Smart casual outfit ideas present a unique challenge. Often difficult to perfect, this dress code requires a delicate balance of polish. Finding the right smart casual outfit ideas is essential for versatile, in-between occasion dressing.
Does the phrase ‘smart casual’ cause you outfit anxiety? If so, you’re not alone. The Oxford Dictionary defines smart casual as "neat, conventional, yet relatively informal in style" but celebrity stylist Natalie Robinson believes the term is too open.
“Smart casual can be confusing as they are opposites - like chalk and cheese. The term smart casual is not specific, giving us free rein to experiment with contrasting styles, but it also makes it challenging to balance casual and smart attire,” she says.
Yes, a suit and your best white trainers does fit the smart casual criteria, but remember, the overall goal is to strike that perfect balance between relaxed and polished. If you're unsure, a business-appropriate outfit will always be a safe option.
7 smart casual outfit ideas to solve those sartorial meltdowns
If you're really stuck for inspiration and need some smart casual outfit ideas, we’ve compiled seven smart casual looks that will help you navigate this tricky dress code with ease.
1. Smart casual dress outfits
A failsafe option is without a doubt a midi or knee-length dress – choose ones that have slightly more polished fabric, rather than casual denim iterations.
A favourite silhouette of Kate Middleton for smart casual invites, a shirt dress is a great choice for this dress code. How you wear it will depend on the occasion, but teaming with a ballet pumps or a pair of the best knee-high boots is a good start. Avoid mini-length dresses or anything too flesh-baring.
“Accessories make or break an outfit as well as enhance smart casual looks,” says Natalie. “My three tips to make a dress casual-smart are to add a belt for a cinched waist, wear a leather jacket and add ankle boots.”
Known for making some of the best dresses, Jigsaw is our go to for everything from workwear to the best wedding guest dresses. Shirt dresses are a chic choice for smart casual ensembles and we love this striking blue and black print.
Offering a streamlined profile that surpasses the typical ballet flat, these skin-hugging shoes lend a polished touch to every ensemble. Their shiny finish only adds extra polish and will help turn even your barrel leg jeans into something smarter.
A structured 'ladylike' bag always feels grown-up, adding a little extra level of chic to those more casual outfits. The shiny black fabric, paired with gold hardware creates a timeless look with an elegant aesthetic.
2. Smart casual jeans outfits
While denim is a no go for super formal events such as weddings, jeans can be business casual if you choose the right cut.
“A dark-wash, wide leg, flare, straight-leg or slim-cut jean is the perfect base for a smart casual look,” says award-winning personal stylist, Lisa Talbot. “Avoid anything too distressed or oversized, as they lean more casual.”
One way to ensure that your jeans fit the smart casual outfit code is by pairing items of different formalities.
“Pair jeans with a tailored blazer, an elegant blouse or even a chic knit to elevate them,” says Lisa. “Add loafers, ankle boots, or sleek trainers to complete the look.”
Looking polished will always help with the smart casual dress code so if you’re choosing jeans, keep everything else fitted and formal. Think a crisp white shirt or a pretty chiffon blouse with a Peter Pan collar to help keep this outfit on the smart side of casual.
The impact of the best wide leg jeans well-styled is undeniable. Their length over heels creates a flattering, lengthened look, regardless of height. Not sure how to style wide leg jeans? Opt for a simple, tucked-in top for a polished and proportional outfit.
Boucle jackets are a classic, making them perfect for any smart casual outfit idea. Being slight cropped, this one will work particularly well with high waisted jeans or trousers as it nips you in at your narrowest point, highlighting your waist.
For your spring capsule wardrobe, a versatile camisole is a must. This one is both lightweight and comfortable. It transitions beautifully, offering a stylish standalone option in warmer climates and elegant layering under blazers or oversized shirts.
3. Smart casual skirt outfits
A skirt is a reliable smart-casual choice, easily dressed up or down. Just remember to avoid anything too body-con or very short. Feel free to experiment with different cuts and colours, but if the event leans more formal, sticking to classic, muted tones like black, white, navy or beige is always a safe bet.
While a smart shirt or blouse tucked in always looks great, the same goes for a sweater, especially, when it’s worn with a French tuck, where you just tuck the front in. You can also wear a denim skirt – just as with jeans, choose one in a dark indigo wash to keep it looking polished.
Heels aren’t always necessary for a smart casual skirt outfit and in fact, this could be the perfect time to dig out your flats. Ballet pumps, loafers and mules all work well with a midi-length skirt and are very much part of shoe trends for 2025.
Lisa also says not to discount trainers for smart casual skirt outfits.
“It’s all about proportions and fabric choice,” she says. “A midi skirt, whether pleated, satin, or structured, pairs beautifully with trainers, creating a modern yet put-together feel. Adding a polished handbag and subtle jewellery ensures the outfit stays elevated rather than overly casual.”
Checks never go out of fashion, especially when they're supersized! Add extra polish with heels for a dressier vibe, or keep it casual and cool with your favourite trainers. A simple top or fitted knit pairs perfectly with this bold pattern.
This boxy knit is ideal for smart casual outfit ideas. The soft pink hue feels feminine and on trend, while the relaxed shape makes it a great option for pairing with high waisted items. Try half tucking it into a waistband to show off your curves.
The best white trainers will work with any of your smart casual outfit ideas and this Reebok pair will work with all outfits. Their retro styling also makes them a great Adidas Samba alternative, offering timeless style and comfort in one package.
4. Smart casual blazer outfits
If your outfit needs an added dose of smart, a blazer literally puts the smart into smart casual!
“Blazers work for smart casual outfits regardless of age, size or style,” says stylist Emma Lightbown. “They can be styled in so many ways - paired with jeans and trainers they make a great smart casual outfit.”
When it comes to styling a blazer for this dress code, think of teaming less formal items with one, such as a pair of your best wide leg jeans, a pleated midi skirt or even some tracksuit bottoms - yes, really. Blazers are also great for throwing on over a dress, especially if you’re not sure how smart your outfit should be - it can always be removed if everyone else is dressed a lot more casually.
If you have a relatively casual dress code at work, keeping a tailored blazer on the back of your chair means you're ready for last minute meetings in a jiffy. And of course, nailing a jeans and a blazer combo will only help you maximise your wardrobe.
While a black blazer is a classic, a brown blazer offers a more relaxed yet modern alternative. This oversized version includes an optional tie belt, allowing you to create both relaxed and tailored looks.
Tailor your lower half with these slim fit trousers. The high waist and slightly cropped hemline help to lengthen your pins and balance out a boxier top half, streamlining your shape.
When is a T-shirt smart casual? When your pair it with tailored separates such as slim fit trousers or a blazer. The mainstay of any capsule wardrobe, choose one in a heavyweight cotton so that it hangs well and adds a little bit of luxe to your basics.
5. Smart casual blouse outfits
A pretty blouse has a more laidback feel than a tailored shirt, so works perfectly in most smart casual outfit ideas.
Choose the blouse first and then create the outfit around it. If your blouse is patterned, embellished or contains ruffles, make sure the bottom half is sleeker - such as a dark pair of jeans or skirt. A more minimal blouse can take more volume on the bottom half and would suit a full circle skirt or a wide legged pair of trousers.
Opt for a floatier fit for an easy-to-wear and chic smart casual outfit. A silky blouse tucked into a white midi skirt feels fresh and modern and perfect for a smart casual dress code.
Looking for something to brighten up your top collection? This floral blouse is perfect. It's made from super light cotton voile, so it's perfect for spring and great for layering when it gets a bit cooler.
Chinos make a smarter alternative to jeans, but don't think they have to be boring! Choose one with a barrel leg shape to bring them bang up to date. Wear with a slimmer fit top or tuck it in to get a good balance.
When the weather gets warmer, trade your suede boots for suede loafers instead. They're an easy way to inject some quiet luxury into any basic outfit and are surprisingly versatile, pairing well with everything from jeans to pretty summer dresses.
6. Smart casual jumpsuit outfits
Jumpsuits were made for this dress code - they’re smart, yet laidback, and come in various styles to suit any occasion.
When it comes to finding the best jumpsuit for smart casual outfit ideas, avoid anything too dressy or too casual - capes, denim jumpsuits or those that bare too much flesh are out.
“Choose a structured or tailored jumpsuit in a block colour or subtle print for a refined look,” suggests Lisa. “To style it up, add a belt to define the waist, layer with a blazer or soft tailored jacket, and finish with ankle boots, loafers or trainers.”
While you can never go wrong with black or navy, a simple pattern or bright colour is a good choice and with the right accessories, such as a simple handbag or statement earrings, you’re good to go.
If you do choose a jumpsuit in a neutral shade, inject a touch of colour with some bright heels or bag.
Need a quick and stylish smart casual outfit? A jumpsuit is your answer! This printed one brings a pop of colour to any occasion. Throw on a blazer or heels for dressier events, or keep it laid-back with a denim jacket and flats.
A great trainer choice for summer, these canvas trainers are classics for a reason. Their simple design goes with absolutely everything, making them a summer capsule wardrobe essential. Wear with tailored separates to add a relaxed edge to a smart look.
A simple outfit needs statement earrings and these ones by River Island are an easy way to bring a bit of effortless glamour to your everyday style. They're statement-making without being overwhelming, perfect for any smart casual outfit.
7. Smart casual co-ord outfits
While a full-on trouser suit may be too formal for a smart casual dress code, a co-ord set hits just the right tone. There are plenty of different styles to choose from, however, a co-ord skirt or trouser outfit is probably the safest option here. Look for subtle patterns and silky fabrics to give it a smarter edge.
Natalie says this look can be elevated by a clever choice of accessories.
“Classic white trainers would add a casual element to a smart co-ord outfit,” she explains. “If the latter is casual, on the other hand, you could incorporate a pair of open-back loafers, earrings and a clutch bag to create a smart-casual look.”
If you really do want to wear a suit, team with box white trainers and a fitted tee to dress it down a bit. Alternatively choose a waistcoat to team with your trousers to make it feel less like business attire.
Buttermilk is the colour of the season and definitely one of the big spring/summer fashion trends for 2025. This tie-front waistcoat looks super smart paired with the trousers, but you'll get lots of use out of it by teaming with other separates to bring your wardrobe bang up-to-date.
Who doesn't love an elasticated waist? Especially when it comes with a stylish pair of trousers like this. They're comfy enough to wear on chilled days or when catching a flight, but with a few tweaks - heels, the matching waistcoats, statement jewellery - they can easily be elevated for a night out.
Trainers don't come more classic than these. First launched in 1965, the simple styling and timeless appeal means they're still as wearable now as they were then. Perfect for smart casual outfits, they're comfortable trainers that adapt to any look, adding a touch of laid-back cool.
FAQs
Are jeans out for smart casual?
According to Debretts, the world-leading guide on etiquette, jeans can be smart casual, but only when the event or place you’re heading to is seen as more laid back one and when well selected. Jeans would be a real no-no at a smart casual wedding, but for other occasions, stylist Natalie, says it’s all about the style.
“Dark wash boot-cut jeans look smart, whereas light wash cuffed boyfriend jeans are more relaxed,” she says.
If in doubt, she advises, to ditch the jeans and choose trousers or a skirt instead!
Are trainers ok for smart casual?
As with everything in the fashion world, rules change and as long as you style them correctly, trainers are very much part of the smart casual dress code.
"Trainers have become a style staple, and when done right, they can seamlessly fit into a smart casual outfit," says Lisa.
"The key is in the details. Opt for sleek, minimalist trainers in leather or a luxe fabric rather than anything too sporty. A crisp white pair or neutral tones work best, keeping the look refined rather than too relaxed."
