subject: Casual Yet Smart And Trendy Looks For Men [print this page] A smart casual dress code is one that is more relaxed and open for personal expression. This dress code can be found in workplaces where employees need to look professional but are not required to wear suits. Smart casual looks can also be worn to events, on dates and whenever you feel the need to impress. From dress pants to jeans, there are many possibilities for you to explore in this type of apparel.
No Tie Required
A man can still wear a suit as part of his smart casual attire. When going for this type of look, skip the tie and wear a less formal type of suit. During the warmer months, a linen suit or one done in a lighter shade -- such as grey -- is perfect for a relaxed yet still polished style.
The Versatile Vest
Many men opt to wear a sweater vest as part of a smart casual look. This vest is done in a light grey and pairs well with a blue button-down Athletic cut dress shirts. Wear a pair of navy or black dress pants and you will look pulled together and professional. A vest can also be worn for an afternoon outing in addition to the office.
Stylish Sweater
A stylish sweater is a must for any man's wardrobe. It can be worn to work as well as on a date. Choose a v-neck style sweater in a vibrant color, such as blue, and wear it over a white button-down shirt with a pair of khaki pants for a collected but unfussy look that can be worn just about anywhere.
Crisp White Shirt
You can never go wrong with a crisp white dress shirt. This shirt can be worn with anything from jeans to dress pants. For a look that is sophisticated but informal, wear your white shirt with a dark pair of dress pants and a leather belt. For this look, you can leave the first few buttons of the athletic fit dress shirt open and skip wearing a tie.
Business Ready
If you are looking for a smart casual outfit to wear to work, a sports coat worn over a dress shirt is ideal. This look can be worn to meetings and will look professional no matter what the situation is. Be sure to wear your coat with a tailored pair of dress pants, a matching leather belt and loafers to complete the look. If you are going out after work, take off your sports coat and you have a look that is perfect for an evening dinner date.
Relaxed yet Stylish
For those looking for a composed and casual look that is appropriate for a Friday, consider dark wash jeans and a short sleeve button-down shirt. Keep the colors dark so you still look appropriate for work but can still be ready for a Friday night out with some friends.
Keep with the Trends
Since smart casual dress codes are open to interpretation, you can still wear clothing that is trendy and fun. This look takes a structured leather jacket and pairs it with a colorful plaid athletic mens dress shirt and brushed denim trousers. Just keep in mind that structured and well-fitting clothing will convey this style best. Explore clothing that reflects your personal style and can be worn to more places other than just the office.
Laid Back Jeans
Many companies allow jeans to be worn as part of the dress code, although this will depend on the type of job you have and the rules of your particular workplace. If your place of employment is more relaxed and your co-workers are wearing jeans and t-shirts to work, you can take it a step further and add a cardigan sweater to polish up your look. Don't wear light wash jeans to the workplace; instead, stick to darker washes for a more professional appearance.
Smart and Professional
Many companies have their own dress code and will state what you can or can't wear to work. Whether yours has one or not, you can decide what items to include in your smart casual outfits. If you stick to basic elements such as dress pants, button-down shirts, sweaters and vests, you will have the elements you need to create pulled-together looks that are both smart and professional.
