Decoding the Dress Code: What Should I Wear to a Smart Casual Event?

Dress codes. Whilst they're great if you're not sure what you should be wearing, they can often be quite confusing and conflicting. 

I've decided to clear things up in a new series, here on nicoleoneil.com, called Decoding the Dress Code. Each week, I'll be breaking down a standard dress code, telling you what you should or shouldn't wear - and giving you some outfit inspiration. 

Smart Casual

You’ve opened up your invitation and under dress code, it reads Smart Casual. What does that mean?

A smart casual dress code is usually the go-to for informal events. The Oxford Dictionary defines smart casual as ‘neat, conventional, yet relatively informal in style’.

Basically speaking, a smart casual dress code will suit a wide variety of clothing choices. You want to look smart and put-together without being overdressed or too casual. This means leaving your birkenstocks and ball gowns at home and instead opting for a neatly tailored blazer or crisp sundress or chinos and dress shirts for men.

If you want to wear a dress:

Keep it simple! This isn't the time to wear your embellished ballgown. You want to look classy without looking like you're about to rush off to the ball. That means finding the middle ground between beachside maxi dress and Oscar ceremony ballgowns.

My favourite dress picks:
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If you want to wear a skirt:
Pencil skirts and A-line skirts with a blouse are a great choice for a smart casual event. Don't be afraid to experiment with colours, patterns and shapes - but make sure it suits the occasion.

My favourite skirt picks:
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If you want to wear pants:

Keep it simple! This isn't the time to wear your embellished ballgown. You want to look classy without looking like you're about to rush off to the ball. That means finding the middle ground between beachside maxi dress and Oscar ceremony ballgowns.

If you want to wear a jumpsuit:
A smart casual event is the perfect chance to wear a jumpsuit. You'll want to go for a longer more tailored jumpsuit - not the kind you'd throw on over your swimsuit on a trip to the beach. Pair it with heels, classy accessories and a clutch and you're ready to go. 

My favourite pant and jumpsuit picks:
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