Dress Code: Smart Casual

Parties are already part of the Christmas season. And since we have a lot of circle of friends, we have also different set of party to attend. Admit it or not we always wanted to be at our best in every party. One of the hardest thing to do aside from choosing gifts this holidays is choosing what to wear especially if the party required some dress code or theme.

This year I have few party to attend - BS Cellgroup party, Church party, Party with friends, Family party, and some are to be confirmed :)

And since I already left some of my dresses in Philippines the last time I went back for vacation, I need to find ways on how to achieve the dress code required on each party. Lucky me because most of the dress code required is smart casual.

The first time I heard "smart casual" I was also confused. I asked myself "is that same as semi-formal?". And since its "casual" some people think that they can wear anything they want as long as its decent.

Well guys and most especially party goers here are some suggestions to be at your best on dress code: smart casual.

FOR WOMEN

DO's : 
mid length dress, skirt, jewelry, accessories, blazer or cardigan, clutch bag,hobo bag, shoes, ballerina flats

Blazer + mid length skirt that compromise to the color of blazer + white inner top + wedge shoes added by stud catchy earrings and small sling casual bag

long sleeved cardigan + slim fit trouser + ballerina shoes added by dangling earrings and watch to accessories and small chain bag for kikay stuffs

mid length dress (light fabric) + shoes + accessories and clutch bag

DO NOT's :

flip flops, tshirt, slogan or logos top, large tote bag, evening gown, sportswear

Tips:

You can use shawl to cover especially if night party and the venue is besides pool or outside.

Do not over accessorize yourself, you might look Christmas tree full of decors. If your dress is embellished with stones or detailed by ribbons, do not use necklace anymore. If you are wearing printed top avoid colorful necklace too, or if you think necklace is not necessary much better.  Avoid using sporty watches especially if you are wearing dress or skirt. 

Bags & shoes doesn't necessarily have same in color but be sure the color of each other will compliments. Black is still the safest color for shoes and even for bag.

For make ups, use light shades only for day and bit dark in the evening , still it depends on your complexion.

FOR MEN

DO's:

 jacket or blazer, cardigan or jumper, dark trouser, long sleeved shirt, tie (optional) , closed shoes, dark socks

long sleeved with tie coated by cardigan while you can use closed neck shirt on blazer

DO NOT's :

jeans, denim jacket, shorts, flip flops or sandals, trainers, t shirts, caps, sports wear, logos or slogans on the top.

When dressing a smart casual make sure that you look smart but not overly formal and make sure that your clothes are clean, neat and your shoes are polished.

Smart casual dress code craves for balanced, simple yet elegant, and pull together looked. You're attired must say "I've tried" and not "I've tried to hard" in short hindi mukhang nagpilit lang.

Smart casual code for me is the best dress code to have, its versatile - you can wear it in the party, work, even in watching movies or in a dinner dates. Whenever you choose smart casual you choose delicacy, charm, and sophistication.

Party doesn't always need a new dress or new pair of shoes, its just a matter of mix and match and following some tips on how to dress up in the required codes.

If you're not sure on what to wear in the party, don't hesitate to ask the host. Never ever out-dress the host, remember you're just a visitor and not the celebrant or the host of the event.

No need to spend much money just for one time party. Just follow the above tips and etiquette and I'm sure you'll make it on the party.

So what are you waiting for, buksan na si closet and mag-mix and match na :)

Happy dressing!