A first date or a night out with your partner sits somewhere between work and weekend. The trick is one good layer, clothes that fit, and clean shoes. Comfort matters too: you'll relax more if you're not fiddling with a stiff collar.
What to wear, piece by piece
- Jacket
- One good layer does the work: an overshirt, an unstructured jacket or a smart knit. Wear an overshirt open, like a light jacket.
- Top
- A crisp casual shirt, a knitted polo, or a plain T-shirt that fits at the shoulders. In colder months, a fine roll neck under a jacket looks sharp with no tie needed.
- Trousers
- Dark jeans with no fading or rips, or chinos or wool trousers that fit well. The hem should just touch the shoe.
- Shoes
- Boots, loafers or minimal leather trainers. Whatever you pick, make them spotless.
- Extras
- A watch, a belt that matches your shoes, and a light touch of fragrance. That's it.
What to avoid
- A full suit, unless the place is very smart. It can look like you came straight from work.
- Strong aftershave.
- Anything brand-new and stiff you've never worn before.
- Gym trainers and sports tops.
Two ways to wear it
Keep it classic
Navy overshirt worn open over a white T-shirt, dark jeans, brown leather Chelsea boots and a brown belt.
Push it a little
Charcoal unstructured jacket over a black merino roll neck, grey wool trousers and black loafers. Evening-ready without a tie in sight.
Quick questions
How smart should I go?
Match the place. Look at the venue's photos online and dress to fit in with the smarter end of the room.
Are trainers okay?
Minimal leather trainers in white or black are fine for most casual restaurants and bars, as long as they're clean. Leave running and gym trainers at home.