"Business smart casual" outfit - help needed!

[OwlMother]

I have to go to a work drinks thing hosted by the business I work for, it's a real networking thing which is not something I'd normally go to. Normally I'm on the office all the time, with occasional client meetings where a nice dress tends to work well.

I have asked one of the others who is going what the right thing to wear is and he said "smart business casual"- he is wearing chinos and a jacket. I'm not entirely sure what this means for me. The only other woman going is not approachable.

I think it probably means I need something a bit more formal than a nice dress, but not entirely sure what! Does anyone have any specifics suggestions? Would welcome any help as it's two weeks off but really stressing me out.

I would assume that it’s basically what you would wear to the office when you have something client facing, so maybe that’s a dress or perhaps tailored trousers and a smart top?

I had a similar thing recently and went with a bright silk shirt, black ankle length trousers and chunky black loafers. I felt comfortable but smart, rather than overly aware of what I was wearing.

You could always look if there are any pics from past events the company has hosted, to give you a steer?

Thank you! I think the issue is that since Covid the work uniform has varied quite a lot, nice day dress for the office doesn't seem to fit with early evening drinks.

Unfortunately everyone else who is going / usually goes to these things with the exception of one woman who always looks amazing but not in strictly work wear, so no shift dresses, black trousers, suit separates etc. It's trying to find the right level that I'm struggling with.

I had wondered about wide legged trousers as they are smart but not too crazy formal, then struggles with what to wear with them. A blouse like you mentioned might be good.