The Ultimate Guide to Men's Casual Wedding Attire

[Photo by Clem Onojeghuo]

[Photo by Clem Onojeghuo]

If things take a turn for the better in the upcoming months, there's a high chance we'll all get invited to at least one wedding this summer. It's also quite likely that this year's weddings will be more casual and celebrated outdoors in environments such as gardens, beaches, and vineyards. This also means that men's wedding attire will change to a more casual and laidback style. 

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Not sure what that entails exactly? We've got you covered in our ultimate guide to men’s casual wedding attire—where you’ll learn the difference between cocktail attire and smart casual, what you should wear to a beach wedding versus a vineyard wedding, and more.

Cocktail 

[Photo by Benjamin Rascoe]

[Photo by Benjamin Rascoe]

Cocktail attire is a step down from formal wear, but it's definitely not casual, so don't relax too much! This look is modern, sleek, close to the body, and requires a nicely tailored semi-formal two-piece suit in colors such as dark grey, navy or cobalt. 

However, this dress code also gives you the freedom to add some personal touches like a unique tie or bow tie, pocket square, cufflinks and a tie clip. 

Smart Casual 

[Photo by Creating a Brand]

[Photo by Creating a Brand]

Smart casual is the most common dress code for outdoor and summer weddings. It also gives you the most freedom to express your personal style and look stylish yet comfortable and relaxed. 

If you're not a fan of suits, you're in luck as they're not required for this look, but if you decide to wear one, it should be casual, lightweight, and loosely structured. Wear light or classic colors like navy and grey. Otherwise, wear a blazer with a pair of trousers.  

Casual

[Photo by Roman Holoschchuk]

[Photo by Roman Holoschchuk]

Casual attire is a step down from smart casual, but that doesn't mean you can wear whatever you want. Brides.com recommends wearing dress pants or khaki pants with a collared shirt, adding a tie or sports jacket/sweater if it gets chilly.

Still confused? Think about how you'd like your guests to honor your day. While you want them to be comfortable, you still wouldn't appreciate them showing up in jeans and plaid. When in doubt, it's better to be overdressed than underdressed. You can also add fun touches of personal style to your outfit—and always remember to finish your look with the right shoes. 

No code

[Photo courtesy of Fresh Clean Tees]

[Photo courtesy of Fresh Clean Tees]

While it may be exciting to find out that a wedding you’re attending doesn’t have a dress code, it can also leave you wondering what you should wear. Your best bet is opting for somewhere between casual and smart casual style, then adding your favorite personal accessories like a cool pocket square or a patterned necktie. 

If you know that the wedding will be even more relaxed as it progresses, here’s a tip for how you can respect the ceremony and still be comfortable at the reception: simply bring a change of clothes for the night! Nothing will be more comfortable yet put-together than pairing a high-quality black v-neck by Fresh Clean Tee with your classic grey or navy chinos. 

Beach 

[Photo by Austin Wade]

[Photo by Austin Wade]

Beach weddings are extremely popular in the summer and a great way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. For these types of weddings, avoid heavy fabrics, stuffy suits, and polished shoes. Instead, choose linen or cotton in light colors like beige, blue, white, grey, sea foam or pastel pink.

You can also mix and match your tops and bottoms, such as by wearing navy chinos and a light shirt. For your feey, opt for light boat shoes or linen espadrilles. 

Garden or vineyard 

[Photo by Helena Lopes]

[Photo by Helena Lopes]

Few locations are as beautiful and relaxing for a wedding as a garden or vineyard. And since you’ll be surrounded by nature, you don't want to wear a tux unless you've been instructed to do so. 

Keep your look cool, relaxed, and festive with a white shirt; grey, cream, blue or beige blazer (or opt for a nice pattern); and light pair of chinos. If you want to spruce things up a little, add a nice pocket square and a brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun!