Cocktail attire, semi-formal, white tie, black tie optional—if you’re not sure what you’re doing, dress codes can feel like a maze. It’s critical to understand the fundamentals of each dressy casual dress code so you don’t show up in a ball gown or tuxedo to your cousin’s backyard barbecue or in jeans and sneakers to work or a friend’s wedding gala. Here’s a rundown of the most common dressy casual attire that will fit both men and women either for work or wedding occasions.
What is Considered Dressy Casual?
Dressy casual (also known as smart casual) clothing is a mix of relaxed and refined pieces, such as blouses, dress shirts, button-downs, dress pants, dark jeans, and clean shoes. Dressy casual is one step above casual (jeans and t-shirts) and one step below business casual on the formality scale (office or work wear like dress pants and pencil skirts).
One of the most common ways to achieve a dressy casual look is to pair pieces with varying degrees of formality, such as wearing heels to dress up your jeans or a blazer to dress up your sneakers.
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Dressy casual means you don’t have to dress as if you’re going to work, but true casual isn’t appropriate for the occasion. For example, “dressy casual” may appear on invitations to work-related events such as a company awards ceremony. These occasions do not require you to dress as if you are going to work, but wearing a t-shirt may also be inappropriate.
Dressy casual is also a surprisingly common wedding dress code. This dress code suggests that the couple wants everyone to feel free to express themselves while still looking good in photos. There is obviously some overlap between dressy casual and business casual. A dressy casual invitation, on the other hand, allows you to have a little more fun with your outfit: bold patterns and fun silhouettes will be more acceptable here.
When to Wear Dressy Casual Attire
Dressy casual is a great look for social occasions where there are no strict dress codes. This dress code’s style options strike a balance between casual and formal wear, making it a safe bet for events like nights out with friends and first dates.
What Is Dressy Casual Attire for Work?
Business casual attire is a dress code that combines traditional business attire with a more relaxed style that is still professional and appropriate for an office setting. You can ensure that a casual dress code isn’t holding you back by arriving to work in casual clothes that are still neat, pressed, and appropriate for the type of work you do.
Dressy Casual Work Attire for Women
The following are some business dressy casual wardrobe staples that women should have:
#1. Business Casual Blazer
A blazer is considered a formal business piece, so a casual item should be worn with it. To keep the look clean and simple but still semi-formal, pair it with a casual shirt, jeans or chinos, or a lightweight dress.
#2. Business Casual Dress
Business attire is a very formal piece that should be carefully mixed to achieve the appropriate level of formality. The classic sheath dress is an example of a suitable and extremely versatile dress. For a more relaxed office look, pair it with an oversized linen blazer, a bright and funky trench coat, or a chunky sweater.
#3. Business Casual Shirt
Formal shirts are crisp, well-fitting, and extremely elegant. They are the foundation of business casual attire, so make the most of them. Wear it with linen chinos, dark jeans (not bleached or ripped), a sweater, or an oversized trench coat. To keep the look elegant, pair casual shirts with various micropatterns, stripes, or checks with clean-looking and simple slacks.
#4. Business Casual Slacks
Women’s slacks are a popular clothing item due to their versatility and comfort. Wear them with one of your favorite formal shirts, a casual tweed blazer, or a light sweater and ballerinas to go with anything. This is one of the most comfortable outfits you can put together for a day at the office.
#5. Business Casual Suit
The suit is, without a doubt, the most formal of all the business formal wardrobe classics, but don’t rule out wearing it in business casual at work. If you’re going to a business casual interview, wear a suit in bright pastel colors that can be easily combined with a simple white t-shirt and ballerinas.
Dressy Casual Work Attire for Men
Here’s a quick and easy breakdown of what works for business attire.
#1. Blazer
Blazers are a classic way to dress up almost any outfit and create a clean-cut yet casual look for men. Choose a versatile blazer color like navy blue, black, or grey for an effortless office look. Wool, cotton, polyester, and other materials that provide a clean look while also being durable are popular blazer materials.
Button-up Shirt or Down Shirt – Button-up shirts are a must-have in any business casual office wardrobe! The Men dress shirts are ideal for the business casual dressy style because they combine the clean-cut look of semi-formal attire with the light airy feel of cotton and polyblend materials. Employees should have white button-up dress shirts on hand for interviews, important meetings, and everyday appearances.
#3. Slacks
The pants of your outfit are arguably one of the most difficult pieces of the overall office look. While some companies will accept nice, fitted denim jeans, it’s a much safer bet to start with dress slacks or trousers. Slacks, with their clean lines and semi-formal appearance, are an automatic winner for the laid-back business look.
#4. Quality Sweaters
Warm, thick sweaters can absolutely be worn in a business setting when the weather begins to cool. Wear a collared shirt underneath your corporate outfit for an increasingly classy appearance.
#5. Polos
Wearing polo shirts to work is another point in the business casual guide that is heavily dependent on your specific organization. Polo shirts can be worn to work in most cases, especially on hot summer days. It’s best to wait until you’ve seen the atmosphere of the company before wearing your crisp polo shirt to work.
What Is Dressy Casual Attire for a Wedding?
Dressy casual wedding attire simply refers to the dress code that is expected for a wedding ceremony. If you’ve been invited to a casual daytime or evening wedding, you’re probably looking for casual or dressy casual wedding guest dresses!
Dressy Casual Wedding Attire for Women
We did the research and found the cutest dressy casual outfits for women, which include:
#1. ASOS DESIGN Curve Pintuck Lace Mini Dress in Dusty Blue
Puff-sleeve mini frocks, such as this ethereal dressy casual wedding guest dress, are ideal for fashionistas who want to stay on top of the latest trends. The wrap-style bodice and embroidered trim complement the light cotton silhouette. Simply add silver accessories and a pair of espadrille wedges to complete the look.
#2. Petal & Pup Akarat Dress in Brown
Petal & Pup’s printed dress is a winner for smart casual wear. It’s one of our favorite autumns looks, thanks to the flowy long sleeves and V-neckline, as well as the trendy brown animal print. For an effortlessly chic wedding guest look, accessorize with gold jewelry and a pair of mules.
For dressy casual weddings, you can’t go wrong with a cute wrap dress. This versatile plus-size look features refined three-quarter sleeves, a wrap-style silhouette, and cascading flounces down the skirt. Even better, the rich navy blue color is appropriate for weddings and events all year.
#4. Alfani for Macy’s Petite Scoop Neck Sleeveless Dress in Olive
Don’t know what to wear to a dressy casual wedding? Fit-and-flare silhouettes in a soft fabric, like this petite sleeveless frock, are ideal. The chic scoop neck, flowy skirt, and functional pockets (yes, please!) are also standout features. It’s the ideal piece to dress up or down with accessories depending on the vibe of your event.
#5. ELOQUII Tie-Strap Wide Leg Jumpsuit in Black
Instead of the LBD, opt for a black jumpsuit. You’ll look effortlessly chic in this wide-leg design with tie straps, which can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion with a pair of flashy earrings or statement heels. Consider wearing flats or strappy sandals to keep the look casual.
#6. Reformation Belgium Linen Dress in Danube
This midi dress is a must-have for wedding guests thanks to its short puffed sleeves and lightweight linen material. We love the midi silhouette, side skirt slit, and captivating blue color. It looks great with heeled sandals and simple jewelry for an evening dressy casual wedding.
#7. Lulus Enticing Endeavors Jumpsuit in Emerald Green
Because of the chunky straps, square neckline, and high-waisted pant legs, we have major heart eyes for this green jumpsuit for a dressy casual women attire. If the wedding is outside, you could even add a cute blazer or jacket as a fashion accessory or to keep you warm. Shiny jewelry and a chic purse will round out your look.
Dressy Casual Wedding Attire for Men
We’ve gathered dapper options for dressy casual wedding attire outfits for men of all seasons and styles.
#1. Topman Men’s Grey Plaid Double Breasted Suit Jacket and Skinny Suit Trousers in Light Grey
A dressy casual wedding allows you to wear something a little more relaxed (think lighter colors, casual fabrics and bolder prints). This suit is the ideal blend of all three. The modern plaid print brings life to the gray color, and the soft fabric is comfortable enough to wear all night.
A dressy casual wedding does not require you to wear a full suit. This practical blue blazer is a great option for looking put together without overdressing. To complete your look, pair it with a white or printed button-down shirt, comfortable dress pants, and dressy sneakers.
#3. Bonobos The Desk to Dinner Shirt in Blue White Fleetwood Check
Attending an afternoon dressy casual wedding? It’s perfectly acceptable to forego the blazer in favor of a dress shirt and slacks. Wear this light blue printed button-down alone or with a solid tie to dress it up. Tuck the shirt into a pair of chinos and slip on some comfortable dress shoes to complete the look.
#4. Rhone Commuter Pants in Khaki
This brand’s fabric technology is intended to make any clothing style feel like athleisure. So, even though you’re wearing dress pants, you’ll be comfortable enough on the dance floor to show off your best moves. To match your outfit, choose from a variety of colorways, including Khaki, Black, and Navy.
#5. Johnny Bigg Jim Slim Chino in Black
A more sophisticated outfit would be appropriate for those attending a dressy casual evening wedding. Keep it simple with a crisp white dress shirt tucked into a pair of black chinos, such as this sophisticated pair made of stretch woven fabric. Add a statement tie or a colorful blazer to elevate the look.
How do you Dress Casual Dressy?
A shirt dress or a sweater dress can look both refined and relaxed when dressed casually. Blouse or button-down shirt: A crisp, classic top can’t go wrong. Add a blazer to take the outfit up a notch or two. Dark denim: Unfaded indigo or black jeans can instantly transform an outfit from day to night.
What is the Difference Between Dressy Casual and Casual?
Dressy casual means you don’t have to dress like you’re going to work, whereas casual dress code refers to clothing that is informal and comfortable while still being clean and professional.
Can I Wear Jeans to a Dressy Casual Wedding?
When it comes to dressy casual for weddings, jeans, shorts, casual shirts, and athleisure are all out.
Can Men wear Jeans for Dressy Casual?
They certainly can. Slacks are safer than jeans for dressy casual events because they are more casual.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of what it means to dress dressy casually for work or a wedding ceremony. Our carefully selected options above have done a clear justice to this, either for men or women, so whenever you are stuck with picking a dressy casual outfit, just glance through this guide and you will find your sure answers.
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