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Features of casual style for men: basic principles and directions. Casual style in men's clothing: modern urban fashion Stylish casual clothing for men over 40 years old

Casual clothing style for men: basic wardrobe

Casual clothing usually revolves around a set of basics and classic essentials that form the building blocks of your personal style.

From casual trousers like well-fitted jeans or chinos, to casual button-downs and trainers, we've rounded up the pieces below that you can mix and match to maximize your wardrobe's potential.

1. Jeans


A staple of everyday wear since the 1950s, quality slim fit jeans in dark tones will help you dress up a little. And for a more relaxed, “informal” look, Athletic Fit models are suitable - a loose fit with a slight taper at the bottom in lighter colors.

Whatever model you end up choosing, denim is always a fail-safe casual item that can be used as a base for a variety of looks.


2. Casual T-shirts


T-shirts are an integral part of the basic wardrobe of any modern person. A plain T-shirt is an extremely versatile item that can be easily combined with other wardrobe items. Make it a rule to give preference to simple but high-quality T-shirts. To be "casual", choose classic cotton T-shirts with a round neck and basic colors. White, navy, black and gray are good starting points.

You can also revive your casual outfit a couple of T-shirts with bold patterns or designs, but always go for one that fits your body - let it hug your body without looking like a second skin.


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3. Polo shirts


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One level more formal than a T-shirt, the polo shirt is another essential piece to add to your spring and summer wardrobe. This piece of clothing doesn't have to be designer or premium, but just like a T-shirt, it should fit well.


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4. Casual shirts


Casual shirts with long or short sleeves necessary when you want to look a little tougher. For a more relaxed look, just unbutton it and roll up the cuffs.

Start assembling your wardrobe with shirts in primary colors. A white classic shirt is an absolute must-have. By the way, it is also suitable for the buisness casual style, especially if your company has introduced a dress code for men not with certain colors, but simply with “business” clothes.


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5. Cotton trousers


However, don't limit yourself to just sneakers. There are many other options for casual shoes, such as boat shoes, loafers and moccasins (by the way, we are talking about them too

Accessories are ideal for adding a touch of personality to your everyday outfit and enhancing your look. You can remain casual and at the same time use accessories that will harmonize with all other elements or, vice versa, become a bright accent that creates your own unique style.

The main thing is not to overdo it, so that the accessories you choose - be it a premium watch or a belt - do not stand out too much from the overall picture and do not look like alien elements.

5 casual style tips to look as cool as possible


1. Define your goals

This will form the basis of your style. Do you want to create an atmosphere of self-confidence? Want to show that you care about the occasion and dress accordingly? Or does comfort come first for you? By answering these questions for yourself, it will be easier for you to select specific items of clothing that suit your chosen purpose.

2. Don’t skimp on things that last.

Some items in your wardrobe won't last beyond the season, so don't spend too much on them. But others will stay with you for many years. This applies, for example, to a premium bomber jacket, high-end sneakers or a luxury watch. Decide which pieces of your wardrobe you want to use for several years and invest in quality rather than quantity.

3. Start with the basics

When you're building your wardrobe, start with neutral colors such as black, white, navy, brown and grey. They are easy to mix and match and will never go out of style.

4. Personalize your look with one or two items

Once you've got the base together, you can add personality to your look by playing with luxurious fabrics like silk or cashmere and bolder colors for accessories like a belt, socks or scarf.

5. Always look for the perfect size.

There is nothing sadder than seeing a person who seems to be carrying things from someone else's shoulder. If your clothes are too tight and uncomfortable or baggy and too loose, then all your attempts to look stylish are doomed to failure.

Now the English phrase “smart casual” can be seen and heard everywhere: in glossy magazines, on TV screens, from reviews of fashion bloggers, in various articles on the Internet, etc. So what is this style? How much do you really know about him? Let's look at what smart casual is, as well as its history, features and advantages.

What is smart casual?

Translating the expression “smart-casual” into Russian is not as easy as it might seem at first glance. All kinds of dictionaries indicate different meanings of this phrase. The most accurate and well-established definition is “smart-casual.” The Oxford Dictionary states that smart casual is a casual and neat, but slightly informal style. In principle, this definition characterizes smart casual well. After all, it combines things in a strict classic style with fashionable and everyday wardrobe items.

History of appearance

The exact origin of the expression “smart casual” is quite difficult to trace. Many sources claim that this term became established in the 1980s, but was widespread throughout the 20th century. The phrase “smart casual” first appeared in an American newspaper in 1924, and it described a sleeveless dress. But only in the 50s of the last century did this term become popular among business people and office employees, first in the USA, and only then in Europe. Back then, going smart casual was as easy as swapping out your classic blazer for a more casual cotton one.

What is smart casual today?

Nowadays, there are much more demands placed on smart casual than in the last century. The main thing is to correctly combine formal business and casual styles in one look. Of course, you can't wear a jacket with sports trousers for training and go to work like this. It is important to maintain a balance between formal and casual wear. To create a harmonious image, the first thing you need to take as a basis is elegance. Only then do you need to dilute the onion casual clothes. To make it clearer, let's give a few examples.

Examples of smart casual style

Smart casual wear typically uses a blazer or jacket as the top. It is best to wear a shirt underneath. Moreover, both a single-color version and striped or checkered models are suitable. To add a touch of chic, choose a pocket square in the exact same color as your shirt. It can be neatly folded into your jacket pocket. A tie is optional in this case. If it is not there, then it is advisable to unbutton the top button of the shirt. And if you still want to wear a tie, then give preference to thin or knitted models. You can complement it with a colored clip.

By the way, you can wear not only a shirt, but also a T-shirt under a jacket or blazer. However, remember that the color should match the accessories that you have chosen to create your look. The ideal T-shirt for smart casual style is a plain model with a not very large neckline.

As for trousers, stylists recommend avoiding classic options in this case. No clear lines or even arrows! Chinos and khakis are perfect. Jeans can also be worn in a smart casual style. The main thing is that they are not too provocative decorative elements. Therefore, choose more modest models.

Cropped trousers can also be worn in smart casual style. But keep in mind that these should not be beach shorts. The most suitable option is shortened chinos without stripes, ropes or other decorative elements.

There is a strict requirement for smart casual shoes: they must be exclusively classic. You can choose anything: oxfords, monks, loafers, brogues, but not sneakers! And don’t focus only on black shoes, otherwise you will look like an ordinary office worker. Be sure to experiment with color schemes!

Why is smart casual so popular?

Smart casual is one of the most favorite clothing styles among men. He is preferred by representatives of the stronger sex of different ages and all kinds of professions. It is perfect not only for office workers, but also for creative individuals. Smart casual is chosen by active, business-minded and confident men who want to look perfect in any situation. Even Hollywood stars and famous designers do not ignore this interesting style.

But why is smart casual so popular among men? It's simple! Firstly, this style is very convenient because it does not require a tie, buttoned shirts or dress pants with arrows. Therefore, when choosing smart casual, you will feel free and comfortable in your clothes.

Secondly, the smart casual style can rightfully be called universal. It is great for office work, visiting various events, where there is no strict dress code, going on a date and just for everyday wear. Thirdly, smart casual does not have too strict boundaries, such as, for example, business style. Therefore, it allows men to experiment when creating an image. And most importantly, smart casual always looks relevant and sophisticated, despite the constantly changing fashion trends.

Translated from English, the term “Casual” (read as “casual”) means an everyday style of clothing or casual style. The main idea of ​​casual is to choose comfortable, practical and versatile clothes that do not fit the strict rules of formal wear and strict dress codes.

It’s safe to say that it’s a rare man who doesn’t have jeans, T-shirts, sweatshirts, sneakers, leather jackets, and so on in his wardrobe. The combination of all this is casual style, including the use of different clothing manufacturers and fashion trends in one look.


The history of casual style begins in the European city of Aberdeen, Scotland. Fans of the local football club founded the “Aberdeen Soccer Casuals” movement, where the distinctive feature was wearing a certain brand of clothing and the absence of any stripes or paraphernalia on clothing. It was sport that became the catalyst for the growth in popularity of casual style, especially at the end of the 20th century.

There are two main types of dress code: and, however, the division is arbitrary and the boundaries are quite blurred.

What is casual style

As with any style, one of the important requirements for casual clothing is the correct size. Whichever good clothes It wasn’t, if it doesn’t suit your figure, then consider it a waste of money. Very often, models from one or another clothing manufacturer may not suit you in style, fit, or anything else. This is fine. The main thing is to find clothes that fit you well, and then carefully select wardrobe items according to your figure.

What to wear on top?

T-shirt

Casual style cannot be imagined without a T-shirt. During the warmer months, it is best to wear a T-shirt with short sleeves that end in the middle of the biceps. The shape of the T-shirt should fit moderately around your torso, with the bottom ending at waist level, just below your waist.

The T-shirt is worn with jeans, boots or sneakers. For a change, try layering a cotton blazer on top with chinos. The t-shirt can be any color, however, I recommend having a white, grey, black and dark blue t-shirt in your wardrobe.

Shirt

A casual shirt is characterized by a variety of colors and patterns of the fabric from which it is made. Often the shirt is not tucked in, but hangs over jeans or other pants. When choosing the color of a shirt, be guided, again, by the ability to combine it with other wardrobe elements. Universal colors: white, blue, burgundy, black, gray. However, it’s still worth having a couple of color options to diversify your wardrobe.

A casual shirt, like a shirt under a suit, should be suitable in collar width and sleeve length. The easiest option is to put on a shirt and try to stick 2 fingers between your neck and collar. When turning your head, the collar should remain in place.

Polo T-shirt

The Polo shirt with short sleeves and a soft collar has proven itself well among people who prefer a casual style of clothing. It is best to have several different colored polo shirts, such as white, black, purple, orange. You should not buy a polo with large patterns on the back or chest, unless it is corporate wear. By the way, I recommend reading about it on our website.

Sweatshirt

A sweatshirt with a hood and a symbol on the back moved into a casual style from the world of sports, where athletes wore it over their T-shirts outside the sports field. The sweatshirt will fit with jeans, sneakers, and a T-shirt, but most likely will not fit with chinos and a shirt. Therefore, you should choose the right sweatshirt for your wardrobe so as not to limit yourself too much in choosing other wardrobe items.

Sweatshirts can be any color, but the best option is not a plain one, but a colored one with an unusual pattern on the back or chest to diversify your wardrobe.

Knitwear

During the cold season, a good sweater helps keep you warm. There are a huge number of models, varieties of materials and colors of sweaters, which we reviewed in the article. I will mention just a few points:

The most formal look is made by thin sweaters with round and V-shaped collars without buttons or zippers. These models can be worn over a shirt or T-shirt. Thicker knit sweaters have a more casual, casual look.

Casual jacket

When choosing a casual jacket, you should be guided by the same principles as when buying a business suit. The jacket should fit well into the shoulders, the sleeves should be slightly shorter than the sleeves of the shirt. The length of the jacket should be at the level thumb, if you put your hand down. For a casual style, only a single-breasted jacket with one or two buttons is suitable. The material should be from a line of more casual ones, such as: cotton, linen, tweed, a mixture of cotton and wool.

Try wearing chinos, then you will be able to create one that looks more formal.

Leather Jacket

Perhaps one of the cult items of a men's casual wardrobe can be considered a leather jacket. Throughout the 20th century, she personified freedom, rebellion and strength. There is no doubt that your closet should have at least one black Leather Jacket made of sheepskin or calfskin, which will look great with jeans, a T-shirt and classic men's shoes.

Jean jacket

For many, a denim jacket will be associated with the period of the 90s, when every second man wore a denim jacket. However, fashion is slowly returning and you can easily afford to wear chinos or corduroy trousers, and top it with a classic denim jacket and T-shirt.

Duffle coat

A duffle coat is a single-breasted coat with a hood and buttons in the shape of a tooth or fang of an animal. The duffle coat is very popular among students, as well as people of art in France and Great Britain. Once upon a time, the duffle coat was made for the military, but later became a stylish piece of outerwear.

In the autumn or spring seasons, a duffle coat will be an excellent addition to a casual style. As for color, beige or dark blue color, but you can purchase any other one to suit your taste.

What to wear underneath?

Jeans

In any image, there is a main component that characterizes the style. Jeans are the main component of casual style. It is best to choose skinny (not completely tight) selvedge denim jeans. It’s easy to find such jeans in a store, just roll up the leg and pay attention to the hem, it should be the same as shown in the picture.

Hem on selvedge denim jeans

I am deeply convinced that every man should have 2-3 jeans in his closet different color. Classic colors include: light blue with wear, dark blue/indigo.

Never buy jeans with any stripes or inscriptions on the entire butt!

Chinos

Chinos are a great alternative to jeans. I recommend having a pair of pants in a more formal and less formal color. For example, neutral and classic colors such as navy, grey, beige and brown will look more formal. Green, orange, burgundy are informal colors.

Sports blazers or jackets go well with chinos. As for the material, tweed and corduroy are suitable in cold weather; in the warm season - cotton or a mixture of cotton and linen..

Accessories

In addition to basic casual clothing, you can pick up some accessories. First of all, these are a watch, a belt and a pocket square, which should also correspond to everyday style.

Watches can be of any shape and color; with leather, metal, plastic or fabric strap. The watch can even be sporty, this will not harm the casual style. Read more about this in our previous publications.

As for the belt, it should also suit the casual style. As a rule, belts for casual style made of thick leather with a large buckle or fabric with a buckle in the form of a serrated clip. , can also be found in our earlier publications.

It is best to choose an unusual color or pattern so that it matches other items of clothing. By the way, read it so you don’t make a mistake with the form.

Finally

Of course, I have not listed all the details of a casual wardrobe that are in stores today. However, you now have a general idea of ​​everyday style. The main goal that casual style always pursues is to be dressed as comfortably and practically as possible. Choose your size correctly and buy clothes made from natural materials.

Find your casual style and don’t be afraid to experiment, because here, like nowhere else, you can combine seemingly incompatible things. The main thing is that you feel comfortable in what you wear.

Issues discussed in the material:

  • What are the features of casual style for men?
  • What are the trends in casual style?
  • What men's shoes suit the casual style?

Nowadays, casual style for men has become so widespread and familiar that it is quite difficult to interpret it. The general essence of the direction is contained in three words: comfort, everyday life, practicality. Casual clothing is an excellent choice for a man’s main wardrobe. It is suitable for various occasions and will be appropriate both for a walk and at work. However, things must be combined correctly for the style to be consistent. You can find out how to achieve this by referring to the article below.

Basic principles of casual style for men

This direction in men's wardrobe contains opportunities for self-expression, convenience, and a number of classic features street style. Here, seemingly incompatible elements are successfully combined, and in the end we get interesting images for every day that reflect human nature, forming a confident and harmonious image.

WITH in English casual can be translated as “everyday”, in another interpretation – “careless”. This definition shows the difference with the classic genre, because even the business casual style for men presupposes convenience, freedom of use and a democratic approach.

There are different opinions about the origins of the casual trend. Some sources claim that the style appeared in the 90s of the last century, during the growing popularity of computer specialties in the labor arena. Reputable corporations, hiring programmers, most of whom are accustomed to wearing jeans and jumpers, have somewhat relaxed their dress code requirements.

However, there is another version of events, according to which this style owes its origin to Scottish football fans. It says that these guys created their own style of clothing, comfortable and acceptable in normal use, but at the same time allowing them to stand out and be recognizable to their circle.

Casual style is based on the following principles:

  • Measure in everything. Casual – calm style, nothing shiny, bright or pretentious, away with unnecessary accessories.
  • Relevance. When choosing clothes, it is worth considering a number of particular factors: the season, the person’s age, the specifics of his figure, the situation and other indicators. In the summer, a sweater or warm shoes will not fit, and the office option is unlikely to allow very tight jeans.
  • A fine line of elegant negligence. A casual look will be presentable and beautiful, but will not allow its owner to be suspected of narcissism.
  • Beyond stereotypes. Fans of this style do not have to worry about conforming to standards. Within reasonable limits, experimentation will only add flavor.
  • Neatness and care. Washed or wrinkled clothing is not acceptable. The carelessness at the heart of the style carries a different message.
  • Convenience. All components of a casual wardrobe should be comfortable and not interfere with movement; pressing or rubbing things are excluded here.

Despite the fact that casual clothing for men has no significant limitations, it is quite easy to identify its main “shores”. For example, extremely strict suits or a military theme would not be appropriate in such a wardrobe (although camouflage notes in the form of a print may be found). Pronounced ethnic motifs and specific attributes of individual subcultures will also remain outside the framework. The sports style works well with the casual style, but only in its figurative part: the sports equipment or paraphernalia itself will look strange in everyday use.

For a man's casual wardrobe, practical things, natural fabrics, and discreet but original colors are suitable. The most commonly used materials are denim, suede, and knitwear. The look includes joggers (without a sharply sporty accent), slacks, chinos, and different kinds jeans. A variety of modern sweatshirts are suitable as tops: sweatshirts, hoodies, jumpers with V-neck, turtleneck sweaters, long sleeves, sweatshirts.

Don’t think that shirts and shirts are excluded from a man’s casual style. They are present, but also with their own subtleties. For example, shirts are wonderful in checkered design: these are suitable for both the office and a friendly meeting. The fabrics are soft and comfortable, the cut is predominantly loose, and the colors, despite their practicality, are very interesting and set an original tone for the image.

Shirts allow for a variety of not only colors, but also patterns. In addition, there are often free touches in use: for example, you can not tuck in a shirt, but leave it over jeans or trousers. However, it is necessary to ensure that its color and texture are combined with other details of clothing.

A casual style shirt goes well with classic colors: black and white, blue, gray, burgundy would be good. But in the case of colored shirts, it is better to include several options, which will add variety to a man’s wardrobe. The correct selection of collar width and sleeve length remains relevant. If your look involves a jacket, a well-chosen shirt will protrude about a centimeter from under its sleeves.

An iconic element of casual style for men is the leather jacket, which throughout much of the 20th century symbolized the desire for freedom and even some rebellion. Be sure to take care of such a jacket in your clothes. You can successfully pair it with classic shoes, a T-shirt and jeans.

If we talk about jackets, then the denim version also asks for inclusion in the collection. The denim jacket associatively takes us back to the 90s of the last century, when it was extremely popular. However, at the moment, these models are again rising to the crest of the fashion wave. In addition, chinos or corduroy trousers and a T-shirt are suitable. Just don’t combine such a jacket with jeans - you risk creating the effect of pajamas, looking completely unstylish, and adding difficulties with the dress code.

Jeans are a great replacement for chinos (or simply chinos). It is recommended to purchase them in a formal version and in a more casual one.


We implement the first option through neutral tones: dark blue, beige, gray, brown. Solutions in burgundy, orange or green will be bolder - choose what suits you best. A man can wear a sports blazer or jacket with chinos. The material varies depending on the season: in cold weather it is better to choose tweed or corduroy, and in warm weather it is better to choose cotton or a cotton-linen mixture.

For all its restraint and dislike for the shiny and flashy, the casual style for men perfectly accepts various accessories made in a suitable manner. These can be watches, bracelets and pendants on a chain, ties and scarves, elegant glasses and hats, interesting belts and bags.

The popular casual style is very multifaceted: it has its own trends. For example, business casual is preferable for the office, and smart casual or city casual for a walk. Let's look at each facet separately.

This style does not have strict accents (like, for example, business casual), and the overall image will give off refined notes of a dandy. This kind of clothing is comfortable, it fits perfectly into the street genre, but will certainly make its owner stand out in the crowd and emphasize his originality. It would seem that a man who dresses in this way also has trousers, jeans and shirts - like others. But the secret is in the design, the special execution, which will immediately make it clear that this young man definitely has taste.

This style subtype can also be found under the name “clean casual”. What are its main features? Light negligence, which is necessarily maintained in an aristocratic manner and imbued with elegance. Here colors are combined quite boldly, and severity is kept to a minimum.

The main components of smart casual for a man are:

  • shirts or long sleeve polos equipped with a fastener;
  • jeans - always dark, calm tones, slightly tapered or straight, without any flashy elements;
  • comfortable shoes: boat shoes or moccasins, for example, are suitable.

This could very well include other things: a blazer, neat shoes, a matching jumper. What this genre does not tolerate is obvious and direct negligence; in this it even comes close to the business option. However, it remains in its own way: the smart casual style for men much more often includes jeans and knitted items, and also gravitates towards sophisticated accessories such as scarves, stylish glasses and hats.

The smart direction will not allow itself to be confused with others subspecies casual, if you remember its basic laws: accuracy, harmony, exclusion of catchy and bright. In other words, it is not so important what specific types of things you take - it is much more important that they are impeccable in appearance and combination. High-quality ironed clothes, perfectly polished or laced shoes are mandatory attributes of the smart casual style.

2. Business casual(from English – “casual with shades of business style”)

The times of uncompromising tight ties and strict suits for men are becoming a thing of the past. Modern business style, while being true to its canons, is becoming much more democratic. This is understandable, because people spend almost the whole day at work, and it is very unreasonable to keep them stressed from uncomfortable clothes all this time, while expecting high results.

As a solution to the problem, a business casual style appeared, in which comfort and severity, restraint and originality meet. In order to dress in business casual style, you don’t need to buy half a clothing store. A two-piece suit with an interesting design will do, or buy slacks to pair with a classic shirt. This will be the basis of your image, and the remaining elements can be selected and changed to taste.

Business casual for men allows you to wear jeans in an office setting - but again, make sure they are appropriate. Not just any will do. A good solution for jeans in this style is a straight cut, soft colors, medium rise (slightly high rise is acceptable), the overall look is calm and laconic. Other components should be in the same noble spirit. Elegance and restraint are the credo of this image. Shirt will do plain, with a nice blazer. Suede shoes on laces will complete the set.

3. City casual(from English - “urban everyday”)

This branch is full of freedom and gives the go-ahead to bolder palettes. Multi-layering is allowed, natural fabrics predominate, and the cut is loose. For example, jeans and a cropped sweater with an untucked shirt peeking out are suitable. Such liberties distinguish this subtype from smart and business casual, but accuracy has not been canceled here either.

Things should not be wrinkled, dirty, provocative or strange. An example of a successful set for a man: combine a comfortable long sleeve (possibly with an inscription) with chinos (take plain ones, with cuffs on the legs), complement everything with comfortable bright shoes.

This direction also has a second name – street casual. His idea is originality, experiments, colorful accents. The emphasis is on individuality, which will not allow you to disappear into the crowd. Bright colors, unusual accessories, original details are used: this could be a special scarf, a scarf around the neck, a specific headdress, socks with a bold pattern or shade, or even none at all.

4. Sport casual, which stands out along with the previous substyles (from English - “everyday with features of a sporty style”).

Casual is a style for every day, which implies comfort and cozy, discreet things. Practicality, attractiveness, and convenience determine the choice of this particular style by the overwhelming majority modern men in the age category up to 40 years. The advantages of the style include its versatility: such a wardrobe will be appropriate in the office, on a walk, on a date, at university, and at a friendly meeting.

For a successful casual style look, various shoes are suitable, but you should avoid overly formal, classic ones (“work shoes”, patent leather boots). You can take shoes of a more democratic design; models such as loafers, monks, boat shoes, deserts, and brogues are also suitable. If the occasion is informal, feel free to take moccasins or sneakers. Suitable shoes will be made of suede, textile or leather (the latter should be without varnish and lightweight).

Men's casual shoes are increasing in popularity, and therefore include more and more new types. For example, in the advice of fashion experts you can often find low shoes, UGG boots or boots. Moreover, in the wardrobes of men who choose democracy and style in one bottle, slip-ons, espadrilles and sandals are thoroughly located.

Often, casual includes the same shoes as other styles, but has different design elements. What parameters will help you make right choice? To begin with, of course, pay attention to the color. Black shoes are more formal, brown shoes are closer to everyday wear, and if the brown is in a light tone, it’s extremely close. The shape is also indicative: a sharp toe refers to the official style, while a rounded toe is the opposite, as is the flat sole. Next, we take into account the material: shiny leather leads to formal shoes, and suede creates a casual look.

Thus, if you choose from modern models men's shoes, brogues, derbies, chelsea, loafers will win over oxfords, but not everything is so simple: you need to look at the situation and the specific option. In every line you can find an overly prim or careless couple, so a reasonable balance is important.

More than one casual guide has rejected sneakers as an outfit detail in this style. But we note that this is too categorical and old-fashioned position. Sneakers are on the crest of fame, they have a bunch of modifications, so sometimes even very respectable people can be seen wearing just such shoes. But again, we look at each specific case. Is it appropriate to wear sneakers? Choose calm whites.

In general, dark tones of shoes are preferable for casual ones: then they will not attract attention, but will be practical. For this reason, business casual welcomes black, brown or cream colors. Material: suede or light leather.


Speaking of material: it plays a significant role in the stylistic sound. Shiny leather shoes will definitely be more formal and stricter than suede or fabric items. Also, sneakers can be suitable for smart casual – say, if they are knitted and in a dark tone; but it’s easy to make a mistake here, look at the specific circumstances, otherwise you can look too democratic or even completely inappropriate.

Men's casual shoes should be chosen according to the season, but style here is also evident in the details. Summer shoes of this type may well be represented by sandals, if they are in a high-quality leather version. However, under no circumstances will, say, flip-flops fit!

A good choice for summer would be high-quality black and white sneakers without any unnecessary decoration. Moccasins will help enrich your casual line, and boat shoes are also suitable.

The casual style for men, when winter comes, ideally takes on boots that resemble high-top sneakers with fur; Color design is preferable in black, brown or burgundy.


What to wear in spring and autumn? Loafers, deserts, brogues, Chelsea or Timberlands are perfect. Brown suede boots are appropriate for almost any time of year. But not all stylists approve of Oxford shoes, finding them too formal for casual wear.

However, there is a way out here too. Give preference to those models that avoid stiffness, are made with perforations, textured solutions or in suede. With such shoes you cannot be accused of being official; your Oxfords will maintain a completely calm everyday style. Military style shoes are absolutely not suitable.


What about sports? According to the canon, it has a chance to slip into your casual wardrobe, but still not in business or smart variations. However, standards change over time, and sneakers begin to gain a place in the sun. White or black laconic models without any unnecessary decorations are already combined with very formal clothes. It's comfortable and on trend.

Don't be afraid to experiment, try different shoes and clothes, see the result. If the overall look remains simple and even somewhat classic, you can pair these shoes with more formal clothes.

The combination of formal and casual is the basis of casual, for this reason a number of shoe models fit perfectly into the picture, for example loafers, brogues, and, less often, monks. Derbies are also suitable, but in our case only those made of suede. Let's take a closer look at these casual look helpers.

  • Derby

These boots resemble oxfords in appearance, but the difference is in the lacing: in oxfords it is closed, but here it is open. The overall impression is also different: Oxfords mostly look formal, but Derbys are very casual, or rather versatile. If they are made of smooth black leather, they will perfectly complement the office look, and they come in brown derbies or even two colors - these shoes are suitable for everyday use.


  • Monkey

They differ in that they do not have laces. In their place, these boots have a strap with a buckle (or several) - purely for beauty. Monks are your versatile pair; they will help you with both an office suit and a walk.


  • Brogues

These shoes are known for their perforations on the side seams; It's not uncommon to see them have a W-shaped pad on the top of the vamp (like brogues). Attention! Brogues are not suitable for pairing with a business suit, since shoes with perforations are no longer considered a formal style. Wear them as part of your everyday looks.

  • Loafers

Here you will not find any laces or buckles. But the shoes may well have nice tassels, at least on models made in accordance with the standards. Loafers have a small heel with a thick sole and are good because they go equally well with jeans and a business suit.


As partially mentioned above, casual style for men does not only accept classic boots different types, but also other categories of shoes, including:

  • Deserts

Made from suede, these boots reach to the ankles, lace up, and have leather or rubber soles. They go great with jeans and go with chinos and other casual trousers.

  • Moccasins

These are soft shoes without buckles, fasteners or laces. But it has a specific seam that connects the side parts to the top. Men's moccasins look very dignified and status when made from natural suede or leather, such shoes even emphasize the taste of their owner. The next advantage is its excellent compatibility with almost any clothing. But most importantly, moccasins are incredibly comfortable and soft, giving comfort and a relaxed gait.

By the way, such shoes may well be made of artificial raw materials - then it is better to wear a simple, quiet thing with them, for example a T-shirt. The harmony of the image is guaranteed!


  • Topsiders

This type of shoe did not immediately come into widespread use. It was conceived as a wardrobe item for yacht lovers. Boat shoes are very similar to moccasins, but they lace up. The upper part is based on leather or a special waterproof textile material. Today, these shoes are worn by men with casual clothes and even have a smart casual pass.

  • Slip-ons

An option for those who don’t mind standing out. The slip-ons do not lace up and have a high rubber sole. Acceptable for smart casual, but not in any version. If you're a slip-on lover but are afraid of missing out, try solid mesh ones. Such models fit best into smart casual and are suitable for experimentation.


  • Sneakers

Officially called upon to work in sports, sneakers these days have greatly expanded the scope of their application. Of course, for a casual style, say, profile running sneakers are not suitable. Here we mean stylized models, neat and laconic. As a rule, they have laces, the sole is straight and low.


  • Sneakers

This shoe is familiar to everyone due to its popularity. Smart casual is also friends with sneakers, but not just any: sparkles, rhinestones and other feathers will not work. The best sneakers in classic version, but all-white models also work well if they have no decor.

  • Sandals

They will help you out in the hot summer, when using other shoes becomes difficult. Directly for this period are being developed comfortable models, for which your feet will definitely thank you. Sandals are available with open or closed toes. For a strict look, a closed version is suitable for a man.

  • Smart casual


This type of dress code is not particularly strict or even well defined. In general, this is a very free style, which is a democratized version of the usual office style and allows a man to create numerous combinations even from a small set of clothes. This is what makes it stand out from other styles. It differs from the classics in its wider color possibilities, the acceptable use of semi-adjacent styles, knitted items, and prints.

Smart casual allows you to unbutton the top button of your shirt, wear the shirt itself under a jumper, or use a scarf or scarf if they match the color of your suit or sweater. If you find it difficult to understand what a casual clothing style for men is, find photos with examples of such images and see which elements and combinations of them are close to you.


For smart casual, the following types of shoes are suitable: loafers, deserts, brogues. In some cases, other models are acceptable, such as classic-looking sneakers (Converse).

  • Business casual


The classic business dress code leaves a man with not so much choice of clothing: trousers, shirts and jackets. It is for this reason that the business casual style was born, which, having gained popularity, is today the most widespread in the office world. The success of this style lies in the fact that it becomes possible to dress comfortably and even with space for choice and experimentation, while the representativeness of the image is preserved. In this style, a man can look decent and feel good both at a meeting with partners, at a party with friends, and at a romantic evening.

Business casual clothing for men, of course, has mandatory elements (about a dozen), but on the whole it remains a variable and open system, where there are interchangeable components and the possibility of an individual approach.

Brown lace-up shoes will be universal shoes in this wardrobe: they look good with a business suit and blue jeans, and the top is also easy to select. In addition, classic shoes, monks, derbies, oxfords, and moccasins are suitable. The color scheme is best to stick to light brown, dark brown and black tones.


Casual style for men is unusual, special and versatile. It makes it possible to include almost all varieties in your images classic shoes, as well as many options for everyday and even sports range. Therefore, within the framework of the style, you can experiment very freely. In the classic style, everything is stricter and more unambiguous: a business suit accepts only certain types of shoes, very few. However, it is more difficult to make a mistake with them, because these shoes, although categorical, always look decent and fit in place.

6 mistakes in creating a casual look

Despite its flexibility and versatility, casual style can turn out to be a failure for you if you don't pay enough attention to some details. Avoid the following mistakes when creating an image:

  1. Slogan on a T-shirt
  2. Suitable only for teenage clothes; it is better not for an adult man to wear this.

  3. Shirt in white
  4. Alas, she is too formal for a casual wardrobe. Even if you unbutton one of her buttons and roll up her sleeves.

  5. Ripped jeans
  6. Yes, we have a democratic style. But everything is good in moderation. Huge holes in jeans will not work under any circumstances. For originality, it is allowed, for example, denim made from aged material with slight abrasions.

  7. Rolled up trousers
  8. In principle, this is allowed by this style. But again we remember moderation! Don't end up being a portrait of Tom Sawyer.

  9. Shorts, T-shirts
  10. Slippery edge. These things look good only on fit, strong figures, and not in every case will they fit into the image and situation. Wide beach-type shorts are generally unacceptable.

  11. Flip-flops
  12. A gross violation of the style rule. Such shoes are not suitable in any case. If it's hot outside, choose moccasins, sandals, and light sneakers.

In order to see a sophisticated dandy with elegant casualness in the mirror, you need to work on your understanding of smart or business casual style for men, carefully select basic items, complement them with suitable accessories, and make sure that the combinations are successful. With all that, you have an interesting field for experimentation. Discard stereotypes, try, bring your own vision - and the result will please you.

Where to buy casual shoes for men

If you are interested in the latest men's and women's shoes from Italy, take a look at our Vivendi store. Here you will find models from more than forty Italian designers. The presented assortment will allow you to get acquainted with the latest trends in both women's and men's shoe fashion.

Our advantages:

  • DELIVERY IS FREE! Delivery to any region of Russia is free upon purchase of more than 20,000 rubles.
  • PRICES ARE BELOW MARKET AVERAGE. Thanks to direct deliveries from manufacturers, we offer shoes with a minimal margin. In addition, the store regularly holds sales and has a system of discounts.
  • QUALITY AND AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED. We deliver shoes from Italy ourselves, and therefore we are 100% confident in their quality.
  • CHAIN ​​STORE IN MOSCOW. If you need to evaluate the look and quality of shoes with your own eyes, visit one of our stores.
  • CONVENIENCE OF PAYMENT. Cash and non-cash payments, bank cards and electronic currency - you choose the most convenient payment method. A reliable system for protecting user data makes the purchase safe.
  • DELIVERY IN SEVERAL SIZES FOR TRYING ON. Order several sizes and models for delivery at once and choose the most convenient one.
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