Lifestyle Blog

Smarten Up

‘Smart casual’ can mean different things in different environments.  But there are some thumb rules: Nothing over-the-top, inappropriate to the occasion and definitely, nothing scruffy!

•    Classic chinos or dark-coloured jeans that fit well. Baggy, slouchy pants with loud patches, fades at knees, or acid washes don’t measure up.

•    Choose a bright shirt in a relaxed fit that sits close to the body. T-shirts work but nothing too loud or funky. Tight, v-neck shirts are for the gym - so avoid. And, no loud embellishments or patches. Denim or linen is fine.

•    Your favourite watch, yes, but nothing that screams out loud.

•    Close-toed shoes in suede or leather. Don’t go wild with colour, stripes or patterns. Slip-ons for Friday dressing to office are great.

•    The fewer the highlights in your hair the better. Keep your beard well-groomed and not bushy.

•    A sporty perfume and you’re done.

•    Stay away from lycra, crop tops, all-over lace, loud embellishments, sequins and cut outs. Dresses and skirts should be knee-length. 

•    Say no to acid washes, fades and patches for lowers. All these things are right now in fashion. Also, leggings are for the gym or hanging out with the girly gang maybe, not really ‘smart casual’.

•    Choose your accessories with care. Keep the arresting bling for evening socializing.

•    Highlights and hair colour are fine but don’t overdo it - no sudden purple spikes!

•    Ballerinas and kitten heels in classic colours and contemporary designs hit the mark.

•Make a casual floral or fruity perfume your signature – avoidoverly spicy scents.