How to dress for a casual summer wedding

In the summer months particularly, more and more couples are opting for a smart-casual dress code. Google searches for 'casual wedding' increased by 40% over the last quarter – a trend which has been replicated every summer for the past five years1. But how casual is too casual? M&S Menswear Director, Mitch Hughes shares tips for balancing comfort and polish to nail this famously perplexing dress code.

Think about the venue

Start by considering the venue the couple have chosen. While a polo shirt might be acceptable for a laid-back beach wedding, this may not be appropriate for a religious venue. Always research the venue - they often feature images and photos on their website which could help you narrow down your choice of attire. It's also important to consider the weather, as Mitch explains: "At an outside ceremony or reception, you can be baking in the sunshine. So, it's important to choose natural, breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen and silk blends."

Linen is your best friend

A linen suit is always a classy alternative to a traditional suit or tuxedo. The fabric is much more breathable, and it offers a more casual vibe. But there are some things to consider: "Concerns about creases often put people off wearing linen. However, I tend to think if you leave the house mostly wrinkle-free, any creases you acquire during the day are completely acceptable – it's part of linen's beauty. Linen suits are also incredibly versatile. While a linen suit looks great with a shirt, a simple white T-shirt can bring a level of sophistication to your look without being overly formal."

Experiment with colours and patterns

A more casual dress code can allow you to be more experimental with colours and patterns: "If you are attending a wedding with a relaxed theme or dress code, this can be an opportunity to be playful with your attire. Beige, tan, or even a slate grey are less traditional colours that work well. A pastel tone like soft green, blue or coral is also worth considering if you want to stand out."

Dare to jean

Whether jeans are wedding-appropriate is an incredibly hotly debated topic. Mitch believes it can be possible to make denim work, if the dress code allows: "Unless the couple have expressed otherwise, a pair of smart, dark coloured jeans can fit the bill for a 'casual' dress code. Pair them with a white, tailored shirt and stylish blazer to give off an effortless but put-together look. If you're not sure jeans are appropriate, a light chino is an easy-going alternative."