Rosie: smart casual is like my specialty. I think you've got it downpat actually, this is my general guide.
You appear to have a summer complexion, your best options are cool light colours (though probably not too much pastels). Nothing too primary, with black or navy as a base. Very pale cream is better than white.
They key is mixing casual and smart elements in the same outfit (sounds obvious right).
- Cute
flats and sandals are essential. Have a simple black pair, and any other simple styles you think you can incorporate. Be careful with anything too open-toed, they tend to make your toes splay out and are less 'smart'.
- Make sure you have a dark base colour that suits you. Black, Navy or Brown. It's okay to have 2, i mix black and brown, as long as you know what clothes/outfits match what base colours.
- Fitted tops. I don't know what these are called. Blouses with
collars or a good [u=http://prologo.co.nz/catalog/images/t3402_worn.jpg]neckline[/u]. These look good and smart by themselves, but can be dressed up or down. 3/4 length tops (this is not everyone's thing) make for really good semi-casual. T-shirt sleeves or skinny straps looks more girly or informal. Thick straps and longsleeves look more seirous. Good fitted tops help your body look proportioned. Look at gathers, pleats, darts and lengths to see what kind of tops make your figure look best. Tops which just hang straight work for very few people.
-
Layering.
Sweaters,
cardigans and vests go with tops to soften the edges.
- The right jacket makes a huge difference. Peacoats are fancy, so are any of the long knitted ones. I like cropped bomber jackets myself. Anything fitted is better than a hoodie.
- Fitted Jeans and pants (duh). Pants that don't flare or are too long are best when wearing flats or boots. Straight, slim and bootcut.
- I'm determined that their is a skirt for everyone. You need the right length, the right cut etc, but it's out there somewhere. Skirts and stockings are a great combination as it keeps you warm enough and isn't too revealing if you don't feel like it.
Add interest: Colour highlights and accessories do wonders. They make an outfit pop. A few nice belts, necklaces and scarfs that you can pick up on your way out make your combination seem unique every day.
- Work outfits: Slim dark pants, fitted shirts and neat jackets will get you through most. The right skirts will really help mix things up. In my opinion the right shoes are stylish, but low heeled and closed-toed.
