‘Smart Casual’ Is the New Office Dress Code — These Brunch-to-Boardroom Picks Nail It

You’ve heard of business casual, but smart casual is quickly replacing the traditional 9-to-5 uniform. In fact, it’s becoming it. Smart casual style is all about crisp, stylish pieces that work just as hard at dinner as they do in the boardroom, much different from the stiff and boring officewear we’re used to.

You still can’t go wrong with a button-up shirt and pants, but these chic picks infuse personality into your wardrobe. Think tailored trousers with a simple tee, clean sneakers with a midi dress and even yoga pants with a blazer. These blouses, pants, shoes and more make the new office formula fail-proof.

15 Smart Casual Pieces for the Office

Smart Casual Pants

1. Our Favorite: These straight-leg yoga trousers drape like real slacks, but the stretchy waistband and pockets give them legging-like comfort.

2. Runner Up: If structured pants feel too stuffy, these flowy chiffon trousers serve polish without the sweat. The tie waist also means you can adjust the fit after lunch.

3. Total Classic: High-waist palazzo pants quietly elevate any blouse you own. These flowy wonders include real pockets, which are rarer than they should be.

Smart Casual Blouses

4. Our Favorite: Plain cotton button-ups are so last decade! Swap in this silky satin blouse for the same tailored shape with a softer drape and subtle sheen.

5. Runner Up: Kate Middleton put pussy-bow blouses back on the map, and this pink top owns the look. Darling petal sleeves are just a bonus.

6. Boutique Find: Crisp puff sleeves and a light blue hue give this classy V-neck number a boutique feel. The sharp fabric holds its shape through a full workday.

7. Everywhere Top: When you need one blouse that handles interviews, presentations and client dinners, this elegant short-sleeve does all three, effortlessly.

Smart Casual Cardigans and Blazers

8. Our Favorite: Over-air-conditioned conference rooms are no match for this cozy cardigan. It layers over any blouse and makes your outfit instantly refined.

9. Runner Up: Boxy blazers can swallow your frame. This tailored-looking pick features a slim fit and padded shoulders to create a sleek silhouette. We adore the fun color options.

Smart Casual Shoes

10. Our Favorite: Slide on these pointed nude mules with cropped trousers for the office, then keep them on for after-work drinks. They have confidence built in.

11. Runner Up: Rich leather and a cute tassel give these Cole Haan Vanya flats a timeless appeal. They’re a capsule staple that outlasts any trend.

12. Celeb Style: ICYMI, Katie Holmes made Mary Janes cool again. These brown Mary Janes capture the look with square toes, adjustable straps and padded insoles for real comfort.

13. Midday Walk: White canvas fabric keeps these sporty sneakers on the professional side of casual. The clean lines read ‘CEO.’

Smart Casual Dresses

14. Our Favorite: A polka-dot print, flowy fabric and wrap silhouette make this bohemian midi dress flattering for every shape. The longer length keeps it office-appropriate.

15. Runner Up: One-piece dressing on hot days beats fussing with separates. This put-together midi dress gives you the ease of a tee with the sophistication of a skirt, no outfit planning required.