What to Wear to a Wedding: The Perfect Casual Outfit

When you're invited to a wedding, choosing the right outfit is a crucial step. You need to match the tone of the event—neither too formal nor too casual. Balance is key, as an overly elaborate or flashy outfit might steal the groom’s spotlight, while something too plain could make you stand out (in the wrong way) among the other guests.

Finding the right balance may seem tricky, but with the right advice, it’s entirely achievable.

Are you attending wedding celebrations and looking for a relaxed yet stylish outfit to stay comfortable all day? Whether it’s a rustic, bohemian, or urban setting, this guide will help you make the right choice. Trust our men’s fashion experts! Feel free to browse our collection of men’s wedding suits, attire, and accessories.

Check the Wedding Dress Code

First and foremost, ask the couple or organizers about the dress code. While you want a comfortable outfit, remember that a wedding is still a formal event.

"Casual" doesn’t mean sloppy—choose a polished look that fits the occasion. Knowing which colors or accessories to avoid (such as hats and open-toe shoes) will help narrow down your options.

Choose Your Outfit Based on the Setting

Not all weddings take place in the same type of venue, so consider the location when selecting your outfit. Here are some key tips for dressing appropriately based on the setting:

Rustic Wedding

Often held outdoors in a field or under a tent.

- Fabrics: Opt for linen and lightweight cotton for all-day comfort.

- Colors: Go for beige, ecru, olive green, and light brown tones.

- Shoes: Opt for suede or soft leather shoes for a natural appearance.

- Season: If the wedding is in the fall, add a lightweight wool jacket for cooler evenings.

Beach Wedding

Held outdoors with warmer temperatures, so breathable attire is a must.

- Fabrics: A white linen shirt and lightweight pants, or even dressy shorts if the dress code allows.

- Colors: White and pale tones work best.

- Shoes: Espadrilles or loafers (no socks) are perfect.

- Season: Since this is typically a summer event, opt for lightweight fabrics and light colors that help keep you cool.

Bohemian Wedding

This setting calls for a touch of originality without sacrificing comfort.

- Fabrics: Flowy materials, such as linen, cotton, or viscose, are ideal. Look for subtle patterns.

- Accessories: Embrace a slightly eccentric vibe with leather bracelets, a retro watch, or a light scarf.

- Season: In the fall, layer with a fine wool cardigan.

Urban (Casual-Chic) Wedding

Held in a trendy, modern city setting with a sophisticated touch.

- Fabrics: A lightweight cotton blazer and fitted chinos are great choices.

- Colors: A white shirt is always a good choice. Match your jacket and pants in tonal shades.

- Shoes: Go for sleek sneakers or suede derbies.

- Season: For winter weddings, add a fine wool coat for extra elegance.

Selecting the Top Half of Your Outfit

A well-coordinated jacket and shirt combo is the key to a successful wedding look.

The Jacket

A lightweight, unstructured linen or cotton jacket is ideal for warmer weather—it’s breathable and relaxed. For a slightly more polished look, a fine wool or velvet jacket works well, especially for evening events when temperatures drop.

Tie or No Tie?

A tie will always be a suitable addition to your suit, but it isn’t comfortable for every man. If you choose to skip it, opt for a well-fitted shirt to maintain an elegant look.

Are you a groomsman? In that case, ask the couple for advice, since, after all, you represent them! If you’re not, remember that you have a bit more freedom to express your style.

The Shirt

In summer, opt for linen or lightweight cotton. Rolled-up sleeves add a relaxed touch.

In the fall and winter, opt for thicker cotton or light flannel shirts.

Subtle patterns suit bohemian weddings, while classic white is timeless.

A stylish polo can work for very casual weddings, but a shirt is always the safer choice.

Choosing the Bottom of Your Outfit

Just as important as the top, the bottom of your outfit must respect the spirit and tone of the wedding. Always opt for sober pants, without creases, that match the style and colors of the upper garments. Here are some key points to guide your thinking.

The Pants

Looking for an elegant all-rounder that you can wear again for other occasions? The tailored chino remains an unbeatable choice.

If you prefer something lightweight for a summer wedding, linen pants will be perfect.

Bermuda Shorts: A Good Idea?

Chic bermuda shorts are very comfortable. However, they are only appropriate for a seaside wedding (or if the dress code explicitly allows them!).

Choosing the Right Colors

The combination of the top and bottom of your outfit will also be successful if its colors correspond to the wedding season. In spring and summer, you should focus on pastel colors, such as sky blue, mint green, and light beige.

In autumn and winter, deeper tones like burgundy, camel, and forest green are wise choices.

Betting on Appropriate Shoes

Being well-shod is the ultimate key to comfort. For a wedding, here are the shoes you should prioritize:

Loafers

Elegant and comfortable, easy to slip on, and appropriate at any time.

Suede Derbies

Want to look chic without being too formal? Derbies are perfect!

Elegant White Sneakers

Minimalist, they work well for a casual-chic wedding (if well maintained!).

Completing with Accessories

No good wedding outfit is complete without accessories. Here are four suggestions that work well:

1- Match your shoes and watch to create additional visual harmony.

2- Wear leather or fabric bracelets for a bohemian or rustic touch.

3- A thin belt helps to structure your silhouette.

4- A well-chosen pair of sunglasses discreetly completes the look, ideal for outdoor moments, but remove them during the ceremony.

Some Pitfalls to Avoid

To wear an outfit without any missteps, make sure to avoid these mistakes:

- Wearing flip-flops or sandals: a no-go, even for a seaside wedding!

- Trying too hard: Don’t try to outshine the groom with an overly elaborate outfit.

- Being excessively casual: Do not wear shorts or denim unless the dress code requests it.

- Mixing too many styles and colors: Respect color harmony and avoid overly strong contrasts.

There you have it! You now have everything you need to find a relaxed men’s outfit as a wedding guest. Need extra help? Consult our team of men’s fashion experts.

Discover now our collection of wedding outfits designed for every type of guest, with versatile clothing and expert advice.