Smart casual is a famously vague dress code but for most instances it usually means a polished, relaxed and intentional outfit. Smart casual sits comfortably between formal and casual on the fashion spectrum, more refined than a t-shirt and jeans but less structured than a full suit. For the bigger man this can be an absolute nightmare but fear not, we've got you covered. A good formula to follow is : 

Nice Top + Clean bottoms + Proper shoes = The perfect smart casual outfit 

Working our way from the bottom up, a good smart casual outfit can hinge on your choice of footwear. Shoes can either elevate or undo your entire outfit. For smart casual so good examples would be : 

• Loafers 

• Brogues 

• Chelsea boots 

These 3 options are perfect for any smart casual outfit, adding a touch of elegance while not overpowering your outfit with a formal tone. They offer comfort without sacrificing on style. 

Next moving onto the trousers. Trousers is a tricky one as the fit is what will determine a smart casual outfit from a completely casual outfit. Leave the baggy or distressed style for casual events, instead opt for something like : 

• Fitted Chinos (Navy, Beige or Olive)

• Tailored Trousers 

• Dark, Well-fitted denim (Must have no rips or fading)

With trousers for a smart casual outfit, the fit matters more than the material. A tailored option is always going to look smarter than a baggy option regardless of the style of trousers worn. A tailored fit is the only one for a smart casual outfit. Most companies now supply both tailored trousers and chinos in a stretch fabric. For the big man is is an absolute game changer ! Allowing for stylish, fitted outfits at no cost to comfort. It's the best of both worlds. 

Finally onto the shirt. The shirt is another large component into making a successful smart casual outfit. When picking a shirt to go with a smart casual outfit, it’s always better to go for subtle elegance than extravagance. These options are not only stylish but also versatile : 

• Button-downs (Plain oxfords or with very subtle pattern)

• Polo Shirts (Again tailored is always smarter)

• Fine-gauge knitwear (these can be worn over a shirt or on their own)

• Casual blazer/Sport coat (These add a sharper finish to your outfit)

Some prefer to replace the blazer/sport coat with an overcoat for winter events but both would work well with any outfit. As stated before, the fit is what matters. Your shirt should be tailored, not tight and not baggy. A well tailored shirt will see you through every event, be it casual or more formal. They excel at being dressed up and dressed down, a good versatile piece for any wardrobe. Now for the larger man hearing the word 'tailored' sends alarm bells ringing. Before tailored basically meant 'slim fit' but in recent years however tailored has gone back to being just that. A tailored shirt gives your outfit more of a silhouette without becoming skin tight and uncomfortable. Any tailored shirt is a must have for the bigger gentleman as it provides effortless style with a comfortable fit.  

There are garments that should be avoided at all costs when it comes to smart casual. The following items, while may look good in a more casual setting, aren’t recommended when trying to create a smart casual look : 

• Graphic T-Shirts 

• Shorts

• Flip Flops or running shoes 

• Ripped or baggy jeans 

Final style tip for creating a smart casual outfit. If you're unsure, it’s always better to lean more towards the formal side of things than the casual. Smart casual doesn’t need to be complicated but it does need to be considered.