Smart + Casual = Blended
As I am writing this we are in the middle of lockdown point 2. An albeit less restricted version than its counterpart point 1. Which for many means the office may now not be solely at home, but involves a full or half day in the actual office once or twice a week.
Which calls for a change of dress that doesn’t include sweatpants, but currently doesn’t warrant a suit and heels. This in-between look is often defined as ‘smart casual’. A way of dressing that was already trickling into many large companies and has accelerated since the advent of Covid-19. With many trend predictors (myself included ) predicting that a more relaxed way of office dressing is here to stay.
A Smart Casual Approach
So, how to create smart casual? Unlike traditional corporate wear it doesn't have one defining characteristic or a set of rules to follow, the aim is to look well put together, authentic and up to date. For some this means ultra fashionable, for others just a nod to fashion trends, neither one is right or wrong it’s all a matter of personal preference. The aim is for the eye to travel over the whole person and not catch on one focal point. The tricky bit is that it is different for every woman and varies from industry to industry. This is an individual look, but here are 4 style hacks to get you started.
A Relaxed Dress
A relaxed dress can look equally as smart and make you feel just as confident as its fitted corporate counterpart. If you are petite (under 5’’4”) go for a knee length version, if curvy add a belt to prevent you looking shapeless, add heels or for a more fashion forward look pair with knee length leather boots (with no hem and boot gap) creating a modern polished look. To casualise layer on your roll neck and finish off with a leather jacket or puffa style coat.
A Zoom Blouse
A phrase never uttered before 2020 and it’s entirely possible I am the only one that utters it! The said ‘Zoom Blouse’ is one that makes you stand apart from the crowd both on and offline. A blouse that looks great dressed up for the office and equally as stylish when worn with jeans for a walk in the park.
My made to order range AWS London.
A Stylish Versatile Bag
As someone who has practised blended working for years and frequently travelled abroad for work trips, you have to carry an awful lot and the need for a great bag is crucial. The Amza bag was created by 3 women who wanted to buy a stylish functional bag that could be used on work trips and when attending meetings at clients offices. They were unable to find anything that suited their needs, it reminded them of the frustration of having beautiful work clothes … with no pockets at all! Hence the creation of the Evora, perfect for blended working and when we can travel again. Amza Bags
Knitwear
A well fitting jumper like a soft roll neck can look chic, smart and casual depending on how you outfit it. Make sure if the style is slightly oversized that the fit across the shoulders isn’t, as shoulders are key to presenting a polished look. At home pair with knitted joggers and when off to meetings, layer on a smart coat, trousers and team it with some smart trainers or flats for a comfortably pulled together look.
If you would like to find out more about how to define your smart casual look or how to style any of the items mentioned back with your wardrobe, get in touch. No matter what the restrictions I have both in person and an online styling services to help with all your style requirements - online has been running since 2014 - with both guaranteeing great results.
Thank you for reading.
Lisa
