The Basics of Men’s Casual Wedding Attire

Not overly relaxed, yet not overdone to the point of formality, a casual wedding dress code leans into versatility, comfort, and plenty of leeway for inserting your personal style.

As the name suggests, the casual dress code means that ties, tuxedos, leather shoes and other classic garments can be tossed out the window—this is your chance to keep it relaxed.

Casual wedding attire allows men to dress down, trading in the dress pants for chinos, going for unlined cotton jackets, or even holding off on the jacket altogether. Sometimes a well-tailored waistcoat and a nice button-down shirt with a pair of slim chinos is perfectly acceptable.

For outdoor and beach weddings, the casual factor can be turned up, paving the way for some smart tailored shorts and a classic polo shirt. In some cases, casual dress code settings are perfectly suitable for a slightly more elevated cocktail look, giving you an elegant style that can be relaxed with some casual touches.

Cocktail Attire: Elevated Casual Comfort for the Entire Wedding Party

Perhaps the most popular of all men’s dress codes, cocktail attire is somewhat formal in its own way but leaves plenty of room for some creative interpretation and personal style. A cocktail wedding dress code is the time for single and double-breasted suits, or jacket & trouser separates, in a wider range of colors—earth tones and even pastels like lilac are great options, though you’ll never go wrong with classic shades of blue, navy or grey.

This dress code for casual groom attire can be explored in two ways: mix & match or sticking with a full suit with a few modifications. When mixing separates, stick to formal dark colors like navy or grey trousers paired up with a jacket of a contrasting color.

If you opt for a full suit option, you can make it semi-formal by losing the tie. It’s a simple move that keeps the style elevated but not too stuffy. If you want to add some pattern, opt for a clean and classic windowpane or herringbone, as a bold houndstooth or tartan check might be a little too distracting for the occasion.

Smart Casual Attire: What to Wear to the Weekend Wedding

Smart casual is the time to really cut loose and do away with all traditional conventions (within reason) when it comes to your personal style. When it comes to easygoing attire for the groomsmen or groom, this dress code is the perfect time to pair a tailored jacket with some relaxed chinos and sock-less loafers.

Casual Outdoor Wedding Attire

If you’re lucky enough to find yourself at the coveted beach wedding, there’s an entirely new level of casual style you can take advantage of. This is the chance to dress for comfort and tropical seaside vibes. Our tailored Ames shorts feature elastic waistbands and a drawstring closure for an unmistakably laid-back appeal.

Bring It All Together: Wedding Accessories to Keep your Groomsmen Matching

While a casual wedding dress code does not require traditional fixings, like cufflinks or suspenders, there is always some room to accessorize in a way that shows off a little bit of your personal style.

Perhaps the most prominent detail is the pocket square. Commonly crafted in pure cotton, pocket squares can also be found in pure silk, wool flannel, linen and even luxurious noble fibers in countless colors, textures, and designs. Go with something that matches your shirt for a most low-key accent, or, if the occasion is right, opt for something a little bolder, like a bright color or more noticeable pattern.

Create Your Own Casual Wedding Style

When the casual wedding dress code shows up, embrace the opportunity and show up in what feels comfortable, looks refined, and showcases your personal style.

From single-breasted burgundy and low double-breasted flannel jackets, stretch cotton seersucker suits to knits, sneakers & plenty of color—there’s a wide spectrum of casual style to play with and make your own.

Now that you’ve got the basics, it’s time to create your own Custom Made casual wedding look.