Nailing the 'smart business casual' code during winter

Looking 'smart casual' is easy if you build a wardrobe around versatile separates like blazers and trousers

- Manish Mishra

When it comes to menswear, business casual attire can be confusing. Should you skip the coat and wear a matching jacket with slim-fit black trousers? Are ties acceptable with a pair of jeans (do people even wear ties)? Do jumpers seem "non-serious" for a townhall? But, smart casual can be the easiest look to pull off because it is all about striking a balance between casual and formal—a bit of dressy and a lot of laid-back.

The trick is to give a do-it-all uniform a twist to take the outfit anywhere, from the office to a get-together, while matching your personal style. In other words, playing with classic staples in your own way while remembering what's in. For instance, the suit-and-sneaker combo has become popular across offices, even on the red carpet, but a tuxedo with a pair of sneakers is a big no-no.