Last updated: October 14, 2023

Wardrobe Must-Haves for Refining Smart Causal Looks

For those not looking to break the bank to fill their wardrobes, versatility is vital when building your style. With many people returning to the office, having pieces that can work equally well in an office setting and for an evening out with friends offers the most extensive selection from which to choose, regardless of the social occasion. 

Whether you are looking for a trendy way to style your New Balance NZ shoes or fresh inspiration for 2023, acquiring a few closest staples will refine your smart-casual wardrobe and take it to the next level. 

The Power Blazer

The perfect power blazer is an absolute must-have for any wardrobe. It adds a layer of sophistication to any look and can be transformed from the office boardroom to a night out with friends in moments. 

The versatility of this piece means it can pair spectacularly with dresses, pants, fitted jeans, and skirts. Opt for a dark neutral shade for most wear, as this will likely pair best with most of your established closest. 

Tailored Trousers

An often overlooked item of clothing is tailored trousers. While the exact style you choose to go for largely depends on your body shape, what feels most comfortable for you to wear and what matches your current style, you can never go wrong with a pair of well-fitting tailored pants. 

They match effortlessly with feminine button-down shirts, blouses, linen collared shirts, and the ever-essential blazer. A sexy pair of heels or comfortable loafers will tie this look together. 

Classic White Button-Down

The classic button-down shirt is the workhorse of the wardrobe, and no woman should be without at least one in her closet. They are ideal for formal and casual wear, come in various colours and materials, and pair beautifully with tailored pants or a chic pencil skirt. 

To go one step further, a crisp white button-down will offer even more versatility, if that is even possible, as it acts as a neutral base for any other piece of clothing you want to wear. So, although the risk of staining it is high, it will be worth the stylish reward. 

Loafers

Loafers are the perfect combination of style and comfort, offering a masculine edge to your outfit. They can work in both casual and formal settings and, as the ideal shoe should, can be worn with skirts, dresses, trousers and shorts. They are incredibly trendy and continue to remain a firm favourite to most. 

The Perfect A-Line Skirt

A-line skirts are a wonderful addition to your clothes rotation as they are very flattering for all body types. Their flowing, feminine appearance contrasts nicely with leather jackets or formal blazers while paired with a silk blouse, making you feel like a goddess. 

They are a fun way of injecting bold colours or patterns into an otherwise neutral pallet, becoming the star of the show. 

Printed Dress

Finding the perfect printed dress can sometimes feel like a challenge. If the pattern is too busy, it removes the garment’s formality and makes it harder to pair with other items. If the colours are too bright or bold, it doesn’t feel appropriate for the office. 

But simplifying the requirements to a smaller colour choice will help you feel more confident you are making the right decision. For example, Midi or wrap dresses that are more neutral in colour, with simple patterns and tailored necklines, will leave you feeling flirty and comfortable in any social setting. 

Silk Blouse

Silk garments carry an air of ultra-femininity and are ideal as a winter alternative to the standard cotton or linen blouse and button-down you don in summer. Like most smart-casual and formal clothes, dark colours with minimal patterns are favoured. 

Instead, look for a blouse with lace detailing and accents to create dimension to the piece without distracting from the overall look. 

Court Shoes

An outfit is never fully complete with the perfect pair of shoes. And while loafers are a superb option for this way of dressing, you may be inclined to embrace a more feminine side, away from the masculine energy loafers bring. 

In most office settings, stilettoes are either frowned upon or completely impractical. So while this option is suitable for social gatherings, opt for a sensible yet stylish pair of court heels for the office. Because they don’t carry the same heel height, your feet won’t be crying out by the end of the day. 

The Ideal Handbag

When going into the office daily, you will inevitably have a collection of things you need to take with you. From general handbag contents to notebooks, tablets and laptops, finding a handbag that is both decently sized and fashionable enough to use as a handbag is key. 

Because you will be using it so frequently, choose an option that is relatively neutral in colour to match the majority of clothes you wear. Dark colours will hides marks and scuffs better, as wear and tear is guaranteed with extended use. Leather or faux leather is an excellent material to choose from, thanks to its sturdiest and longevity.