fashion

How to nail smart casual for work

WFH changed our attitude towards office dress codes forever. After two years of remote working, we’ve created our own routines and learned through trial and error how we work best. Our conclusion? Comfort is key however this doesn’t align with our return to work IRL. The solution? Smart casual dressing. Think of smart casual as give and take. If you’re contractually obliged to return to the office, do it on your terms; prioritising comfort and productivity whilst sticking to code. The general rule of thumb: if you wouldn’t turn your camera on while wearing it WFH, it’s not suitable for the office. Strike the perfect balance to avoid a stern email from HR and tick your to-do list off in style.

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First, assess how strict your workplace is. If casual Fridays weren’t a thing pre-pandemic perhaps don’t turn up in a tracksuit. Tread carefully by introducing more casual pieces with your smarts. Box fresh trainers instead of polished brogues, chinos instead of suit trousers, a black turtleneck instead of an Oxford shirt.

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More laidback office? Team drinks and open plan work spaces? Lucky you. You have more to play with than your corporate peers but you still need to find the appropriate balance. At work, if you’re going for a smart casual, make sure each piece is clean, ironed and steamed. We’re going for casual comfy not OOO slob. You want people to take you seriously so if your new uniform consists of jeans and a t-shirt they need to be pristine and on-trend.

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Still unsure? These top tips will make your early morning ‘what-to-wear’ panics a thing of the past.

Take 30 minutes to plan 3-4 staple outfits that you can reach for when that early morning alarm goes off.
Missing a key item? Allow yourself to invest in it to make your life easier. Remember these pieces usually last forever.
Look after your clothes! If you’re going down the smart casual route it’s important everything looks presentable. De-bobble, polish and steam because it makes all the difference.
Identify your staples, stock up and branch out. Build your own work capsule wardrobe and stick to what you know. Always wearing polo shirts? Buy in bulk and play with prints & colour palettes too.

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