Smart casual

Smart casual is a dress code that is neat yet casual.^[2] Oxford defines it as "neat, conventional, yet relatively informal in style, especially as worn to conform to a particular dress code".^[3] "Business casual" is another similar term. It suggests some formality, not really casual in fact.

An example of smart casual attire interpreted by global fashion magazine Topman.^[1] Topman explains casual and formal clothing pieces are mixed and matched. This photograph illustrates the use of: (a) a dress shirt with French cuffs and cufflinks (formal); (b) a herringbone jacket (casual); (c) jeans (casual); and (d) dress/business shoes (formal or semi-formal).

Business Casual dress for women. The woman on left is wearing pants while the one on right is wearing a skirt.

Different localities, kinds of events, contexts, or cultures have varying interpretations of the dress code.

Related pages

• Blazer
• Dress code
• Sport coat