Rhiannon Hendricks
When it comes to wedding attire, the words casual and wedding can seem like an oxymoron. However, with the rise of more laid-back wedding styles, such as beachsIDE or backyard celebrations, couples may request that their guests dress casually. This shift towards casual wedding attire allows guests to feel more comfortable and relaxed while still respecting the occasion. To achieve this balance, guests should opt for comfortable and practical outfits that are a step up from their everyday wear. For women, this could be a midi or maxi dress, a jumpsuit, or a blouse with slacks or a skirt. Men can go for a button-down shirt and slacks, with the option to add a sports jacket or a tie. It's important to consider the location and season, such as choosing floral prints for a garden wedding or shorter hemlines for a beach wedding. Ultimately, casual wedding attire is about looking cheerful, fresh, and appropriately dressed for the event.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dress code | Casual wedding attire, "Come as you are", "Cocktail attire", "Sunday best", "Dressy casual" |
| Location | Beach, garden, backyard, indoor |
| Time of day | Daytime, night-time |
| Season | Summer, spring, autumn, winter |
| Gender | Men, Women, Non-binary |
| Clothing | Dresses, jumpsuits, blouses, slacks, skirts, suits, shorts, shirts, ties, jackets, t-shirts, trousers, jeans, sweaters |
| Accessories | Shoes, purses, earrings, ties, pocket squares, socks, clutches, handbags, jewellery |
| Footwear | Heels, sandals, wedges, ballet flats, sneakers, loafers, boat shoes |
| Colours | Light, pastel, bright, floral, black, white, red, yellow, green |
| Materials | Silk, chiffon, satin, cotton, leather, denim, linen |
| Styles | Laid-back, chic, stylish, comfortable, polished, tailored, elevated, smart, relaxed |
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What You'll Learn
'Casual' doesn't mean 'everyday'
When a wedding invitation says ""casual attire," it does not mean everyday clothes. "Casual wedding attire, or 'come as you are,' is the host's permission to skip formalities—but it's not an invitation to arrive unpolished," says creative director and stylist Carrie Goldberg.
For women, this could mean a nice pair of slacks with a blouse, an elevated jumpsuit, or a day dress. For men, a smart shirt and some slacks with sneakers or boots. You could also opt for a button-down shirt and slacks, and if you enjoy dressing up, a sports jacket. If the wedding is in the summer, a pair of tailored shorts could work too.
The location and time of day of the wedding will also affect the dress code. Beach weddings call for sandals and resortwear, while a garden wedding might imply floral prints and light, pastel colours. Daytime weddings can also be more relaxed than a nighttime affair.
While jeans are a controversial choice, some believe they are acceptable as long as they are nice and crisp and fit with the theme, location, and style of the event.
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Jeans are controversial
However, there are some who argue that jeans can be acceptable in certain contexts. For example, if the invitation specifically mentions a casual dress code or if the wedding has a theme that calls for denim, such as a Western or rustic theme. In these cases, jeans can be dressed up with a nice shirt, a blazer, and structured cowboy boots. Additionally, the venue and vibe of the wedding can also be considered. If it's a beach or backyard wedding, denim might be more suitable than a formal affair at a hotel or country club.
It's important to note that even if jeans are allowed, it's crucial to prioritize looking stylish, comfortable, and intentional. This means avoiding distressed or heavily ripped jeans, which can appear too casual or sloppy. Instead, opt for dressier washes like dark indigo denim, and pair it with a nice blouse, a blazer, and sleek shoes. Ultimately, the decision to wear jeans depends on the specific wedding's formality and the couple's preferences.
To respect the couple and the significance of their wedding day, it's generally advisable to err on the side of caution and choose an outfit that is more formal than jeans. However, if the couple specifically mentions jeans as acceptable or if the wedding has a casual theme, then guests can feel more confident about incorporating denim into their wedding attire.
In conclusion, while jeans may be acceptable in certain casual or themed weddings, it's important to be mindful of the dress code, venue, and the couple's preferences. When in doubt, it's always better to choose an outfit that leans towards the more formal side to respect the formality and importance of the wedding celebration.
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Avoid flip-flops and overly athletic sneakers
When it comes to a casual wedding dress code, it's important to strike a balance between comfort and style. While you want to feel relaxed, it's essential to remember that a wedding is a special occasion that calls for a certain level of polish and respect for the celebration.
For footwear, it's best to avoid flip-flops and overly athletic sneakers. These can come across as too casual and may not align with the level of elegance desired for the wedding. Instead, opt for comfortable yet elevated shoes that complement your outfit. For women, this could include flat sandals, wedges, ballet flats, or minimal heels. Men can explore dress sneakers, loafers, or boat shoes. If you're set on sneakers, choose a sleek, non-athletic pair, such as an all-leather style that looks clean and fresh.
The key is to maintain a sense of sophistication while still adhering to the casual theme. It's about elevating your everyday look, so consider the type of outfit you'd wear to a nice dinner with family or a weekend lunch with friends. You can also take cues from the wedding's location and time of day. For example, a beach wedding might call for sandals and light, pastel colours, while a garden wedding could inspire floral prints.
Ultimately, the goal is to look put-together and intentional. While jeans can be acceptable, especially if they're well-tailored or paired with a nice shirt, the overall ensemble should reflect the importance of the occasion. Avoid anything too casual or rumpled, such as sweatpants, graphic tees, or attire typically worn to the pool or a gym. Remember, it's a special day, and your outfit should honour the celebration while still allowing you to feel comfortable and relaxed.
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Dress for the location
When it comes to dressing for a casual wedding, it's important to consider the location of the event. While you want to feel comfortable, it's also key to remember that you're attending a wedding, so your outfit should reflect the formality of the occasion.
For a beach wedding, for example, a breezy outfit that can withstand the ocean breeze is a good choice. Women could opt for a sundress, a skirt and blouse, or a jumpsuit, paired with comfortable yet elevated footwear like flat sandals, wedges, or minimal heels. Men can go for a collared shirt with khakis or tailored shorts for a summer wedding.
If the wedding is taking place at a ranch, denim could be a suitable choice, while a floral-printed midi dress might be perfect for a backyard wedding. For an outdoor wedding, it's essential to provide more information to your guests since "outdoor" doesn't automatically imply casual. You could suggest outfits that align with the activities you've planned, such as yard games, and encourage comfortable attire that aligns with the cookout atmosphere.
For a more formal location like a ballroom or country club, you might want to suggest something like "resort casual," which conveys that guests can dress for comfort but still maintain a level of elegance.
Ultimately, the key is to provide clear guidance to your guests so they can dress appropriately for the location while feeling comfortable and respecting the formality of the occasion.
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Give examples for guests who might not understand
For women, a nice pair of slacks with a blouse, an elevated jumpsuit, or a day dress would be appropriate. A comfortable pair of shoes, a cute purse, and great earrings are also good options.
For men, a smart shirt and some slacks with an elevated sneaker or boot are a good choice. Men can also add a fun tie, a pocket square, or festive socks to dress up their outfit.
If the wedding is taking place at the beach, guests can wear sandals and resortwear-adjacent looks. For a garden wedding, floral prints and light, pastel colors are appropriate. During the daytime, outfits can be more relaxed than at night.
It's important to remember that casual wedding attire is not an invitation to arrive unpolished. Jeans, flip-flops, and athletic sneakers should be avoided, and swimwear is inappropriate unless explicitly stated otherwise.
- A button-down shirt and slacks
- A blouse and a skirt
- A knee-length dress
- A blazer and dress pants
- A sundress with dressy sandals
- A collared shirt with dress pants
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Frequently asked questions
Casual wedding attire is a slightly elevated version of your everyday clothes. It is a step down from cocktail attire. Think along the lines of business casual attire.
Women can wear comfortable, laid-back, and stylish ensembles. This could be a blouse with slacks or a skirt, a midi or maxi dress, or a jumpsuit. Footwear should be comfortable yet elevated, such as flat sandals, wedges, ballet flats, or minimal heels.
Men can wear a button-down shirt with chinos or slacks. A tie and jacket are not required, but a sports jacket is an option for those who enjoy dressing up.
It is best to avoid anything too casual or sloppy, such as sweatpants, flip-flops, athletic sneakers, and graphic tees. Unless the couple has explicitly stated otherwise, swimwear is also inappropriate.
