What Does A Smart Casual Dress Code Even Mean

What Does A Smart Casual Dress Code Even Mean The smart casual dress code is among the most ambiguous around. (Beach formal gives it a run for its money.) So if the term is confusing or simply new to you, youre bedrngnis alone. If you live abroad, you may have encountered it more often.When it comes to smart casual, theres one rule that transcends countries If it reminds you of the bedroom, the beach, or the boardroom, leave it at home.Heres a more specific framework for deciding what a smart casual outfit looks like. First, think about an office with formal business attire ie. one where slacks, skirts, and dresses in dark colors are at play. Thats a conservative business dress code.Business casual attireis one viech down from that, where cuts, fabrics, and colors are still generally conservative, but you can lose certain items like the tie, the heels, or the skirt and jacket combo. Smart casual means youredressed elegantly but comfortably.Heres what you should keep in mindThink Blou ses and tops that are interesting but professionalA smart casual look is about mixing separates into one cohesive, polished look. For tops, say no to a tank, a T-shirt, or anything too stuffy or formal. This is an area where you can play around with a beautiful blouse in an interesting pattern, cut, or color. Avoid sequins or anything that screams cocktail or party.Think Pants and skirts that skim, dont cling and have interesting patterns or colorsTraditional slacks can be boring. But when done right, theyre the basis for a more interesting look. Try a slim, cropped trouser in a fun pattern thats small enough to still be a neutral base. Or go in the opposite direction and try a wide-legged trouser in a fun color.Steer away from anything too sheer or too clingy. Remember, the idea is to be polished but comfortable.Think Dresses that are simple, elegant, and easily dressed up or down with the right accessoriesIf you choose a dress, try one thats a little more fashion-forward. Consider an asymmetrical cut or a bold pattern in an otherwise simple wrap style. If you opt for a simple silhouette, dress it up with bold accessories.Whatever you do, dont opt for a dress thats too casual. A floor-length dress might be better suited for the beach or poolside a midi or knee-length is the safest choice. As for the fabrics, avoid anything too silky, lacy, or stiff.Think Shoes that are block heels, mules, slides that add a dose of polishLets get this out of the way Sandals are out of the question. Sneakersmightbe all the rage right now, but youre better off leaving them at home and instead opting for a pair of low heels. (If you work in a creative field, you could get away with them. Just opt for a pair free of scruffs and made of a non-canvas material.)Block heels (a.k.a. stacked heels) are a comfortable but stylish option. A pair of mules or slides also does the trick. Stiletto heels can be worn, but aim for less than three inches and balance it with a conservative top and slacks/skirt.And, when the weather gets too hot,heres a guideto looking put-togetherin sweltering heat.This article originally appeared on Girlboss.