Casual and Informal Codes

The fine line between Casual and Informal

This is one of the most frequent conceptual errors: confusing "Casual" with "Informal".

In terms of image etiquette, the Informal code refers to attire for home, leisure or strictly sports wear (gym clothes, beach sandals, T-shirts with worn-out advertising logos).

This code is reserved for the privacy of the home or extreme vacation contexts and has no place in urban or professional social life.

The Casual code, on the other hand, implies "curated relaxation". It is comfortable but presentable attire for public social interaction. Here, clothing has structure and is in perfect condition.

It is not a matter of "putting on the first thing you find," but of choosing comfortable garments that project personal care.

For example, instead of flip-flops (casual), opt for soft leather loafers or urban designer tennis shoes (casual); instead of an old advertising T-shirt, choose a cotton pique polo shirt or a basic T-shirt of high quality and impeccable cut.

Golden rules for men's casual clothing

For men, the casual code allows the use of jeans, but these must be dark wash and straight cut, avoiding excessive tears or extreme wear that would fall into the informal.

The fundamental rule of the casual shirt (those with prints, plaid or rustic fabrics) is that it is designed to be worn outside the pants, but only if the length is correct: it must cover the belt but not completely cover the buttocks.

If the shirt has very long skirts (typical of formal dress shirts), wearing it on the outside looks sloppy. Footwear is the big differentiator.

Running sneakers are forbidden in the social casual code; they should be replaced by urban style sneakers, desert boots or moccasins.

T-shirts must be your exact size; neither too loose nor too tight like a second skin.

Layering is allowed, such as an open shirt over a t-shirt, as long as the color combination is harmonious and the garments are ironed.

Guidelines for women's casual style

For women, the casual code allows ample freedom, but requires that neatness be maintained. Blouses of soft fabrics, knit tops and quality T-shirts are basic.

Skirts and dresses should be of a "socially safe" length (close to the knee or midi), avoiding extreme miniskirts that belong in party or beach contexts.

Jeans are welcome, as well as chino pants or culottes in flowing fabrics.

The boundary with casual is often crossed with the use of leggings: in the casual code, leggings are not pants and should always be worn with long blouses that cover the hips.

Footwear can be flat (ballerinas, nice sandals, low boots), but must be impeccable.

Accessories play a crucial role in elevating the look: a structured handbag, silk scarf or small earrings transform a jeans and T-shirt ensemble into an intentionally casual chic look, taking it away from the "house clothes" look.

Summary

It is a common mistake to confuse casual with casual. Casual is domestic or sportswear, while casual is a curated, presentable relaxation for social life.

In men, the casual code allows dark, straight jeans, prohibiting running shoes. Printed shirts go on the outside only if they have the right length, covering the belt.

For women, the code requires neatness in blouses and soft fabrics. Leggings are not pants and should be covered; accessories elevate the look away from "house clothes".