Smart Casual Dress Code For Men (2022 Style Guide)

Shirts

Because smart casual attire still calls for touches of traditional formality, a button-down shirt will always work. Use your tried and true colors like crisp white, black, blue, and navy, but feel free to incorporate sharp shirts in less traditional colors. Take another look at that olive shirt that caught your eye or mix in a yellow or salmon during the spring. Polo shirts and short-sleeve button-down tops that are typically inappropriate in work settings lend themselves well to smart casual styles. Camp collar shirts are an on-trend option for a look that pairs well with a mojito in your hand. Incorporate a chambray shirt with boots for a polished take on American workwear.

T-shirt

Whereas button-downs might be your go-to option, you can get away with mixing in some T-shirts with your smart casual wear. Especially when trying to elevate an inherently casual piece, the fit is king. You have to make sure that your T-shirt is well-fitted with refined details. Well-fitting for T-shirts does not necessarily mean that the shirt hugs you tightly, but it should match the overall tone of your attire. For example, a slub tee that drapes freely might work better with your slimmest jeans while a Pima cotton shirt that accentuates your arms will look better with khakis and boots. You should opt for simple, solid, or color-blocked T-shirts so that they can be incorporated into many outfits. Look for subtle variations on the traditional template to add memorable details. High collars or scalloped hems can make a regular T-shirt a standout piece if worn correctly.

Jackets

Besides blazers, you can lean on a multitude of different jackets to round out your smart-casual style. A brown leather jacket is a timeless piece that can be worn with a button-down and chinos, while a black moto jacket can be worn with a white T-shirt and Chelsea boots for an edgy look. A chore jacket is a transitional piece that gives you some layering while maintaining a refined appearance. Bomber jackets work well with smart casual attire, provided you layer it on top of well-chosen basics. There are dozens of variations of standard men’s jackets: Eisenhower jackets, mechanic jackets, Harrington jackets, the list goes on. Find a style that works well on your body and in your wardrobe, then wear it all year round.