Here's How to Nail Smart Casual Dress Code for Men

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There was a time when wearing some form of tailoring to work—a full suit, dress shirt, and tie, or a business casual look—was standard. While those rules still apply certain places, the shift toward more relaxed dressing has transformed our regular style decisions. The smart casual dress code sits front and center in that conversation.

In the past decade, we’ve seen tech mavens rocking hoodies and sneakers en masse, even when they’re CEOs giving speeches. By the same token, a full suit and tie started feeling a bit old-fashioned, like a relic of Wall Street’s past—while its present is crowded with Patagonia vests. 

“In my opinion, it’s always better to lean toward being overdressed than underdressed for any occasion,” says Elliot Aronow, founder of Minor Genius and editor of its newsletter. Looking a little elevated tends to also give you more confidence, and cause others to take you more seriously.

Still, depending on the situation, a suit can just make you look out of place. Smart casual dress code is the modern answer to dressing well with intention, but not looking like you’re trying too hard. Unless you’re in finance, or at a firm that still enforces the shirt-and-tie rule, you don’t need a two-piece suit to look professional anymore. Smart casual dress code for men strikes the perfect balance between polished, professional style and relaxed, comfortable clothing. It’s less formal than business attire but more refined than casualwear.

What Is Smart Casual Dress Code?

Smart casual has become a new normal, and its versatility allows you to step up the sophistication when it makes sense. Sure, jeans and a white T-shirt (casual dress code) are perfect for hanging with friends or browsing at a record store, but when it comes to work, a date, or any event that requires a bit more polish, adding a few intentional pieces can make all the difference.

It’s important to remember that staying true to you is always key. While there are a few tried-and-true rules, smart casual dressing is all about self-expression.

“Smart casual is self-defined and subjective,” says Nic Screws, a fashion stylist and art director. “It’s the no-code dress code—intuitive dressing based on the man, his occupation, and his personal style.”

This guide will help you understand the difference between casual attire, smart casual attire, and business casual attire—and help you dress more intentionally. We suggest foundational pieces to elevate your look and how to incorporate them into your daily wardrobe. With a simple add-on or swap—like throwing on an unlined blazer over a T-shirt, jeans paired with loafers, or wearing a chore jacket over an Oxford shirt and well-cut khaki pants—you’ll instantly be smart casual-ready.  

Related: 19 Best Casual Shoes for Men to Look Sharp When Dressed Down

Smart Casual vs. Business Casual

Smart casual and business casual may be widely accepted as professional dress codes today, but they differ quite a bit in formality and style. Smart casual is generally less formal, giving you more options. Feel free to go with trend-forward pieces while still looking polished (remember, tailoring is key). You can mix casual yet structured garments with more formal pieces—which is great for creative workplaces or social events where you want to look sharp but not stiff. 

The beauty of smart casual lies in its flexibility. Whether pairing an unlined blazer and knit polo with crisp blue jeans, mixing a French blue chore jacket with cotton twill khakis, or layering a textured cardigan over an Oxford shirt, smart casual allows you to mix and match depending on the occasion. 

“When in doubt, balance bits of your off-duty self with one refined pop,” Screws advises. “Consider a knitted polo tucked into a pair of relaxed pleated pants. Bonus points if it’s a monochromatic rig—that feels premium.” 

Aronow adds: “Smart casual can be collared shirts like Oxfords and polos, chinos and cotton pants, and preppy classics like loafers and brogues.”

Meanwhile, true business casual tends toward the traditional and conservative, focusing on classic office attire. A blazer is generally non-negotiable here, along with at least one other tailored piece, like a dress shirt or khakis. You can sometimes sneak in dark jeans at the casual end of business casual, but only if you pair them with a proper dress shirt and blazer. For the bottoms, your best bet is chinos, wool flannel trousers, or even a pair of needle corduroy pantss for a fashion-forward touch. The tie is optional. Business casual can range from a full suit without a tie at its dressiest to a more relaxed combo of an Oxford, khakis, and a blazer. If wearing a full suit, you can also swap the collared shirt for a knit polo, turtleneck sweater, or merino crewneck, emphasizing the “casual” in business casual without going too far.

Related: The 10 Men’s Fashion Trends You Should Know for 2024

It’s important to note that as the casual-ization of closets continues, your business casual aesthetic doesn’t need to be stuffy. “Andy Warhol nailed the all-American business casual look—a pair of dark blue jeans, button-down, blazer, and maybe a tie if you’re feeling snazzy,” Aronow says. “You can make it more casual by playing with slightly baggier silhouettes.” 

Young professionals feeling bewildered can fall back on tried-and-true getups that meet the business casual requirements. “For someone just starting out, a no-fail uniform could be a sport coat (or my personal favorite, an unstructured patch pocket blazer) paired with a premium crewneck knit and fitted chinos (or dark denim, if you’re daring), finished off with your shoe of choice—anything from a loafer to a Derby,” Screws notes.

Smart Casual vs. Casual

While some workplaces, especially in creative fields, have adopted more easygoing styles, you want to avoid the trap of dressing too casually. Instead, focus on notching up your look with thoughtfully chosen pieces.

Casual attire, on the other hand, doesn’t usually incorporate any tailored element. “For me, casual means no business—all pleasure—whatever that means to you,” Screws says.

Casual dress code can mean T-shirts, polos, hoodies, jeans, and sneakers; but even in casual fits, the key lies in the individuality of what you pick. For example, pairing a merino crewneck sweater with jeans and leather white sneakers adds contrasting sophistication. Similarly, if you’re rocking a T-shirt, jeans, and sneakers, layering with a well-fitted bomber jacket can take your outfit from basic to intentional. This way, though your outfit stays casual, they still exude a sense of refinement and purpose.

Smart Casual Dress Code for Men: What to Wear

Incorporating a few key garments can turn any outfit into smart casual. The trick lies in choosing either one tailored or elevated piece or several refined accessories, such as a knit tie or loafers. While we’ll suggest additional garments that complement smart casual dress code looks, here are seven foundational garments to help you build a versatile and stylish wardrobe.

Unlined Blazer

Invest in an unlined or quarter-lined blazer with minimal padding. This avoids a formal, suit-like appearance and gives it a relaxed, smart casual look. Opt for a textured fabric or a weave with some scrunch rather than a flat matte finish to add depth and character to your outfits.

Flint and Tinder 365 Utility Blazer

Proof Nomad Blazer

Todd Snyder Italian Birdseye Wool Sport Coat

Chore Jacket

The iconic French chore jacket is ubiquitous in stylish-dude circles at the moment, for good reason. A sophisticated chore jacket will always be an option for any smart casual wardrobe. Known for its utilitarian design, multiple pockets, and timeless charm, it complements any outfit with ease and adds an element of practicality and durability.

Alex Mill Garment Dyed Work Jacket

Taylor Stitch The Ojai Jacket

Oxford Shirt

The Oxford shirt is the perfect compromise between casual and dressy. With its button-down collar and durable weave, it works with everything from blazers to cardigans, adding a preppy yet timeless look. Choose white or light blue for versatility or explore other colors and patterns that suit your personal style.

Taylor Stitch The Jack Shirt

Brooks Brothers Friday Oxford Shirt

Turtleneck Sweater

A turtleneck sweater instantly lifts any casual outfit and can replace a dress shirt for most occasions, at least in cooler-weather situations. It’s inherently elegant, and whether worn under a blazer or on its own, the turtleneck exudes a simple, chic sophistication. It will add refinement to jeans or casual chinos and pairs just as effortlessly with a denim or chore jacket.

Buck Mason California Cashmere Turtleneck

Authentic Chinos

A well-fitted pair of chinos in a breathable, comfortable cotton or twill fabric is essential. Dressier than jeans but equally versatile, chinos pair effortlessly with everything from blazers to casual T-shirts, making them perfect for both work and weekend outings.

Save Khaki United All American Chino

Crisp Blue Jeans

A pair of crisp, dark (light veers too casual) blue jeans is not only a wardrobe essential but can be worn for business casual, smart casual, and casual occasions alike. No distressing, no rips, easy on the stretch with a straight leg, not too skinny, not too voluminous—that’s a timeless silhouette. A mid-wash pair of blue jeans is also great for smart casual and can add a bit more character.

Levi’s Premium 501 Original Fit Men’s Jeans

Derby Shoes

Leather Derby shoes offer versatility and understated elegance. With an open lacing, a more rounded toe, and a robust silhouette, they add polish to a variety of outfits—whether you’re wearing jeans, chinos, corduroy trousers, or tailoring. Keep them polished for a formal look, or let them develop a patina for a more relaxed, vintage appeal.

Beckett Simonon Dunham Derbies

How to Dress Smart Casual

Anchor Your Outfit with Tailored Pieces

A smart casual look always benefits from at least one tailored piece to bring balance and a certain nattiness. For example, if you’re rocking (tailored) khakis or wool flannel dress trousers, pair them with something more relaxed, like a striped T-shirt and a chore jacket. This creates a stylish fusion of structure and ease. On the flip side, if you’re wearing dark blue jeans and a striped T-shirt, throw on an unlined blazer to turn up the formality a notch. 

Balance Casual and Formal Proportions

Smart casual dressing is all about striking the right balance. If you’re keeping things laidback with a T-shirt, offset it with an unstructured blazer and leather shoes like loafers to bring the outfit up a notch. Alternatively, if you’re wearing a dressier Oxford shirt, you can balance it with a cardigan paired with jeans and dress sneakers for a casual yet polished look. A sharp pair of chinos or a well-tailored blazer sets a more refined tone, while casual shoes or shirts keep the outfit comfortable and casual.

Use Two Elevated Accessories

If most of your outfit is casual—say, a chore jacket, T-shirt, and jeans—you can up the sleek factor with a few accessories, like leather loafers, a knit tie, or a dressier, streamlined watch. For example, try this ensemble: a solid beige or other neutral-tone T-shirt; a navy chore jacket; dark, crisp jeans; derby shoes; and one of the best watches for men (we’ll suggest a few below). Another option: Pair a silk knit tie and Oxford shirt with a denim jacket and chinos. The shirt and tie bring the polish, while the jacket and chinos keep it grounded.

Related: I’ve Wear-Tested Dozens of Leather Jackets. Here Are the Best of 2024

What Not to Wear When Dressing Smart Casual

When aiming for a smart casual look, avoid items that lean either too formal or too casual, as they can easily throw off the delicate balance. Stay away from stiff, structured blazers that resemble suit jackets, monk strap or pointy Oxford shoes, crisp dress shirts, and overly slim chinos. Full suits, whimsical socks, tie bars, and cufflinks should also be avoided, as they make the outfit feel too business-like. These pieces can overcomplicate a look that’s meant to be more elegantly relaxed.

On the flip side, overly casual items like joggers, Henley shirts, graphic T-shirts, and anything performance-related, like hoodies and workout shoes, should also be left out of the equation. Distressed denim, thick flannel shirts, and chunky athletic socks can make the outfit feel too weekend-y. Garments in the in-between area, such as denim jackets, bomber jackets, or Harrington jackets, may work in certain scenarios, but proceed with caution. As Aronow advises, “It’s easier to nail smart casual by knowing what not to wear: no hoodies, no high tops, and no logos.”

Are Sneakers Smart Casual-Appropriate?

In short, yes, but only the right ones. Sneakers have become increasingly accepted in smart casual—and even business casual—outfits. But not all sneakers are created equal. While I love my Nike running shoes and most comfortable shoes for laid-back weekends, these aren’t the sneakers you want for smart casual looks. Instead, opt for a streamlined, dressier sneaker.  

Material is key. While casual sneakers typically rely on canvas, nylon, or mesh, dress sneakers should feature leather or suede for a more polished feel. These materials elevate the sneaker’s appearance, giving it a level of sophistication closer to traditional dress shoes. With sustainability in mind, vegan leather is also an emerging trend for eco-conscious consumers who still want that refined look.

The silhouette of a dress sneaker is equally important. It should have a slim profile, much like leather-soled dress shoes, with minimal design elements and a streamlined sole. This contrasts sharply with the chunky, multi-paneled styles often seen in casual sneakers. For maximum versatility, a low-top design is generally preferable. The key is in embracing clean, minimalistic lines that speak to elegance.

Finally, pay attention to the details. Neutral colorways like black, white, navy blue, or rich brown tend to be the most flexible, lending themselves well to a smart casual wardrobe. Flashy colors or excessive branding should be avoided. The lacing style also plays a role—flat laces in a horizontal bar pattern offer a more refined look compared to crisscross laces found on casual styles.

Charles Tyrwhitt Leather Sneakers

Clae Bradley Vegan Sneakers

More Smart Casual Options to Wear

There’s a whole range of other items you can mix and match with smart casual outfits. Once your foundation is set, keep building your wardrobe with the following garments and accessories.

Chambray Shirt

A chambray shirt exudes uncomplicated style. It pairs just as well with a knit tie as it does with casual denim. It’s a versatile choice and the perfect go-to collared shirt for your wardrobe.

Faherty Tried & True Chambray Shirt

Elevated T-Shirt

Whether short- or long-sleeved, stick to neutral and darker shades like navy, black, and hunter green for a more polished, versatile look. Subtle pockets are fine, but skip the graphics, band tees, or distressing. A Breton stripe T-shirt is a refined, classic option that adds character.

Mott & Bow Classic Crew Driggs Tee

Cardigan Sweater 

Cardigans ar

J.Crew Alpaca-Blend V-Neck Cardigan Sweater

Knit Polo

Combining the comfort of a sweater with the silhouette of a polo, the knit polo has long been a stylish staple. Pair it with a blazer for a polished look, or wear it casually with jeans or shorts—it all works.

Todd Snyder Premium Cashmere Montauk Polo

Streamlined Dress Watch

Many men are opting for smaller, sleeker watches for everyday wear. These minimalist timepieces, often under 40mm, feature slim profiles and leather straps, offering a natty vintage aesthetic.

Waldan Heritage “Sportline” Watch

Ties With Texture

Forget shiny, pastel department store ties. Opt for ties with texture, like wool, silk knit, or Donegal fleck, in solid colors or classic prints like foulards and repp stripes. They add charm without feeling stuffy and can dress up an Oxford shirt or suit.

The Tie Bar Flecked Solid Knit Navy Tie

Wool Flannel Pants

The unsung hero of winter trousers, wool flannel adds texture and a just-right casual vibe. These aren’t shiny dress slacks—they’re tailored, robust, and pair well with suede boots, loafers, or leather sneakers.

Buck Mason Italian Soft Wool Flannel Graduate Pant

Merino Crewneck

A fine merino crewneck sweater is an essential step up from a T-shirt. It’s perfect for layering under a chore or denim jacket for warmth or wearing solo with wool trousers. Stick to fine knit to maintain a streamlined, smart look.

Banana Republic Merino Wool Sweater

Wool or Cashmere Hoodie

Okay, okay, we know we said no hoodies. But to clarify, we’re really advising against the fleece, terry, or logo-laden varieties. A hoodie in a neutral tone, made from wool or cashmere, can sometimes work in a smart-casual outfit, at least for those daring enough. Just make sure to layer it under an unlined utility blazer or a tailored jacket for a sleeker look.

Everlane The Felted Merino Hoodie

Mid-Wale Cords

Corduroy pants, the cooler-weather cousin to chinos, offer more formality than jeans but are more casual than wool trousers. Pair them with a more tailored top to balance the casual texture of the pants.

Proper Cloth The Stratton Stretch Corduroy Chino

Black Loafers

A round toe and chunkier sole give black loafers a slightly casual edge. They look great with white socks and light-wash jeans, but their versatility shines when worn with tailoring.

G.H.BASS Weejuns Heritage Larson Leather Penny Loafers

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