Casual dresses – what, when and where?
In many European countries ‘casual’ has become the traditional dress code. In line with the thinking of many Europeans, casual dress doesn't pay too much attention to formalities and uniformity. Instead, comfort and personal expression is often the determinant for what to wear.
But what characterizes casual dresses and for what occasions is casual dress code suitable?
Casual dresses come in many styles and colors, but there are a couple of things that most casual dresses have in common:
The fabric
Since casual dresses are mostly designed to be comfortable to wear, materials such as cotton, jersey and linen are common materials. These materials are both more comfortable – especially in summer – and less fragile than fabrics most commonly used for formal dresses, e.g. silk and taffeta.
The length
Another difference between casual and formal dresses is the length. While formal dresses are traditionally floorlength, casual dresses do not follow any norms for length and can go anywhere from the thighs to the heels. This being said, however, there is a tendency also for formal dresses to become more casual with ever lower necklines and ever higher hems.
When to wear casual dresses – and when not to
Casual dresses are especially appropriate for (naturally) casual events such as garden parties or a relaxed outing with friends. Casual dresses might also be appropriate for more formal events such as weddings, but take the setting into consideration. Is it a less formal afternoon wedding or are you invited to a formal evening wedding? Is the ceremony taking place in a garden, a living room or a church? Church weddings are normally more formal and call for a more formal dress code.
Wearing casual dresses to work might be alright, if the company policy allows it.
If you feel that your casual dresses are a bit too casual for a certain occasion, you can also ‘dress it up’ a bit by choosing accessories with a more formal touch. High heels, shiny jewels and a smart jacket or a fancy stola will do wonders. On the other hand, flat sandals, wooden or plastic jewellery and a knitted shawl or cardigan will add to your casual look. Your hairstyle will also influence the overall style of your dress. Hair that hangs and flows naturally adds to the casual style, whereas a 'high do' maybe even added some pearls, flowers or other pretty accessories will make your whole style look more formal.
How to choose
When choosing whether to wear a formal or a casual dress to a certain occasion, make sure to read the invitation carefully to see whether there is a dress code indicated. If you are still uncertain, don’t be shy to ask the host. Your host will surely appreciate you taking his or her feelings and opinions into consideration and you will avoid causing offense or attracting unpleasant attention to yourself.
