Ad | Smart Casual Look for AW16: Bold Print Blazer With Jeans

The dress code “smart casual” may strike fear into the heart of many a fashionista.

However, I do think it’s my favourite way to dress on an everyday basis when you’ve no idea what’s expected of you when you’re going somewhere (anywhere). Obviously I wouldn’t assume smart casual would be the dress code of choice at a wedding or some other swanky event, but it’s a pretty safe bet when you’re just really not too sure whether “super casual” or “pretty smart” is the order of the day.

Thing is, what’s the actual meaning of smart casual? I think I’ve come up with the best way to describe it: Smart everything, but you can add jeans (smart ones). So no trainers, sneakers or baseball caps. No hoodies. No old sloppy cardigans, unless you’ve got a lush cashmere cardi.

Disclosure: I have written this post in collaboration with Lotus Shoes (click here for my full disclosure). All content is original and opinions are my own and 100% honest.

This combination of grid print blazer (SS15, sadly) and jeans is, for me, one of my favourite combinations, as described in last week’s 6 great autumn (fall) outfit ideas post. It’s a look I’ll always feel good in wherever I’m going, and this outfit has been accessorised to the max with these stand-out pieces of heels and handbag, both from the new AW16 collection at Lotus Shoes.

What I love about them is that they’re both animal prints, but not your usual leopard print:

The block heels* are a stunning shiny faux croc (and like I’ve found with other Lotus Shoes I have, they’re OMG comfy), and the handbag* is tortoiseshell – and super sturdy with a fabulous gold trim. It also comes with a long strap to convert it to a cross body bag #winning.

I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again – accessories are your BFF (best fashion friend), do not underestimate their power to transform your look!

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE NEW ACCESSORIES (OR TRENDS) FOR AW16? COMMENT BELOW…