Building an Elevated Smart Casual Wardrobe for Work and Weekends
I’m about to run a Style Workshop in Clapham, London (Sat 31st Jan) and asked all the attendees to email me ahead of the day to tell me what they struggle with the most when it comes to their wardrobes. I had the same response from almost everyone! The frustration of not knowing what to buy, how to mix pieces effectively, or how to style them for real life. As a London-based personal stylist, I've helped top professionals solve this with streamlined wardrobes that work overtime.
This guide delivers an informative roadmap to an elevated smart casual wardrobe – versatile for meetings, workshops, weekends, and everything in between. I've recorded a whole podcast episode diving deep into this topic on The Style Stories, my worldwide chart-topping podcast where we decode personal style for professionals everywhere
Tip 1: Accessories Elevate the Everyday
Accessories bridge the gap between basic and brilliant, especially when you're unsure how to layer a simple outfit.
Layer necklaces for subtle shine, stack rings and bangles for personality, and opt for cool oversized glasses (I adore bold 70s-inspired frames like cat-eye or aviators).
Choose stylish structured bags for function and flair.
Tie silk scarves elegantly over jumpers or tees – a quick trick that transforms neutrals into polished looks.
These additions clarify "what to buy" by focusing on versatile, high-impact items that mix with any base layer.
Tip 2: Master Silhouettes for Flattering Fit
Silhouettes dictate proportion, yet many struggle with outdated cuts or mismatched volumes. Prioritise modern styles to elongate and balance.
Select jeans and trousers in barrel leg or high-waisted wide leg cuts – current, leg-lengthening, and ideal for diverse body shapes like apple or long-waisted.
Balance outfits: fitted tops (e.g., sleek knits) with looser bottoms for an elongated silhouette.
Mixing Example: Fitted cream tee + high-waisted wide-leg trousers + stacked bangles creates instant harmony.
Tip 3: Build on Neutrals for Endless Combinations
Wardrobe overwhelm often stems from clashing colours. A neutral foundation simplifies buying and mixing.
Core palette: camel, charcoal, cream, navy – mostly neutrals unless you're a committed maximalist.
Head-to-toe tonal dressing streamlines your look for chic cohesion.
Shopping List: 70% neutrals ensure every piece works together, reducing "I have nothing to wear" moments.
Tip 4: Invest in Strong Separates as Anchors
People often buy trendy singles without anchors, leading to disjointed closets. Strong separates form the backbone.
Essentials: tailored blazer, high-rise jeans, trench coat, wool coat.
Jackets create outfits – layer over any combo for structure and polish.
How to Wear: Blazer + jeans + silk scarf for work; add trench for weekend errands. These multiply options from a small capsule.
Tip 5: Prioritise Shoes for Polish
Shoes ground an outfit, but dated pairings (like floral dresses with trainers) undermine smart casual. Update thoughtfully.
Current picks: ballet flats, Mary Janes, faux pony skin loafers, sleek loafers – all comfy and versatile.
Swap for structure over sporty to elevate.
Styling Note: Wide-leg trousers + faux pony loafers + neutral tonal top = work-ready weekend winner.
Trend Insight: Dark Academia for Timeless Edge
Drawing from Miu Miu, Prada, and Chanel runways, dark academia adds scholarly sophistication to smart casual.
Key elements: pleated midi skirts, argyle knits, layered knitted tanks, oversized glasses.
Palette: chocolate browns, tweeds, leather accents.
Integration: Pleated skirt + argyle vest + loafers + blazer – perfect for workshops or casual Fridays.
This guide equips you with a clear "buy this, mix like this" formula. Start with 10-12 neutrals and separates, then layer accessories and trends. For personalised audits or workshops, visit lisagillbestyle.com. Your elevated wardrobe awaits!
Massimo Dutti Loafers
Lowewe Olive puzzle bag - lots of cheaper olive bags on the highstreet
A few ideas here to create a smart/casual, elevated and polished wardrobe. I have more ideas to share around how to get a polished wardrobe on the podcast episode that goes with this blog - listen here or anywhere you get your podcast THE STYLE STORIES PODCAST
Lisa Gillbe is a Personal Stylist In London UK. She curates modern, stylish wardorbes for busy professional women. Get in touch here if you’d like to book a service or find out more. We provide wardorbe edits and personal shopping services.