smart-casual
Jeans with blazers
Smart-casual is a dress code that falls between formal business attire and everyday casual clothing.
It typically means looking polished and put-together without being overly stiff—think a blazer with dark jeans, or a dress without heels.
The term originated in British English and has become standard in workplace and event invitations where full suits aren't required but shorts and flip-flops won't do.
The invitation said smart-casual, so I wore slacks and a nice sweater.
Smooth, refined, accomplished
- relaxedFree of stress
- effortlessRequiring no strain
- versatileCapable in varied contexts
- put-togetherAppearing organized and competent
understated · refined · tailored · comfortable · presentable · neat · coordinated · balanced
Cotton twill trousers
- blazerSemiformal tailored jacket
- loafersLaceless slip-on shoes
- poloMounted mallet sport
- button-downCollar secured at points
slacks · oxford · khakis · cardigan · dress shirt · leather shoes · blouse · trousers
Hosted meal with guests
- gallery openingExhibition's inaugural event
- date nightCouple's planned outing
- business lunchProfessional midday meeting
- networking eventProfessional social gathering
after-work drinks · weekend brunch · theater · client meeting · office party · rooftop bar · cocktail hour · product launch
polished
Smooth, refined, accomplished
- relaxedFree of stress
- effortlessRequiring no strain
- versatileCapable in varied contexts
put-together · understated · refined · tailored · comfortable · presentable · neat · coordinated · balanced · approachable
chinos
Cotton twill trousers
button-down · slacks · oxford · khakis · cardigan · dress shirt · leather shoes · blouse · trousers · sweater
dinner party
Hosted meal with guests
- gallery openingExhibition's inaugural event
- date nightCouple's planned outing
- business lunchProfessional midday meeting
networking event · after-work drinks · weekend brunch · theater · client meeting · office party · rooftop bar · cocktail hour · product launch · conference