Now that the holiday season and Valetine's Day are over, there are probably more than a few newly engaged couples in the world. That also means your fridge could soon be riddled with invitations. The hardest part of weddings, though? The dress code. Dressy casual wedding attire seems to be one of the most popular options for many couples, but what exactly does it mean? While you certainly won't need to break out your black-tie gown, this dress code is varied and deserves some exploration.
For the vast majority of weddings, dressy casual appears to be incredibly popular. The attire tends to balance the line between comfortable and formal, but that often leads to misunderstandings of what is and is not acceptable to wear. No one wants to show up to a wedding in a beach-ready maxi dress when you should probably be wearing a chic jumpsuit.
What exactly is dressy casual, though? According to The Knot, the dress code is, "somewhere between formal and casual." That doesn't seem to clear things up, does it? However, The Knot goes on to explain that time of day is the true measure of how to work dressy casual. For evening weddings, they skew a bit more on the formal side of things with a potential cocktail dress. If the wedding takes place during the day, however, a lighter fabric dress or skirt is appropriate. When in doubt, think about time of day. Still need some ideas? No worries. I've got you covered.
1. Jumpsuit
ASOS CURVE Jumpsuit in Scuba with Cape Detail, $50, ASOS
In my opinion, you can never go wrong with a jumpsuit. Whether you'd like to dress it up or down, they can work for a wedding at any time of day.
2. Simple Detail
Off-the-Shoulder Dress, $40, ZARA
While the model may be in sandal, you could easily dress this up with heels, and that simple detail of an off-shoulder necklace is perfect.
3. Dressy Skirt
Ted Baker London Josy Full Skirt, $295, Nordstrom
This incredible A-line skirt can be paired with a simple blouse or sleeve shirt for a perfect spring wedding look.
4. Comfort Meets Dressy
Lave V-Neck Skater Dress, $49, Torrid
This lace dress would be perfect for day time dressy casual.
5. Fitted Sheath
A Portrait of Poise Sheath Dress, $90, Modcloth
This stunning sheath dress would be ideal for an evening wedding with a dressy casual feel.
6. Midi Dress
Printed Ruffle-Hem Midi Dress, $90, Lane Bryant
Midi dresses are definitely on trend, and they're a great option for a dressy casual wedding.
7. Sweet Ruffles
Plus Size Open-Shoulder Dress, $25, Forever21
These sweet ruffle sleeves are ideal for a daytime spring wedding.
8. Fit and Flare Florals
Floral Print Sateen High Neck Dress, $50, Torrid
Headed out for the night? This could be your dress.
9. Cut Out Jumpsuit
Laundry by Shelli Segal Cutout Jumpsuit, $195, Nordstrom
The cutout on this jumpsuit give this piece a little edge for the dressy casual dress code.
Clearly, wedding attire can be complicated, but dressy casual definitely gives attendees the most options. From pantsuits to florals, dressy casual is all about the day time of day and how you make things work.
