Business Casual For Weddings: What's Appropriate?

Deciding what to wear to a wedding can be a tricky task, especially when the invitation specifies a dress code such as business casual. This dress code is an unusual choice for a wedding, and guests may be unsure of what it entails. Generally, business casual means combining formal business attire with a more casual look, such as a blazer and dress pants, or a knee-length dress with a blazer. For men, this could mean a seasonal sports coat, dress shirt, and dress pants. For women, a midi dress with a blazer and flats could be a good option. It's important to remember that business casual is usually more formal than casual attire, so it's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

Business casual for men: slacks, button-down shirts, blazers, and loafers

When it comes to business casual attire for men, there are a few key components to keep in mind: slacks, button-down shirts, blazers, and loafers. Let's break down each of these elements and provide some additional tips to help you achieve a stylish and appropriate look for a wedding with a "business casual" dress code.

Slacks

Slacks are a versatile and elegant choice for business casual attire. They can be paired with a variety of shirts and jackets to create a polished look. When selecting slacks, opt for classic colours such as black, grey, tan, or dark tones. Avoid bright-coloured bottoms, as they may appear too casual for a wedding.

Button-Down Shirts

A button-down shirt is a classic choice for business casual. Look for shirts made from fabrics like twill, oxford, or pinpoint, which offer a more relaxed look than traditional formal options. You can also experiment with patterns and details, such as jacquards, checks, plaids, or small prints. Avoid shirts with large branding or slogans, as they are not considered business casual.

Blazers

A blazer can elevate your outfit and add a touch of sophistication. When attending a wedding, consider leaving the suit at home and opting for a well-cut blazer in a patternless, plain colour such as grey, black, or blue. A blazer can be paired with slacks and a button-down shirt to create a cohesive look.

Loafers

Loafers are a classic choice for business casual footwear and are appropriate for a variety of occasions, including weddings. They can be paired with slacks or even a suit, providing a polished and professional finish to your outfit.

Additional Tips

When dressing for a wedding with a "business casual" dress code, it is important to remember that this is still a special occasion. While you can leave the tie at home, pay attention to the other elements of your outfit. Ensure your clothes are well-fitting, ironed, and free from stains or wrinkles. You may also want to consider the venue and season when selecting your outfit. For example, a fall or winter wedding may call for darker colours and richer fabrics, while a summer wedding could be an opportunity to incorporate lighter colours and fabrics.

In summary, when interpreting "business casual" for a wedding invitation, remember to dress accordingly. Slacks, button-down shirts, blazers, and loafers are a great foundation for your outfit, and with a few additional considerations, you'll be well on your way to looking stylish and appropriate for the celebration.

Business casual for women: knee-length skirts, blouses, blazers, sweaters, and heels

When it comes to business casual attire for women, there are several elegant and polished options to choose from. Here are some ideas for how to dress business casual when invited to a wedding:

Knee-length skirts

Knee-length skirts are a classic choice for business casual attire. They offer a polished and professional look while still being comfortable and versatile. When selecting a skirt, opt for solid colours or subtle patterns that are not too flashy or attention-grabbing. Black, navy, grey, and other neutral tones are excellent choices as they can be easily paired with a variety of blouses and blazers.

Blouses

A blouse is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for a business casual wedding invitation. Look for blouses made from lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or silk. You can choose from a variety of colours and patterns, but it is generally best to avoid anything too bright or bold. Blouses with interesting details, such as ruffles, tie necks, or puff sleeves, can add a touch of elegance to your outfit.

Blazers

A blazer is a must-have piece for any business casual wardrobe. It instantly elevates your look and adds a layer of sophistication. When selecting a blazer, consider opting for a neutral colour such as black, navy, or grey, as these colours will pair well with various skirt and blouse combinations. Structured blazers that are tailored to your body type will create a sleek and polished silhouette.

Sweaters

In cooler weather or for a more casual wedding, a sweater can be a great choice. Opt for a lightweight sweater in a neutral colour, such as a crewneck or V-neck style. You can also try a cardigan, which can be layered over a blouse or dress to add a bit of warmth and texture to your outfit.

Heels

Heels are a simple way to dress up an outfit and add a touch of elegance. For a business casual look, opt for a pair of closed-toe heels or pumps in a neutral colour. A low to a medium heel is generally best, as it will be more comfortable for standing and dancing throughout the wedding celebrations.

When putting together a business casual outfit for a wedding, it is important to remember that the key is to look polished and sophisticated while still being comfortable. You can mix and match the above pieces to create a look that suits your personal style and the specific wedding venue and theme.

Business casual for outdoor weddings: short suits with sandals for women, and dress pants with collared shirts for men

When it comes to business casual for outdoor weddings, it's important to strike a balance between dressing for the occasion and staying comfortable in the elements. Here are some tips for both women and men to achieve a stylish and appropriate look:

Women's Business Casual for Outdoor Weddings: Short Suits with Sandals

For women, a short suit is a great option for an outdoor wedding. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen, especially if the wedding is during the warmer months. A short suit can be paired with a sleeveless or strapless top underneath for a chic and comfortable look. As for footwear, sandals are a perfect choice. Go for dressy sandals with a low heel or wedge, or even embellished flat sandals. This will ensure you can navigate the outdoor terrain with ease while still looking stylish.

Men's Business Casual for Outdoor Weddings: Dress Pants with Collared Shirts

For men, a pair of dress pants with a collared shirt is a safe bet for an outdoor wedding. Chinos or khakis are a good choice, paired with a button-down shirt. A tie is not necessary, but if you want to add a bit of flair, consider a patterned or colourful tie. As for footwear, dress shoes or dressy sneakers are appropriate. If the wedding is more casual, you can get away with dressy sneakers in a dark colour.

Remember, it's always a good idea to consider the venue and location of the wedding when choosing your outfit. If the wedding is in a barn or on a beach, for example, you may want to adjust your outfit accordingly. You can also research the typical weather for the time of year and location to ensure your outfit is seasonally appropriate.

Business casual for indoor weddings: cocktail dresses, jumpsuits, and blazers

Business casual is an unusual choice of wording for a wedding invitation, but it's not uncommon. If you've received an invitation with this dress code, it's safe to assume that the happy couple does not intend for the event to be too formal. However, it's still a wedding, so it's important to look dressy and refined.

Cocktail Dresses

Cocktail attire is a blend of casual and formal, leaning more towards the formal side. For indoor weddings, cocktail dresses can be a great option for female guests. The length of the dress should be knee-length or longer. To strike a balance between casual and formal, skip the sundress and save the mini-dress for the club. Instead, opt for something formal and understated, like a little black dress, or an elegant jumpsuit. If you want to add some personality, play with accessories—choose shoes in contrasting colours or carry a vibrant sequin bag.

For a spring or outdoor wedding, a midi dress in pastel hues is a good choice. For a winter wedding, consider a jumpsuit or dress pants and a romantic button-down shirt that will keep you warm while still looking elegant. For a fall wedding, gemstone hues and fabrics like suede are perfect, while small embellishments elevate the design.

Jumpsuits and Blazers

Jumpsuits are a great alternative to dresses and can be dressed up or down depending on the wedding. For a black-tie wedding, pair a jumpsuit with sparkling jewellery and pumps. For a backyard wedding, dress it down with wedges. Colourful jumpsuits are perfect for daytime ceremonies and can be paired with strappy embellished sandals, luminous bracelets, and drop earrings.

If you're a male guest, a blazer can dress up an outfit for an indoor wedding. A blazer with a button-down shirt and slacks is a good option if you want to look nice without a jacket and tie. If you do opt for a tie, add a pocket square and some festive socks to dress up your outfit.

Business casual for evening weddings: darker colours and midi dresses

Business casual for an evening wedding can be a tricky dress code to navigate. The key is to strike a balance between looking nice and avoiding anything too full glam. For women, a sophisticated and dressy casual look is ideal. A midi dress in a darker, richer colour like burgundy or berry red is a perfect choice. These colours are tasteful and elegant, and will set the right tone for an evening celebration. To elevate the look, pair the midi dress with dressy sandals or heels, a cute purse, and some statement earrings.

If a dress isn't your style, you can also opt for a silky midi-length skirt with a nice blouse, a blazer, or a sweater, depending on the weather. This option gives you a bit more flexibility and allows you to mix and match pieces to create a unique look. Again, darker colours are more suitable for an evening wedding, and you can accessorise with jewellery and dressy shoes.

For men, a dark suit in navy, black, or grey is appropriate for an evening wedding. A white shirt and a dark or neutral tie are also recommended. If you want to add a bit of personality to your look, consider a fun tie or a pocket square. While a blazer is not necessary, you can add one if you prefer a more formal aesthetic.

It's important to remember that the venue and season can also influence your outfit choice. For example, if the wedding is in a barn or outdoors, you may want to adjust your attire accordingly. If you're unsure about the dress code, it's always a good idea to reach out to the couple or members of the wedding party for clarification.

Frequently asked questions