Smart Casual For Men: What It Means And How To Dress
Tom Ford the fabulous fashion-forward icon known for his killer designs and shades says "Dressing well is a form of good manners."
But when it comes to dressing up, men often find themselves confused between dressing too formally or too casually. That's where the concept of smart casual attire comes in, and it's the perfect way to strike a balance between looking stylish and comfortable. In this blog, we will take a deep dive into some suggestions for smart casual wear for men how they can strike a stylish pose!
Men’s Fashion History
But first, let’s dive into the past of men’s formal clothing to men’s smart casual outfits.
With smart casual dresses for men, men's fashion has come a long way over the years, from elaborate and ornate clothing to a more relaxed and laid-back approach. The evolution of men's fashion has been influenced by various factors, including cultural shifts, economic changes, and even technological advancements.
The history of men's wear can be traced back to ancient times when clothing was used for protection rather than fashion. As societies became more complex, fashion became an essential part of social status, and men's clothing became more elaborate and ornate.
Below is the chart that shows the era and men’s fashion trends:
ERA |
Men’s Fashion Trend |
The 1890s-1900s |
Tailored suits, waistcoats, and top hats, reflecting the formal and rigid social norms of the time.
|
The 1900s-1920s |
Changed to more relaxed and comfortable clothing. This was partly due to the emergence of sports and leisure activities, which required more practical clothing. |
The 1920s-1950s |
Beginning of the iconic style of the "flapper", with men wearing looser-fitting suits and embracing a more casual dressing for men.
|
The 1950s-1960s |
saw a return to more formal and conservative dress, with suits becoming narrower and more fitted. |
The 1970s-1990s |
the emergence of the disco scene brought a more casual and colourful approach to men's fashion, with brightly coloured shirts, wide lapels, and platform shoes.
|
The concept of smart casual emerged in the 1990s, and it quickly became a popular dress code in offices and workplaces around the world. Smart casual dresses for men allow them to dress in a more relaxed and comfortable way while still looking professional and stylish. As is rightly said by Alexander McQueen a visionary fashion renegade who brought the runway to life with his rebellious and extravagant designs. - "It's a new era in fashion - there are no rules. It's all about the individual and personal style."
What’s smart casual ?
As said by Giorgio Armani - "Smart casual is all about finding the right balance between comfort and elegance. It's about wearing clothes that make you feel good and look good at the same time”
It is the perfect balance between formal and casual attire, offering a refined and comfortable way of dressing that showcases your unique style while looking effortlessly chic. It's a flexible dress code that works well for different occasions, whether it's a laid-back office environment or a fun night out with your buddies.
Now the question that comes to mind is what is casual wear then? Is it also smart casual wear? The answer is no!
Casual wear for men typically includes comfortable and relaxed clothing items such as t-shirts, jeans, shorts, sneakers, and hoodies, that are perfect for everyday wear and informal occasions.
While smart casual attire for men is a delightful blend of chic and comfort, combining more formal elements like a crisp button-up shirt, khaki or chino trousers, dapper loafers or dress shoes, and a dashing blazer or sport coat, to create a refined and relaxed look that's perfect for those semi-formal events or work settings where you want to impress.
Some Summer Smart Tips
As summer is closing in let’s dive into the latest smart casual men’s wear for this summer.
The key to nailing the smart casual look this summer is all about playing with textures and layering to create a stylish and effortless ensemble. Here are some tips to get you started:
Keep it light and breezy: Summer is all about staying cool, so opt for lightweight fabrics like linen, cotton, and chambray.
Mix and match: Don't be afraid to mix and match different textures, patterns, and colours to add depth and dimension to your outfit.
Accessorise: Elevate your look with some trendy accessories like a straw hat, woven belt, or leather sandals.
Layer up: When the sun sets and the temperature drops, layer a lightweight jacket or cardigan over your outfit for a polished yet casual vibe.
Keep it versatile: Invest in pieces that can be dressed up or down, like a classic button-down shirt or a pair of chinos that can be paired with sneakers or dress shoes.
What’s comfortable, is fashionable :)
Remember, smart casual is all about balancing comfort with style, so don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
Looking to elevate your style game? This summer season go smart casual with Dimeh the ultimate menswear brand that's guaranteed to have you looking like a dime piece!