Smart Casual Outfits – my 4 key tips on getting this difficult outfit category right every time

Wearing: Silk Shirt from Witchery; Faux Suede Pants from Zara – both from Garden City Booragoon.

My double life as a lawyer and blogger poses many life challenges, not the least of which is needing to stay across vastly different sartorial worlds, of corporate suiting, the off-duty uniform and everything in between. Of all the occasions to dress for, it seems smart casual is the one everyone invariably struggles with. Where there’s a need to strike that subtle balance between being sharply dressed but informally relaxed at the same time, missing the mark can leave you embarrassingly under (or over) dressed. Here are my tips on getting the smart casual outfit right every time.

Start with relaxed tailoring

The smart casual occasion clearly precludes ultra casual styles like mini skirts, denim shorts or flip flops. However, stiff tailoring should be avoided as well – you should never turn up like you’re going to work. Instead, base your smart casual outfit on relaxed tailoring, such as loose fitting button up shirts, deconstructed blazers, and dresses in uncomplicated cuts. The classic silk shirt is the perfect smart casual item – this one is from Witchery at Garden City Booragoon.

Incorporate a casual piece

Always juxtapose your tailored piece with something casual. For example, wear a striped t-shirt under a blazer, a light weight jumper with a pencil skirt, or a pair of clean cut jeans with a button up shirt. However, keep to simple cuts and styles – ripped jeans or logo t-shirts are big no-no’s. As for me, I’ve been a little bit daring with a pair of faux suede pants – from Zara at Garden City Booragoon.

Be a prude

While the smart casual occasion will open up your wardrobe choices, what doesn’t change is the amount of skin you should be showing. Skirt hems should be at the knees or below, necklines should be kept within reason, and absolutely in no universe does midriff belong in the smart casual category.

Inject some personality

The smart casual occasion is your chance to show your co-workers (and your boss) that you have a great personality in additional to your impeccable skills and experience. Therefore your outfit should also reveal a bit of your personality. So don’t be afraid to add on some of your favourite off-duty pieces, while of course, observing points 1-3, above.

Where to shop perfect smart casual styles? Definitely try Country Road, Flannel, Morrison, Kookai, Picnic, and of course, Zara and Witchery, all at Garden City Booragoon.

Incredibly important minimal style tips to your inbox? Join my mailing list!