Showing up to a casual wedding in full-glam attire is akin to wearing a turtleneck on a summer's day. It's uncomfortable, a little inappropriate, and you'll probably end up feeling like everyone's staring at you.
Black-tie nuptials are a great opportunity to go all-out (while being mindful about stealing the bride's spotlight), but if the invite expressly states that the dress code is casual, there's most likely a reason. Maybe it's an intimate wedding, and the venue is rustic and laid-back; a parents' back garden, for example, or the local courthouse. You hardly need to buy something new and extravagant for this brand of ceremony. That being said, there's a fine line between casual and too casual—I'm sure it doesn't need to be stated, but please don't show up in jeans and a T-shirt.
Of course, you can still dress up, but aim to keep the frills and embellishments to a minimum and stick to everyday fabrics like cotton and linen. Save the chiffon and organza for another occasion. Footwear is also important, as are the rest of the finishing touches: a cute clutch and gold jewellery get the green light, but feather-trimmed shawl and diamonte-encrusted stilettos are probably a step too far.
To get the ball rolling, we've rounded up five outfits below that we think hit the mark for a casual wedding. They're elegant, smart and refined, and we think you're going to love them.
1. Colourful Blazer + Black Trousers + Smart Shoes
Style Notes: Where a full suit feels like a formal choice for a wedding, mixing and matching your tailoring will result in a more laid-back look—especially if you opt for flat shoes. You'll be grateful for them when you hit the dancefloor, too.
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Admittedly, this whole suit is also a tempting option.
These could also be dressed down with a slouchy jumper and sneakers.
An evening bag you'll use over and over again.
These are so unique—they'd also be ideal for the office.
2. Linen Dress + Simple Sandals
Style Notes: Linen is an inherently casual fabric choice and a safe option for a no-frills summer wedding. Opt for a dress in a simple silhouette with minimal embellishment (ideally one you can see yourself re-wearing on your next holiday), and pair it with strappy sandals.
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The asymmetric design and cut-out details are so 2023.
Just the right size for your phone and a lipstick for touch-ups.
These look really high-quality.
3. Bright Jumpsuit + Kitten Heels
Style Notes: Not only is a jumpsuit easy-going, but it's also a comfortable option for a wedding. After all, they're usually day-long events. In the same spirit, do yourself a favour and choose a low kitten heel over a sky-high stiletto.
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Such a beautiful hue.
A necessity for outdoor weddings.
Okay, these are a little jazzy—but we think you'll get away with them.
4. Black Floral Dress + Boxy Blazer
Style Notes: To make your dresses feel instantly more relaxed, just add a loose-fitting blazer on top. Easy peasy. Top tip: keep to a minimal and neutral palette if you're unsure of the party wedding colours.
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Also perfect for a park picnic or Friday night drinks.
Ready to layer with other gold chains.
This versatile blazer is available in sizes XS to 4XL.
Wear these all through wedding season.
5. Vintage Shirt + Slip Skirt + Mules
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Style Notes: I love the idea of styling separates together for a wedding, particularly pieces that you'd usually wear day-to-day. A vintage shirt, for example, will feel instantly dressier if you team it with a silky midi skirt.
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There's only one, so don't hesitate if you want it!
A slip skirt is an essential component of every modern wardrobe.
Call off the search—this is the perfect summer bag.
Nude shoes go with everything. That's a fact.
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