What is the difference between smart, casual, smart-casual, formal and black tie?
Who the hell knows anymore. I've been invited to weddings with a smart-casual dress code, awards evenings with a formal dress code and parties with black tie instructions.
It's hard for a guy to know what to wear for what occasion. I’ve put together some guidelines and thoughts about how you should approach the event, the dress, and the codes.
Does Anyone Care?
The short answer here is no. I've attended many events where the dress code has been completely ignored by most and no one has really made a noise about it. I normally dress up, as a rule, to avoid being the guy in shorts when everyone else is wearing their penguin suits.
But on the whole, no one is going to care if you're wearing chinos at a "formal" event as long as you've dressed them up. The main point here is to stop taking yourself (and the hosts instructions) so seriously.
The only exception to this more relaxed approach to the rules is with a black tie dress code. More often than not, if you wear your denim to a black tie event you won't be allowed in. So be mindful of context.
Remember - people are more concerned with how they look than with how you look.
The Event Context
Context is king when it comes to the event that you are dressing for. The host also plays an imperative part in it. If you are attending a gala event with media and it's well publicised and hyped up, then you should probably stick to the dress code specified.
Unless, of course, you're trying to make a statement by bucking the system. Then go for it and dress that code down or smart it up. Remember: deep down, no one cares what you look like, they mostly care that they look great.
Concern for how others think you look can often force men to dress in a similar and safe fashion. Your ability to swallow that unease and wear a bright pink pocket square will make you a leader in a crowd filled with black, grey and white.
Casual Dress Code (Day)
Events held in the day and labeled "casual", should be approached in the most casual way possible. This is a t-shirt and shorts kind of event. It is important to know your crowd though. So if you've been to an event with the people before, think back and remember how they approached that event. Were they dressed up or down?
Use this as a guide. In general, casual day events allow you to be yourself in a comfortable way. If it's chilly you can feel free to wear denim or chinos with a t-shirt and some great kicks.
As a standard point, don't ever wear your running or workout shoes with chinos or denim. Ever.
If it's warmer, then feel free to kick it in shorts and a t-shirt. You can dress up those shorts with a button-down and open-toed shoes if you feel like standing out a bit.
Casual Dress Code(Night)
Events at night labeled "casual" should be approached with caution. If it's a pool party, then go ahead and slip into your shorts and a t-shirt. If it's a braai (barbecue) then you can pick your outfit based on the crowd you're going to be seeing.
If you know them well, then don't think too much about it. Slap on a t-shirt and shorts and get going. If you're trying to make a good impression then you can consider denim (with or without rips in them), a t-shirt, open-toed shoes or your favourite kicks.
Again, don't wear your exercise shoes with denim, ever. It's really not a great look. Suits are a definite no-no at a casual event, you'll probably get odd stares and confused glances the entire evening.
Smart-Casual Dress Code
This is the most confusing of all categories. Smart casual could mean smart, it could mean casual, it could mean suit up but dress the suit down. It's a never-ending pit of confusing frustration for men. Let's break it down with some simple rules:
1. Do you know the people at the event well? If so, then feel free to take a more casual than smart approach. Denim, a t-shirt, and a jacket will do nicely. It's time to whip out those brogues if you've got 'em, or a pair of bright and loud sneakers (no exercise shoes, see above).
2. The venue is imperative. Is this event being held at a venue that has a reputation for being smarter or more casual? This can help shed some light on what to wear.
3. The actual event determines a lot. Is this a wedding rehearsal? A birthday? An awards evening? If it's the latter, then you can feel free to dress more smart than casual and have people respond positively.
If you're heading to a birthday and you're the only one in a suit, chances are you'll get jabbed by your buddies. You can feel comfortable wearing denim or chinos with a button down shirt and jacket. If you're wearing a suit then dress it down a bit with a t-shirt.
Don't feel the need to wear a tie for smart-casual. Open-collar is probably the best approach if you're wearing a button-down shirt. If you're wearing a t-shirt you're going to need to dress it up with a jacket of some kind. Using bright and fun accessories to make more of a statement is always a good idea too.
Smart Dress Code
Smart means no shorts unless you're one of those guys who owns and knows how to wear a shorts suit at a day event. Smart means what it says. You don't necessarily need to wear a full suit with waistcoat, tie, and overcoat but it's probably a safe bet to wear a suit as a start.
I like to make the suits slightly more fun and playful with a bright pair of kicks, loud and fun tie or amazing socks to match. You can definitely still pull off a t-shirt if it's a plain colour (black, white, grey, blue) and is working in conjunction with another item that you're wearing.
For example, you can wear a red t-shirt, with a grey suit, brown shoes and a pair of amazing red socks. You'll need to wear your suit jacket to make sure you hit the "smart" label. Again, it's important to remember two key things: No one really cares what you're wearing (as long as you're vaguely in the guidelines) and event context is key.
Formal Dress Code
At this point, things begin to simplify somewhat. Formal means no denim, no chinos, and no shorts. Of course, event context still applies. If this is a day wedding and the dress code is formal, then if the weather allows for it, you can wear a shorts suit. But that's your call and will require you to consider the hosts, the venue and the type of event.
Mostly though, you'll have to drop the t-shirts, get rid of the shorts, wear closed toe shoes (preferably formal shoes) and a suit of some kind. You'll be able to wear suits of any colour at a formal event, play with your accessories and cater for the event itself.
If it's a funeral, then you should probably go with a black suit. If it's a wedding or birthday party then you can go wild and break out that turquoise suit you've been dying to wear.
Formal does not mean boring. It means a button up shirt with some sort of neck item (bow tie, tie, scarf, etc) a jacket, smart pants, and shoes.
As always, you've got your accessories to really help you stand out and feel like you're making a statement. You can match your socks and shoelaces or you can rock a pocket square and match that to your wristband or bracelet. Or you can wear a crazy tie and match it to your socks.
Black Tie Dress Code
This is the simplest and most obvious of the lot. Black tie is what it says it is: An event most probably requiring a black tie. You'll need to really dress up for this. Black does not refer to the colour that you have to wear necessarily.
You can feel free to wear charcoal, blue or even go further out there with your style. It's not unheard of to wear white suits and invert the theme. The key things to remember are that you must aim to wear the following things:
Neck item, button-up shirt, jacket and pants combination that belong together (it's not advisable to mix and match your pants and jackets for a black tie event) and smart shoes
You'll need to wear items that match but don't try too hard. Feel free to play with colour in your accessories like your socks, pocket squares, shoelaces, lapel pins, ties, cufflinks, and others.
Remember, you need to be yourself in any context and feel comfortable. If you feel uncomfortable, whether you're at a black tie event or a casual afternoon party, you're going to look uncomfortable and people will notice that
Optional: Use this guide to give your tie a special touch of flare. You can thank us later.
When I'm picking my outfits, my motto is: if in doubt, dress up not down
You can always take off your jacket and untuck your shirt. You cannot turn a pair of shorts into a suit.
Knowing what to wear to which event can seem like a daunting task; you don’t want to pitch up to your event looking like you didn’t get the memo. But, this is very easily avoided if you take these rules into consideration.
Dress codes are not set in stone, there is no right or wrong way to dress up or down, but there are some very simple steps to avoid looking like you just got out of bed, or that you should be on the set of a James Bond movie.
FAQs
Formal smart casual attire is “a jacket or blazer, flannels, needlecord trousers, or chinos (not jeans), a shirt with a collar (not a T-shirt) and smart shoes (not necessarily lace-ups, but not trainers or sandals)”.
What does smart wear mean? ›
The big "no nos" for anywhere with a "smart" or "smart casual" dress code are T-shirts, jeans and trainers (sneakers). Other than that, you'll find most places fairly flexible for women. For men, "smart casual" means trousers (not jeans), proper shoes, and a shirt with a collar. " Smart" means jacket and probably a tie.
What is the difference between smart and smart casual? ›
Smart casual could mean smart, it could mean casual, it could mean suit up but dress the suit down. It's a never-ending pit of confusing frustration for men.
What are the four types of dress codes? ›
Decode the Dress Codes
If you ask someone what the dress code at their office is, they'll generally give you one of four dress codes: business professional, business casual, smart casual or casual.
What is the highest level of dress code? ›
Also known as “full evening dress”, white tie attire is considered the most formal of all dress codes.
What does evening wear mean for men? ›
Also referred to as Evening Dress, Black Tie is the most popular formal event dress code and calls for a dinner suit or tuxedo (in single or double breasted) with contrast silk lapels and a bow tie.
Are sneakers smart wear? ›
Can you wear sneakers for smart casual? Yes! However, they have to be dressier–think classic or minimalist styles that you've kept looking fresh and new. If they're worn-down or grimy, they're just casual, not smart.
Are chinos smart casual? ›
The chino is a stylish combination of smart trousers and casual pants in a comfortable cotton blend, making it the most practical and versatile trouser options in any man's wardrobe. Compared to jeans, they are a neater option that is perfect for a smart casual occasion.
Are sneakers OK for smart casual? ›
Can you wear sneakers for a smart-casual dress code? Yes, you can wear sneakers as part of a smart-casual dress code for women, men and gender-neutral styles. You can pair sneakers with jeans, khakis and chinos. You may even wear sneakers with some skirts for a more athletic smart-casual look for women.
What is smart but casual for men? ›
Clothing that should come to mind when hearing smart casual dress code are polos, sport jackets, short or long sleeves collared button-downs, fun patterned dress shirts, casual dress pants, chinos, dark wash jeans, and sensible yet professional foot-wear.
Smart casual attire is a dress code that combines well-fitting, polished business wear with elements of casual attire—think blouses, polo shirts, button-downs, chinos, dress pants, dark-wash jeans, and polished, practical footwear.
How do men dress in 2022? ›
Men's Fashion Trends 2022: 12 Big Menswear Moves to Make This...
- Heavy Chains. ...
- Flared Trousers. ...
- Varsity Jackets. ...
- Full-Placket Polos. ...
- Balaclavas. ...
- Strong Collars. ...
- Glasses. ...
- Vests.
Casual Chic Guideline
It is a semi-informal style, which carefully combines elegant items, such as tailored trousers and shirts and classic suits and knitwear, with other less dressy ones, such as unstructured jackets, jeans, sneakers or garment-dyed items.
What is semi casual for men? ›
It's basically a step up from casual yet a step down from business casual. However, in semi-casual, jeans are generally acceptable, and t-shirts could be styled with a piece like a blazer to create a slightly more put-together look.
What is the most popular dress code? ›
The 5 Most Common Dress Codes
- Casual.
- Smart Casual.
- Business Casual.
- Semi-Formal.
- Formal.
Kelly shared her Rule of Four lesson publicly when signups were open for the May course, so some of you may have seen it. The goal is to have at least four accessories or points of interest to every outfit.
Can you wear a collared shirt with shorts? ›
Shorts are casual, so the shirt should be too. Don't wear a long-sleeved, button-fronted, collared shirt with shorts. Even with the sleeves rolled up it's too much of a stylistic mix-and-match. Collared short-sleeve shirts are usually the best choice for men who want to look good but stay cool and casual.
What is fancier than black tie? ›
White tie events are the most formal events of all. All presidential events, diplomatic galas, and royal affairs are white tie gatherings. You should wear a tuxedo.
Do girls or boys get dress coded more? ›
Who Gets Dress-Coded More: Girls or Boys? As cited, girls get dress coded over 5x as often as boys during school. It is common for girls to express their personalities through their clothing. Schools place many restrictions on the way girls dress because they believe that girls' clothing can distract male students.
What is an after 5 dress code? ›
Also known as Semi-Formal or 'after five'
Traditionally co*cktail refers to a knee-length party dress, but nowadays it's one of the more flexible and popular dress codes.
White tie, also called full evening dress or a dress suit, is the most formal in traditional evening western dress codes.
Are khakis co*cktail attire? ›
DON'T wear casual clothes such as khakis, chinos, jeans, polo shirts, or a casual sports jacket – essentially, avoid any article associated with the Business Casual dress code. DON'T wear causal shoes that are lace-less, like loafers or moccasins.
What is daytime formal for men? ›
Formal wear for men changes depending on the time of day: in daylight hours, it means morning dress with a tailcoat and vest, while at night it means white tie.
Are shorts OK for smart casual? ›
Tailored shorts can make a great smart casual outfit by dressing them up with dapper shirts, jackets and shoes. It's a great combination of comfort and style. But be mindful to wear this look only to casual outings with family and friends. Most social occasions will require trousers as part of the dress code.
Is a hoodie smart casual? ›
Hi-low outfits
The very definition of smart casual is a hoodie and a suit; the mixture of the low-key paired with a timeless two-piece makes for the perfect combination for the new season. Pick neutral tones for the hoodie – blue, grey and black – and wear with a lightweight linen suit.
Are ripped jeans smart casual? ›
Ripped jeans and shorts are a casual look, not smart casual.
What not to wear if you are a man over 50? ›
Looks the 50-Something Man Should Always Avoid
- Sneakers/trainers. You're done with 'em. ...
- Neckties without jackets. This is a look men should avoid in general, but once you get into your fifties it can only make you look like a depressed, mid-salary cubicle worker with nothing left to live for. ...
- Sleeveless shirts.
Here's a quick summary on how Chinos should fit: Classic and slim fit are the two main options (avoid skinny fit) The slim fit is recommended: it's dynamic and modern. A belt isn't necessarily needed with a good fit around the waist.
Can you wear a shirt and tie with chinos? ›
Men's Chinos are probably the most versatile pants you can wear, easily dressed up with a sport coat, shirt, and tie, paired with some well-polished oxford shoes, and equally easily worn with just a t-shirt and sneakers.
What footwear is smart casual? ›
Men's Smart Casual Shoes
When it comes to smart casual footwear, it's all about balance. Depending on the rest of your outfit, you can get away with a lot. The go-to for many tends to be a pair of loafers, brogues boat shoes or boots in either a suede or leather.
Black jeans are the best smart casual jean, as they are versatile and can be styled easily as part of smart casual attire. Avoid distressed or patterned black jeans and opt for a straight leg fit. Style black jeans with a cream turtleneck, a tweed blazer and a pair of black court shoes for a chic, put-together look.
Is blazer a must for smart casual? ›
When it comes to dressing for a smart casual event, a blazer or jacket, trousers and smart shoes are a must. Hanson explains, “Again, as with women this is built around a jacket - such as a blazer or sports coat."
What does upscale casual mean? ›
Upscale casual is a semi-formal look, mixing upscale pieces with comfortable, more casual pieces, such as jeans with a V-neck shirt and blazer for men or skinny-leg khakis, heels and a nice blouse for ladies. Upscale casual requires avoiding certain articles of clothing as much as it incorporates others.
Is polo shirt and jeans smart casual? ›
Smart casual
Offering a smarter look than a simple t-shirt, without the constriction of a dress shirt or long sleeve button-down, polo shirts are a perfect choice. For smart-casual vibes, dark jeans or chinos are a great option. Again depending on the occasion, you can wear your polo tucked in for a smarter look.
Is a suit without tie smart casual? ›
Is a suit without a tie business casual? Yes. This look is definitely business casual - it's just not as formal as wearing a tie, but by no means does it mean you can wear flip-flops and shorts. Business casual simply refers to the more laid back feel of the outfit.
What are the 6 types of casual attire? ›
- Active Casual. (page 12, Casual Power, for detailed photos)
- Rugged Casual. (page 13, Casual Power, for detailed photos)
- Sporty Casual. page 14-15, Casual Power, for detailed photos.
- Smart Casual. (page 16, Casual Power, for illustrations & photos)
- Dressy Casual. ...
- Business Casual.
There are three common levels of professional dress: Business professional, business casual and smart casual.
What are the 3 categories of dress in the workplace? ›
There are three common levels of professional dress: Business professional, business casual and smart casual.
How many style categories are there? ›
8 Types of Fashion Styles.
What are different classes of fashion? ›
Apparel manufacturers produced their fashion products into follow three main categories of fashion. Although these categories are may be split up into more specific. Fashion designers are mainly design their product with the help of these categories.
...
- Haute couture fashion: ...
- Ready-to-wear fashion: ...
- Mass market fashion:
Five Guys restaurant employees receive two red work shirts, an apron, and a hat with the company's logo. Employees must supply their own pants, which can be either black or blue jeans. They must also have a brown or black belt and black non-slip shoes.
Are chinos co*cktail attire? ›
As a general guide, 'co*cktail' means no jeans and no sneakers. You want dress chinos or suit pants, a button-up shirt or suit shirt, and probably a blazer or suit jacket. Ties are optional, but recommended, and your footwear should look sharp and polished.
What is after 6 attire? ›
For evening wear (after 6 p.m.), the code is black tie.
What are the three R's of fashion? ›
The 3 R's For The Fashion Savvy: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.
What is business casual for men? ›
What Counts As Business Casual For Men? For men, appropriate business casual attire is dress slacks or chinos, a button-down shirt, dark socks, and dress shoes. Avoid wearing polo shirts to an interview, even if they are acceptable for the job in question. Do not wear jeans or shorts.
What is the fashion rule of three? ›
So as you put future outfits together, think in terms of dividing the overall look into thirds rather than halves or quarters. There are lots of ways to do this, but basically, you want to look for a long and a shorter garment to put together instead of two items that are the same length.
What are the 16 different styles? ›
- ENFP. The Charismatic Stylist: ENFP. THE STYLE INSPIRER. ...
- INFJ. The Subtle Stylist: INFJ. THE STYLE ENIGMA. ...
- The Charming Stylist: ESFJ. THE STYLE ADVISER. ...
- INFP. The Eclectic Stylist: INFP. ...
- ENFJ. The Expressive Stylist: ENFJ. ...
- ISFP. The Charismatic Stylist: ISFP. ...
- ESFP. The Vivacious Stylist: ESFP. ...
- ISFJ. The Harmonious Stylist: ISFJ.
Learn about the major writing styles: narrative, descriptive, persuasive, expository, and creative, and read examples of each.
What are the 7 types of fashion? ›
There are seven (7) dressing styles:
- Classic.
- Relaxed.
- Dramatic.
- Creative.
- Rebellious.
- Feminine.
- Elegant Chic.
2022 Fashion Trend: Regencycore, Continued
Corsets, pearls, lady cardigans, and prim florals show no signs of a slow-down. Embrace this form of head-to-toe elegance for polished occasions like work or a party.
