A Guide to Casual Wedding Attire, From Etiquette Tips to Outfit Ideas
A bridal stylist helps us break down the dos and don'ts.
Photos, clockwise from top left: Huckberry, Tuckernuck, Lulus, Abercrombie & Fitch, Reformation, REVOLVE
According to The Knot 2024 Guest Study, only 17% of couples who married last year went with casual wedding attire—so it only makes sense that the rules surrounding what to wear feel a little fuzzy to many of us. Casual wedding attire leaves quite a bit of room for interpretation, unlike black-tie attire, which almost always means wearing a tux or evening gown. However, that's one of the things that makes this dress code so fun. A casual wedding provides the opportunity to lean into your personal style and really get creative with your look. That said, there are still some general etiquette guidelines you'll want to stick to. Ahead, we're breaking them down for you with the help of a bridal stylist, plus, we're bringing you a few outfit examples and shopping recommendations to make sure you're fully prepared for your next casual wedding.
At a glance:
- A casual dress code calls for an outfit that's slightly more elevated than your everyday attire—think what you'd wear to a nice dinner with family or friends.
- While casual wedding attire is fairly laidback, you should generally avoid tank tops, jeans, shorts, flip-flops and sneakers, unless otherwise requested by the couple.
- Examples of casual wedding attire for women include easy dresses, jumpsuits, two-piece sets, slacks, skirts and blouses, along with heels or a polished pair of flats.
- For men, casual wedding attire options include slacks or chinos, button-down shirts or polos and blazers with no tie, along with loafers or other dress shoes.
In this article: What Is Casual Wedding Attire? | What to Wear | Outfits for Women | Outfits for Men
What Is Casual Wedding Attire?
Think of casual wedding attire as an elevated version of the clothes you'd wear on a typical day. Unlike dress codes with more clearly defined rules—like black-tie, cocktail and even semi-formal—a casual wedding dress code leaves you with quite a few options. Julie Sabatino, bridal stylist and founder of The Stylish Bride, says that a great rule of thumb is to approach the event like you would a nice dinner. "Men could show up in pants and a blazer with no tie—or maybe no jacket at all—but just a nice shirt and a pair of slacks. Women can wear a nice sundress or dress, a jumpsuit or even a two-piece set," she says.
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That said, you should steer clear of anything too laidback when it comes to casual wedding attire. That means tank tops, jeans, shorts, flip-flops and sneakers are generally off limits here, unless otherwise noted by the couple. (For example, a couple getting married at a western-chic wedding venue may ask that guests wear jeans, cowboy boots and hats.) If you feel uncertain about whether something will be appropriate or not, look for context clues in the wedding website wording and on the invitation. If you're close to the couple, you can go to them directly. Otherwise, touch base with fellow attendees—wedding party members usually make great sources.
Photos, clockwise: Ralph Lauren, Marchesa Notte, Park & Fifth, Todd Snyder, Yumi Kim, Ciao Lucia,Design: Ashley Detmering for The Knot
What to Wear to a Casual Wedding
For a casual wedding, aim to wear something that's polished and put-together but still comfortable. And just as you would with any other wedding, remember to factor in the season, venue and time of day and dress accordingly. For example, the outfit you'd wear for a summer wedding on a beach will likely feel a bit more relaxed than one you'd wear to courthouse nuptials in the winter. Ahead, we're breaking down some concrete examples of what to wear to a wedding with a casual dress code, so you can pull your look together with ease.
What Women Should Wear to a Casual Wedding
Whether you prefer a one-and-done piece like a dress or jumpsuit or want to opt for separates instead, here's a list of casual wedding attire examples for women.
- Dresses & Jumpsuits: Reach for laidback but polished styles like sundresses, elevated sweater dresses and relaxed midi lengths.
- Separates: Pair a simple but elevated top or blouse with a silky slip skirt or polished trousers, or opt for a chic matching set instead.
- Shoes: Top off your look with dressy sandals, flats, loafers, heels or wedges depending on the season.
- Accessories: Dress it all up with wedding guest accessories like simple jewelry and a clutch or purse, and don't forget layers if you'll need them—a cardigan,peacoat or sleek jacket will work well.
What Men Should Wear to a Casual Wedding
Men's casual wedding attire can look different depending on the season and venue. Whether you're heading to a summer ceremony on the beach or a mountain-chic soirée in the winter, here are some fail-safe examples to help you put together your look.
- Pants: Chinos, dress pants and linen trousers are all excellent options. Just avoid wearing shorts or jeans to a wedding unless instructed otherwise.
- Shirts: You can never go wrong with a solid or printed button-down shirt with long or short sleeves. Knit polos and crewneck sweaters work well too, and they look great underneath blazers and jackets.
- Jackets: You don't need to wear a blazer or sports coat for a casual wedding, but doing so is a great way to elevate your look or add warmth during cooler seasons. In the summer, opt for a linen or cotton version instead.
- Shoes: Classic dress shoes or loafers are the way to go here, and sneakers work well too as long as they're a polished, dressy style. Avoid flip-flops unless instructed otherwise.
- Accessories: You won't need formal accessories like a tie or cufflinks, but casual extras like a watch and belt can go a long way.
Related content: How to Choose a Nonbinary Wedding Outfit
Casual Wedding Attire for Women
Want to see some examples? You've come to the right place. Ahead, take a peek at some of our favorite casual wedding looks for women, all of which you can shop now.
Strapless Floral Midi Dress
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
A classic floral wedding guest dress will never steer you wrong. Available in petite, regular and tall sizes, it has removable straps so you can customize it to your liking.
Elevated Knit Dress
Photo: Tuckernuck
A knit dress is a great option for the chillier months—just add tights and a polished wool coat to add extra warmth.
Silky Bias-Cut Midi Skirt
Photo: Tuckernuck
Not feeling a dress? We can relate. Try coordinating a silky skirt with a nice blouse, sleek blazer or sophisticated sweater depending on the weather and wedding vibe. This midi-length option is made from 100% silk, and is a closet staple you'll wear again and again.
Pleated Wide-Leg Pants and Top Set
Photo: Lulus
Yep, you can wear pants to a wedding. This two-piece trouser and vest set is another great example for those that aren't into dresses. Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off your first purchase at Lulus (new customers only; select categories; terms apply).
Printed Tiered Maxi Dress
Photo: Shopbop
A flowy printed maxi dress is a foolproof choice for spring and summer events. This one comes with a dainty belt that you can use to accentuate the waist, or you can leave it relaxed and undone.
Sleeveless Pleated Blazer Dress
Photo: Rent the Runway
Short styles work well for casual weddings too, especially when they're as polished as this sleeveless navy blazer dress by Sandro. Pro tip: You can rent this one for just $65 instead of committing to the $490 purchase price.
Puff-Sleeve Sundress
Photo: Hill House
Found: Your new throw-on-and-go dress for every I-have-nothing-to-wear occasion, casual weddings included. This one comes in over 10 colors, so there's something for every season, venue and vibe. New customers at Hill House Home can get 15% off when they spend a minimum of $100 with our exclusive code, KNOT15.
Belted V-Neck Jumpsuit
Photo: Petal & Pup
Maybe pants are more your style. In that case, you can always opt for dressy casual separates or a stylish jumpsuit. This brown option is the perfect mix of trendy and timeless. Oh, and did we mention it has pockets? Use code PETALXKNOT at checkout for 15% off your purchase.
Easy Cotton Tiered Maxi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
An easy cotton sundress is the perfect pick for casual weddings in the spring and summer. This short-sleeve, maxi-length style is a fan-favorite from Anthropologie, and it comes in nine gorgeous colors.
Black Sleeveless Mini Dress
Photo: REVOLVE
This little black dress is endlessly versatile. Wear it with sandals for a spring or summer wedding, or with tights and black heels or boots for a fall or winter event.
Men's Casual Wedding Attire
You didn't think we'd leave you without any men's shopping recommendations, did you? Scroll on for a few editor-approved casual wedding looks for guys and shop your favorites.
Comfortable Knit Blazer
Photo: Huckberry
A knit blazer is a cozy (and cute) option for a casual wedding in the winter or fall. This one is soft, stretchy and ultra-comfortable. It has an unlined, tailored construction that's meant to retain its shape over time. Pair it with a long-sleeve crewneck shirt or turtleneck, chinos and dressy sneakers.
Classic Khaki Dress Pants
Photo: Bonobos
Slacks and chinos are go-to dress pants when it comes to casual wedding attire for men. This pair is available in a variety of fits and has built-in stretch for maximum comfort and flexibility. Not to mention, the khaki color offers a refreshing look no matter the season.
Short-Sleeve Button-Down Polo
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
We have a feeling you'll get plenty of use out of this cool cable-knit polo—wedding season or not. The light brown style is lightweight and breathable, so it'll keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day. Wear it tucked in with a belt and chinos for an effortless vibe.
Stretch Chino Pants
Photo: Banana Republic
Chinos are a great option for casual weddings—they come in tons of colors to suit any season and work well with a variety of tops. This pair have rave reviews for their comfort and versatility.
Oxford Button-Down Pocket Shirt
Photo: Bonobos
A crisp white button-down isn't your only option. Try one in a print or color, like this oxford shirt from Bonobos. It's available in a variety of fits and lengths and will quickly become a staple in your wardrobe.
Linen-Cotton Pull-On Pants
Photo: Banana Republic
For casual weddings in the spring and summer, these linen pants are a stylish choice. They're breathable and lightweight but still look polished, and they'll pair beautifully with a solid button-down and canvas espadrilles.
Classic Navy Sport Coat
Photo: Men's Wearhouse
There are a million ways to style this classic navy sport coat. Wear it with a crisp white button-down and timeless khakis, or give it a modern spin with a crewneck sweater and dark chinos.
Short-Sleeve Linen Button-Down Shirt
Photo: Faherty
Short-sleeve linen button-downs work well for casual weddings, especially at tropical ceremonies or events in the spring and summer. We love the look of this light blue option paired with cotton khaki chinos.
Printed Stretch Pocket Dress Shirt
Photo: Brooks Brothers
Printed or solid dress shirts are a no-brainer when it comes to casual wedding looks for men. Just remember that you don't need to dress them up as much—a pair of trousers and no tie will do just fine.
Tan Linen Suit
Photo: Suitsupply
While there's no need to wear a suit for a wedding with a casual dress code, you totally can if you want to. To make your look feel more laidback, try a set in a fun pattern or more relaxed fabric, like this tan linen option. Wear the coat open to show off a tee, and feel free to skip the tie.
Additional reporting by Monica Mercuri.
