What to Wear to a Casual Wedding: Essential Tips and Outfit Ideas

Introduction

“Casual wedding” on the wedding invitations can be confusing. Unlike black tie or formal, a casual wedding dress code is relaxed but still polished—think smart casual with wedding-worthy fabrics, colors, and accessories. This guide breaks down casual wedding attire for women and attire for men, with outfit examples for beach wedding, garden wedding, and city venues across the wedding season.

SHOP THE LOOK: Peggy Abstract Print Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress

The Fast Rule of Thumb

• Put-together, not plain: You’re going to a celebration, not brunch.

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics: Linen, cotton poplin, chiffon, crepe—comfort first.

• Neat shoes: Comfortable shoes are fine; athletic sneakers are not.

• Color/print: Feel free to wear color and soft prints—just steer clear of white (save wear white for the bride).

• No jeans, t-shirts, tank tops, or flip flops.

SHOP THE LOOK: Louisa Floral Applique Spaghetti Straps Maxi Dress

Casual Wedding Guest Dresses (Women)

1) The Nice Sundress (knee to midi)

• Fabrics: cotton poplin, linen blend, breathable crepe (lightweight fabrics).

• Necklines: square, sweetheart, collared shirt-dress, or soft halter.

• Shoes: strappy sandals or block-heel mules.

• Jewelry: simple jewelry (pearl studs, slim bracelet).

• Tip: Choose lighter colors or soft jewel tones depending on venue and time.

SHOP THE LOOK: Elvira Ruffled Trim Corset Bodice Maxi Dress

2) The Maxi Dress (easy elegance)

• A maxi dress in chiffon or lightweight knit reads relaxed but refined.

• Add a leg slit for movement; top with a cropped jacket if evenings are cool.

• Works for garden wedding and late-day beach ceremonies.

SHOP THE LOOK: Anila Printed Pleated Ruffle Maxi Dress

3) The Tailored Jumpsuit (modern weddings favorite)

• A tailored jumpsuit in crepe or matte satin is a chic alternative to casual wedding guest dresses.

• Pair with slingbacks and a structured mini bag for that “effortlessly put together” vibe.

4) The Black Dress (yes, at casual)

• A black dress is fine at modern weddings—soften with tan sandals, a woven clutch, or gold hoops.

SHOP THE LOOK: Florence Asymmetrical Chiffon Maxi Dress with Scarf

Casual Wedding Attire for Men

1) Polo or Linen-Blend Shirt + Chinos

• A clean polo shirt or nice linen shirt (or cotton button down shirt) with well-pressed chinos.

• Add loafers or leather sneakers (minimal, clean) and a belt.

2) Collared Shirt + Dress Pants (no tie required)

• A collared shirt in chambray or Oxford with tailored dress pants; cuffs and hems neat.

• Optional lightweight blazer if the venue feels dressier.

3) Warm-Weather Beach Wedding

• Breathable linen shirt + light chinos or dressy drawstring trousers; loafers or huaraches.

• Skip the tie; bring a linen blazer if the sun sets cool.

Cooler Months?

• Swap fabrics to heavier twills or wool-blend trousers; add a cotton-cashmere sweater over the shirt.

What Colors Work Best

• Daytime garden or beach: sage, sky, cornflower, blush, butter, and sun-washed stripes.

SHOP THE LOOK: Sienna Floral Embroidered V-neck Satin Maxi Dress

• Late afternoon to evening: jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, garnet) or chic neutrals.

• Avoid: loud bright red if it competes with the wedding theme or photo palette (ask if unsure).

SHOP THE LOOK: Beth Off Shoulder Tiered Maxi Dress

Venue-by-Venue Outfit Examples

Garden Wedding (afternoon → evening)

• Women: Floral sundress or maxi dress with strappy sandals; woven clutch; cardigan or light wrap.

• Men: Nice shirt (linen or Oxford) + chinos; suede loafers; unstructured blazer optional.

SHOP THE LOOK: Ethel Flower Embellished Sleeveless Maxi Dress

Beach Wedding (sand or deck)

• Women: Breezy midi with breathable fabrics; flat sandals or low wedges; hair accessories to manage wind.

• Men: Linen collared shirt + lightweight pants; leather sandals or clean loafers; no socks required.

SHOP THE LOOK: Estelle Shirt Collar Sleeveless Maxi Dress

Casual Loft/City Courtyard

Women: Tailored jumpsuit or crepe midi; block heels; sculptural earrings.

Men: Crisp button down shirt + dress pants; minimalist leather sneakers or loafers; belt.

SHOP THE LOOK: Fiona Floral Print Sleeveless Maxi Dress

Season & Time of Day

• Summer wedding: prioritize airflow—linen, cotton, chiffon; sun-safe sleeves or hat en route (remove indoors).

• Cooler months: add tights, a knit over shoulders, or a trench/overcoat that skims the look.

• Evening: deepen colors and add a touch of sheen; keep silhouettes relaxed.

SHOP THE LOOK: Lena Polka Dot Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress

Accessories That Finish the Look

• Bags: Small crossbody or clutch—hands free for the dance floor.

• Hats: OK for sun protection outdoors; remove for the ceremony if requested.

• Belts: Slim, match shoes for a cleaner line.

• Jewelry: Keep it simple—one focus (earrings or bracelet).

What Not to Wear (Even at a Casual Wedding)

Jeans, athletic sneakers, flip flops, t shirt, tank tops

Anything sheer without proper lining

Loud logos or slogan tees

Anything that reads clubwear

All-white looks (unless requested by the couple)

SHOP THE LOOK: Julianna Asymmetrical Neck Cap Sleeve Maxi Dress

Casual vs. Formal at a Glance

Dress Code	Women	Men
Casual wedding	Sundress, maxi dress, or tailored jumpsuit; block heels or flats	Polo shirt or button down shirt + chinos or dress pants; loafers or clean leather sneakers
Smart casual	Midi dress in crepe/chiffon; low heel; structured mini bag	Collared shirt + chinos; optional blazer
Black tie (contrast)	Floor-length gown, formal heels, evening bag	Suit or tuxedo, shirt, tie

FAQs

Can I skip a jacket and tie?

Yes—casual dress code means no tie and no jacket required, unless the venue notes otherwise.

Are sandals okay?

Yes—strappy sandals or dressy flats are perfect. Avoid rubber flip flops.

Is a black dress too formal for a casual wedding?

Not if the fabric is relaxed (crepe, jersey) and you style it with softer accessories.

Can I wear sneakers?

Only if they’re minimalist leather and the couple is very laid back. When in doubt, choose loafers.

What’s a foolproof color strategy?

Lean lighter by day and richer by night; coordinate with the wedding guest outfit palette if the couple shares one.