What Is a Smart-Casual Wedding Dress Code?

After receiving an invitation to a loved one’s wedding, you may start booking your accommodations, researching transportation options, and searching for the perfect ensemble. However, before buying an outfit for such an occasion, you’ll need to consider the dress code. While some couples opt for a traditional black-tie affair or a cocktail-style fête, some fashion guidelines, such as an event that calls for smart-casual look, can be slightly less straightforward. 

“A smart-casual dress code can be confusing to guests,” says Lizzy Mambretti, a fashion stylist and founder of Agency Eight. who describes the look as more elevated than everyday wear—but not as formal as cocktail or black-tie attire. “With this code, being underdressed is slightly riskier than being overdressed. When in doubt, lean toward polished and comfortable and avoid anything that says beachwear, gym attire, nightclub, or loungewear.” Ultimately, she recommends prioritizing ensembles that you’d describe as neat, stylish, and respectful. 

Bridal stylist Kennedy Bingham agrees: “Couples hosting intimate, laid-back weddings still want guests to take things seriously. Smart-casual communicates you want the event to feel more laid-back, but the attire should still reflect that it’s a special day.” Ahead, fashion experts share their tips for embracing this dress code with confidence. 

What Is a Smart-Casual Wedding Dress Code?

“Smart-casual is what I like to call ‘effortless chic,’ says Corinne Pierre-Louis, a bridal stylist. “Think elevated but chill, polished yet relaxed.” Such a dress code calls for you to look put-together–without being overdressed. “It’s the perfect style directive for couples planning an intimate, non-traditional wedding, like a backyard ceremony, rooftop vow [exchange], or a city hall elopement followed by a dinner party,” she says. And rather than requiring you to buy a new gown or tuxedo, this type of attire can often be found in your own closet, Bingham adds. 

What Not to Wear to a Smart-Casual Wedding

Focus on pieces that are clean and elevated. For a smart-casual wedding, steer clear of bold prints and floor-length gowns, as well as tracksuits and sneakers. “If you can run in them, they’re not appropriate,” says Danielle Pizzone, the manager at Angel Rivera Bridal Atelier. Additionally, skip graphic t-shirts, stilettos, jeans, platform heels, tank tops, shorts, athleisure, flip-flops, and baseball caps. As Pierre-Louis puts it, “Anything that says, ‘I forgot I had a wedding today’ is a no.”

What to Wear to a Smart-Casual Wedding

Before landing on a look for a smart-casual wedding, consider when and where it is. “Let the venue and time of day dictate how elevated or relaxed your look should be,” Pierre-Louis says. “For example, a garden wedding in the afternoon may call for a light, airy fabric and a seasonally appropriate print, while an evening rooftop celebration may warrant something sleeker and more polished.” Below, the experts break down guidance to follow when selecting your ensemble:  

Smart-Casual Attire for Women, Explained

If you’re considering wearing a dress to a smart-casual wedding, select a midi or wrap-style piece. “A neutral in a natural fabric, along with a minor print like micro polka dots, is considered smart-casual appropriate,” says Pizzone. However, with such a dress code, you can also opt for a skirt paired with a silk blouse, button-down shirt, or blazer. “Pencil or pleated, flowy skirts work well as long as they’re not super short,” says Pierre-Louis. “Even though this dress code includes the word ‘casual’, I’d still avoid anything too short. Maxi and midi skirts are perfect for a smart-casual wedding.”

Beyond skirts and dress, consider tailored trousers, silk pants, or a wide-legged jumpsuit. When it comes to your shoes, turn to block and kitten heels, ballet flats, wedges, oxfords, loafers, or even a fashionable cowboy boot. While you may not have a bold color or pattern featured in your ensemble, add a bit of personality with a statement clutch or pair of earrings.

Smart-Casual Attire for Men, Explained

When it comes to a smart-casual dress code, suits are optional. “In their place, try a blazer, sport coat, linen or dinner jacket,” says Pizzone. Select pants or tailored khakis in a neutral tone, as well as collard shirts or button-ups. “Canvas boat shoes, loafers, or any type of leather shoe fall in line with this dress code,” says Pizzone, who suggests adding fun, unexpected socks for a bit of personality.

However, when in doubt, skip the sneakers. “They make everything slightly more casual, so err on the side of caution and go with a more elevated shoe,” says Bingham. “A Chelsea boot is a great staple for something like this, as is a clean cowboy boot.” For accessories, select minimalist pieces that still make a subtle statement, such as a nice watch, pocket square, or unique belt. “Most smart-casual weddings don’t require a tie or bow tie,” says Mambretti.