From sportswear to everyday wear
Casual style actually originated from sportswear. At the beginning of the 20th century, physical activity was considered something for the lower social classes, so elegant people dressed very formally. Over time, however, the need to move freely became increasingly apparent, and tracksuits and workwear were adapted into more refined styles. So don't confuse casual wear with tracksuits. This type of garment can also be sophisticated, but it is better suited to other occasions.Jeans, the king of casual wear
There's no getting around it: no piece of clothing is as versatile and essential as a pair of jeans. And one pair is hardly enough: every wardrobe needs at least two or three, in different cuts and colours. Whether you're looking for an outfit suitable for a fairly informal day at the office or for strolling through the city centre with your friends, jeans will solve all your problems. Choose them in a classic denim colour or, even better, a lighter one. However, avoid ripped styles, which are better left to very young people or for certain outdoor occasions; in any case, style them carefully, or they will look overly casual at once. Classic-cut or skinny jeans, on the other hand, go well with everything. Their neutral colour complements any type of T-shirt and pairs well with sneakers, sandals, or ballet flats. Since we're talking about a casual day, avoid heels that are too high, especially stilettos. When it comes to jeans, however, it's not just about trousers, but also denim jackets. Another timeless piece, worn from April to September for any occasion and with any style. For a casual outfit, it looks great worn open, perhaps with a sash around the waist. One piece of advice, though: avoid wearing a full denim outfit of trousers and jacket. You risk looking like you've stepped out of an 80s TV show.Bermudas and skirts
As an alternative to jeans for a casual look, avoid trousers made of woven fabric or tight skirts, as they create a different effect. Instead, you can opt for Bermuda shorts, which are classic yet sporty and perfect when the weather is too hot for jeans. Alternatively, long, full skirts, perhaps with floral prints, also work well. Paired with flat shoes, they instantly create a casual look.The crew-neck T-shirt
The T-shirt, or typical T-shirt, is probably the most common garment in Western wardrobes. Thanks to the wide range of prints and designs available on the market, you can have dozens (literally) and create endless different looks. However, the classic T-shaped model that gives it its name is more sporty than casual and doesn't always suit everyone; for example, it is better suited to a slender figure than to someone with a fuller bust. To achieve a casual yet chic look, it's better to opt for a crew-neck top, which creates a softer effect. The sleeves can also be very short, almost cap sleeves. A T-shirt should always be tucked into your trousers or, if it's short, left to rest on your waist. If you want to leave it untucked, be careful not to look sloppy; use a belt to define your waist, or tie it at the side. These very simple tricks will instantly give the outfit a different look.Shoes
What are the quintessential casual shoes? Sneakers, without a doubt. Today there are so many styles that we no longer talk about trainers, but about footwear for street style. And no matter how colourful they may be, they will always manage to match everything. Any flat shoe will work. Timeless ballet flats, for example, but also flip-flop sandals. If you really love heels, choose sandals with a square heel no higher than three centimetres in summer, or round-toe velvet ankle boots in winter.
