Shorts And T-Shirts: The Ultimate Casual Dress Code

Shorts and a t-shirt are a classic casual outfit, but it can be a challenge to style them without looking like a teenager. In general, shorts and a t-shirt are considered too casual for business attire, but they can be dressed up with the right accessories. For example, a blazer can be added for a semi-casual look, and a half-tuck can instantly elevate the outfit. For a more formal look, a collared shirt and blazer or jacket can be paired with shorts. The key to pulling off this style is to ensure the pieces work together seamlessly and to choose classic colours and patterns.

Shorts and t-shirts are casual, but not too casual

To elevate a shorts and t-shirt combination, consider the following tips:

• Opt for a well-fitted t-shirt.
• Try a half-tuck, twist tuck, or wrap-style tuck to create a more fitted silhouette.
• Layer with a light blazer or cardigan.
• Choose tailored shorts that sit above the knee.
• Wear closed-toe shoes such as loafers, flats, or sneakers.
• Accessorise with a belt, scarf, or jewellery.
• Pay attention to hair and makeup to look more put together.

By incorporating some or all of these suggestions, you can easily take your shorts and t-shirt outfit from casual to casually chic!

Smart casual

For men, a smart casual outfit might include a knit polo shirt, a jacket, dark, well-fitting jeans, and high-end leather sneakers or Chelsea boots. For women, a sleek, tailored blouse, an unstructured jacket, flowing, pleated trousers, and a chunky-heeled or modern loafer can achieve the smart casual look.

The key to smart casual is blending refined items with relaxed pieces. For example, a blazer or dress shoes with chinos or well-fitted jeans.

• Shirts and tops: Opt for collared tops, including button-down shirts, oxford shirts, and dress shirts. Polo shirts are another good option. T-shirts can also work if layered with a shirt, lightweight blazer, or suit.
• Trousers and bottoms: Chinos, jeans, and tailored trousers are good options. Chinos offer incredible comfort and versatility, while tailored trousers can elevate your outfit. Jeans should be slim-fit and dark wash.
• Shoes: Loafers, derbies, sneakers, or boots are suitable footwear. For a more energetic vibe, choose minimally designed sneakers in clean colours like white. Leather or canvas sneakers can also maintain the balance between "smart" and "casual".
• Seasonal adjustments: In warmer weather, opt for lightweight pieces like short-sleeve shirts, polo shirts, and lightweight blazers. Go for breathable footwear and fabrics like cotton and linen. In colder weather, layer with sweaters, cardigans, trench coats, and pea coats. Accessorise with scarves, gloves, and hats.
• Accessories: Choose minimalist watches, belts, and simple jewellery. A tie and pocket square can also add flair.
• Fit: Ensure your clothes fit well and conform to your body. Tailoring can transform off-the-rack items into perfectly fitting pieces.

Business casual

For men, business casual typically includes a range of long-sleeved button-downs and collared shirts. Short-sleeved polos or button-downs may also be appropriate, depending on the office. A well-cut blazer or jacket can add a touch of professionalism to an outfit, especially for important meetings or presentations. For the bottom half, dress slacks, chinos, or khakis are good options. Jeans are generally not considered business casual, although they may be acceptable in some more casual workplaces. Avoid bright-coloured bottoms and always wear a belt in neutral tones. Loafers or dress shoes are appropriate footwear, but avoid sandals and sneakers.

For women, business casual includes knee-length (or longer) skirts and dresses, tailored or wide-leg dress pants, chinos, or suit pants. Blouses and button-downs are appropriate, as are closed-toe heels, flats, or loafers. As with men's attire, a blazer can be a nice addition to an outfit. Avoid skirts and dresses that are too tight, too low-cut, or too short.

In general, business casual attire should be well-fitting, look professional, and be free of rips or frays. It's important to remember that business casual is about dressing down your professional wardrobe, not dressing up your casual clothes.

Weekend casual

When it comes to shorts, it's important to get the fit right. Slim men should avoid wider shorts and opt for slim-fitting pairs, while athletic men should avoid shorts that are too tight and go for a tailored fit. For men with a ""dad bod", straight-legged shorts that don't emphasise the torso are the most flattering.

T-shirts can be dressed up by doing a "half-tuck", which instantly elevates a casual outfit by creating a more fitted silhouette. You can also try the "twist tuck", which involves twisting and tucking your shirt into your pants or skirt.

For a casual look that's still put-together, you can pair shorts with a simple t-shirt or casual button-down. Loafers are a good shoe option for this look, or you could try boat shoes, dress sneakers, or sandals.

California casual

The key to California Casual is to look neat, clean, and put together, but also effortless. Hair should be natural and able to flow in the wind, and makeup should be minimal and natural.

The ultimate California Casual jacket is the denim jacket, which is perfect for all seasons. Jeans are also a staple, and the easiest way to get the California Casual look is to throw on some denim, paired with a relaxed tee, slightly large blouse, or tunic. For evenings, skinny jeans can be dressed up with a tailored top, blazer, and high heels.

Other California Casual wardrobe staples include:

• Flared high-waisted (print) pants or sailor trousers
• Front button-down A-line skirts, handkerchief skirts, A-line wrap skirts, and corduroy miniskirts
• Bold colour pattern leggings
• Layering pieces in breezy/sheer chiffon, cotton, or linen
• Vintage-inspired graphic tees
• (Spaghetti-strap) tank tops in dark bold colours
• Neutral colour button-up flannel shirts
• Cropped tops and sweatshirts
• Flirty summer (mini) dresses, mini halter dresses, cute tops, or jumpsuits
• Bright colour floral designs for (maxi) beach dresses, kimonos, and coverups
• Sneakers, gladiator sandals, heeled (strappy) sandals, ballet flats, clogs or wood sandals, and stack-heeled ankle boots
• Prints: Floral, paisley, block print, graphic print
• Outerwear: Blazers, leather/suede jackets, denim jackets, fleece jackets, hoodies, fitted vests
• Accessories: Hoops, organic studs, layered or statement necklaces, silver cuffs, wooden bangles, leather bracelets, gold and gemstone pendants, stackable rings, straw hats, and aviator sunglasses

Frequently asked questions