"evening casual" is a dress-code option that many may run into today. With the world becoming much more casual in every way, events and meetings are starting to pick up the casual dress code. There are still limits within the dress code that people should be aware of before their evening casual look goes astray.

Evening casual dress is considered "dressy," but not formal. Formal wear would include long gowns and full tuxedos. Evening casual is more relaxed and includes things like sports coats and cocktail dresses. To envision evening casual, think about what someone would wear for a nice dinner out. It is clean and sharp and considered dressy with an informal feel to it.

There are many reasons that one might want to consider evening casual dress. It might be the dress code for a party or event or it might just seem appropriate for the occasion. Some occasions where this dress code could apply includes causal upscale restaurants, like some country club restaurants, evening dinner parties and some weddings, or other large events. For events, if a certain dress code is required it will be announced on the invitation. Let the occasion or event be your guide, advises on line retailer Zappos.

There are very small differences between evening casual and day casual. One of the easiest ways to spot this is the color of the clothing. Day casual will include a lot of bright colors where as evening casual will have more dark colors. The darker the colors the more appropriate the outfit will be for the evening. Evening colors may include black, red and dark shades of blue or purple. Day colors are brighter and could include pastels.

Evening casual for men includes slacks and sports jackets. It is not preferred to wear t-shirts or any other non-collared shirt, according to online resource Ask Andy About Clothes. Jeans are not usually accepted but for some events it may be okay. Men should stick to dress shoes and nice boots. No hats or ties are required, but shirts should have a collar and be void of logos or visible brands. Accessories, such as belts, are appropriate.

Women may wear nice dresses and cardigans. It is acceptable to wear nice pants but they most likely shouldn’t be jeans. Skirts are appropriate but they should be about the same length as cocktail dresses. Tops should be nice blouses or fashion tops and women should avoid t-shirts completely, advises the Internet Dress Code Guide. Shoes can include dress shoes and heels or sandals. Flip-flops are not appropriate. Accessories are acceptable including nice jewelry, watches and in some cases, scarves.