3 WAYS TO WEAR
The office is evolving – from switching up a suit to nailing ‘smart casual’, here’s how to get it right in the workplace
Big up the blazer
Not to be confused with your suit jacket, the blazer has enough gravitas to stand on its own. With chinos the look alludes to a suit of sorts, while with dark slim jeans it’s a more dressed-down style – just contrast the colour to that of the blazer. A smart jumper is a relaxed alternative to a shirt – go for an unfussy crew neck – and bare ankles add a louche feel. Switch them out for a roll-neck jumper and pale beige socks come autumn.
Switch up the suit
There’s more to a suit than just the classic shirt/tie/shoes combo. A crisp plain crew-neck T-shirt takes the edge off the formality – pick a more delicate cotton to mirror the fine Italian wool and be sure to tuck it in. Graphics and patterns are a no-no here as they distract from the otherwise clean look. And on your feet? Trainers. Yes, you heard right – unfussy and minimal, they’re just as appropriate and great if you’re running between meetings.
When is a suit not a suit?
When it’s a carefully coordinated casual jacket and formal trousers. It’s a simple ensemble but it works, thanks to the topping and tailing of smarter pieces with a more relaxed jacket and trainers. After all, a smart Oxford shirt and sharp chinos are office staples now. This one’s all in the styling of the jacket: push up the sleeves to just below your elbows and gather the cinch at the hem to give a more blouson effect. Dress-down Friday never looked so stylish.
Editor: Ian Wright / Photographer: David Gubert / Stylist: Kenny Ho / Groomer: Ben Cooke
Model: Nuno at Wilhelmina
