such as a work event or a dinner party. The intention is to convey a sense of neatness and put-togetherness without the rigidity of a formal dress code.

The term is often used in job interviews, social gatherings, and other events where a balance between casual and formal attire is desired. It allows for individual expression and comfort while still maintaining a level of professionalism.

Origin of "Smart casual"

The origin of the phrase "smart casual" is not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the United Kingdom in the 20th century. The term reflects the changing attitudes towards dress codes and the desire for clothing that is both stylish and comfortable. It has since become a widely used term in the fashion and business world, reflecting a shift towards more relaxed and versatile dress codes. The term "smart" implies a sense of intelligence and sharpness, while "casual" conveys a relaxed and easy-going attitude, capturing the essence of the dress code it describes.