It can be hard to get the balance right between casual and fashionable without looking dated or childlike. Here are some top tips on fashionable casual clothing and how to make the right statement while wearing them.
Denim
Denim has been around forever and there is little chance it will slide off the radar anytime soon. Denim looks casual but it can be dressed up for smarter occasions. Wear jeans that fit you properly and do not pool around the backside or ankles if you want to be taken seriously. Darker colors and straight lines are this year's must-haves. Team with a simple t-shirt for a casual look or opt for a polo shirt with a collar if you want to look smarter. Double denim looks good on nobody so never commit this fashion faux pas.
Chinos
Chinos are casual but still look smart. They will give you style options as wearing them instead of jeans will change the look of your whole outfit. Casual or grey are great neutral colors for chinos, and they go with everything. They look a little smarter than jeans, so they are great for drinks at your boss's house or a first date.
Footwear
You might not think that anyone notices what you wear on your feet while you are running around in beat-up old trainers, but footwear is important. Women tend to notice footwear more than men so if you want to dress to impress, start from the feet and work upwards. Wear a pair of brown leather shoes and you will immediately look sharper.
T-Shirts
Slogan t-shirts are yesterday's news. Sure, they may be funny, but nobody ever takes the wearer of them seriously. To look your best in a casual t-shirt, opt for plain subdued colors or stripes. These will go well with everything and you won't be running the risk of insulting someone you might have wanted to impress.
Hoodies
Hoodies are both fashionable and comfortable. The versatile Mexican hoodie can be worn everywhere from an evening at the beach, a weekend festival or a casual first date. For the best look, choose subdued colors such as maroon or navy entwined with black. These colors work well together and will complement the pattern nicely.
Knitwear
Knitwear is still one of the best ways to stay warm in the winter while still looking fashionable. You can rock the casual look and can be dressed up or down. Choose a style with a collar if you want to impress or a round collar for a more casual look. High-necked knitwear is fashionable this year too and it will certainly keep you warm.
Jackets
A jacket is the part of your wardrobe that makes the first impression, so it is important to get this right. Go for quality and well-cut outerwear. A blazer teamed with jeans is a great way to say that you still mean business although you are dressed casually. A well-made woolen or cashmere coat makes a bold statement in the winter. Go for soft grey as this will hide any marks caused by the weather and it will go with anything. Avoid leather or denim jackets if you want to be taken seriously.
Accessorize
A leather-strapped wristwatch can make a good signature statement, again opt for as much quality as you can afford as you can be sure that your watch will be noticed by others.
The casual but fashionable look is always going to be a good style option. Follow these tips to make sure you get it right.