Smart/Casual??? What exactly is this?

[plus3]

and how do I do it?

I am normally found wearing jeans (GAP) which fit well, and I don't feel frumpy but I wear them all the time. I have a lovely denim skirt from Boden, and crops from white Stuff.

I have got to the point where I actually don't know what to wear out -for occassional meals etc.
It is the end of term dinner at school with other Mums tomorrow and I have no idea what to wear. I tried several dresses on and they all looked ridiculous. I have no smart shoes (I live in Birkies or converse).

I wear a uniform at work. I am (whispers) 37.

You'd think I would know this stuff by now

I'd wear jeans and a pretty top.

not dressy enough to go out to a bar/club in but too dressy for teh school gate.
or at least thats how i work it.

Smart casual is normally a work thing and it can be a killer to pull it off well. Normally things like:

• designer/well cut jeans with heels or smart shoes
• a nice dress and cardigan with flats/sandals/pumps etc - can be whatever you want (floral, print, colour etc) but not too tailored, evening or 'worky'.
• well but but not 'tailored' trousers/top/cardigan but I am not a trouser expert due to bad combination of big arse and small waist making it impossible for me to wear trousers.
• some people (men) think smart casual means designer sportswear...hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. I wouldn't go there myself but others may be able to pull it off.

A pair of mid-height heels is a godsend, flattering to the leg and comfortable, goes with dresses, skirts and most skinnier types of jeans. Unfortunately most shops seem to think that women want huge heels and those + flats is mainly what they stock.