Men’s smart casual is a tripwire laden subject in this era of blazer and shorts ensembles. Previously, Mango HE SS12 provided good examples for smart casual dressing; but recently, I got to learn of a Korean men’s outfitter by the name of Comodo Square. There’s little information on them but when it comes to menswear, a picture speaks more than a thousand words, it’s a tutorial especially when it comes with campaign looks.
COMODO SQUARE 2013 SS Fashion Film from 10 CONNECTION on Vimeo.
Smart casual: Break it up, Pair it down- Comodo Square SS13
I call it sharp casual– a suit can be dressed down or up when used as suit separates- that is using the jacket and pairing it with another pair of trousers as shown here:
1. Formal Double Breasted Jacket with casual pants
While the double breasted blazer is a weapon for sartorial formality, when paired with red trousers- it becomes dressed down. The navy patterned necktie lends the smart to smart casual. I wouldn’t wear this to the office unless I worked in advertising or publishing. Image: Comodo
2. Jacket and pants with casual V-neck layers
During my early career where I worked marketing for a company running nightclubs, I wore all shades of v-necks under my blazers. Smart casual demonstrated here by Comodo SS13 pairs the dramatically formal one-button peak lapel with tailored trousers and then layers the ensemble under the jacket with a detail laden cardigan and v-neck tee combo- smashing!
Never underestimate the use of colours to instantly “de-sombre” a serious outfit. Right: The green trousers and denim shirt turn business neckwear into an accessory. Image: Comodo
3. Serious Navy with Khaki chinos
The navy blue suit is something every Monsieur should own in his wardrobe. While the full suit is the ultimate weapon in business or dinner formal, the navy blazer paired with khaki or in trend-worthy burnt orange or mustard is the quickest and easiest way in dressing down navy or blue jackets.
Left: Comodo Navy double breasted peacoat layered with blue poplin shirt and grey cardigan, paired with casual khaki chinos. Right: The penultimate formal navy suit with checked necktie. Image: Comodo
In case you haven’t noticed, Comodo Square does pretty kick ass ready-to-wear formal suits as well but I think their impeccable sense of style really shines in their campaign looks of separates. [More Comodo Looks]
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- Comodo Square Korea does pretty nifty formal men’s suits as well. A suit isn’t something you only wear on formal occasions. Remember- break it up and pair it down.
The Monsieur 
September 1st, 2013 → 3:33 pm
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