Need some help with mundane dress

[Auryn]

Its not often that I have this problem as I am usually pretty good in the wardrobe department.

In mid march my boyfriend and I are attending the wedding of one of his best friends since high school (we are both almost 30-  - god i cant believe I just said that  ). Sadly it is a mundane wedding, but you can't have everything I guess.

Anyway.
The wedding is about 4 hours away, in the evening, not exactly sure on the venue as I haven't seen the invite. The invite calls for "Elegant Casual" attire.
What in nine hells does that mean??
the boyfriend plans on wearing dress khakis with a button down shirt, tie and sports jacket.
My mother says I should be wearing a cocktail style dress- knee length.

What do you guys think??
I've only met the couple a few times, so I can't really ask the bride to be.

Im just hoping they have really good cake.

[Grov]

Why not call and ask them what they mean?  They want the party to gel as much as you don't want to dress inappropriately.  It's in their best interests to clarify.

[Sorcha]

Nothing says "Elegant Casual" like a kilt!

But Grov is right.  Call and find out.  I'm sure the bride won't be put out by your call.  It will also give you a chance to make a connection to a person that I'm sure will become an important part of your life. 
It's better than showing up wearing something inappropriate and making that sort of connection with her.

[wildthingjew]

found this by googling definition of casual elegant

Dear Amanda,
I am invited to an evening post-wedding reception at a restaurant where the requested attire is "casual elegant." What is the definition of "casual elegant?"

Dear Casual Elegant,
I am not sure that I have ever heard the term "casual elegant" used. However, I would have to believe that it means the same thing as "dressy casual". The definition to "dressy casual" is, no jeans or shorts, similar to business attire, but a tad dressier. Just remember, although it is an old cliché, the "little black dress" is a lifesaver at times like these when you aren't sure what you should wear. Keep in mind that it is always better to be under dressed than overdressed.

Until next time,
Amanda Mandelli

[Lady L]

I thought you weren't supposed to wear black to a wedding though? 

[Seryn]

You can wear black to a wedding these days.  Many brides have their bridesmaids in black even.  White is still out, of course, but black is totally fine.

[captmarga]

Cocktail attire, casual elegant - the meanings have wandered.  For hubby's Xmas party, it was "cocktail".  I wore the LBD.  There was everything from dressy slacks to short cocktail dresses to long.

You can wear black, perhaps with a dressy shrug or wrap in color to set it off.

Wear what you are comfortable as "elegant" and don't forget your accessories.

Have fun!

Capt. Marga

[Auryn]

Thanks everyone
I feel better that I'm not the only one bewildered by the term 

I think I will stick with the little black dress and add some color accessories
maybe since I will be dying my hair copper red this weekend that will be the only accessory I will need.