Of all the dress codes you expect to find on an invitation, snappy casual isn't one of them. As formal dress codes shift and expand, more niche dress styles break through cultural barriers, leading to unique categories like snappy casual attire. But what is snappy casual dress, and how do you dress for it?
What Is Snappy Casual Attire?
Snappy casual dress is considered stylishly informal. This dress category is dressier than just basic jeans and a tee, but not quite as formal as a suit and tie. It's commonly worn in university settings and for speaking engagements, lectures, and presentations. You might also wear snappy casual to church, activities at school, or even to an after-work function.
Snappy casual takes the best of both worlds and molds it into one outfit. You get the comfortability of casual attire with the style and statement-making aspects of formal dress. Keep all eyes on you for a good reason with these snappy casual dress suggestions.
Generally, snappy casual refers to masculine styles, but that doesn't mean feminine people can't rock them as well.
Snappy Casual Dress: The Basic Rules
Snappy casual can be interpreted in many ways depending on the occasion you're dressing for. However, there are some guidelines to follow when dressing snappy casual.
- Ties aren't required.
- Suits aren't mandatory.
- Jeans are not permitted in this style.
- Accessories are acceptable.
Related: Dressy Casual Men's Attire: What It Is & 10 Ways to Nail the Dress Code
What's Included in a Snappy Casual Wardrobe?
Snappy casual is all about showing off your personal style in a slightly more sophisticated way than everyday dress. Some snappy elements to add to your wardrobe are:
- Well-fitting khaki pants
- Tailored dress pants
- Crisp white button-downs
- Patterned dress shirts
- Sport coats
- Trendy jackets
- Simple jewelry
- Loafers
- Boots
Once you've built a capsule snappy casual wardrobe, you can mix and match the pieces for a practically endless array of outfits. You also don't have to buy an entirely new wardrobe. Try to experiment with what you currently have in your closet to create a snappy look that's unique to you. The most important thing to keep in mind is that you're overall look is polished and pulled together.
Perpetually-Stylish Snappy Casual Dress Combos
If you're still a little unsure about snappy casual dress, that's okay. These dress combos should help you build a snappy casual catalog in your head.
Polos & Khakis
The most basic snappy casual dress style is a colorful polo shirt and a pair of pressed khakis (either shorts or pants will do). Think about your skin tone and the colors that look good on you. Similarly, play with depth by pairing light khakis and dark polos and vice versa.
Sweaters, Button Downs, & Dress Pants
A plain button-down and dress pants are another staple in the snappy dress category. However, if it's getting a little colder, you may opt for a hefty cardigan, knit sweater, or sweater vest. Snappy dress isn't exclusive to warm weather! You can rock an uplifted casual look in winter, too.
Silk Button Down, Highwaters, & Loafers
If you've got a flare for more eye-catching fashion, try wearing a silk button-down (short or long-sleeved), with some pressed highwaters, and loafers. This vacation-ready style will set you above all the rank-and-file at any event.
Be mindful of what shoe colors you choose. If you're sticking to a black outfit, don't throw on your cognac-colored loafers.
It's as Easy as Snapping Your Fingers
Just like the first time you get behind the wheel of a car, you might feel a little clunky putting together your first snappy casual outfit. But, if you follow these guidelines, it's hard to go awry. And as with most things in life, practice makes perfect!
