With the more relaxed dress code for many offices these days getting ready for work requires a bit more thought if you still want to make a good impression. The way you dress subconsciously tells the world who you are, what your values are, your personality and your intentions. People make a decision about us within seconds of meeting us and in a work situation what we wear can determine how well we are perceived to be able to do the job. For example a sloppily put together outfit which is ill fitting and worn with scuffed shoes could convey laziness, being disorganised and not really caring about your job.

However someone looking smart, clean and well groomed shows you have put effort into getting ready because you care enough to want to make a good impression. It can also show how organised and confident you are.

Perhaps the best way to start explaining how to wear smart casual in an office environment is to say what not to wear. (This article is focused on city type environments rather than media which is more relaxed and creative so what you can wear is far more flexible.) The key things to avoid are denim, leather, sportswear, i.e. track suits and trainers, T-Shirts with slogans and mixing suit jackets with different trousers.


An ideal capsule wardrobe if you don't have to wear a suit very often would be 2 suits, (you can buy suits that are designed for a more relaxed look but it's also good to have at least one really smart suit just incase it's needed one day), 2 single breasted jackets or blazers and 3 pairs of smart trousers. Then at least 5 shirts so you can wear a different one each day and perhaps a couple of jumpers that can be worn over a fitted t-shirt or shirt. Fine wool 3 buttoned polo shirts can also make a good alternative to shirts. Avoid matching the colour of the jackets with the trousers, go for a contrast between light and dark.

In regards to what shirts are good to wear, the brighter the colour, wider the patterns and thicker the fabric the more casual it is perceived to be so in a smart casual office it is ok to wear colourful shirts with bolder stripes and checks. Classic white and pale blue ones are more formal. Never wear a shirt untucked though or wear a loosened tie with an unbuttoned shirt, it will just make you look stressed! Also if you wear a t-shirt under a shirt in the winter make sure it's a plain white one, it just looks unprofessional wearing one with slogans underneath that you can see through to.

Proper fit is essential. Always ensure you buy the correct size shirt, a baggy shirt billowing out over trousers just looks messy. A jacket must fit perfectly across the shoulders, too tight and it will crease across your back and being too big will create folds of spare material. Trousers should only break once on the top of the shoes any more and they just look way too long for you. Clean ironed clothes are a must, you don't want people to think you have just stayed out all night! Also ensure you are well groomed i.e. clean shaven and neat hair.

Lastly always wear polished shoes in a good condition. Scruffy, chunky shoes just give the impression of a little lost school boy, hardly the impression you want to convey! Shoes without laces are appropriate as they are not as smart as formal Oxford toe cap and brogue lace ups.