The less ambiguous older brother of “smart casual”. Sharp casual describes a man who rejects both the laziness of the roadman/athleisure aesthetic and the conservatism of dress codes which characterise coke-addled investment bankers.

I.e. someone who is permanently well dressed but also comfortable in their own skin. Often combines elements of the traditional lounge suit with more casual contemporary elements such as denim and workwear to create a clean cut, presentable and approachable aesthetic.

Jackets: slim fitting suit jacket/patterned blazer, Lewis leathers motorcycle jacket, traditional varsity letterman, Levi’s denim jacket, Harrington G9, Burberry trenchcoat, sheepskin flying jacket.

Trousers: Uniqlo, wrangler or Levi’s jeans, Ralph Lauren chinos or slim fitting suit trousers.

Jumpers: polo neck, crew neck or v neck in contrasting colours to jacket or trousers

Shirts: polo shirts, white tee shirts or cuffed office shirts.

Shoes: Converses, Jack Pascelles, Oxfords, Brogues, motorcycle boots, desert boots.

Accessories: eccentric cufflinks, silk ties, patterned scarfs, pocket squares, baker boy (winter) or Panama hat (summer).

Examples:

David Gandy, on his day off
Steve McQueen
Tom Hiddleston
Michael Caine

James Dean
On the day of the trial, Henry adopted a sharp-casual aesthetic, mistakenly thinking this might make the jury look more favourably upon his crime.
by Unclemonty1969 February 7, 2021
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