What Type of Dress Is Elegant Casual?

Elegant casual dress perfect for daytime or evening events.

The type of dress which is considered elegant casual can have a structured silhouette and be sewn out of fabrics considered casual such as brushed cotton or linen.

Elegant casual, also known as dressy casual, is putting together a casual ensemble with an elegant twist. The elegant twist can be done with accessories such as dressy shoes or gemstone jewelry.

Types of Daytime Dresses

Elegant casual dresses for daytime events can be in a variety of fabrications and lengths. Dresses with modest necklines, that do not show cleavage, are always appropriate. The length can be from the knee down to the ankle. Daytime dresses can be sleeveless, cap sleeve, short sleeve or three-quarter length. If a dress does not have a waist, it can be belted to create a more elegant look. Fabrics found on elegant casual, daytime dresses include brushed cotton and linen.

Types of Evening Dresses

Evening dresses can be slightly dressier than daytime dresses simply by adding larger jewelry and a smaller handbag such as a clutch. Necklines can be draped, scooped, boat or V-neck. The length of the evening dress can hit anywhere from mid-thigh to ankle. Evening dresses should be sleeveless, cap sleeve or short sleeve. The fabrics found on evening dresses can be brushed cotton or matte silk; which is a non-shiny version of silk.

Classic Dresses

The classic sheath dress is the ultimate elegant casual dress. This style of dress has been in fashion since the mid-1900s and can be worn to any occasion. The neckline is wide and hits about mid-shoulder. The dress is considered sleeveless and is knee-length. Sheath dresses can be straight from the neckline to the hem or curve in at the waist. Elegant casual fabrics include brushed cotton, linen and matte silk; which is the non-shiny version of silk.

Elegant Casual Occasions

Elegant casual is a type of dress code for events such as outdoor luncheons, beach weddings and dinner with friends. A dress which is elegant casual can be worn with flat sandals for warm, outdoor venues and topped off with a dramatic sun hat. Elegant casual dresses look appropriate for evening events when paired with high heels or wedges and a dressy leather handbag or clutch. An elegant wrap such as a pashmina shawl, which is a fine wool, will pull the outfit together for the ultimate elegant casual dress.

Warnings

An elegant casual dress can go terribly wrong if the fabric is too casual or too formal. The fabric of a dress is a large part of what makes it casual or dressy. There are a few fabrics to stay away from in order to avoid being too casual for an event that calls for an elegant casual dress. Denim, cotton twill, wrinkled silk, washable silk, thick knits such as sweater dresses and T-shirt material are all overly casual fabrics that cannot be dressed up enough to qualify for elegant casual attire. Satin, taffeta, shiny silk and organza are considered formal fabrics and would look too overdone at an elegant casual event.

References

• Caribbean Belle Magazine: Elegantly Casual
• Allure Magazine: Inside Allure; Dressing the Part
• Bazaar Magazine: Fabulous at Every Age - Dresses

Resources

• Time: Business; The Casual, Elegant Look