Business Casual Wedding Dress Code
Relaxed professional style for informal ceremonies, intimate weddings, and casual celebrations.
Overview
Business casual for a wedding is relatively uncommon but may be requested for very informal ceremonies, small courthouse weddings followed by casual receptions, or weddings where the couple wants guests comfortable rather than formal. This dress code signals a relaxed celebration while still expecting guests to look neat and put-together.
Men's Attire
Essential Items
- Dress pants or nice chinos
- Button-down or polo shirt
- Optional sport coat
- Leather shoes or clean loafers
- Quality belt
Recommended
- Well-fitted casual pieces
- Coordinated colors
- Neat, pressed clothing
- No tie required
Accessories
- Simple watch
- Quality belt
- Minimal accessories
- Clean, simple look
Shoes & Grooming
Footwear
- • Loafers
- • Clean leather shoes
- • Desert boots
- • No sneakers
Grooming
- • Clean and neat
- • Well-groomed
- • Fresh appearance
- • Light cologne optional
Women's Attire
Essential Items
- Simple dress
- Blouse with dress pants
- Nice skirt and top
- Casual jumpsuit
Recommended
- Pretty but not formal
- Comfortable fabrics
- Appropriate colors
- Feminine touches
Accessories
- Simple jewelry
- Nice handbag
- Delicate earrings
- Personal touches
Shoes & Beauty
Footwear
- • Low heels
- • Nice flats
- • Dressy sandals
- • Comfortable options
Beauty
- • Natural makeup
- • Simple hair
- • Soft nail colors
- • Light fragrance
What NOT to Wear
- Still avoid white and ivory
- Skip jeans unless specifically okayed
- No shorts
- Avoid very casual t-shirts
- Skip flip flops
- Don't look like you're going to the office
- Avoid athletic wear
- Don't underdress - it's still a wedding
Seasonal Tips
Summer
Lighter colors and fabrics. Consider outdoor venues. Sundresses can work well.
Winter
Layer with nice sweaters or cardigans. Darker colors appropriate. Stay warm but polished.
Pro Tips
- 1Aim for the nicer end of business casual
- 2Consider the venue and time of day
- 3Still bring a card or gift
- 4Be photo-ready even for casual events
- 5When in doubt, ask the couple
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this dress code common for weddings?
It's not common but may appear for very casual, intimate, or second weddings where comfort is prioritized.
Should I bring a nicer outfit just in case?
If you're unsure, having a slightly dressier backup isn't a bad idea. But trust the couple's request.
Can I wear khakis?
Nice, well-fitted khakis can work for men at business casual weddings, paired with a good shirt.
Is a sundress appropriate?
Yes, a nice sundress is often perfect for business casual weddings, especially daytime or outdoor celebrations.
Related Dress Code Guides
Wedding
Relaxed yet refined style for casual wedding ceremonies, garden parties, and intimate celebrations.
Cocktail AttireWedding
Semi-formal elegance perfect for modern weddings, garden parties, and evening celebrations.
CasualWedding
Relaxed and comfortable style for beach weddings, backyard ceremonies, and intimate casual celebrations.
Create Your Invitation with Invitify
Planning your own wedding? Create beautiful, professional invitations that set the right tone for your dress code with our AI-powered platform.
Start Creating - It's Free