So a wedding invitation just arrived in your mail. It’s your friend’s wedding, and she’s always been a free spirit. So you’re not surprised when it says “Casual fits only” in bold letters and a wink. So what do you do?
You might be having one of these three reactions: “Yes! It’s time to whip out my fancy pajamas!” or “So you’re saying I can’t wear my cosplay outfits to your wedding? Or “What does casual even mean, dude?”
Depending on your reaction, you might be having a really good time or a really bad time. Either way, it doesn’t hurt to get some fashion inspiration for your wedding guest outfit! They might be right up your alley, or maybe some might spark creative ideas in your mind! There might be multiple thoughts about choosing fabrics such as cotton, chiffon, satin or sateen. It could totally change what you originally planned and set you out on a different path! That’s why this article is here to break down the casual dress code at a wedding and get your gears running!
What’s Casual Wedding Attire?
Well, to be honest, casual could mean anything, depending on how the people who are wedded feel about it. After all, it’s their day, and they have to decide what they want. But if your friend is of no help and leaves you on your unhelpful devices, we might help you wager a guess.
So casual wedding attire is usually a more elevated version of the clothes you would wear on a random Saturday. But here’s where it gets a little complicated. There are often different levels of casual. You might have heard of a business casual or a bear-bellied uncle on a barbecue brunch day casual. There are levels. For the sake of safety, we’re going to stay on the side of the former.
What Does Not Count in Casual Wedding Attire?
Similarly to any semi-dressy event, you should think of wedding casuals along the lines of business-cazh attire. Generally, that means articles like tank tops, PJs, flip-flops, and athleisure are not going to cut it. So you might want to put those fancy PJs back into the closet. But those are just 5 things off-limits, and five is a pretty small number. There are several other options that you can explore, such as semi-structured outfits, floral dresses, semi-formals, etc.
That’s not all, though. Just as a workplace’s dress code usually carries a different definition depending on the office, work culture, your colleagues, etc., what you wear for a casual wedding is also based on a few factors, such as who the people involved are, the season, the place, the time of the day, and if there are any specific themes going on.
For instance, an evening beach wedding or a backyard orchard wedding may be considered more casual and informal than, say, a casual wedding at a chapel or a more scenic location. So maybe then you could pull out your fancy PJs.
However, it all really depends on whether the couple has outlined any specific clothing items as off-limits or absolutely desirable on their invite. The wedding guests can also use context clues or just inquire if they’re really uncertain. And if you’re super close to the couple, you could simply ask them!
Otherwise, get in touch with any fellow attendees and think up a little matching pair if that’s what you’re into! After all, wedding party members usually make great sources!
Casual Wedding Guest Attire to Style
So now that we know how to gauge what a casual wedding outfit might look like, we can actually take a look at some clothing inspiration! These are usually what most wedding attendees might call causal on a good day.
1. An off-shoulder maxi dress
It’s hard to go wrong with flowy and smooth maxi dresses. Get one with a comfy knit, stylish, or cotton fabric and a flattering off-shoulder neckline. Pair that with some floral chokers to elevate the whole look!
2. A pastel cocktail dress
Another closet staple is any silky and well-fitted cocktail dress. If it’s casual, you could pick one that has minimal embellishments and go easy on the jewelry.
3. Off-shoulder top and a maxi skirt
If you want to switch things up, try a co-ord or an off-the-shoulder top with a flowy skirt! This is a good swap for a dress if you feel like you need a little more movement. And it comes with the perk that you can really mix and match with the two individual pieces!
4. A floral motif t-shirt with some dress pants
If you’re looking for more masc outfits, a casual patterned t-shirt with some neutral dress pants can’t go wrong! Pair that with some sleek silver or gold bracelets and some cool shades. It’s clean and brings out that uptown funk.
5. Unconstructed Blazer
When it comes to masc wedding attire, an unconstructed blazer can do wonders! This is a really versatile piece for your outfit that you can pair with a skirt as well as trousers. You can switch things up with a pop of color or a playful pattern. This is one way to secure all the gazes on you! Pair it with elegant and minimal jewelry, but you can go heavy on the rings!
6. Modern Chinos
Chinos are a go-to when it comes to modern casual wedding fits. Nothing gives vacation, the ocean, and the smell of the ocean more than a pair of beige chinos with a floral shirt. This is where you can go really heavy-handed with those Hawaiian shirts that everyone seems to cringe at because when paired with this kind of a look, it’s really nothing to frown at!
Wrapping up
So that brings us to a close on our guide to acing your outfit to a casual wedding. From frilly dresses to an unstructured blazer, there are way too many ways in which you can starch the idea of what it means to go cash! So don’t sweat it! Get comfy in the most movable clothes that you have, make sure you feel good wearing them, and remember the main aim is to always have a good time with the people involved. So grab some starry champagne and get dancing with the people who matter because this guide is witty. Your dress is the last of your worries!
Casual Wedding Attire FAQs
Can you wear cap sleeves in a casual wedding?
Yes! You might see a lot of bridesmaids wearing cap sleeves. But that doesn’t mean you can’t give it a try! If it’s a garden theme, there’s really nothing that beats the wispy and ethereal look of this style.
What is a good option for wedding guest skirts?
Usually, a silk or satin midi skirt should do the job just fine! A solid black, cream, or white midi silk skirt is a closet staple. Get some low heels or flattering slippers with this look, and don’t forget to get that pedicure done early!
How can you pair an unstructured blazer with your outfit?
If it’s colder, you can always add a single-breasted blazer to any dress pants or even a cocktail dress or skirt. Just make sure it’s unstructured to fit the vibe.
