We are all currently dressing up for ourselves, and while some might align with looking prim and proper all the time, some like the 'undone' casual look. However, as it turns out, a new aesthetic that's taking over and growing on us is the 'polished casual' look. It doesn't have to be about dressing down or dressing up; it's just about looking good without having to be a try-hard.

And honestly, it works for everybody, which is why it is probably not just interesting to understand how it works, but also why it is happening now.

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Sure, some would argue that what's the harm in always looking good or being ready to pose for the gram when stepping out! However, it is not about any of that; it's simply about how a certain way of fashion has become predictable - like how there was a phase where every girl was wearing oversized jeans with a fitted crop top, among other things.

And well, fashion should be anything but predictable, which is where polished casuals just work, because they look effortless, are comfortable, and despite being minimal, they don't have to ever be boring.

And while we are always experimenting anyway, thanks to the lifestyles we are leading, right from hybrid work cultures to having to dress up in a way that works across multiple settings, it's only smarter to make it a way of life.

So instead of always looking to build aspirational looks, maybe it's time to pick 'enough' over 'more'.

There's a new trend, a new statement piece, or a must-have in your wardrobe that keeps taking over the internet every now and then; however, we get to go beyond that. Sure, those elements can be a part of your polished casual looks, but they won't have to be the only good thing about them. What you want is to find a balance of elements, and here's how to do it!

Finding a way to make your outfit look structured but also comfortable is one of the best ways to look polished. So when you choose to combine a regular, relaxed shirt with a pair of structured trousers or opt for a blazer with a tank top and denim, you are finding a balance. Sure, they aren't out of the box looks, but they are more about making it look like you are a good dresser and not about proving that you can style well.

You can always opt for adding one element to your look that makes it a standout, and yet polished. For example, you might be wearing a simple black dress, and the right jewellery can instantly elevate the look - whether you believe in minimalism or are a maximalist.

The idea here is not about trends, it is simply about how the clothes fit, how the structure aligns, and how everything comes together to make it a 'look' instead of the clothes or the accessories having to try too hard.

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It's easy to believe that 'casual' is literally just that, and that a certain formula will work. However, it is why we are talking 'polished casuals', because people don't put much thought into the colour scheme or the fitting or the texture of the fabrics, among other things, and in the end, the outfit feels rather incomplete than looking effortlessly chic.

If not that, there's often the mistake of adding too many things all at once, because when the outfit is casual, people want to add jewellery and bag and shoes and beyond, all to make them the focal points. However, one cannot give in to the temptation and knowing when to stop is key.

So the idea behind polished casual isn't to keep it casual, but give extra thought into one element, it is to find a way where everything about your look works in harmony - right from the hair to the footwear to the accessories.

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The base: You want to opt for tailored trousers, straight-fit jeans, smart shirts and basically, everything elevated basic

The right fit: You want to opt for outfits that fit right instead of everything oversized or very tight silhouettes. Blazers and co-ords are also one way to add structure and keep it polished.

The colour palette: Your focus needs to be towards modern neutrals, of course, you can try whites and greys, but also add blush, butter yellow and similar such tones to pair with the browns and blacks.

Accessories and elements: You obviously want to elevate the look with a statement bag or standout footwear, or jewellery that is sophisticated. And while you style them, everything else needs to look subtle, apart from that one element of interest.

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We keep seeing people on the internet dress a certain way or every brand trying to sell us the same things in the name of fashion trends, and well, everyone's tried of trying to align their fashion with what the algorithm wants or is pushing into everyone's faces. And so, polished casual is more about being a response/revolt to that, and not just a trend. Because everyone likes to look put together, and not need them to continue changing how they dress all the time, isn't it?

And the best part? You are simply choosing to refine your looks and dress with intention, so while polished casual is all about keeping it lowkey and effortless without standing out, it somehow still does.

Social and lead image credits: Instagram/aliaabhatt, Instagram/kareenakapoorkhan, Instagram/kritisanon