DRESSY CASUAL

Dress Code "Dressy casual" calls for a just slightly dressier and more elegant style of normal casual wear.

What is a dressy casual attire?

When the term "dressy" is mentioned, one might immediately think of formal attire. However, when "casual" is added to the mix, confusion arises. Dressy casual seems to be a puzzling concept. But don't worry.  It simply refers to an aesthetic that is not entirely formal, yet not as casual as wearing jean shorts.

Dressy casual is often requested for daytime weddings, with the formality of the attire decreasing as the event time gets earlier. So, it's important to consider the time of day as it can also influence the dress code. For evening events, a dressy casual outfit may consist of a more formal outfit such as a suit with an unbuttoned shirt to add a touch of informality. On the other hand, for daytime events, a summer semi-formal wedding attire for men would be appropriate.

Coco Chanel, the brilliant fashion icon, once stated, "Simplicity is the essence of true elegance." This quote perfectly captures the essence of achieving a dressy casual look. The key is to strike a balance between formality and casualness. 

If we were to compare dressy casual to the scale of semi-formal versus cocktail attire, it leans more towards the semi-formal side. Light colors and casual fabrics such as satin or linen are ideal for this dress code.

The dress code is somewhat relaxed, leaning towards light colors and casual fabrics rather than satin and sparkles. Flowy garments and bold prints are acceptable.

In summary, dressy casual is not the same as business casual as it requires a bit more formality. However, it still falls within the realm of semi-formal attire, allowing for a slightly more relaxed look for events like daytime weddings.

Dressy casual attire - where is it appropriate?

The dress code “Dressy casual" is mostly appropriate at:

• Church
• Networking events and fundraisers that do not require black-tie attire.
• Dinner at restaurants (dinner at a reputable restaurant, although it may not be considered fine dining) and at a friend's dinner party
• Informal party
• The first date in a cafe during the daytime
• Daytime weddings
• At formal courtyard parties, garden parties, and outdoor weddings that take place in the evening
• Informal and formal business gatherings may have a smart or dressy casual dress code to ensure you are not overdressed in formal business attire

Dressy casual attire women

There are numerous options that fall under this category, and while buying something new is exciting, you can also work with items already in your wardrobe and focus on accessorizing. A cute sundress or maxi dress is a perfect example of dressy casual attire. For instance, you can elevate a maxi dress by swapping flats for wedges and adding statement earrings. Here are some more suitable options for dressy casual occasions.

Dressy casual attire women - what to wear

• Dresses: Sundresses or day dresses are a type of dress that falls into the "casual" category but still maintains a certain level of elegance. They are considered a safe choice when it comes to achieving a dressy-casual look. These dresses are typically made from materials such as jersey, cotton, lace, and more, and they often have a summery vibe. Knee-length dresses and skirts are perfectly appropriate, although shorter lengths are also acceptable. Consider the nature of the event. Cocktail dresses are more suitable for events that lean towards the dressy side. They are a safe choice for dressy-casual evening parties.
• Jumpsuits: A jumpsuit is another option that can be perceived as formal, but the pants add a playful touch, making it more suitable for a trendy style rather than a strictly formal or casual one. As a result, jumpsuits can be worn in various settings.
• Skirts: An outfit featuring a midi skirt is also a good choice or a long skirt made of good material. The longer hemline adds a touch of formality, but skirts are generally less dressy and formal than dresses. Therefore, this combination strikes a balance between dressy and casual.
• Tops: A blouse that is made of a sophisticated fabric (for example brushed cotton, chiffon, and linen, but not so luxurious as to push the outfit into semi-formal or formal attire), a pretty sweater, collared shirt, or pick shirt that has decorative embellishments. Wear it with silk pants, dress pants, or a skirt.
• Office wear: Office wear can be dressed up with a scarf, a classy necklace, or with an attractive brooch. By taking off a jacket you can wear a skirt and blouse combo. Adding a colored silk blouse and a high-heeled shoe could move the outfit from office to dressy.
• Pantsuits, suits, and trousers: For a more fashionable approach, a trendy suit, less formal pantsuit, or fun trousers can be worn. This includes colorful or patterned options. Traditional tuxedos or darker solid suits may appear out of place in this context. A two-piece ensemble, particularly matching sets, is an excellent solution for this dress code. As mentioned earlier, skirts are less formal than full-on dresses, and these coordinated outfits offer a more playful alternative to the classic cocktail dress.
• Jeans: A dressy pair of jeans along with heels, a classy jacket, and an elegant shirt is also a perfect choice.
• Accessories: You should accessorize your outfit so that it doesn't become too casual. But in terms of accessories, the key is to keep it subtle. Avoid going too garish or elegant, as it may clash with your overall attire. Earrings are acceptable as long as they are not overly dangly or large hoops. Necklaces can be a good addition, and you can experiment with slightly larger pieces. A long-beaded necklace can complement a blouse nicely. A scarf can also be a stylish accessory, especially when paired with a dress. Remember, if an accessory feels like it's too much, it's best to leave it out.
• Footwear: When it comes to achieving a dressy casual look, it's important to find the right balance with your footwear. While sneakers may be too casual, overly "classy" high heels with straps can also be out of place. Opting for flats, ankle boots, patent leather flats or subtle heels is a good choice, as they blend well without standing out too much. Dressy sandals can also be a suitable option, particularly for a summer or beach wedding. 

Dressy casual attire women - what to avoid

Women should avoid being too casual, too sporty, or too formal and wearing:

• Yoga pants
• Shorts and cutoff shorts
• T-shirts and cotton tees
• Tank tops, tube tops, and camisoles
• Sweatshirts and sweatpants
• Sandals
• Flip flops
• Tennis shoes

Dressy casual attire men

So, what is the recommended dressy casual attire for men? Typically, men should steer clear of shorts and T-shirts. A reliable option is a pair of nice trousers paired with a button-down shirt. For a more refined appearance, a lighter-colored suit without a tie is a good choice. Cheers to making an effort and to the host appreciating your attempt.

Dressy casual attire men - what to wear

• Shirts: When dressing for a dressy casual event, it's important to pay attention to the top half of your outfit. Avoid wearing t-shirts with logos or words, as they are too casual for this dress code. Instead, opt for a good dress shirt, which is always a safe choice.
• Jackets: For an evening event, pair your dress shirt with a blazer. You can leave the top button of your shirt undone for a more relaxed look. In the summer, you can skip the blazer and just wear the shirt.
• Pants: When it comes to pants, avoid shorts, three-quarter length trousers, and ripped jeans. Jeans are generally not dressy enough unless they are a more elegant pair that resembles trousers. Slacks are a good choice for dressy casual, and khaki trousers work well for outdoor summer events.
• Shoes: Choosing the right shoes for a dressy casual event can be tricky. Formal shoes like Oxfords are too dressy, while sneakers are too casual. Loafers are a good option, or you can opt for sneakers that strike a balance between formal and casual, such as Oxford sneakers. These shoes are more subtle than regular sneakers and are a good choice for a semi-formal or dressy casual dress code.

Dressy casual attire men - what to avoid

• T-shirts and especially t-shirts with logos
• Shorts
• Three-quarter length trousers
• Ripped jeans
• Sweatshirts
• Sweatpants
• Hoodies
• Sneakers

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