Effortless Elegance, A Guide To Casual Chic

[@TheBritishDapper]

We hope you enjoy the video🙂

[@johnparnell8571]

Great advice, Chris. It is only since watching this channel that I have realised the permutations of outfits I already have in my existing wardrobe, and I have spotted yet more new ones in this video. There is a lot to be said for doing test trials of different outfits using a simple wooden coat hanger and taking one statement item, such as a pair of trousers, and seeing what else you have that will go with them; shirt, jacket, shoes etc. to build up a number of different outfits. I draw lots of inspiration from fashion images like those shown on this video and others elsewhere on KZbin. The colour versatility of chinos has been a game changer as is the contrast of different textures to add further interest. Oxford weave shirts and Harrington jackets are now also on my shopping list radar. Lastly, suede chukka boots are a great casualwear addition to a well dressed man's wardrobe. Dressing to impress is our goal. The fun factor is the satisfaction of knowing when everything has come together perfectly.😊

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi John, I'm glad you found the advice helpful, and it's fantastic to hear that you've discovered new outfit possibilities in your existing wardrobe. The idea of test trials with a simple wooden coat hanger and focusing on a statement item is a great tip! It's clear you've been actively exploring and drawing inspiration and I appreciate the insight into your evolving style. The colour versatility of chinos and the contrast of different textures indeed can make a significant impact on your overall look. It sounds like you have some exciting additions to your shopping list with Oxford weave shirts, Harrington jackets, and suede chukka boots are a great addition as well. The pursuit of dressing to impress while enjoying the fun factor of putting together a perfect outfit is a wonderful goal. Keep having fun with your style exploration, and feel free to share any other tips or discoveries you come across and see you soon. 👍🙂

[@dannymccann3800]

I’m tryin to dress better now that I’m getting older. The videos are great.

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi Danny, glad to hear you are enjoying the videos and its great to hear you are trying to dress more sartorially, with age comes wisdom - so they say🙂👍

[@edwardpenn1917]

Your video,s have certainly made me up my game .

[@TheBritishDapper]

Thank you for your comment👍🙂

[@shadnunemaker5869]

I like your turtle neck.

[@TheBritishDapper]

They are great for creating that casual look👍🙂

[@michaelmerta8956]

I really appreciate your point of view, thank you very much for giving so many options.

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi Michael, glad you enjoy the videos and find them of use👍🙂

[@georgeohwell7988]

I've owned a navy Harrington jacket since 1982, obviously not the same one..lol😉

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi there, Harrington jackets are great aren't they 👍🙂

[@yoricirving-clarke836]

Good video, Chris! I think the transition between formal and semi-informal is so important to get right. A turtleneck/rollneck is perfect for this, in my opinion! It can dress down a suit really well and works with jeans and chinos really well too. Another item I use is a knitted tie, it just dials down the formality from formal silk tie, but also looks really smart. Keep them coming! 🙂

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi Yoric, glad you enjoyed the video and I totally agree with you how the rollneck jumper is a great leveller to dial down or raise a look more formally, and a knitted tie is another great way of dialling down a formal look. If you are ever in Jermyn Street (London) check out Emma Willis the bespoke shirt makers, she has some absolutely gorgeous 100% silk finely knitted ties for around £120 as well as lovely line of ready to wear shirts and a bespoke shirt service. 🙂👍

[@alandormire4587]

A henley might also work in place of the roll neck sweater

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi Alan, a henley is a good informal shirt and would go well with that informal look 👍🙂

[@kaykunz4730]

Hi Chris, Great advice in your video. Roll neck sweaters wirh a sports jacket can even go as business casual. Of course, you need to work in an environment in which this is accepted. Chinos are my three seasons pants. I stick to navy blue, gray and all shades of brown to stay versatile. They are one of the best additions to a man's wardrobe. Keep up the good work.

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi Kay, lovely to hear from you again. Glad you enjoyed the video and the rollneck jumper as a suggestion. Chinos are a great addition to someone's wardrobe and I agree they are a great and they go great for those informal situations. 👍🙂

[@mr.mauriceevansjones]

I wear casual style most of the time.

[@TheBritishDapper]

Unfortunately, most people do nowadays, try elevating your style 1 click, instead of trainers wear some loafers, or instead of a T shirt wear a dress shirt and so on, you will be surprised by the number of positive comments you'll get 👍🙂

[@billyo54]

Chinos have been around since the 40s in the States, but we forget that chinos, those quintessential American trousers, only became widely available in Britain by the early 80s. For me they were a godsend, as they came in such a wide variety of colours in light cotton for Summer and brushed cotton for Winter. Paired with a sports jacket they became the epitome of smart casual. This meant that the more expensive formal siut could be relegated to special occasions and save on wear and tear on the siut.

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi Billy, you are so right, chinos are so versatile and the bridge the gap of semi- formal and casual so well, if a person doesn't like to wear jeans there are a great alternative, but there are corduroys, flannels, cavalry twill, wool trousers and tweed as other alternatives, but I think chinos are the most practical and slightly less dressy, it is a shame that suits have become rare to see worn nowadays, but I am assured that suit sales are on the increase and that's a good sign. Glad you enjoyed the video🙂

[@numenical]

For a casual look, I would tend to go: Footwear - chukka boots or derby boots, depending on the setting, trousers - chinos or moleskin jeans (denim ist verboten), top - oxford or linen shirts and/or classy knitwear, jacket - harrington or bomber jackets. I spend most of my time in a rural environment, so wax jackets are a staple (barn/chore jackets also work), as are commando-soled tan derby boots (brogue or not are both fine), checked/tattersall shirts are great, but solids also work, maybe plaid for the cooler months. Good quality knitwear can work even on relatively warm days - a thin merino jumper is far classier than a cotton t-shirt imho.

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi there, you describe some great items and looks, but although you class denim (jeans) as verboten, that is not the case for all - so I wouldn't rule them out. But I would dress them up with decent footwear, shirts and jackets to raise the bar a little. Your more winter look is also a great combination👍🙂

[@TheBritishDapper]

It sounds like you have a well thought out and versatile wardrobe that fits both casual and rural settings. I really appreciate how you balance functionality with style. Here are a few additional suggestions that might complement your preferences: Footwear: In addition to chukka and derby boots, you might consider adding a pair of Chelsea boots. They offer a sleek look that can transition well between casual and slightly more formal settings. Trousers: Besides chinos and moleskin jeans, you might like corduroy trousers for their texture and warmth, especially in cooler months. They're a bit more rugged than chinos but still offer a stylish look. Tops: For your oxford and linen shirts, you could try incorporating some casual button-down shirts with subtle patterns or prints. They can add a bit of variety while still maintaining a polished look. Also, consider layering with a lightweight vest for added warmth and style. Jackets: Your choice of Harrington and bomber jackets is spot-on. You might also like a quilted jacket for its classic style and practicality in rural environments. For a bit more formality, a peacoat could be a good addition. Rural Environment Staples: Wax jackets and barn/chore jackets are excellent choices. You could also explore tweed jackets for their durability and timeless style. They're especially great for layering in cooler weather and easily purchased at a low cost on Gumtree or vinted . Knitwear: Thin merino jumpers are indeed a classy choice. You could also look into cashmere sweaters for a touch of luxury and warmth. For layering, a shawl collar cardigan can add a stylish and cosy element to your outfit. Shirts: Checked/tattersall and solid shirts are excellent staples. For variety, you might enjoy flannel shirts in cooler months for their warmth and comfort, while still maintaining a rugged look. Your approach to dressing is both practical and stylish, perfectly suited to your environment. These additional items might help you diversify your wardrobe while staying true to your aesthetic. Glad you enjoyed the video and found it inspirational 👍🙂

[@nickpdxx]

Great video. Thank you.

[@TheBritishDapper]

Glad you liked it 🙂

[@ronaldpoppe3774]

Good advice Chris. I think roll neck jumpers look really good with a sport jacket say tweed or wool. I really like the looks of the tweed Harrington jacket. Will be looking for one of those. As for summer I like searsuker short sleeve shirts or linen. We are going to a Play today and I am wearing black cap toe oxfords gray flannel trousers blue striped shirt blue wool sports jacket with a blue grenadine tie. All different shades of blue of course. Have a great day. Best regards Ron

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi Ron, glad you enjoyed the video, the ensemble you described for going to the play sounds great. Hope you have a fantastic time 👍🙂

[@ronaldpoppe3774]

@@TheBritishDapper Back from the Play. I decided to wear my gray Prince of Wales check jacket instead. Cheers Ron

[@TheBritishDapper]

@@ronaldpoppe3774 still a great choice🙂

[@mr.mauriceevansjones]

One of the things I try to find is sport jacket that can be worn in the winter and summer time. What are the material I should look for in choosing

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi there, great choice. For a versatile sport jacket that can be worn in both winter and summer, you'll want to look for materials that provide the right balance of warmth and breathability. Wool is an excellent option as it offers insulation in the winter while remaining breathable in the summer. Additionally, blends of wool and cashmere, mohair, silk, camel fur, and merino wool are great choices to consider as well. you could also consider jackets with a blend of wool and linen for a versatile option that suits both seasons. Always check for the jacket's lining as well, as a breathable lining can contribute to overall comfort. Hope this helps in your search 👍🙂

[@michaelmerta8956]

Where I can get Harris Tweed jacket in Ontario Canada?

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi there, try this place, THIRD SON TAILOR SHOP, text or call: 613-234-8484 | email: [e-mail] there address is 130 Albert Street, A004, Ottawa, ON K1P 5G4, but there are other places, just google it, hope this helps 🙂

[@blacKdrone]

what do you think about short sleeved polos with some summery print on them? would they pass as casual chic when worn with black chinos and chocolate brown boat shoes?

[@TheBritishDapper]

Hi there, great question I personally would prefer a more timeless look, whilst a plain short sleeved polo shirt is a great item to wear in the summer months, I would suggest that you wear more summer related coloured chinos with it, either navy or lighter coloured chinos and ditch the boating shoes and go for a more loafer type shoe in either a chocolate or light tan suede. But that just a personal choice. Black is not a particularly popular colour to wear or see in the summer months. Hope that helps👍🙂

[@blacKdrone]

@@TheBritishDapper I'll take your suggestions on the bottoms. But would printed polo affect casual chic or plain is the way to go here? I appreciate your response