new job, "smart casual" - what to wear!

cocokay

hi all, need some advice! i've worked in a company with a uniform for 4 yrs. i've always hated it as i love clothes. i know its handy sometimes but i hated feeling like a schoolgirl being told what to wear every day, they were always cheap and unflattering!
have just got a new job & asked what the office attire was - they said smart casual. i am a bit confused now. i mean is a suit too smart? and how casual is too casual! i love vintage stuff & styles like mad men etc but don't want to look like a dollybird if everyone else is in jeans (are jeans smart casual?!)
i guess i'm wondering, what is YOUR definition of smart casual - i obv know not to show too much leg or cleavage and not go bare legged but still want to look smart, like i'm taking the job seriously, and hold onto my own individual style as well?
any help appreciated

sambora

Hi
I would say a nice blouse with a pair of trousers or smart jeans. Nothing too baggy. I don't think skinny jeans would be the best option here.
Something along the lines of the first two in this photo ? Change the trousers for dark jeans or something?

pencilsharp

I really don't think jeans would be considered as smart casual, well I know where I work they are a big no, no!

Smart casual for me is trousers with a shirt/nice top or in the winter a dressy jumper. Or even a jumper dress.

Valentina

pencilsharp wrote: »

I really don't think jeans would be considered as smart casual, well I know where I work they are a big no, no!

Smart casual for me is trousers with a shirt/nice top or in the winter a dressy jumper. Or even a jumper dress.

Pencilsharp, where is that third top from? I really like it!

OP, have a look at the Next website, they have a 'smart casual' section which might give you some ideas.

CaliforniaDream

OP I have the exact same problem. I'm not too sure what to wear.
Also, I live in a hot city so I go from 40degrees to air-conditioned room so need to take that into account too.

I've got one or two things but would like a variety. Most things I see or think of are only suited to slimmer people. I'm a size 18 so have no idea what flatters.

lainey316

I always think the easiest thing to wear is dresses - getting a skirt/trousers and top to match can be a pain, I'll like one and not the other etc. Smart dress, little blazer or cardi (for cold/aircon) - job done.

Zara usually have loads but the sale means they're all over the place at the moment.

OP I'd probably play it on the safe side the first few days - smart trousers and a proper shirt for example - and see what other people are wearing.

pencilsharp

ThurstonWhore wrote: »

Pencilsharp, where is that third top from? I really like it!

OP, have a look at the Next website, they have a 'smart casual' section which might give you some ideas.

Its from Oasis! Considering buying it myself, its really nice!