These tops will see you right until the weather turns. <\/p>\n
Smart-casual. It\u2019s the dress code that most encompasses versatility, but also ambiguity. <\/p>\n
As Dan Ahwa wrote for this publication in 2023, \u201csmart-casual is basically code for \u2018jeans are fine\u2019\u201d.<\/p>\n
\n \u201cSmart-casual is much like business-casual, tidy but with a
\n far more casual approach, like a T-shirt under a blazer or perhaps the ubiquitous clean-cut sneaker teamed with a summer dress.\u201d\n <\/p>\n
A far more casual approach is how most of us opt to dress in January, not ready to admit the 9-5 grind has recommenced or commit to the associated wardrobes.<\/p>\n
London\u2019s Savile Row Company, known for crafting luxury menswear, encourages thinking of smart-casual as a middle ground between formal and laid-back. \u201cIt\u2019s a look that says: I made an effort \u2013 but not too much. It\u2019s polished without being stiff. Tailored but approachable.\u201d<\/p>\n
These tops offer just that. They look like you made an effort, but don\u2019t feel like it.<\/p>\n
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Lightweight crepe softly gathers in this floaty and versatile halter that can be worn front or backwards, with long neck ties that can be knotted or left to dramatically (or languidly) drape. <\/p>\n
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Leset Pointelle Tee, $199<\/a> from Fabric<\/p>\n Pointelle is a subtle openwork pattern with shapes like tiny chevrons or eyelet diamonds created by a special knitting technique. They\u2019re joined in this tee by pinhole stripes and soft scallops on the arm and neck holes. <\/p>\n A laid-back piece with a polished edge. This relaxed blouse is made from lightweight textured ramie, a breathable fabric favoured for its durability and softness. Refined detailing, such as the subtle bib front and stand-up collar, brings quiet sophistication to everyday outfits.<\/p>\n Daylight Moon shirt, $439<\/a><\/p>\n Designed to be worn either buttoned up as a shirt or open as an overgarment, the sleeves on this striped cotton shirt can easily be worn down or rolled up. <\/p>\n This voluminous top has sculptural puff sleeves and a gathered waist, which combine in a bold, yet balanced, silhouette.<\/p>\n Designing a new collection after a hiatus, Mahsa Willis was inspired by the ease \u201cthat comes from wearing something timeless, beautiful and relaxed\u201d. With a flat collar, three-quarter balloon sleeves and shell buttons, the everyday shirt suits everything \u201cfrom denim to diamonds\u201d.<\/p>\n Juliette Hogan T-shirt, $429 <\/a><\/p>\n A classic drop shoulder T-shirt gets elevated through a large-scale floral motif, printed on silk. A straight fit designed to finish at the hip, it has a discreet zip closure at the back of the neck. <\/p>\n This much-loved silhouette from Karen Walker has had a summer glow-up, in airy rope stripe voile. Strategically placed ruffles and a band collar ensure there is enough decorative detailing to dress up.<\/p>\n An easy-to-wear top in 100% linen that is suited to sweltering days. Cute tie detailing on the straps ensures a securely fit bust. <\/p>\n James Brown shirt, $459<\/a> from Collecte<\/p>\n This clean summer layer is designed to bring ease to warm-weather dressing by balancing structure and suppleness in a relaxed silhouette. One size is designed to comfortably fit sizes 10-16, the tie detail allows a more personalised fit.<\/p>\n The draped cowl through the front of this wide-necked shirt is made from a soft, stretchy modal, which can be positioned on the shoulders as you feel fit. <\/p>\n Wynn Hamlyn short sleeve shirt, $795 <\/a><\/p>\n With a prim collar, tidy placket and tightly woven construction, this shirt could err into the realm of the uptight. Any suggestion of such is unpicked through the playful crop, contrasting chest stripe and unravelled front details.<\/p>\n Veronika Maine shirt, $249<\/a><\/p>\n Paired with gold-toned buttons, the linen viscose blend of this fabric imbues this shirt with a dressy appeal suited to office wear. But the boxy silhouette, top stitching and relaxed fit make it a perfect pairing for summer shorts come the weekend.<\/p>\n Kowtow shirt, $188<\/a> (on sale)<\/p>\n Delicate floral embroidery softens the menswear-inspired silhouette of this crisp cotton poplin shirt. <\/p>\n As well as visual intrigue, the geometric cutwork design of this shirt offers airy texture.<\/p>\n Twenty-seven names tee, $272,<\/a> (on sale)<\/p>\n Give your wardrobe its flowers with this true-to-size tee cut in peony print viscose crepe. A round neck panel has gentle gathers at the front neck. <\/p>\n Caroline Sills shirt, $252,<\/a> (on sale)<\/p>\n The lightness of the shirting here allows for comfortable wear and beautiful draping, such as the front twist detail that gathers in the waist seam.<\/p>\n Whispery light cashmere with softly contrasting raglan sleeves and a neckline that has a sport-luxe edge. This buttery beauty pairs with relaxed trousers and tailored layers in equal measure.<\/p>\n Victoria Beckham shirt, $975,<\/a> from Muse Boutique<\/p>\n A beautiful print twists this pyjama top from loungewear into a shirt sophisticated enough to be workwear. <\/p>\n Country Road tank, $109,<\/a> (on sale)<\/p>\n An asymmetric hem on this smart tank plays with proportions by breaking up the tessellating diamond pattern. <\/p>\n Proof the smallest details can have a big impact. In Harris Tapper\u2019s Orwell polo sleeve, button, cut and fabric choice converge in an oversized and elegant garment.<\/p>\n Panelled by contrast stitching, this simple top makes a tidy pairing to tailored trousers or off-duty denim. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n
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