Semi-Formal Wedding Attire for Men: How to Dress It Right

Semi-formal wedding attire sits comfortably between casual and formal, giving men more flexibility while still requiring a polished appearance. Whether you’re attending a relaxed evening reception or a daytime ceremony, understanding semi-formal wedding attire for men ensures you’re dressed appropriately without looking overdressed or too casual.

What Is Semi-Formal Wedding Attire for Men?

Semi-formal wedding attire is a step down from black tie but more refined than everyday wear. It’s commonly requested for daytime weddings, outdoor venues, garden settings, and relaxed indoor receptions.

For men, semi-formal attire typically means:

• A tailored suit or blazer-and-trouser combination

• A dress shirt (tie optional depending on the setting)

• Polished leather shoes

When an invitation mentions semi-formal, dressy casual, or cocktail-style attire, this dress code is usually implied.

Suit Choices for Semi-Formal Weddings

The Classic Suit

A well-fitted suit is the safest and most versatile option for semi-formal weddings.

Best suit colours:

• Navy

• Charcoal

• Medium grey

• Light grey (ideal for daytime or summer weddings)

You can wear the suit with or without a tie depending on the formality of the event.

Casual Wedding Suits & Separates

For more relaxed weddings, especially outdoor or destination events, separates work well.

Popular options include:

• Blazer with tailored trousers

• Linen or cotton suit for warm weather

• Subtle patterns or textured fabrics

This approach aligns well with casual wedding attire for men while still looking intentional and refined.

Shirt, Tie & Styling Guidelines

• Shirt: White or light blue dress shirts are always appropriate

• Tie: Optional; wear one for evening events or more formal venues

• No tie look: Keep the shirt crisp and consider a structured blazer

Avoid casual shirts, loud prints, or untucked styles unless clearly specified.

Shoes That Work for Semi-Formal Weddings

Footwear plays a major role in semi-formal dressing.

Best shoe options:

• Leather oxfords

• Derby shoes

• Loafers (for daytime or outdoor weddings)

Stick to black or brown leather depending on your suit colour. Avoid sneakers or overly casual shoes.

Semi-Formal Attire for Grooms

For relaxed weddings, grooms often choose semi-formal attire instead of a tuxedo.

Semi-casual wedding attire for grooms may include:

• A tailored suit in a lighter colour

• No tie or a textured tie

• Personal details such as a boutonnière or pocket square

The key is looking elevated compared to guests without appearing overly formal.

What Not to Wear to a Semi-Formal Wedding

Even at relaxed weddings, certain items are inappropriate:

• Jeans or chinos

• T-shirts or polos

• Sneakers or sandals

• Wrinkled or ill-fitting clothing

Semi-formal still requires structure and attention to detail.

Final Thoughts

Semi-formal wedding attire for men offers flexibility without sacrificing style. A tailored suit or smart separates, clean lines, and polished shoes will ensure you’re dressed correctly for the occasion. When in doubt, choose classic pieces and refine them with subtle details—this balance is what defines semi-formal wedding style.