Wedding dress codes can be a nightmare to decipher: white tie, morning dress, black tie, lounge suits and the worst of all, ‘smart casual’. At least with black tie or lounge suits, your man will have an idea of what is appropriate, but with smart casual, it’s like giving him carte blanche to wear jeans and trainers.
Defined
According to the people who once brought you The Peerage, Debrett’s defines smart casual as attire where you look smart, without looking overly formal. Apparently, however, there are two distinct types: ‘formal’ smart casual, where the man wears a sports jacket or blazer, collared shirt (optional tie) and trousers, as well as ‘informal’ smart casual, where clean, dark coloured jeans are acceptable. Confusing?
Start at the Top
He’ll want to be comfortable but you can’t have him letting the side down, so you’ll need to compromise. Instead of his favourite old Led Zepplin teeshirt, get him a cracking, button-down Oxford shirt, to wear open necked. Opt for white, pastel blue or pink (yes, really). One of those colours should suit his skin tone. It’s smart but has that attractive, preppy look. Keep him away from anything silk or shiny, unless he’s part of the evening’s entertainment.
Lose the Jacket
If you’re unsure whether to go for formal or informal smart casual, then forget the blazer and have him cover up his shirt with a knitted waistcoat. Classic knitwear for men has seen a resurgence since Man Men. Don may wear a suit at the office but at home he throws on his cable cardigan or sweater vest. It has to be fine quality and preferable cashmere, such as this perfect example from The Edinburgh Woollen Mill.
The Bottom Half
You know he’ll be looking pretty fine from the waist up but now it’s crunch time. Denim or slacks? While he probably wouldn’t get fingers pointed at him for wearing jeans, it is risky. Even if the label says Calvin Klein, they’re still just jeans. Convince him instead, to try a pair of pincord corduroy trousers. With the Oxford shirt and waistcoat, it’s an ensemble made in heaven. Yes, they do attract lint and can bag at the knee, but he won’t be wearing them every day. Think university professor.
Put your Foot Down
Chances are, he will try and convince you that he can get away with his Converse. You’ve spent time and (hopefully) his money on the outfit so far, so he’s not about to ruin it by wearing trainers. There really are only two choices: brown brogues or black brogues. To see a great range of suitable choices visit Clarks. They will be the perfect accompaniment.
You need never be daunted again by dressing your man for a smart casual wedding. You should be looking smug because you’ve created a masterpiece.
