Casual dress code: what it means and what to wear
Everyday comfortable clothes: jeans, tees, sneakers – clean and right for the place.
- When
- Any time
- Trousers for women
- Yes
- Tie
- No
- Jeans
- Yes
- Sneakers
- Yes
On the invitation: „Casual“, „Laisvalaikio“, „Come as you are“
When it's worn
Weekends, casual meet-ups, travel, picnics, informal events.
Colours
Anything.
For women
Jeans or shorts + a tee or sweater + sneakers or sandals.
- Jeans, chinos, skirts
- Tees, shirts, knits
- Summer dresses
Shoes: Sneakers, sandals, loafers.
Example – city day: Straight jeans, a white tee, a beige trench and white sneakers.
Full guide: for women →For men
Jeans or chinos + a tee or polo + sneakers.
- Jeans, chinos, shorts
- Tees, polos, linen shirts
Shoes: Sneakers, moccasins, sandals.
Example – city day: Jeans, a grey tee, a denim or field jacket and sneakers.
Full guide: for men →In summer
In summer: shorts, linen, sandals.
In winter
In winter: knits, jeans, sneakers or boots.
Where it comes from
Casual dress only became widely accepted in the second half of the 20th century, as jeans and T-shirts moved from workwear and underwear to everyday clothing.
Common mistakes
- Dirty or worn-out clothes
- Gym wear outside the gym
Resort wear
Holiday elegance: light, loose pieces in natural fabrics that go from the pool to dinner.
All dress codes
Frequently asked
01What does Casual mean?
Everyday comfortable clothes: jeans, tees, sneakers – clean and right for the place.
02Does 'casual' on an invitation mean sportswear is fine?
Not quite – relaxed but tidy: jeans and clean sneakers yes, a tracksuit no.
03Casual: can women wear trousers?
Yes – elegant trousers or a trouser suit are perfectly fine.
04Casual: is a tie required?
No – a tie isn't needed and would often look too formal.
05Casual: are jeans OK?
Yes – dark, clean, unripped jeans fit this code.
06Casual: are sneakers OK?
Yes – clean, minimalist leather or suede sneakers work.