The Ultimate Smart Casual Guide for Women

Smart casual: two words that can strike fear into the heart of even the most confident dresser. This tricky territory bridges the gap between formal and casual, but its open-ended definition often leaves people wondering what to wear. Whether you’ve been invited to an event that requests this dress code or it’s your everyday office attire, once you master smart casual, you'll be confident you look the part.

The essence of smart casual lies in balancing comfort and polish. The high-low mix is the easy way to approach this - pair something dressy, like a pencil skirt or wide-leg trousers, with something casual, like a classic white T-shirt. Instant outfit.

But inevitably, the question arises: are jeans smart casual? When styled thoughtfully, they absolutely can be. The secret lies in choosing the right pair (think dark or black wash, a great fit and premium fabric) and treating them as you would when styling trousers, elevating them with pieces such a silk shirt or kitten heels.

Accessories for smart casual outfits add personality and polish. They’re a great way to elevate an outfit but can be easily removed if the occasion calls for something more understated. A white shirt, blazer and jeans take on new life with a vibrant leather bag or statement necklace. Layer gold chains for subtle sophistication or add a scarf knotted at the neck for a touch of flair.

Simple dresses become standout pieces with the right details - cinch in with a belt, stack sculptural bangles or add impact with oversized earrings.

And don’t forget footwear. A classic white trainer can dress down a suit or a dress, while a pair of heels can make the classic jeans and a T-shirt combo feel all dressed up.