Let's just say it: I love a dress code. Give me an absurdly specific set of sartorial regulations and watch me absolutely thrive. In fact, I'd love if every event came with one—every restaurant, every casual hang, every office, and every party. Just think of how much easier getting dressed would be!
But since that's not really how the world works, you may not be super familiar with the ins and outs of most dress codes. Cocktail and black tie are common enough, but the more obscure iterations, like beach formal, Connecticut casual, semi-formal, white tie, dressy casual, or smart casual? I get it—they're confusing.
Smart casual is probably the dress code you'll see most often. It's similar to business casual, but just a little more chill. It pretty much just means dress cute and casual, but still chic and put-together—the type of outfit you'd wear to a nice brunch or a first-time meeting with your partner's parents. Leave the gowns and tuxedos at home, but definitely pull out a nice collared shirt or polished blouse.
Ahead, I'm breaking down the dress code further, so the next time a "smart casual" invite finds your inbox, your closet will be 100 percent ready.
A good blazer makes all the difference
I'll let you in on a little secret: White tees are fair game for a smart casual dress code. Just pop a pressed blazer over top to give the casual staple a more polished feel, then finish with your favorite slip skirt.
Steve Madden Smooth Talk Blazer
Jenny Bird Kites Earrings
Yes, you absolutely can wear jeans
When you're dressing for a business casual dress code, the rule of thumb is dark jeans only. But smart casual is much more flexible, which means you can absolutely grab your favorite light-wash styles. Style them with a more structured top and a statement belt to make them feel a bit more dressy.
Tuckernuck Black Monroe Top
8 Other Reasons Studded Belt
Get playful with your accessories
Any dress code with the word "casual" in it is basically a green light to show your personal style with some fun accessories. Full permission to infuse a little pizzazz into your look via your favorite statement add-ons!
Stand Oil Chubby Bag
A crisp button-down will never do you wrong
Styled with jeans, trousers, or even a midi skirt, a button-up is always the way to go. Even a laid-back linen style still fits right into the smart casual dress code, as long as you keep the rest of your look appropriately polished.
UntuckIt Stretch Cotton Wrap Jolie Shirt
Sweaters are an absolute yes
I'll admit, sweaters can sometimes feel too chill (remember that scene from The Devil Wears Prada?). But tucked into a pair of barrel-leg jeans or layered over a floral dress, they look so smart casual.
J.Crew 2025 Rollneck™ Sweater
Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafer
Hollister Co. High-Rise Baggy Jeans
Don't forget to finish with a trench coat
'Tis the season of the trench coat! A trench just so happens to work for almost every dress code you can think of—but especially smart casual. Wear yours over a dress or with jeans/trousers. The options are pretty much limitless.
Universal Standard Derjon Trench Coat
MAPLEDIARY Lustrous Pearl Earring Studs
Reformation Prudence Ballet Flat
Trousers and jeans aren't your only pant options
You've still got a few more weeks to squeeze some final use out of your beloved capri pants, and I'd recommend doing so at your next smart casual function. This Hailey Bieber outfit is a prime example of exactly how to do it—leaning on neutral shades and letting the prints do all the talking.
Loeffler Randall Odessa Heeled Mules
Sundresses need apply
When in doubt, just throw on your favorite midi dress, a pair of ballet flats, and a cute little shoulder bag. You really can't go wrong with this simple formula.
Marc Jacobs Dual Hobo Bag
Kelsey (she/her) is a freelance digital fashion editor and writer with a knack for turning top-performing content into top-selling content. She has extensive experience in editorial and e-commerce strategy, having worked in both divisions during her years at Seventeen and Bustle. With more than a decade of experience in digital media, she also offers creative and social media consulting, as well as copywriting services. She enjoys cheeseburgers, traveling, and vintage hauls. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.
