# Smart casual > Mediated Wiki article. Canonical URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Smart_casual > Markdown URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Smart_casual.md > Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart_casual > Source revision: 1350109958 > License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) {{short description|Ambiguously defined Western dress code}}{{About|the dress code|the album|Smart Casual (album)}} {{More citations needed|date=February 2011}} {{Use dmy dates|date=August 2025}} [[File:Blazer.JPG|thumb|An example of smart casual attire with a [blazer](/source/blazer).]] {{Western dress codes|casual}} '''Smart casual''' is an ambiguously defined [Western dress code](/source/Western_dress_code) that is generally considered [casual wear](/source/casual_wear) but with [smart](/source/%3Awiktionary%3Asmart) (in the sense of "well dressed") components of a proper [lounge suit](/source/lounge_suit) from traditional [informal wear](/source/informal_wear). For men, this interpretation typically includes a [dress shirt](/source/dress_shirt), necktie, [trousers](/source/trousers), and [dress shoes](/source/dress_shoes), possibly worn with an odd-coloured [blazer](/source/blazer) or a [sports coat](/source/sports_coat). Smart casual formed as a dress code in the 20th century, originally designating a lounge suit of unconventional colour and less heavy and thus more casual fabric, possibly with more casual cut and details. As the one-coloured lounge suit came to define [informal wear](/source/informal_wear), thus uneven colours became associated with smart casual. The definition of smart casual and business casual thus became virtually undistinguishable from the 1950s, implying a more casual suit than the traditional, usual dark suit in heavy cloth. Since the [counterculture of the 1960s](/source/counterculture_of_the_1960s) in the Western world, different Western cultures and events can have varying expectations of the [dress code](/source/dress_code), especially with regard to necktie, and in warmer climates sometimes even with regard to a jacket at all. Therefore, the designation of certain clothing pieces as ''smart casual'' is disputed, as is its distinction, if any, from [business casual](/source/business_casual).{{Cite book |last=Pearlman |first=Alison |url=https://doi.org/10.7208/chicago/9780226029931.001.0001 |title=Smart Casual |date=2013 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |isbn=978-0-226-15484-8}} == History == ''Smart casual'' was first mentioned in the Iowa newspaper ''[The Davenport Democrat And Leader](/source/Quad-City_Times)'' in May 1924: {{Quote|The sleeveless dress with three-quarter overblouses, in smock appearance completing it for street wear, is accorded various interpretations. It is at once practiced and gives a smart casual appearance.{{cite web|last=Martin|first=Gary|title=Smart casual|publisher=Phrasefinder|url=https://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/smart-casual.html|access-date=29 May 2013}}}} ''Smart casual'' was commonly used in the 20th century and merged to form the term ''[business casual](/source/business_casual)'' in the 1950s, implying a more casual suit than the traditional, usual dark suit in heavy cloth. ==Definitions== [[File:Sport coat Kombination 1987.jpg|thumb|Man wearing a [sport coat](/source/sport_coat) with [khakis](/source/Khaki) as part of a smart casual look.]] Australia's national [dictionary](/source/dictionary), [Macquarie Dictionary](/source/Macquarie_Dictionary), defines ''smart casual'' as "well-dressed in a casual style".{{cite web|title=Macquarie Dictionary|publisher=Macquarie Dictionary Publishers Pty Ltd|url=https://macquariedictionary.com.au|year=2013|access-date=30 May 2013}} [Oxford](/source/Oxford_English_Dictionary) defines it as "neat, conventional, yet relatively informal in style, especially as worn to conform to a particular dress code".{{cite web|title=Definition of smart casual in Oxford Dictionaries|publisher=Oxford University Press|year=2013|url=http://oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/smart-casual?q=smart+casual|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029192121/http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/smart-casual?q=smart+casual|url-status=dead|archive-date=29 October 2013|access-date=30 May 2013}} [Dictionary.com's 21st Century Lexicon](/source/Reference.com) defines it as "of clothing, somewhat informal but neat".{{cite web|title=Define Smart casual at Dictionary.com|publisher=Dictionary.com, LLC|url=http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/smart%20casual|year=2013|access-date=30 May 2013}} ===Apparel=== Personal judgment is required to interpret the ill-defined term ''smart casual'' based on its context, theme, people, location, weather and spirit. Italian fashion house [Brioni](/source/Brioni_(fashion)) explains ''smart casual'' is not an issue of inventory or classification but rather knowledge and good taste to understand the environment; demonstrating that ''smart casual'' during summer in [Sardinia](/source/Sardinia) is different from ''smart casual'' during winter in [Toronto](/source/Toronto). An Australian freelance fashion director remarks, "Smart Casual is the dress code most open to interpretation and the one least understood", and advises wearing fresher colors, lighter, softer materials, patterned, relaxed, thoughtful, less structured, clean and not confrontational apparel, with fabrics like linen, cashmere, fine wool and cotton that are freshly laundered.{{cite web|title=Smart Casual – Some Thoughts |date=18 September 2011 |publisher=HENRY BUCK PTY LTD |url=http://www.henrybucks.com.au/smart-casual-some-thoughts/ |access-date=29 May 2013 |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140404202233/http://www.henrybucks.com.au/smart-casual-some-thoughts/ |archive-date=4 April 2014 }} Men's fast fashion brand [Topman](/source/Topman) emphasizes the flexibility of ''smart casual''.{{cite web|title=Smart casual: the ultimate guide |date=13 January 2013 |last=Anka |first=Carl |author2=Harvey, Laura |publisher=Topman GENERATION |url=http://magazine.topman.com/category/fashion/smart-casual-the-ultimate-guide |access-date=29 May 2013 |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202023306/http://magazine.topman.com/category/fashion/smart-casual-the-ultimate-guide |archive-date=2 December 2013 }} An individual's personality and pleasure of clothing choice defines the dress code provided that the attire is a multi-purpose outfit that is acceptable for formal occasions, dating or casual social gatherings. Topman explains casual and formal clothing pieces are mixed and matched, and illustrates a ''smart casual'' outfit can include a mixture of [jeans](/source/jeans), [blazer](/source/blazer)s, [sport coat](/source/sport_coat)s, [sweater](/source/sweater)s, [necktie](/source/neckties), a pair of [Brogue shoe](/source/Brogue_shoe)s, [dress shirt](/source/dress_shirt)s or a pair of [Converse shoes](/source/Converse_(shoe_company)). Business blogger, Maurilio Amorim, notes that although jeans are usually not an option, the Burnt Hills smart casual variation allows for crisp blue jeans to be worn (no holes or places where you stepped on the heel too much). A tie is usually introduced to the ensemble, and the wearing of a jacket is stressed.{{cite web | url=http://www.maurilioamorim.com/2012/02/smart-casual-or-business-casual-whats-the-difference/ | title=Smart Casual or Business Casual? What's the Difference? | date=24 February 2012 }} Norwegian and American cruise line brand [Royal Caribbean International](/source/Royal_Caribbean_International) clarifies ''smart casual'' for main dining on-board its fleet: blazers, [trousers](/source/trousers), neckties or shirts are acceptable but shorts, jeans or T-shirts are unacceptable for men. Dress, casual dresses, or [pantsuit](/source/pantsuit)s are acceptable for women.{{cite web|title=Cruise Clothing Myth Buster|publisher=Royal Caribbean|author=Adele|date=3 May 2013|url=https://www.royalcaribbean.co.uk/blog/cruise-clothing-myth-buster/|access-date=7 June 2013}} ''[Cosmopolitan](/source/Cosmopolitan_(magazine))'' South Africa interprets ''smart casual'' as the way most South African women dress for work.{{cite web|title=Decoded|last=Rinquest|first=Mishkah|publisher=Cosmopolitan|url=http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za/Fashion/HowtoWear/decoded|access-date=30 May 2013}} In addition to work, the outfit is also interchangeable for use at large or small daytime parties, and wearing a dress shirt with elegant accessories is suggested. Australian state newspaper ''[The Sunday Mail](/source/The_Sunday_Mail_(Brisbane))'' in [Brisbane](/source/Brisbane) defines a man's ''smart casual'' in a workplace and event context as a "look sharp without being too formal; it's professional but also relaxed."{{cite web|title=Wise guys: Smart casual takes on new meaning|publisher=News Ltd |newspaper= The Sunday Mail (QLD)|first=Kellie|last=Alderman|date=18 September 2011|url=http://www.couriermail.com.au/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/fashion-with-kellie-alderman-wise-guys/story-e6frer4o-1226140135998|access-date=11 July 2013}} A jacket, dress shirt, necktie and jeans are demonstrated as ''smart casual'' attire. [Piping](/source/Piping_(sewing)) on a jacket to give it the "preppy look" to downgrade formality is illustrated as a polished look. Detailing, such as a striped canvas belt and white shoes with a pair of casual trousers and a [check shirt](/source/Gingham), is emphasized for a ''smart casual'' look. It is suggested men have: (a) a pair of [chinos](/source/Chino_cloth) in any color from primary shades to pastels; (b) a short sleeve shirt in checks or a solid bright color; and (c) a deconstructed jacket in their wardrobe. [Canadian Broadcasting Corporation](/source/Canadian_Broadcasting_Corporation)'s [Steven and Chris](/source/Steven_and_Chris) explain ''smart casual'' is an "easy and comfortable way to dress."{{cite web|title=Decoding the Dress Code|publisher=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation|first1=Steven|last1=Sabados|last2=Hyndman|first2=Chris|url=http://www.cbc.ca/stevenandchris/2009/04/decoding-the-dress-code.html|access-date=12 July 2013}} Jeans, depending on the workplace's context and environment, are not recommended. For men's attire, a pair of khakis or casual pants with a collared or [polo shirt](/source/polo_shirt) and a blazer is illustrated. For women's attire, the stylists note the diversity of clothing options and recommend: (a) keeping the clothing pieces easy; (b) the fabrics not too dressy; and (c) the accessories more casual. British national newspaper ''[The Guardian](/source/The_Guardian)'' attempts clarifying ''smart casual'' from a recruitment perspective by questioning various recruitment consultants.{{cite web|title=The smart-casual interview|date=15 August 2009|last=Chilvers|first=Simon|publisher=Guardian News and Media Limited|url=https://www.theguardian.com/money/2009/aug/15/job-interview-clothes|access-date=29 May 2013}} They responded: (a) stand out but blend in by understanding the workplace's environment; (b) achieve a business-professional look by clarifying the attire in advance because "it's easier to be overdressed than underdressed"; (c) wear a smart coat if avoiding a [suit](/source/suit_(clothing)) to give the impression of a "good entrance because it has an air of formality: e.g., a well-cut trench, worn with open shirt and neat [slacks](/source/Trousers)"; (d) wear accessories to "show creativity and attention to detail", but keep them to a minimum; (e) smart, plain and straight jeans are acceptable; and (f) shoes should be clean and un-scruffy. thumb|Smart casual style with non-matching trousers and without necktie Global men's fashion magazine ''[GQ](/source/GQ)'' in the United Kingdom attempts defining ''smart casual'' for a job interview.{{cite web|title=How to master "smart casual"|last=Johnston|first=Robert|publisher=Condé Nast UK|url=http://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/style/style-shrink/expert-answer-/gq-style-shrink-smart-casual-for-recruitment-dinner|access-date=29 May 2013}} Wearing chinos, a blazer and white shirt to make an impression is suggested. Carrying a necktie is advisable; the author comments, "it is far more embarrassing to be under-dressed than over". Pakistani fashion magazine ''Fashion Central'' defines a woman's ''smart casual'' look from an employment perspective.{{cite web|title=Look Smart & Elegant – Dressing Secrets For Working Women|publisher=Fashion Central|url=http://www.fashioncentral.pk/beauty-style/dresses/story-966-look-smart-elegant-dressing-secrets-for-working-women/#.UaaZUssaySM|access-date=30 May 2013}} Understanding the workplace's environment and culture is emphasized, and checking the company's dress code guideline is highly recommended. ''Fashion Central'' outlines ''smart casual'' with clothes unstained and wrinkle-free with non-loud and non-bright colors that reflect the woman's age. Too fancy or too casual dresses are inadvisable as well as the use of extreme make-up, such as using dark, glossy or chalky shades, or applying too much [eye shadow](/source/eye_shadow). ''Fashion Central'' reports black or brown heels are preferred by women and advise to correctly select appropriate shoes for a workplace's environment. ==See also== *[Dress code](/source/Dress_code) * [Black lounge suit](/source/Black_lounge_suit) *[Informal wear](/source/Informal_wear) *[Western dress codes](/source/Western_dress_codes) ** [Casual wear](/source/Casual_wear) *** thumb|womens' smart casual outfit consisting of blazer, suit and skirt[Business casual](/source/Business_casual) *** [Casual Friday](/source/Casual_Friday) *** [Workwear](/source/Workwear) *** [Sportswear](/source/Sportswear_(fashion)) ==References== {{Reflist}} ==Further reading== * Heathfield, Susan. Smart Casual Dress Code. About.com. Retrieved 26 November 2015. * Southward, Jane (5 November 2009). Crack the dress code. Fairfax Media. Retrieved 12 July 2013. {{Clothing}} Category:1920s neologisms Category:Lounge jackets Category:Casual wear Category:Fashion aesthetics Category:Workwear --- Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Smart casual](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart_casual) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart_casual?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.