There are a few occasions that require a little bit of dressing up during the spring/summer season. The biggest one being weddings, of course. We know you may have an invite (or four) in the mail, which begs the question of what to wear to a wedding as a guest. We also know that sometimes figuring out what to wear can feel a bit overwhelming. No worries,we’ve got you covered!
Understanding the nuances of wedding attire can elevate your style and boost your confidence, making you the best-dressed guest. Let’s explore how you can dress appropriately based on types of men’s semi-formal wedding attire for different wedding venues and locations, complete with expert styling tips and outfit ideas to nail every look.
Semi-Formal Day Wedding Attire: Smart Casual
Daytime weddings are typically more laid-back but still require attention to detail. You’ll want to land in the middle of casual yet smart. Blazers are typically not necessary so you’ll want to rely on a great combo of a long-sleeve button-down and sleek pants.
Stylist Dania recommends, “Elevate your style with a neutral-colored button-down shirt paired with well-tailored chinos.” Go for classic color combinations like mixing together earth tones (green and khaki) or cool tones (blue and grey).
Neatly rolling the sleeves of your button-down also achieves that relaxed yet polished aesthetic. Plus, it’s a way to keep cool if daytime sunshine is in full effect.
Outfit idea: A light sage (breathable) long-sleeve button-down tucked into khaki pants and tan hybrid boots.
“Elevate your style with a neutral-colored button-down shirt paired with well-tailored chinos.”
-Dania, Stylist
Evening Semi-Formal Wedding Attire: Refined Elegance
If you’re attending an evening wedding, this usually calls for more refined dressing—typically featuring richer colors and structured layers.
A well-fitted button-down shirt paired with tailored dress pants forms the foundation for your semi-formal attire. Stick to deeper, richer colors like navy, dark grey or even classic black pants.
“A blazer is essential for this occasion—opt for one that complements your outfit and elevates your overall look,” says Dania. Choose a tailored blazer in darker shades. Dark navy or charcoal grey are great versatile and timeless options.
Outfit idea: Go for charcoal dress pants, a crisp white dress shirt and a lighter grey, structured blazer. Complement this look with polished leather shoes, such as black or brown brogues.
“A blazer is essential for this occasion—opt for one that complements your outfit and elevates
your overall look.”
-Dania, Stylist
Garden Wedding Attire for Men: Fresh and Floral
Garden weddings perfectly blend charm and sophistication, giving you a little more wiggle room for creativity in your attire. This is the perfect time and place to showcase a long-sleeve button-down that has a fun color, or unique design. Stylist Dania suggests, “Opt for a soft pastel or a small floral printed shirt.” This adds a fresh, stylish twist to your wedding look.
Pair your chosen shirt with either tailored dress pants or slim-fit chinos. Loafers or oxfords are ideal footwear choices for completing this polished yet casual ensemble.
Outfit Idea: Choose a soft pastel blue floral print shirt paired with cream chinos and brown leather loafers. If you prefer a blazer, a linen or cotton beige blazer complements this look perfectly.
“Opt for a soft pastel or a small floral printed shirt.”
-Dania, Stylist
Men’s Rustic Wedding Attire: Earthy Elegance
Rustic or countryside weddings offer an opportunity to embrace pattern and contrast, creating an effortlessly stylish look.
Opt for a patterned button-down—a grid or plaid is always a classic go-to. If you’re new to trying prints or patterns, just start small. A micro dot or small floral print is an easy way to add a big impact to your wedding outfit.
Your attire should include a dress shirt paired with well-tailored chinos in a complementary shade. Consider footwear that’s both functional and fashionable, such as chukkas or oxfords—these options offer comfort and class, ideal for uneven terrains for men’s rustic wedding attire.
Outfit idea: A small-printed button-down and matching blazer, with dark grey tweed pants. Finished with a sleek black dress shoe.
“Opt for a printed button-down—a grid or plaid pattern is always a classic go-to.”
-Dania, Stylist
Men’s Semi-Formal Beach Wedding Attire: Relaxed Refinement
Beach weddings offer a naturally relaxed and breezy atmosphere. Your attire should match the setting’s ease. “Reach for lightweight and breathable fabrics like linen or cotton,” says Dania. The goal here is to maintain a breezy yet sophisticated appearance.
Roll up your sleeves, opt for relaxed-fit shirts and consider light-colored bottoms to reflect the easy-going beach vibe. Loafers are your go-to footwear for practicality and style—perfectly balancing casual ease with semi-formal sophistication.
Color-wise, embrace the coastal palette—think soft blues, light greys and sandy beige tones.
Outfit Idea: A lightweight white linen shirt paired with relaxed-fit beige linen pants and navy suede loafers.
“Reach for lightweight and breathable fabrics
like linen or cotton.”
-Dania, Stylist
What to Avoid: Can you wear jeans to a semi-formal wedding?
It is important to strike the right balance and avoid overdressing or underdressing. Unless it’s clearly stated, steer away from a tuxedo, as this leans more into formal and black-tie territory. For men’s semi-formal wedding attire, avoid wearing jeans, t-shirts and sneakers. These are far too casual for a semi-formal dress code.
Always consider the wedding’s location, timing and theme when assembling your outfit. Incorporating thoughtful details—like choosing appropriate fabrics and colors—makes all the difference. With these styling tips and outfit ideas, you’ll confidently navigate men’s semi-formal wedding looks for every occasion, ensuring you look and feel your absolute best.
Get semi-formal wedding attire for men with Stitch Fix
Want the perfect semi-formal wedding guest attire from your very own personal Stylist? Take your style quiz, order a Fix and let your Stylist do the work for you. They’ll choose just-for-you pieces to save you time (and a trip to the mall). Keep what works, and return the rest—or keep 5+ pieces and get 20% off your entire order. Shipping and returns are always free—no subscription required. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3.
