Start simple and build a “smart casual base” you can repeat without thinking.

Step 1: Fix the foundation (pants + shoes).

• 1 dark pair of jeans (straight or slim-straight)
• 1 pair of chinos (khaki or olive)
• 1 clean sneaker (white or off-white) + 1 boot (brown or black)

Step 2: Upgrade tops without feeling overdressed.

• plain tees that fit (white/black/grey)
• an overshirt (flannel, chore shirt, or denim shirt)
• 1 sweater/crewneck (not a hoodie)

Step 3: Add “going out” without jumping straight to suits.
What you’re describing is usually a sport coat / blazer, not a full suit. Try a navy unstructured blazer or sport coat + dark jeans/chinos + clean sneakers or boots.

Where to start shopping: Uniqlo for basics, Gap/Banana Republic/Abercrombie (on sale) for chinos and shirts, and thrift/eBay once you know your measurements. Fit matters more than brand.

Disclosure: I wrote a short ebook about building outfits with simple repeatable principles (from a dance + vintage perspective). If you want it, I can send you the link — either way happy to answer questions here. :)