Want To Dress Casual And Look Great?
Casual Dress Tips For All Occassions
Dressing casual means matching style with comfort to create a look that works on occasions when you don’t need to be super dressed up, but still want to look great.
When Should You Dress Casual?
You can choose a casual outfit to run errands or relax with friends at a summer BBQ. If you know that you’re going to be busy all day, you should plan to wear something comfortable. Trousers or shorts are a great option as they’re easy to run around in. Simple shirts or t-shirts and jackets such as bombers pair nicely with your favourite pants. Sneakers and slip on kicks are a good choice for footwear.
Casual evening events
For casual drinks or dinner, you don’t need to overdo it with formal wear. A nice pair of black or blue jeans with a button-down shirt or t-shirt, and blazer or leather jacket. This outfit is simple, yet sleek so you’ll be dressed perfectly for the occasion.
Dressing casual on a date
On a date, you want to impress, not appear overdressed. Slim, dark jeans or trousers look nice without seeming too fancy. Wear a T-shirt and blazer or a collared shirt. Leave the tie at home. You can wear either smart sneakers, oxfords or dress shoes to complete your look depending on the rest of your outfit.
Casual Wardrobe Basics
If casual is your thing, you should definitely have a good stock of clothes to choose from. A great thing about casual clothes is you can wear them season after season. We’ve included a list a basics that are defined as casual to help you get started.
Some pieces in your wardrobe should include a basic t-shirt or simple shirt as they will go well with almost everything you own. They can be layered beneath knits, blazers, jackets, and match with any pair of trousers.
T-shirts
T-shirts are an essential part of any casual wardrobe. They’re comfortable and easy to wear, versatile, and a great T can definitely be stylish. Make sure your T’s fit nice…. Not too tight, not too baggy. Feel free to play with colours and prints, and to use them as your first layer in any casual outfit. Keep the old beer logo t-shirts for housekeeping and yard chores!
Shirts
Button Downs look sharper than T-shirts. Lightweight cotton and wrinkle free blends are relaxed and easy-going. Short-sleeved, denim, and patterned styles also work.
Jeans
A great pair of jeans are comfortable to wear, fit you well, and go well with just about anything. Slim and straight-leg styles in a dark wash look more polished, looser cuts and lighter shades look more relaxed. Avoid overly ripped or detailed jeans. A slim fit jean will suit most body types and goes well with almost any top.
Trousers
If you don’t want to wear jeans, chinos or khakis are also an excellent choice. They’re comfortable & stylish for a smart, casual look.
Hoodies
Worn right, hoodies look great and are super functional. Perfect in winter, but just remember to keep your hoodie from appearing sloppy by making sure it fits properly. On cold days, try pairing it with a pea coat and slim black jeans.
Footwear
There are tons of options for casual and comfortable shoes that go great with a casual outfit. Some of our favourites are suede Chukka boots, Oxfords, Loafers, and low cut Sneakers. A nice leather boot is also great, especially in autumn and winter! Regardless of what makes your feet happy, keep your kicks clean and scuff-free to avoid appearing sloppy.
Knitwear
Knitwear is easy, keeps you warm, and offer a smart casual style. Crew-neck and roll-neck sweaters are great in autumn and winter. A casual knit pullover is perfect if you don’t want to wear a jacket and can be worn on summer evenings and during the transitional period between autumn and winter.
Jackets
The right jacket can really complete your outfit. Whether you choose a sports coat, denim jacket, leather coat (depending on season) or bomber style, just make sure it complements the rest of your outfit. If you’re shopping for a jacket that you can wear for several years to come, choose one in a style that you like, and in a neutral colour, so you can get the most mileage out of your purchase.
Casual Dress Code Tips
- Choose classic cut pieces – they never go out of fashion
- Buy neutral colours that are easy to match - black, white, grey, navy and beige
- Balance comfort and style
- Choose high quality materials
- Don’t be afraid to layer
- Wear clothes that fit your body well
- Wear sweaters and cardigans instead of hoodies and sweatshirts
- Consider the occasion you are dressing for
Hopefully this guide will help you get on the right track to look great for any casual occasion. If you need some guidance or an honest opinion, feel free to pop in the store and we’ll be happy to help!