STYLING

MASTER SMART-CASUAL STYLE WITH THESE 4 TIPS

By Ayis Stephen-Diver, 23 March 2026

Still trying to sort out your outfit for the next RSVP? While we love spring for bringing some blue back into the sky, it can be a tough season to style. You can’t rely on layers to conceal an under-considered outfit because you'll risk overheating. But you also can’t go full summer mode as any outdoor plans could be ruined by unpredictable British weather. So what’s the solution to those spring sartorial dilemmas? Smart-casual menswear.

Picture: Getty

You’re probably already familiar with this dress code. It’s a synthesis of everyday and elevated pieces, resulting in a high-low look that suits basically every occasion. What you may not be so familiar with is how to pull it off. With help from Styling Manager Will Johns, we’ve come up with 4 tips that'll improve your smart-casual statements. Take notes on everything from men’s smart clothing to loafers – and enjoy a seasonal style boost.

Jacob Elordi always gets it right.

#1: SHIRTS ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND

Not all smart-casual outfits include shirts – Jacob Elordi has myriad tees and sweatshirts in his smart-casual wardrobe. But shirts are simply the most efficient top half there is. Take Will’s advice when it comes to transitioning your Oxfords or button-downs from work to play: ‘Dial shirts down for everyday wear by taking a high-low approach. Mix them with relaxed staples like oversized silhouettes, hoodies, quarter-zips or even full tracksuits layered over the top, and let collars and cuffs peek out from underneath.’ Don’t be traditional with your choice of shirt, either. Spring offers ample opportunity for experimentation, so have fun with pinstripe, floral and pastel variants.

GET THE LOOK:
Bershka Wide-leg cargo bermuda shorts in black, £29.99
Tommy Hilfiger chunky knit cardigan in beige, £160
Jack & Jones Shirt in seagrass, £30
Vans Lawson striped shirt in light blue, £52

#2: POLOS NEVER MISS

The 20s is doing what it does best – evolving trends of the past. That's why polo shirts are leaving old-money, Hamptons territory and being adopted by pub-goers, footie fans and the grungey subcultures alike. All you need to do is swap the khakis for denim or oversized trousers. ‘Add casual touches like caps, vintage-wash denim or knitwear draped over the shoulders to keep the look effortless,’ says Will.

GET THE LOOK:
Polo Ralph Lauren icon logo baseball cap in beige, £60
Levi's 565 loose straight jeans in yellow tint vintage wash, £60
Polo Ralph Lauren icon logo block stripe rugby polo, £185
ASOS DESIGN relaxed knitted polo with ceu studios embroidery, £26

#3: RELAX YOUR SUITING

But when the shirts and polos don’t match the dress code, what do you do? Easy: you wear a suit. Over the decades, designers have dropped shoulders, enlarged proportions and constructed suits of every colour – and these relaxed suits are perfect for any spring RSVP. Got a beach wedding coming up? We raise you a weather-appropriate short suit. Date night? Black can feel a bit too polished, so a neutral suit is a more relaxed pick. And while we’ve been banging on about shirts, T-shirts are better for nailing that smart-casual balance.

GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN smart co-ords oversized bermuda shorts, £30
ASOS DESIGN barrel suit trousers in olive green twill, £35
adidas Originals Samba OG trainers in white, £95
New Look regular t-shirt in white, £10

#4: LOAFERS GO WITH EVERYTHING

Pictures: ASOS

From classic penny pairs to chunky ones, loafers are a forever footwear staple. If you need proof of how they instantly elevate an outfit, look no further than David Jonsson or Harry Styles – men who understand that these shoes go with everything. Plus, they’re season-proof. If you’ve established this spring as the season you get your wardrobe in check, then this is your sign to secure a pair for all your future smart-casual plans.

GET THE LOOK:
Tommy Hilfiger tassel loafer in black, £150
Dickies fort smith canvas baggy trousers in light beige, £75
Tommy Hilfiger jumper in navy, £140
SEQWL Hero rouched loafer in matt black PU, £25