When Casual Traditionalism Meets Formal Urbanity

Formal, urban outfits usually consist, for men, of smart suits, shiny shoes and a tie. Ladies don a smart trouser suit, high buttoned blouse and kitten heels, right? Well this might be our conventional view of formal, urban fashion but, in the modern world, there is increasing room for fusing formal work clothes with classic casual
looks.

A match made in heaven

The modern tendency to merge formal working urban attire with classic casual styles can be pinned on two major factors – one of which being that there is a now a tendency for companies across the world to adopt a more casual office environment. This new trend, known as ‘business-casual,’ is being embraced across the country. As a result, the style of clothing people wear to work has evolved from the classic suit and tie, to a much more informal look which combines formal work wear with casual leisurewear styles.

Taking classic business styles – such as pencil skirts, buttoned blazers and kitten heels – and dressing them down with something fresh, modern and casual is now a fun and appropriate look for the office. And the Spring/Summer 2012 season is all about combining these classically diverging styles. Previously unheard of
amalgamations – such as wearing a leather skirt with a cotton T-shirt – are being transported from the catwalk straight into the office.

The influence

But the current trend of combining the casual with the formal can’t be placed solely at the hands of evolving business culture. Fashion brands can also be seen as having a major influence in this innovative style, and none more so than G Star Raw.

The Very.co.uk G Star Raw collection combines classic casual styles and fabrics, such as denim and sneakers, with formal city styling for both men and women. In fusing the ultimate ‘work-to-play’ look, G Star Raw is pioneering the world of fashion, and is enjoying phenomenal popularity and success.

The G Star Raw range includes everything from original jeans to staple T-shirts in classic colours and cuts, as well as sports-inspired shapes and fits. This trend to formalise traditionally casual garments – such as jeans, T-shirts and even sportswear – by giving them tailored, fitted cuts and business-like buttons, is playing a central role in the ‘business-casual’ fashion styles that are currently dominating both office and high street culture.