How to do smart-casual at work

With so many of us working flexibly or freelance these days, and with many offices shunning traditional two-piece suits in favour of a less formal dress code, you might be wondering what to wear when you do have an in-person meeting or a day in the office. In short: what is smart casual workwear for men? 

Layering new-season, men’s smart casual looks is the key to a distinctive, work-appropriate and stylish look. Lisa Ferrie, Buyer and Design Manager at John Lewis, says: ‘Our Autumn in the City collection is where sharp suiting and casual pieces entwine; it offers rich layering with a sophisticated palette of greys, navys, khakis and neutrals, accented with subtle pops of colour.’

Here’s how to build a work-day wardrobe that nails relaxed-yet-refined dressing, while still maintaining an essential air of professionalism in case a last-minute meeting pops up.

Tailored separates show off your style and strike the perfect balance between formal and off-duty. Slim-fit cotton chinos can be dressed down with a polo shirt or round neck jumper, while a sharp blazer will smarten up a T-shirt and jeans. And yes, in warmer weather chino shorts can be perfectly acceptable in many offices – simply team with smarter shoes, such as loafers.

Not all smart casual office dress codes include denim. If yours does, invest in a great pair of work jeans. Colour is important, step away from the stonewash – your go-to here is darker denim. These straight-leg Gant jeans are comfy and versatile, although you may prefer a smarter tapered style. Stay away from denim shirts though, as they are often deemed too casual.

An unbuttoned neutral shirt, worn over a colourful T-shirt, is a fail-safe option for smart casual workwear. With the potential to be buttoned up if needed, the shirt ramps up the smartness, meaning it can be paired with a more relaxed bottom half – such as dark denim jeans or tapered, drawstring trousers. Finish the look with loafers or deck shoes.

As well as adding texture, depth and visual interest, layers offer the added bonus of temperature control. Layer new-season preppy styles into your work-day wardrobe for a more distinctive 9-to-5 look; think a stripey T-shirt, short-sleeved cotton shirt and lightweight jumper in complementary tones. The golden rule? Make sure each layer can be worn on its own. 

A classic lightweight jacket, such as the NN.07 Zander Hybrid Jacket, will see you through autumn’s unpredictable weather. Alternatively, opt for a structured overshirt, like this one from Barena, which you can wear indoors to lend some structure to your look. Effectively, it brings shape and form to an outfit featuring pieces that are a little more loose fitting. 

It’s the small details that can truly impact (and elevate) your look. Belts, hats, scarves, socks, sunglasses, jewellery, watches offer a chance to make a style statement – they can be the difference between an average outfit and an outstanding one. Hint: don’t wear them all at once. If in doubt, remove one accessory before leaving home. 

If you’re looking to update your wardrobe, our stylists can answer any style queries and help you find what suits you best. Book a free, in-person appointment today