Smart or casual? Staple items for every occasion

There are some items in your wardrobe that can spread themselves across a range of occasions – from everyday workwear to Saturdays spent in the beer garden and so it’s a good idea to have a couple of these pieces ready to go. Need an update on what you need? Check out the roundup below:

Cargo shorts

Cargo shorts are the ideal summer staple, perfect for travelling. With all of those pockets, you’ll never need a rucksack and everything is kept close – so your valuables stay safe. Bonus. Darker colours – think navy and grey – go with everything but you can’t go wrong with a basic plain t-shirt for easy travel style. They also double up as ideal dinner trousers when you’re out and about in a new city and want to nail that smart/casual vibe while exploring the nightlife without any baggage. Just swap the basic tee for a short-sleeved shirt. Check out shops such as Superdry if you don’t have any in the wardrobe.

Plain T-shirts

The plain, basic T-shirt works in both smart and casual situations – as its inoffensive style can be paired with everything from slim fit jeans for everyday looks to tailored trousers and a lightweight blazer for those moments when you need to make an impression. Pick up a few basic t-shirts in easy to style colours such as black, white and grey.

Dark jeans

Jeans have long since been associated with more casual style, but with more and more offices adopting smart/casual dress codes the line has started to blur when it comes to denim. To keep things smart, opt for a darker pair such as black or very dark blue, these can then be paired with everything from a dress shirt for the office to a hoodie and trainers for the weekend.

Bomber jacket

Nothing makes you feel more badass than a bomber jacket, especially if you pick up a style reminiscent of 80s mods with a military vibe and an orange lining and khaki exterior. But bombers are great for both smart and casual occasions, able to be thrown on over most outfits and just work as a good looking piece of outerwear.

Black or brown coloured suede bombers are the best when it comes to moving between smart and casual occasions, wear one over your printed t-shirt and joggers at the weekend when you’re chilling down the pub with mates or over a smart shirt and trousers when you have to travel to that client meeting.

Pull on jumper

A jumper, even in a jersey material, can work for both smart and casual outfits. Throw on with jeans and fashion trainers for an easy everyday look or wear over a shirt and with those dark jeans for easy office style. Look for a design with minimal fuss, preferably plain or with a small embroidered logo.

Ensure you have some of these staple pieces stocked in the wardrobe so you can mix and match and have something to wear for every occasion.

The editorial unit