There’s certainly an air of mystery to ‘smart casual’ dressing. Think of clothing items you’d wear daily, but look so much more polished. Despite the elevated appearance, smart casual dressing is really all about wearable pieces that make you look and feel your best while leading board meetings, going on dates and everything in between. If you’re still questioning how to incorporate the style into your wardrobe, we have you covered with expert-approved finds that you’ll reach for over and over.
“Whenever I’m at a loss for what to wear, smart casual is usually the way to go,” said Samantha Sutton, stylist and commerce editor at Us Weekly. “While you can always spice up the look with more statement-making pieces, the best outfits are almost formulaic.” Sutton suggests wearing items that are tailored and have some structure in lieu of oversized, slouchy styles, which almost hide your frame entirely. With the tailored fit in mind, you’ll want to lean into cropped T-shirts, satin dresses, fitted blazers, trench coats and the like.
“When you invest in these staples that look good on your specific body type, you’ll always appear elevated and fashion-forward — even if you’ve owned them for years,” Sutton told Us. In other words, these items are simply timeless. Just make sure to invest in quality picks that are made with classic cuts, high-end materials and neutral colors, which will allow you to mix and match (and keep in your closet for the next decade).
1. Our Favorite: You can’t piece together a smart casual wardrobe without incorporating a button-down shirt. This fitted Gap option is made from airy Oxford fabric, providing breathability with a comfortable weight. A style like this is a great foundation for layering under blazers or cardigans, providing a “classic rather than trendy” look, per our expert.
2. Designer-Looking: Speaking of blazers, this luxe-looking option has a relaxed yet tailored shape that fits right in with the elevated look. And if you button this pick, it cinches at the waist for a gorgeous hourglass appearance. It’s available in 14 colors, however, we like the classic beige option best.
3. Wedding Guest Must: If you’re looking for an outfit that’s appropriate for a cocktail dress code, this satin-like maxi is calling your name. These kinds of pieces are “easy to move in, but look a bit more luxe,” Sutton said, making it an ideal wedding guest dress. It has a high neckline, a fitted waist, and a flowy skirt with a decent slit to show off a bit of leg.
4. Comfort MVP: Office attire requires fashion pieces that are equal parts comfortable and polished, which is exactly what you get with these Dream Pairs ballet flats. Made with a cushioned insole, a rounded toe box, and a slip-on design, these classic shoes are ones you’ll reach for on repeat.
5. Sporty-Chic: Weekend plans call for a more lax outfit, so forgo the ballet flats and opt for these editor-loved Adidas sneakers. They work well with a button-down and jeans outfit combo due to the classic striped pattern and plain white hue. Psst, celebs like Jennifer Aniston love this brand, too.
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6. Everyday Essential: Sure, baggy jeans are super trendy with the Y2K style revival, but these straight-leg Levi’s will never go out of style. The fitted silhouette and high-rise fit deliver a clean look à la Carolyn Bessette. Plus, the cotton and elastane blend provides tons of stretch for that comfortable feel.
7. Game Changer: Finding wide-leg pants that are slimming and stylish is a tall order — until you meet these Abercrombie trousers. Designed with a high waist, pleats, and multiple lengths, we consider these trousers the flattering find of our dreams. A tip? Sutton tells Us that “if your trousers fit you perfectly, they’ll never feel dated or out of style,” and we’re willing to bank on this pair.
8. Closet Hero: You may hear “cropped top” and think of those itty-bitty tees. Rest assured, this snug T-shirt is not that. The Old Navy basic has a fitted design, a crew neckline and a length that stops at the waist for a tailored appearance. It comes in so many colors and patterns, but we suggest sticking to neutral hues like heather gray, white and navy for that polished look.
9. Anything but Basic: When Sutton thinks of smart casual style, she envisions a gauzy button-down paired with jeans as the base. We love that idea because it jazzes up that classic button-down style with a fun texture that still looks chic and wearable. For spring, we’re opting for this hot pink Quince top that adds a pop of color . . . however, you can shop it in neutrals, too.
10. Low-Key Genius: One accessory you don’t want to go without is a belt like this leather one from Madewell. The belt breaks up your outfit formula and cinches you slightly at the waist for a flattering yet clean aesthetic. We especially love the gold belt buckle that has an interesting square shape for a subtle statement.
11. Silhouette Saver: We’ve been shying away from oversized clothes for this roundup, however, a trench coat is quintessentially more lax. The great thing is that it has a fabric belt that pulls the material in close to your body, creating an hourglass appearance. Our expert says that a beige trench coat is “forever cool,” and we couldn’t help but agree.
12. Flattering Find: Want a button-up shirt in dress form? This polo sweater dress has all the makings of a button-up with a collar, long sleeves and buttons on top — but extends out to hit just above the knee. We’re so impressed with the strategic stitching, which provides a flattering A-line structure without the need of a belt. Clever!
13. Spring Staple: Vests worn as tops are the cool new thing. And while it rides the trend wave, we can’t help but include it in our capsule wardrobe. The cutaway at the bottom flares out just a nudge for a modern peplum effect (without giving 2012 energy). And in this buttery yellow hue? It screams ‘spring.’
14. Expensive-Looking: Sutton approves of a satin dress, so why not consider a silk skirt, too? This washable option has a flowy fit, an elastic waistband and a lustrous finish that feels very elevated. The best part is you can wear the versatile pick with a button-down shirt for work or a classic tee for weekend brunch.
15. Instant Upgrade: This Abercrombie find just might be the coolest power move in your wardrobe. It looks like a blazer and a dress combined . . . and has shorts built in for comfort and security. Bonus: This brown checkered-like pattern feels just playful enough.
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