Considered an off-duty essential, the right pair has the potential to transform your professional wardrobe, especially those that work in offices with business-casual dress codes.

Style Guidelines

• The darker the wash, the smarter they are – the pinnacle being a dark indigo, slim-fit pair. Black tends to offer too stark a contrast during the day, although they work well within evening looks.
• Rips and manufactured distressing should be avoided at all costs. Opt for clean fits and solid washes.
• Get the length right. ‘Puddles’ or bunching of fabric at the hem will instantly ruin any outfit, especially the refined aesthetics we are looking to create. Little to no break on your jeans subtly communicates you know about style and will also help take your casual looks up a notch.
• Avoid super skinny cuts, along with unflattering bootcut or relaxed fits. A slim, straight or tapered leg is much more appropriate within smarter settings.

Lookbook Inspiration

Example Look 1: Blazer & Jeans

Dress up your jeans with a timeless navy blazer. Favor a roll neck over a shirt and tie for an unconventional approach that oozes sophistication. Opt for a double-breasted jacket and patterned pocket square to help individualize your look further and then finish with classic brogues:

• John Smedley Belvoir Merino Wool Jumper
• Boglioli Dover Double-breasted Wool-hopsack Blazer
• Reiss Macy Straight Fit Jeans Navy
• Grenson Stanley Suede And Leather Brogues 186646

Example Look 2: Casual-Smart Layering

Turn the smart-casual dress code on its head and let the casual pieces take the lead in this layered look.

We recently made a case for the long sleeve polo being arguably more versatile than its short-sleeved counterpart, and here it offers a solid, neutral base for a creative gilet and blazer combination.

Depending on the weather and your own personal preference, you can wear the gilet under or over the blazer. Penny loafers in a burgundy hue complete the ensemble, along with socks if the weather isn’t on your side: