Casual wedding attire might be one of the most debated dress codes printed on a wedding invitation. After all, the words casual and wedding could feel like a bit of an oxymoron—even at the most laid-back affair, there should still be a certain level of elevation to a guest’s ensemble out of respect for the gravity of this major life event. When choosing to plan a casual or dressy casual wedding, a couple is asking for their guests to take a more relaxed approach to their style, yet likely would prefer you wear a step up (or two) from flip-flops and jean shorts.

Ahead, we break down everything to know about what to wear to a casual wedding as a guest.

Photo: Gioconda and August

What Does Casual Wedding Attire Actually Mean

If a wedding invitation arrives and dictates you should arrive in “casual attire,” there’s no need to pull a gown out of your closet. “Casual wedding attire, or ‘come as you are,’ is the host’s permission to skip formalities—but it’s not an invitation to arrive unpolished,” advises creative director and stylist Carrie Goldberg of CLG Creative. “Casual events are intended to make guests feel at ease, and relieve the pressure of dressing up for a low-key welcome party, backyard ceremony, or recovery brunch.” She adds, “When thinking about dressing for a casual wedding, consider this a step down (or two) from cocktail attire. Heels and ties are not required.”

Dos and Don’ts of Dressing for a Casual Wedding

A casual wedding dress code is definitely not as rigid as black tie—yet you still should understand the nuance that comes with these more relaxed guidelines. “While the attire may read casual, be mindful to dress in a way that respects the celebration you’re attending,” says Goldberg. “Your favorite athleisure for running errands isn’t what the couple intends for you to arrive in; instead, think of the type of look you’d wear to a nice dinner party or weekend lunch with friends.” If a casual wedding event is in your future, it’s best to generally steer clear of flip-flops, graphic tees, and blue denim (unless it fits the venue).

A good rule of thumb? “Skip anything too rumpled or sporty and focus on ease and effortlessness,” says the stylist. “The idea of a casual wedding is to allow guests to shop their closets rather than feeling the pressure to buy something new for the occasion (unless, of course, they’d like to!).”