Casual wedding attire means you can leave the gown and the stiff tailoring at home, but not the effort. A simple, well-fitting dress in a nice fabric, or neat separates like a skirt and blouse or tailored trousers with a pretty top, is the right idea. Jeans, athletic wear and beach flip-flops generally are not, unless the couple has said so.
The hardest part of a casual dress code is staying on the right side of the line between relaxed and underdressed. Here is how to read “casual” and “dressy casual,” what to wear to backyard and courthouse weddings, and the small details that make a simple outfit look intentional.
Casual vs. dressy casual
These two terms often appear side by side, and they are not quite the same.
| Casual | Dressy casual | |
|---|---|---|
| Dress | Sundress, cotton or linen dress, simple wrap dress | Polished day dress in crepe, silk-like fabric or refined cotton |
| Separates | Skirt and top, nice trousers and blouse | Tailored trousers or midi skirt with a silk or satin top |
| Shoes | Dressy sandals, flats, espadrilles | Block heels, loafers, dressy flats, low heeled sandals |
| Menswear | Chinos, collared shirt, no tie | Chinos or trousers, button-down, blazer optional |
Both sit at the relaxed end of the dress code spectrum. To see where they fall compared to cocktail, semi-formal and black tie, read our guide to wedding attire codes.
Some invitations also say “semi-casual” or “business casual.” Treat semi-casual like dressy casual. Business casual implies the kind of outfit you would wear to a nice office: tailored, simple, not too revealing.
What to wear to a casual wedding as a woman
The best casual wedding guest dresses share a few qualities: a flattering fit, a fabric that looks cared for, and a style you would not wear to run errands.
- A floral or printed midi dress in cotton, viscose or a light crepe.
- A linen dress with a clean cut, pressed before you leave.
- A wrap dress in a solid color or a subtle print.
- A shirt dress belted at the waist, in a soft fabric.
- A skirt and top, for example a pleated midi skirt with a fitted knit or a simple blouse.
- A jumpsuit in a fluid fabric, with sandals and simple jewelry.
Even at a casual wedding, avoid white and ivory. And if you are unsure about the overall mood, our guide to choosing a dress that suits any wedding can help you calibrate.
Casual wedding attire by venue
Backyard wedding
Expect grass, perhaps uneven ground, and a relaxed mood. A comfortable midi or knee-length dress, flat sandals, wedges or block heels, and a light layer for the evening are ideal. Stilettos will sink into the lawn.
Courthouse wedding
Courthouse ceremonies are often short and intimate, followed by a lunch or dinner. Dress as you would for a nice restaurant: a polished day dress, a skirt and blouse, or tailored trousers with a pretty top. Keep in mind that the ceremony takes place in a public building, so a slightly more conservative outfit is a good idea.
Beach wedding
Light, breathable fabrics and flat sandals work best. A flowing sundress in a solid color or a soft print is a natural choice.
Restaurant or brewery wedding
Dressy casual fits well here. A midi dress with ankle boots in cooler months, or a jumpsuit with sandals in summer, strikes the right balance.
What to avoid
- Distressed denim, shorts or athletic wear, unless the invitation explicitly allows them.
- Flip-flops and worn sneakers.
- Beachwear such as cover-ups, even at a beach wedding.
- Anything wrinkled or faded. At a casual wedding, the condition of the clothes carries a lot of the message.
- Going too formal. A sequined gown at a backyard barbecue wedding can make you and the hosts feel awkward.
Small details that make a casual outfit look intentional
Casual does not mean careless. A few simple touches lift a relaxed outfit to the level a wedding deserves.
- Press everything. Linen and cotton wrinkle quickly; a steamer is your friend.
- Choose one accessory with character: statement earrings, a woven clutch or a colorful scarf.
- Coordinate your shoes and bag in tone or material for a pulled-together look.
- Bring a layer, such as a denim jacket over a sundress for a very casual event, or a light blazer for dressy casual.
- Do your hair and makeup a little more than you would on a normal day. It signals respect for the occasion.
Casual wedding attire for men
For a partner or friend, casual usually means chinos or well-cut trousers, a collared shirt or a fine polo, and loafers or clean leather sneakers if the setting is very relaxed. Dressy casual adds a blazer. A tie is rarely needed. Coordinate the level of polish with your companion so neither of you looks out of step.
Casual wedding attire FAQ
Can I wear jeans to a casual wedding?
Only if the couple says so. Otherwise, choose trousers, a skirt or a dress instead. Even clean, dark jeans can feel underdressed at most weddings.
What does dressy casual mean for a wedding?
It means a polished, put-together outfit without formal pieces: a nice day dress, tailored trousers with a blouse, or a skirt and top, with dressy flats or low heels.
Are sandals OK for a casual wedding?
Yes. Dressy flat sandals, espadrilles or wedges are perfect, especially outdoors. Leave flip-flops at home.
What should I wear to a courthouse wedding as a guest?
A polished day dress or smart separates, similar to what you would wear to a nice lunch. Avoid white, and keep it a little conservative for the public setting.
