Office
Aug 27, 2023

The Official Guide to a Smart-Casual Dress Code

by Dale Arden Chong

Whether you work in a creative office, a brand-new startup, or somewhere in between, there are a lot of casual work environments these days. Combine that to the elusive definition of a smart-casual dress code and you probably find yourself at a loss as to what to wear to work.

Dressing for the office—no matter what type of environment you’re in—can be tricky. From finding out what types of tops are HR-approved to decoding what casual Friday entails for your office, there are a lot of things to consider. And when you work in a place that has a vague dress code, the task can feel even more overwhelming. Not to worry—that’s where we come in. To make sure you’re dressing the part for an office with a smart-casual dress code, we asked stylist Britt Theodora for her expertise.

“A smart-casual dress code is an elevation of your ideal day-to-day wardrobe,” she explains. “To turn a go-to jeans-and–T-shirt ensemble into business casual, throw on a black blazer and non-ripped jeans with ballet flats.” Theodora’s other favorite pieces for a smart-casual look involve high-waisted cigarette pants with white button-downs and a comfortable pointed heel. And when in doubt, avoid wearing anything too revealing, such as plunging necklines and short skirts or dresses.

Now, scroll down to shop for your smart-casual dress code below.

H&M Single-Breasted Jacket

Single-Breasted Jacket

The tailored bodice of this will feel so flattering on you.

Frame Double-Breasted Wool Blazer

Double-Breasted Wool Blazer

A double-breasted blazer always feels so chic.

The Reformation The Classic Relaxed Blazer

The Reformation

The Classic Relaxed Blazer

You'll fall in love with this classic blazer.

Zara Blazer With Rolled-Up Sleeves

Blazer With Rolled-Up Sleeves

If you want a more casual option, this style comes with the look of rolled sleeves.

Vince High Waist Cigarette Pants

High Waist Cigarette Pants

Wear these with pointed mules and a chic anklet.

Off-White Houndstooth Wool Slim-Leg Pants

Houndstooth Wool Slim-Leg Pants

Swap out your classic black trousers for these checked pants, and pair them with a denim shirt.

Mango Straight Suit Pants

Straight Suit Pants

These are definitely not your everyday trousers.

Veronica Beard Slim Cigarette Pants

Slim Cigarette Pants

To give yourself the illusion of longer legs, opt for pointy-toe pumps.

H&M Ballet Flats

Ballet flats are having such a moment right now.

Jeffrey Campbell Ankle Strap Flats

Jeffrey Campbell

Ankle Strap Flats

The added ankle strap is doing it for me.

Sam Edelman Colin Loafers

These loafers will be your best friends come fall.

Jil Sander Two-Tone Leather Ballet Flats

Two-Tone Leather Ballet Flats

These are definitely not your everyday flats.

The Reformation Wilda Kitten Mule

The Reformation

Wilda Kitten Mule

Trust us, you'll be able to stand all day in these.

Everlane The Editor Heel

The Editor Heel

A classic pump with a kitten heel will be one of the more comfortable shoe options for the office.

The Reformation Whitnee Slingback Heels

The Reformation

Whitnee Slingback Heels

You'll be surprised how comfortable these are.

M.Gemi The Catalina

Whether you wear these with a pair of jeans or a midi skirt, these mules will instantly elevate your ensemble.

Madewell The Perfect Vintage Straight Leg Jeans

The Perfect Vintage Straight Leg Jeans

Black jeans will feel a touch more polished than your everyday blues.

Agolde Riley High Waist Ankle Straight Leg Jeans

Riley High Waist Ankle Straight Leg Jeans

Pair these with strappy sandals or heels for a more polished approach.

Violeta Slim-Fit Valentin Jeans

Slim-Fit Valentin Jeans

Complement your white jeans with a chic black blazer when you need an instant touch of professionalism.

Mother High Rise Looker Ankle Jeans

High Rise Looker Ankle Jeans

Skinny jeans will always be a staple in your closet, guaranteed.