Not too formal, not too casual: The New Formal Trend

There’s a fine line between being overdressed and looking like you didn’t even try. Somewhere in that balance lies the New Formal: a style that doesn’t demand a suit and tie but also doesn’t settle for “I just grabbed the first thing I found.” It’s the sweet spot between comfort and elegance – a new philosophy of dressing that speaks confidence without excess. 

 And especially in summer, when the temperatures rise and dress codes become more fluid, the New Formal is the most contemporary answer to the “what should I wear?” dilemma. Here’s how to make it yours.

Relaxed tailoring is the new tailoring

The blazer stays in the game, but it’s no longer the stiff, structured piece reserved for business meetings. In the New Formal, we’re talking soft, unstructured jackets that move with you, feel light, and bring effortless sophistication.

Pair them with cropped or lightweight trousers that keep clean lines without feeling restrictive. The vibe is still formal, but with room to breathe.

Shirts with character replace the “typical”

Forget the stiff white shirt that feels straight out of a boardroom. The New Formal prefers fabrics with personality: crinkle textures, linen, slub cotton—they add depth without needing loud prints.

A linen shirt in ivory works just as well buttoned up or layered open over a tee, while a sleeveless overshirt adds subtle layering without weighing down the outfit.

Fit and form make all the difference

The New Formal isn’t about oversized streetwear, but it’s not about tight, old-school cuts either. It’s about clean, intentional fits that send the right message.

Think beige cropped trousers with sharp seams or a minimal shirt in a neutral tone—pieces that look put-together yet completely wearable. They move easily between a business lunch, a dinner, or a social event without feeling out of place.

Mixing formal and casual codes is key

This might be the biggest secret of the New Formal: you don’t have to stick to one rule. Pair a blazer with a t-shirt, try an unexpected boiler suit, or wear a textured top with more tailored pieces.

The result? A look that feels considered, without the pressure of being “perfect.”

Neutral doesn’t mean boring

The New Formal avoids loud colors, but it’s far from flat. Its palette lives in beige, ivory, muted blue, soft khaki—tones that highlight the quality of the fabric and make mixing and matching effortless.

A muted beige blazer, an ivory shirt, or khaki trousers can carry an entire outfit without shouting for attention.

New Formal = Freedom with Purpose

The New Formal isn’t just another trend—it’s a mindset towards dressing. It’s the freedom to wear something refined without feeling restricted, the ability to move from a meeting to an after-work dinner without a complete change of clothes.

Ultimately, it’s what separates “I’m dressed for the occasion” from “I’m simply myself—with style.”