While it is very nice to have a selection of fine silk ties, wool suits and attractive jewelry, most of our time is spent in relatively informal settings that do not call for an entire business suit or tuxedo. These occasions might range from lunch with a business partner, investor, or casual date – or they might simply be a vacation, a cruise, or hanging out with your friends at a bar or club. Casual wear is extremely important in showing that style does not have to die at five o' clock!
Jeans, Jeans, Jeans
Denim jeans are a staple of American culture as much as apple pie, and are just as enjoyable. Many people are under the false impression that jeans are absolutely informal, never to be worn to a job interview nor to any other semi-formal or even dress casual event. The truth of the matter is that many jeans of higher construction and quality can be considered to be dress jeans, and in fact are a more youthful expression of flair and style than dress pants or the khaki pant if cared for properly and worn appropriately.
No Khakis Here!
Avoid traditional khaki pants if at all possible; they are no substitute for a proper dress pant in a work environment and they are no substitute for a sharp pair of jeans in a casual environment – they will detract from your overall style as an inefficient hybrid that never really makes an impact in either scenario.
Light Side, Dark Side
Think about purchasing a lighter pair of dress jeans for the summer with some minor distressing and with a slight grey or brown tint – lighter tones in the summer pair easily with the brighter hues that are prevalent in this season – polos, short-sleeved shirts, and screen printed t-shirts all work extremely well with the lighter jean. The brighter, more casual style of jeans also accommodate sandals or loafers extremely well – a natural match.
In the fall and winter months, a darker, indigo denim with a noticable white or chocolate tinting would be an excellent choice to bring together with a longer sleeved sportshirt and casual leather jacket or sportcoat, often the colours for fall include many earth-tones and other hues in that range. A nice pair of somewhat worn leather dress boots complimented by a perfectly chosen pair of quality jeans can match a variety of different shirts and jackets to suit the mood and look you are searching for!
Sweaters, Collared Shirts, and Turtlenecks
Depending on your personal sense of style, a V-neck sweater may be an interesting choice, especially during the fall and winter seasons. They come in a variety of different materials from acrylic to merino wool – and slip easily over a collared shirt for a distinctly intellectual look. Another choice to consider during the winter months is the turtleneck, or for the less conservative, the mock or half turtleneck. For younger men, these mock turtleneck is becoming more and more popular, especially in jersey-knit, zip-up styles. Paired with a staid herringbone jacket or a slick pinstriped blazer, both a v-neck and turtleneck can really promote a clean and smart image without resorting to a business influenced style.
In dispelling the misconceptions surrounding denim is a primary focus in dressing and understanding smart casual, a gentlemen must always attempt new looks and try on items of clothing that they are unfamiliar with. Give these items some consideration and always remember – you'll never really know unless you try it!
