How to Put Together the Perfect Dressy Casual Outfit

When we think about dressing up or dressing down our look, it may seem like dressy and casual are on two opposite sides of the spectrum. To help you find the balance, we’ve come up with a guide to help you achieve the perfect dressy casual look. From Sunday brunch with your girlfriends to casual Friday at the office, putting together an elevated casual outfit is all about blending comfort and polish. Let’s get styling!

Defining Dressy Casual

Dressy casual is a style that’s somewhere between dressed up and laid-back. While it’s not as relaxed as loungewear like the sweatpants you might wear while lying on the couch on weekends, it doesn’t need to be full-on formal like you’re going to someone’s wedding. It’s an outfit that’s ready for dinner dates, brunch, or a casual Friday at work. Think of jeans with a form-fitting blazer, a nice top paired with ankle booties, or a simple little black dress with flats. The goal of dressy casual is to look and feel put-together without all the formality. Dressy casual allows you to pair comfortable clothes with sophisticated pieces, a go-to style for looking effortlessly chic wherever you go.

Dressy Casual at Work

The personal stylist, Lucy, and founder of Style Rises, shares that if you’re putting together a dressy casual look for work, you’ll want to avoid being too casual. A t-shirt and jeans are simply too casual for the office, but you can incorporate relaxed, comfortable pieces while keeping it professional. At work, try pairing dark-wash jeans or sleek trousers with a nice top and structured blazer, so you have those professional touches without feeling too buttoned up. Dresses are another great choice, so you’ll want ones that are still refined for the office, like a wrap style or midi-length dress paired with low-heeled ankle boots or loafers. Accessories should be simple yet stylish, like a silver watch or subtle earrings.

Dressy Casual for Play

Dressy casual is a great choice for your off-duty looks, too! Get that effortless look with a pair of jeans or a midi skirt and a cute top, like a flowy blouse or stylish sweater. Slip on some comfy flats or crisp white sneakers. A pretty dress goes great with a denim or leather jacket to keep it casual. Top it all off with simple accessories like stacked bracelets or a crossbody bag so you’ll look relaxed yet put-together for shopping, errands, or casual meet-ups with your girlfriends.

Must-Have Items for Your Dressy Casual Looks

Every wardrobe needs dresses, cute tops, and jeans to achieve the dressy casual look. Dresses can bring instant style to your look with very little effort. Just throw one on, add on simple accessories, and you’re all set. Cute tops give you tons of outfit options whether you pair them with skirts or dressy trousers. Jeans are a total lifesaver that give off a relaxed vibe so you can look effortlessly chic. These pieces are all meant for mixing, matching, and elevating your look in mere seconds so you can nail that perfect blend of dressy and casual every time.

1. Dresses

To get that perfect dressy casual vibe, pair cute dresses with the right accessories and shoes. Begin with a relaxed dress such as a wrap-style or flowy dress, then add on a casual denim or leather jacket. If it’s chilly, opt for a cozy cardigan. Put on ankle boots or stylish flats and accessorize with dainty jewelry.

2. Cute Tops

Elevate your look by layering cute tops under blazers or jackets to style your dressy casual outfit. Try a top with puff sleeves, one that’s made from a soft knit, or which has a fun pattern. Pair the top with your favorite jeans for something more casual or a nice skirt if you want to take your dressy casual look up a notch. Layer with a lightweight jacket or blazer with loafers to keep it cool and laid-back. Finish your ensemble with a pendant necklace or hoop earrings as one statement piece.

3. Women’s Jeans

Just slipping into a pair of cool women’s jeans creates a comfy yet trendy look for any dressy casual occasion. You’ll want a pair of great-fitting jeans, whether they’re straight-leg, skinny, or slightly flared. Pair your jeans with a cute blouse or tucked-in tee and sneakers or ankle boots for a blanched, dressy casual look that’s relaxed and refined. Complete your outfit with a watch or layered necklace. Be sure to check out all of our women’s jeans for more dressy casual inspiration!

4. Skirts

Styling skirts for your dressy casual look is a total no-brainer! Start with a flowy A-line skirt or a comfy midi piece so that it’s easy to move in but still looks refined. Pair your skirt with a simple graphic tee or a cute blouse, and then layer with a light jacket or cardigan. Stylish sneakers or flats can keep your look casual. Finish the look with a crossbody bag or stacked jewelry.

5. Dressy Trousers

Nice pants such as dressy trousers, cropped pants, or pretty culottes all bring a polished vibe to your look without feeling overly formal. Pair any of these pants with a blouse or fitted sweater, and then layer with a long coat. Ankle boots or low heels work perfectly to finish the look. Statement accessories like a bright-colored belt or layered necklaces add that extra pop to make for a comfy, stylish outfit for any occasion!

Finish the Look with Fun Accessories

Accessories to Elevate Your Ensembles

Now that we’ve got the basics down, like the must-have pieces for your dressy casual wardrobe, let’s talk about the secret sauce: accessories that can take your look to the next level. While shoes and jewelry may seem like afterthoughts, these items can have a big impact on your everyday look. Slip into sleek loafers or pretty ankle boots, and suddenly those casual jeans feel just a bit fancier. A cute bag like a crossbody or tote bag is both stylish and functional for the office. Cinch your waistline with a belt for that perfect polished touch. As for jewelry, think of dainty gold necklaces and simple hoop earrings that help your look sparkle and shine. Any of these add-ons pull your outfit together in a snap, making it effortless while still feeling totally you! Be sure to browse all of our dressy casual accessories to get inspired!

1. Shoes

Pick the right vibe for your shoes depending on the occasion and your overall look. Add a touch of chic to jeans or a cute dress with ankle boots. Another easy option is loafers because they’re sophisticated yet laid-back, the perfect choice to pair with a skirt or tailored trousers. Keep it super casual with sneakers to give that fresh, comfy twist to your dressy casual look. Don’t sleep on ballet flats or low-heeled sandals to get that style upgrade without all the fuss. The right pair of shoes can help your look turn out perfectly balanced.

2. Jewelry

With a dressy casual look, you want to keep your jewelry relatively simple. Think of dainty earrings and delicate necklaces. Layering is key, so combine a couple of different necklaces or stack some bracelets on your wrist to make your look pop. Feeling bold? Try statement earrings or a statement ring. The goal is to simply enhance your look without overpowering your outfit. A few well-chosen accessories can transform your dressy casual style into one that’s sure to turn heads.

3. Bags and Belts

Consider upgrading your dressy casual look with bags and belts. Start with a chic tote or cute crossbody bag because both pieces can add style while keeping your essentials handy. Fun colors and patterns can help make a statement, while classic neutral tones offer versatility. With belts, you can cinch your waist or elevate your outfit with a sleek leather one. A woven or fabric belt adds a laid-back element. Have fun mixing and matching until you find your perfect combo, and you’ll see how these accessories can transform your look from basic to fabulous!

Finding the Right Fit

Not sure what size is the right size for you? Worry not, Avaraista, because we’ve got a handy women’s clothing size chart to ensure you get a flattering fit for any of your dressy casual pieces. Avara measures tops by bust and length, while our bottoms are gauged by waistband, length, and inseam. Keep in mind that different brands have unique sizing, but don’t worry. We’ve included size charts to make it simple. There’s a fabulous fit waiting for you with every dressy casual look!

Playing with Colors and Patterns

Express yourself with a dressy casual look that’s full of different colors and patterns. Have fun with a solid base like a simple solid-colored dress or a classic pair of blue denim jeans, and then add pops of color through your top or accessories. Bold colors like emerald green or electric blue can take your look to the next level. Don’t shy away from patterns like striped skirts or floral tops that can add a playful element to your outfit. Remember that when you’re mixing and matching prints, choose prints with colors that complement each other. Keep everything balanced, and you’ll shine on any occasion.

1. Color Choices for Every Season

Different seasons call for different colors and patterns. In the spring, you’ll want to embrace soft pastels in mint green and blush pink with a light floral top and classic jeans for a fresh take on a dressy casual look. While summer looks are filled with bright colors like a sunny yellow dress or a playful coral top, by the time fall rolls around you’ll be layered in rich jewel tones like a deep burgundy turtleneck or emerald green blazer, and any go great with dark wash jeans. As for winter, think of cozy neutrals mixed with festive colors. Play with layering and various textures to let the season inspire your dressy casual style.

2. Mixing Patterns

It can be intimidating to mix different patterns, but here’s how to do it. Begin with a patterned top in an approachable pattern like stripes or polka dots paired with solid-colored bottoms. Mix in patterned accessories like a statement bag or pair of shoes to add a fun twist without overwhelming the balance of your outfit. Embrace different quirky combos like a floral skirt with a striped skirt as long as they share a common color.

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The Dos and Don’ts of Dressy Casual Styling

With all of these different tips and outfit ideas, it can be helpful to think about dressy casual styling in easy-to-remember dos and don’ts. To ensure you’re stylishly put-together without looking overdressed or too casual, check out our dos and don’ts of dressy casual styling.

1. The Dos of Dressy Casual Styling

To put it simply, mix and match casual pieces with dressier pieces to get the perfect balance of dressy casual. You’ll want comfy shoes like ankle boots or flats for a more chic, casual vibe. Play around with colors and patterns to keep things lively, and add on accessories like simple jewelry or a crossbody bag to pull everything together in a pinch. Remember to keep your look seasonally appropriate by wearing light fabrics in the summer and spring and cozy layers during fall and winter.

2. The Don’ts of Dressy Casual Styling

As for what not to do, keep your jewelry low-key because jewelry that’s too flashy can look too formal for a dressy casual look. On the other hand, you don’t want to go too casual, either, so avoid workout wear and overly distressed jeans. When mixing patterns stick to two max, and wear patterns with common colors. Most importantly, dressy casual is meant to be comfortable, so skip anything that feels too tight or overdone.

By using any of the tips and tricks in our dressy casual outfit guide, you’re ready to rock your laid-back looks with confidence! Those cute dresses with statement sneakers or cool jeans with a statement top are waiting for you to balance style and comfort on a look that truly feels like you. Dressy casual is meant to be flexible, so have fun experimenting with different combinations until you find your own signature style. Happy styling!

 

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