All the tricks to combine formal and casual in menswear
In the world of menswear, there's often a clear divide between formal and casual wear. However, with the rise of smart casual dress codes and a more relaxed approach to fashion, it's becoming increasingly common to mix and match formal and casual pieces in a single outfit. In this article, we'll share some tips and tricks for combining formal and casual wear in menswear.
- Balance Formal and Casual Elements
When combining formal and casual elements in an outfit, it's important to strike the right balance. This means avoiding outfits that are too casual or too formal, and instead creating a cohesive look that blends the two styles.
One way to achieve this is to pair casual pieces with more formal items. For example, you could wear a blazer with jeans or chinos, or pair a dress shirt with sneakers. This creates a sense of contrast that's both stylish and sophisticated.
- Consider Your Environment
When deciding how to combine formal and casual wear, it's important to consider the environment you'll be in. Some occasions may call for a more formal look, while others may be more relaxed.
For example, if you're attending a business meeting, you may want to wear a suit and tie with dress shoes. However, if you're going out for drinks with friends, you may be able to get away with a more casual outfit that includes a dress shirt and sneakers.
- Experiment with Color
Color can be a powerful tool when it comes to combining formal and casual wear. Experimenting with different colors and shades can help you create unique and interesting outfits that blend formal and casual elements.
One way to do this is to pair more formal pieces in neutral colors like black, grey, and navy with more casual pieces in brighter colors or patterns. For example, you could wear a navy blazer with a patterned dress shirt.
- Invest in Versatile Pieces
Investing in versatile pieces is key to combining formal and casual wear. Look for pieces that can be dressed up or down, and that can be worn in a variety of different settings.
Some great versatile pieces to consider include a classic blazer, a well-fitting pair of jeans, and a stylish pair of dress shoes. These pieces can be paired with a variety of different items to create different looks and styles.
- Mix and Match Fabrics
Mixing and matching fabrics is another way to combine formal and casual wear. Look for pieces that are made from different materials and textures, and experiment with pairing them together.
For example, you could pair a wool blazer with a cotton shirt, or wear a suede jacket with a pair of denim jeans. This creates a sense of contrast that's both interesting and stylish.
- Experiment with Layering
Layering is another great way to combine formal and casual wear. This involves wearing multiple layers of clothing, such as a shirt, sweater, and jacket.
Layering can help you create a more interesting and dynamic outfit, while also allowing you to mix and match formal and casual pieces. For example, you could wear a dress shirt with a sweater and a blazer, or pair a t-shirt with a denim jacket and a wool coat.
- Pay Attention to Fit
When combining formal and casual wear, it's important to pay attention to fit. Make sure your clothes fit properly and flatter your body shape, as this will help create a more polished and sophisticated look.
If you're wearing a more formal piece, such as a suit or blazer, make sure it's well-tailored and fits you properly. Similarly, if you're wearing a more casual piece, such as a t-shirt or hoodie, make sure it's not too loose or baggy.
Our personal stylist here at ESTIME will be here to help you create this look.