What to wear? (Smart Casual)

I don't know about others though I'm pretty sure every girls feel the same in the morning, but I always have a problem not knowing what to put on for the day, and certainly even more so for an occasion. So, here's the thing, I have a couple of job interviews for intern positions in the next two weeks, and most of the dress codes for the interviews are smart casual. To be honest, I have no idea what to wear as I never fully understood the term "smart casual". Mehhh. I never truly cared however I am now obliged to take the extra step to ask around and research. So this basically sums up what (I think) smart casual means.

Smart casual = dressier than your typical everyday outfit but a little undone compared to business wear.

I'd like to think of it as a balance between both everyday and business wear. A summer dress and a simple blazer, a dressy top with dress pants/slacks, no cleavage, not too much skin, proper skirt/dress length and I think you're good to go. I am certainly no fashionista but I enjoy putting pieces of apparels together so here are some smart casual outfits in mind.

#1 - Classic Smart Casual

Jigsaw wool dress, 240 MYR / River Island black jacket, 220 MYR / Wolford stocking, 160 MYR / ALDO flat platform shoes, 215 MYR / Big Buddha , 275 MYR / Marc by Marc Jacobs marc jacobs jewelry, 190 MYR / Comptoir Des Cotonniers longs jewelry, 245 MYR

My main element here was to keep it simple and classic with a touch of fun with the bird stud earrings and boho-ish charm long necklace. The essential piece that made is "smart" is definitely the black blazer. I think every lady should have a properly fitted classic blazer in their wardrobe, throw it on to any outfit and you'll instantly look like you put some effort into your outfit without trying to hard.

#2 - Smart Denim 

Rare London metallic shirt, 49 MYR / Slim fit blazer, 140 MYR / H&M low jeans, 49 MYR / Bamboo heels, 61 MYR / Oasis mini tote bag, 150 MYR / TarinaTarantino flower stud earrings, 52 MYR / Cruciani , 35 MYR

Don't be afraid to go all colourful, you can certainly add in a splash of colours yet keeping it smart. I chose a bright pink top and orange tote bag, but I balanced it out with a pair of sexy black heels. To top it off, the gorgeous white blazer just makes everything look put together and professional. I could head to the mall or a date right after my interview and all I'll need to do is leave my blazer in the car.

#3 - Sweet and Smart 

H&M flare dress, 99 MYR / Striped tight, 55 MYR / H&M high heel pumps, 74 MYR / Dorothy Perkins , 150 MYR / Tarina Tarantino post earrings, 135 MYR / BCBG Max Azria , 115 MYR

Another simple outfit that could potentially look dull and boring, but I played it up with red accessories for that eye-catching pop of colours. If your dress is above the knees, I recommend wearing tights or stocking to avoid looking too improper, otherwise you can choose to exclude them.

I really like the third set as I am almost always wearing a dress. Putting all these outfits together certainly helped me narrow down my choice of outfits for my interviews in the next 2 weeks. I truly believe in the term "dress for success" and that the first impression is the most important thing. I hope this will help and inspire you put to put together an outfit for any smart casual event! Wish me luck for my interviews! :)


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