Smart/Casual Fashion
It’s one of the most popular looks most guys try to achieve, as it carries elegance yet feels comfortable. It’s fit for most occasions, suitable for a dinner date or a day of work. Perfecting the look is quite simple, it’s just getting the balance right. You can really play with the smart and casual elements, adding more casual garments will of course, make your look more casual, and vice versa. It’s hugely important to focus heavily on fit for anything you wear when establishing this trend, as a fitted blazer paired with baggy jeans isn’t the look we’re trying to achieve. If you want to wear a casual t-shirt, still make sure it fits correctly. Paying attention to the finest details such as the fit will help perfect your style.
Taking Inspiration From The Preppy Trend
The preppy trend is a great trend to take inspiration from, and can help develop that smart/casual look. Again with any trend, we’re not looking to imitate it but to take inspiration and use the trend to influence our look. The preppy trend is all about casual tailoring and paying attention to details, with tailored blazers, chinos and loafers being key pieces within the trend. Small detailing such as turning up your trouser legs to show a dash of colour from your socks, or the addition of colour or a pattern through a pocket square are all prominent with the Preppy trend. It sort or mirrors the Ivy League trend, but uses more monochromatic, toned down hues. Here are some images of the preppy trend to take inspiration from:
Key Elements
To achieve the smart/casual look there are some key elements we cannot eliminate. A blazer is a key piece, simply due to the elegance and the timeless element it carries. Wearing a casual outfit can be transformed by adding a slim fitting blazer. A smart pair of shoes again is a key element, you can opt for plimsolls or trainers but personally, I think this is too casual and completely ruins the whole look. Footwear such as brogues, loafers or derby shoes are the perfect addition to any look. Other elements you can play with are chinos, jeans or cords, t-shrits, buttoned down shirts, cardigans or jumpers, blazers and trench coats. Accessories such as bow ties, ties, pocket squares and socks are also great additions to your smart/casual look.
So play with this trend, and remember the key elements. Take inspiration from trends such as the Preppy trend or the Ivy League trend and you’ll really become a master at establishing the smart, yet casual look.
By Paul McGregor
