#THE_LOOKBOOK: Smart Casual Ropes

As the year starts afresh, the summer continues to gather momentum and I further seek to source the perfect smart casual summer looks perfect for day and night. A combination of denim and cotton never fails and in the right proportions can extend a simple look into something playfully special. This post’s look – Smart Casual Ropes – refers to the looks versatility and its inclusion of a bag’s strap as an accessory.

The shirt by Old Khaki – XXXL Jono long-sleeved micro-check shirt in red/white

This shirt is Old Khaki’s signature slim fit shirt. It’s about absolute comfort, form and fit. Don’t mind the fact that I’m wearing it five sizes too big – that’s just me chasing my oversized everything look. The shirt is darted at the back on two points to create form and fit and the cut of the shirt itself is fitted. It sits lightly on the body and if bought in the right size, will not pull or tug in places when moving.

The shirt retails for R399 at Old Khaki outlets across the country.

The jeans by Levi Strauss – 510 Slim fit in indigo

These denims are probably one of three favourite pairs on my rail at the moment. Extremely comfortable and perfectly fitting, they never fail to complement any outfit planned. With their slightly tapered leg, rolling the hem up means a fitted cut that the bottom, further creating shape. They are high-rise, so technically are supposed to be sitting on your high waist; this is great, in my opinion, as it gives your look a high waist effect without wearing high-waist jeans.

The shoes by Old Khaki – The Dawson shoe in black

The Dawson from Old Khaki is a kick-ass shoe. I know this because many have already complimented it while paraded on my feet. It’s the kind of shoe that’s not too square, too round or too pointed by the toe. It’s the kind of exact oval that we all want. Treated to a matt finish, the leather upper is textured and creates a more tactile appearance. Super comfortable, you could survive an entire day of activity on your feet.

The Dawson retails for R899 at Old Khaki outlets across the country.

The shades by Ray-Ban – Denim Wayfarer

Ray-Ban recently launched a series of textured sunglasses. Combining a range of fabrics and prints to their signature Wayfarer shades, Ray-Ban has created a whole new level to the game of eyewear. This denim pair has a very strong and cool look. Essentially, several layers of very thickly woven 100% Italian denim have been heat pressed together to create these sunnies, meaning I’m literally wearing denim on my face.

The belt by Carolina Herrera – The rope

The rope is actually a bag strap from a Carolina Herrera bag that I own. I have a tendency of not shopping for belts and then on occasion realise that I want to wear a belt with some outfits. It’s in those moments when I just look around my wardrobe and find something to appropriate as a belt. What I enjoy about using this rope as a belt is it somehow creates an almost sailor/nautical kind of feel to everything. Well, in my mind it does at least.

The bag by Woolworths – Leather laptop briefcase

My best bag in the collection! Not sure why, though, because it doesn’t carry my entire life but I love it so. Bought some many moons ago from Woolworths, this soft leather laptop briefcase is great for the weekend day out and for work. In its compact size it carries quite a bit weight and stays slim throughout. I also enjoy the easy to maintain aspect of the leather. One warm-cloth wipe and the dust is all gone.

The point of this look is to inspire a more playful approach to your wardrobe. If you don’t like your shirts too big, buy it in your size. You like wearing hats? Pair this look with a 5-panel peak cap or a panama hat. Perhaps you’re a chino kind of guy; go fir it and replace the denims with chinos. Even a pair of chino shorts would well great here and maybe swap the shoes for casual boat shoes instead. Whatever works for you – the point is to explore.

Words by, Editor-at-Large, Monde Mtsi.