Casual apparel refers to any kind of clothing that does not constitute a uniform or formal dress. A T-shirt would be a piece of casual apparel, whereas a shirt would not be.

Men’s casual apparel is not easy to define, as a shirt might be considered casual apparel by some if it is not worn with a tie, and is open at the collar. Others might think that shirts are still formal wear.

The viewer’s perception is very influential in what is regarded as casual wear: however, T-shirts and loose trousers, or jeans, are generally agreed to be casual.

Casual apparel is not commonly acceptable in the workplace, though some companies have a policy of ‘dress down’ days, where the employees are allowed to wear more casual clothes, and even jeans.

People who wear uniforms are expected to wear these uniforms even then, and of course employers such as the army or police do not allow casual apparel in any way.

In general, though, casual apparel is strictly for the weekend and days off; and the loose and comfortable fit of casual clothes reflects these occasions.

Casual wear can still be flattering and fashionable; but it is not usually tight or revealing, as club wear might be.

School children are also users of casual apparel, and the fashion for jumpers known as ‘hoodies’ has seen many adults react negatively towards teenagers.

Groups of teens wearing these clothes have been banned from malls and other public areas, and the wearers are generally ostracized by older members of the community.

Most adult wearers of these items do not use the hoody part of the jumper, and this seems to be the difference between acceptable casual wear, and teenage fashion.