I love a wedding — the low-key joy, the music, the chance to see people I haven’t in ages — but I also love being comfortable. If you’re anything like me, the challenge is finding the sweet spot between looking polished and feeling like you can sit, dance and eat without fuss. Below I share my practical, realistic approach to dressing for a casual wedding so you look stylish without overdressing or sacrificing comfort.
Start with the invitation (and the venue)
Before anything else, check the invite. Casual can mean very different things depending on the couple and the venue. A backyard garden wedding calls for different choices than a relaxed city hall ceremony or a barn reception. If the invite is vague, don’t be afraid to ask the hosts what they mean by casual — most people appreciate the clarity.
Key style rules I follow
- Aim for neat, not flashy. Avoid anything overly elaborate or bridal-looking (white, tiaras, overly long trains).
- Choose breathable fabrics. Linen, lightweight cotton blends, crepe or soft silk-viscose keep you cool and comfortable.
- Balance comfort and polish. Think structured pieces with a relaxed fit — a tailored jumpsuit, a midi wrap dress, or a blazer over a fluid slip dress.
- Pay attention to proportions. If your top is loose, go streamlined on the bottom and vice versa. It keeps the look intentional.
Outfit ideas that combine comfort and style
Here are a few looks I turn to again and again. They’re easy to wear, adapt to different locations, and photograph well.
- The relaxed midi dress. A lightweight midi in a soft print or block colour is a fail-safe. I prefer wrap styles or those with a defined waist so they still read dressed-up. Pair with low block heels or chic ballet flats. Brands I like for comfortable, well-made dresses include Whistles, Reformation, and Aritzia.
- A tailored jumpsuit. Jumpsuits give the look of a dress with more coverage and often more ease to move in. Look for a nipped-in waist and slightly tapered leg. Add a slim belt and pointed leather flats for instant polish.
- Skirt + blouse combo. A pleated or A-line midi skirt with a lightweight blouse tucked in is feminine without feeling fussy. Choose a blouse with a soft collar or tie-neck for a put-together vibe. Leather-look flats or loafers make this look modern.
- Smart trousers + pretty top. For a city-casual vibe, wear cropped tailored trousers with a silky cami and a lightweight blazer you can remove for dancing. This is a great option if you want something practical and interchangeable with pieces from your wardrobe.
- Casual blazer over a slip dress. This is my go-to when the forecast is unpredictable. The blazer adds structure; the slip keeps the outfit unfussy. Choose a blazer in a relaxed linen blend to avoid overheating.
Shoes: comfort-first but polished
Shoe choice makes or breaks comfort at a wedding. If you're planning to dance (and why wouldn’t you?), heels aren’t always necessary.
- Low block heels — a 3–5 cm block heel gives lift and comfort.
- Dressy flats — pointed or embellished flats read elegant and are kind to feet.
- Kitten heels — an elegant middle ground for when heels feel necessary.
- Smart sandals — for outdoor summer weddings, choose sandals with a secure strap and a leather sole.
If you hate the idea of wearing anything new, bring a pair of flats in your bag to switch into later. I always pack blisters plasters and a small shoe wipe — tiny things that save the day.
Accessories: keep them simple and meaningful
Accessories should elevate, not compete. I like one strong piece — a bold earring, a silk scarf, or a statement clutch — paired with subtle supporting pieces. Here’s what I usually consider:
- A structured clutch or small crossbody that fits your phone and lipstick
- A pair of single drop earrings or a cuff bracelet
- A lightweight scarf or shawl if it’s chilly
- Sunglasses for outdoor daytime events (take them off for photos!)
Colours, prints and what to avoid
Opt for colours that flatter you and photos well: muted jewel tones, dusty pastels, earthy neutrals and classic navy always read sophisticated. Prints can be playful, but scale matters — small ditsy prints are casual and friendly, while large graphic prints can feel louder than necessary.
Avoid wearing white or anything that could be mistaken for bridal. Also be cautious with extremely bright neons or heavy glitter unless you know the couple would love that energy.
Weatherproofing and practical tips
Check the forecast and plan layers. For outdoor or mixed-venue weddings I pack:
- A compact trench or lightweight blazer for wind and light rain
- A small, packable umbrella
- A cardigan or pashmina for cooler evenings
- A stain-cleaning pen or wipes — food happens and it's easier to treat a splodge immediately
Hair and makeup: low-effort polish
I aim for hair and makeup that feels like me, just sharpened. A soft wave, a low bun or a sleek ponytail keeps hair tidy without much fuss. For makeup, focus on skin, a mascara boost and a lip tint that can be reapplied easily. If you want to try a new look, do a trial before the day so you don’t feel unfamiliar in your own photos.
Sustainable choices I recommend
Buying something new for a casual wedding? Think about pieces you’ll wear again. A neutral blazer, a classic midi dress, or a jumpsuit are useful beyond the event. Consider renting for one-off occasions — sites like HURR or MyWardrobeHire (UK-based) are great for getting designer looks without the waste. Vintage stores also yield unique, pocket-friendly finds that feel special but aren’t brand-new.
Quick checklist before you leave
- Outfit fits comfortably when sitting and standing
- Shoes broken in
- Bag contains essentials (phone, card, lip product, plasters)
- Layer ready for evening chill
- You’ve double-checked dress code and avoided white
Getting dressed for a casual wedding doesn’t have to be a mission. With intentional pieces, comfortable shoes and a couple of practical extras, you can be both effortlessly stylish and genuinely comfortable — ready to celebrate without worrying about your outfit.
