From weekend outings to casual Fridays, our ultimate guide to casual style reveals everything you need to know to look effortlessly chic. At 7DaysChic, we are dedicated to spreading knowledge about different dressing styles so you can find the style that accurately reflects who you are and accentuates your beauty.
This article will provide an overview of the casual style, how it can be achieved, and how it bridges the gap between simplicity and elegance.
1. Understanding Casual Style
The casual style is essentially a Western style of dressing that is relaxed, spontaneous, and fit for everyday activities. This style is the epitome of laid-back excellence, combining style with snugness to create a style fit for the office and the home.
The origins of the casual style stem from America during the early half of the 20th century, a time of world wars and economic decline. In terms of fashion, functionality began to rule over flamboyance, with clothing items inspired by denim wear and military uniforms becoming popular as a fashionable yet versatile style of clothing. Moreover, as sport and athletics were no longer considered activities for the lower class, high-end fashion designers such as Coco Chanel began to incorporate athletic wear into their collections, eventually paving the way for the creation of such athletic brands as Levi Strauss and Lacoste. Thus, the idea that clothes should adapt to our lifestyles began to come alive. The evolution of the casual style was further facilitated by the counterculture of the 1960s, with popular style icons such as Jimi Hendrix and Jane Birkin placing a huge emphasis on individual modes of expression and rejecting long-held views of formality.
Casual style has greatly impacted modern fashion due to its reflection of contemporary values of comfort and individuality. As society has moved towards more relaxed and flexible work environments, clothing that prioritises ease and functionality has become essential. Casual fashion allows people to express their personal style without the constraints of formal attire, encouraging creativity and self-expression. Additionally, the flexibility of casual wear, with its ability to effortlessly transition from work to social settings, goes well with the dynamic, fast-paced lifestyles of today. This democratisation of fashion makes it accessible to a broader audience, promoting inclusivity and ultimately making fashion more inclusive for different types of people. The popularity of casual style lies in its ability to blend comfort with individuality, making it a cornerstone of modern fashion.
2. Essential Elements of Casual Style
As established, casual fashion is all about relaxed, comfortable clothing that is easy to wear and move around in. If you want to achieve a casual look, it is important to keep a set of comfortable clothing staples that will allow you to mix and match according to your taste. These items include t-shirts, jeans, shorts, skirts, sneakers, and sandals. In particular, a pair of high-quality jeans is one of the most essential pieces of clothing you can own due to their remarkable versatility and long lifespan. Pair your jeans with a white T-shirt or a cardigan to achieve an elegant yet casual look that will appear effortlessly. This is a personal favourite for many influencers within the fashion industry, with Nordstrom Broadway Plaza stylist Priyanka Kanodia being a huge fan of the white v-neck T-shirt and blue denim jeans, with her emphasising their flexibility when it comes to pairing with other items in addition to their continued appeal. Common athleisure pieces such as leggings and sweatpants allow for ultimate comfort within the home environment and serve as a low-effort method for you to dress fashionably for situations such as working from home.
When it comes to essential fabrics for casual fashion, comfort and versatility are key. It is clear that cotton reigns supreme in the world of casual wear. Its softness, breathability, and durability make it ideal for a plethora of clothing, from t-shirts and jeans to dresses and casual button-downs. Denim is another staple that is practically synonymous with casual style; whether as jeans, jackets, or skirts, its rugged texture and timeless appeal have made it a wardrobe essential for decades. In addition, jersey fabric is renowned for its stretch and comfort, making it ideal for casual tops, dresses, and even loungewear. Linen is another favourite, especially in warmer months, offering a lightweight, airy feel that’s perfect for summer shirts, shorts, and sundresses. Let’s not forget about fleece and knit fabrics, which are cosy choices for hoodies, sweatshirts, and casual sweaters. These fabrics not only provide comfort but also offer a range of styles and textures that can be mixed and matched to create effortlessly chic casual outfits. So, whether you’re dressing for a laid-back weekend or a casual day at the office, these fabrics are the building blocks of a stylish and comfortable wardrobe.
When it comes to common colour palettes in casual style, neutrals like black, white, grey, and beige form the backbone of any casual wardrobe, neutral colours are extremely easy to mix and match and can provide a neat vintage look that can be accentuated or toned down depending on the occasion. Earth tones such as olive green, camel, and various shades of brown also play a significant role in casual fashion, offering a warm, natural aesthetic that feels relaxed and approachable.
In addition to these foundational hues, denim blue is a perennial favourite in casual style, thanks to its association with classic jeans and its ability to pair well with almost any other colour. Soft pastels like blush pink, baby blue, and mint green bring a gentle, refreshing vibe to casual outfits, perfect for spring and summer days. On the other hand, rich jewel tones—think deep burgundy, emerald, green, and navy—add a touch of sophistication and depth to casual attire, making them great for layering and transitioning into the cooler months.
Bright colour palettes, which include vibrant reds, sunny yellows, and bold oranges, are commonly used to add a bold, passionate twist to casual looks. These hues can make a simple outfit stand out and reflect a playful personality. Ultimately, the beauty of casual colour palettes lies in their adaptability; they allow for endless combinations that can suit any mood, season, or personal style preference. So, whether you lean towards muted tones or desire flamboyant colours, there’s a place for every shade in the realm of casual fashion.
3. Building a Casual Wardrobe
Creating a versatile casual wardrobe with minimal pieces involves choosing timeless items that can be mixed and matched effortlessly. It is recommended to begin with the basics: a few high-quality T-shirts in neutral colours like black, white, and grey. As mentioned before, these are the foundation of any casual look and can be paired with almost anything. Next, include a couple of well-fitting pairs of jeans—one in a classic blue and another in a darker wash for a slightly dressier option. Jeans are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
Add a couple of button-down shirts, perhaps in white and light blue, which can be worn alone or layered over a t-shirt for a more relaxed vibe. A versatile casual wardrobe also needs a good pair of chinos or khakis in a neutral colour like beige or navy, which can offer a smart alternative to jeans. For cooler weather, incorporate a lightweight sweater or two, ideally in classic shades like navy, grey, or beige, and a versatile jacket, such as a denim jacket or a casual blazer, which can add structure to any outfit.
Don’t forget about footwear. A pair of classic white sneakers is a must-have for casual looks, along with a more polished option like loafers or desert boots for when you need to elevate your outfit slightly. Accessories can also play a key role: a simple belt, a stylish watch, and a neutral-toned scarf can add subtle flair without overwhelming your look.
Finally, consider the importance of layering pieces. A neutral-toned cardigan or hoodie can be optimal for layering over t-shirts and under jackets, providing both warmth and adaptability. By carefully selecting these essential items, you can create a minimal yet versatile casual wardrobe that complements a variety of occasions and styles, ensuring you always look put together with minimal effort.
Mastering the art of mixing and matching in casual style is all about creating a cohesive look with minimal effort, allowing you to maximise the versatility of your wardrobe.
To add variety, incorporate a few patterned or textured pieces. For example, a striped shirt or a plaid button-down can add interest without overwhelming your look. These items can be layered over a plain t-shirt or under a sweater, providing depth and dimension. Speaking of layers, don’t underestimate the power of layering. A lightweight cardigan or denim jacket can be thrown over almost any outfit, instantly adding style and warmth.
Colour coordination is another key aspect of mixing and matching. Stick to a colour palette that complements your skin tone and personal style. Neutrals like black, white, grey, and navy are easy to mix, but don’t shy away from adding hues of colour. For instance, a bold red scarf or a pair of green sneakers can bring life to an otherwise muted outfit.
When it comes to bottoms, versatile choices like dark jeans, khakis, and even a pair of tailored shorts can be paired with a variety of tops. Experiment with different combinations to see what works best for you. For example, a simple white t-shirt can look entirely different when paired with jeans and sneakers versus chinos and loafers.
Accessorising is also crucial to elevating your casual style. Simple additions like a watch, a belt, or a stylish hat can pull your look together. Choose accessories that complement your outfit without overpowering it. For example, a sleek black belt can tie together a casual look with jeans and a t-shirt, while a patterned scarf can add a touch of flair to a plain sweater.
Finally, don’t forget about footwear. The right shoes can make or break an outfit. White sneakers are a timeless choice that pair well with almost any casual outfit. For a slightly dressier look, consider loafers or boots. The key is to have a few flexible pairs that can be mixed and matched with different outfits to suit various occasions.
By following these tips, you can be sure to create a variety of stylish and effortless looks with a minimal wardrobe, ensuring you’re always ready for any casual occasion.
Adapting casual style for different seasons requires thoughtful layering and the incorporation of season-appropriate materials and colours. Here’s how you can keep your casual wardrobe versatile and stylish all year:
SPRING
Spring, the season of growth and rebirth, is all about light layers and fresh colours. Start with a foundation of basic pieces like lightweight t-shirts and jeans. Create an adaptable style with a few long-sleeve shirts or blouses that can be easily layered. For outerwear, opt for a denim jacket or a light trench coat—perfect for those unpredictable spring showers. Incorporate colours like pastels (mint, lavender, and blush) to reflect the season’s freshness. Footwear should be comfortable, such as sneakers or slip-on loafers.
SUMMER
In the summer, focus on breathable fabrics and minimal layers to stay cool. Cotton and linen are your best friends. Stock up on shorts, tank tops, and breezy dresses. A casual button-down shirt can serve as a light cover-up or be tied around the waist for a stylish touch. Incorporate bright, vibrant colours and patterns, like floral or nautical stripes. Footwear should be easy and airy—think sandals, espadrilles, or canvas sneakers. Don’t forget accessories like sunglasses and a stylish hat to protect you from the sun.
AUTUMN
For those crisp autumn mornings and evenings, embrace cosy layers and richer colours. Start with your basic t-shirts and jeans but add in some warmer pieces like flannel shirts and knit sweaters. A versatile jacket, such as a bomber or a utility jacket, is essential. Earth tones like mustard, burgundy, and olive-green work well for this season, matching well with the falling leaves. Layering is key; think scarves, cardigans, and lightweight coats. Boots and loafers are great footwear choices, providing both warmth and style.
WINTER
Winter demands warmth and practicality without sacrificing style. Begin with thermal layers or long-sleeve t-shirts and jeans or chinos. Invest in a quality coat, such as a wool peacoat or a down parka, to keep you warm. Layering is crucial; turtlenecks, chunky sweaters, and fleece-lined jackets add both warmth and texture. Stick to darker, more muted colours like navy, charcoal, and forest green. Accessories like knit hats, gloves, and scarves add not only warmth but also a stylish touch. Footwear should be sturdy and insulated—think leather boots or lined sneakers.
By following these guidelines, you can seamlessly adapt your casual style to suit any season, ensuring you remain comfortable and fashionable no matter the weather.
Casual Style Icons and Inspiration
To gain inspiration for dressing in a casual style, it is always a good idea for you to gain inspiration from important celebrities and fashion influencers and how they dress. For example, Michael Jordan, the legendary basketball player, is not only known for his prowess on the court but also for his effortlessly cool off-court style. His casual wardrobe often features relaxed, informal pieces, such as classic sweaters paired with jeans or casual trousers. Jordan’s approach to casual wear is all about comfort blended with a touch of sophistication. He frequently opts for well-fitted sweaters in neutral colours, which he pairs with stylish sneakers—a nod to his iconic Air Jordan brand. This blend of athletic and casual elements makes his style both relatable and aspirational for everyday fashion enthusiasts. In addition, Idris Elba, the acclaimed British actor, exudes a rugged yet refined casual style that many look to emulate. His wardrobe staples include well-tailored jeans, crisp t-shirts, and versatile jackets that effortlessly transition from day to night. Elba often incorporates classic pieces like leather jackets and stylish knitwear, which add a layer of sophistication to his casual ensembles. His colour palette tends to stay within neutral and earthy tones, making his style accessible and timeless. Whether he’s on a casual stroll or attending a laid-back event, Idris Elba’s casual outfits are a masterclass in how to look polished without trying too hard.
In conclusion, the casual style balances a fine line between comfort and charm through its emphasis on minimalist pieces, neutral colour palettes, and refined informal pieces. Through selecting colour sequences and outfit staples that represent the ideal of beauty closest to your desires, the casual style will make you feel both relaxed and empowered. At 7DaysChic, we encourage you to experiment and learn more about different styles of fashion and dressing to ultimately find your complementary style. Make sure to let us know at 7DaysChic.com about how you interpret the casual style.
Amit Sriganesh Walkay
Sales and Marketing
7DaysChic
