Summer Wedding Guest Style: Dressing for Every Venue and Dress Code
Summer weddings are always a celebration of love, and as a guest, it’s important to dress for the occasion. But with so many different types of weddings—formal, semi-formal, and casual—how do you know what to wear? Whether you're attending a beachside ceremony, a chic garden gathering, or a luxurious indoor event, it's all about balancing style and comfort. In this post, I’ll share my best tips for dressing as a guest at a summer wedding, from choosing the right outfit to pairing it with the perfect accessories and shoes. Let’s get started!
1. Formal Weddings: Elegance Meets Sophistication
For a formal summer wedding, think classic and elegant. Long gowns or tea-length dresses are great options that exude sophistication. Fabrics like chiffon, silk, or satin are ideal for the occasion, as they’re lightweight and breathable but still polished. Opt for dresses in soft pastel colors, jewel tones, or classic neutrals like navy, black, or metallics. Pair your dress with a sleek clutch, delicate jewelry, and strappy heels or elegant flats. A tailored jacket or shawl can also be a great addition for cooler evening temperatures.
Outfit Tip: Choose a statement dress in a flattering silhouette, like A-line or sheath, and complement it with timeless accessories that elevate the look without overpowering it.
2. Semi-Formal Weddings: Chic and Stylish with Comfort in Mind
A semi-formal wedding gives you a bit more flexibility to have fun with your outfit while still maintaining an elegant feel. A midi dress or a sophisticated jumpsuit can be the perfect go-to for this kind of event. Fabrics like lace, linen, or a soft cotton blend can keep you cool and comfortable, while still giving off that elevated vibe. If the wedding is outdoors, consider wearing wedge sandals or block heels for more comfort and stability. A small, structured handbag or a chic crossbody will work beautifully as accessories.
Outfit Tip: Keep the accessories minimal—think simple statement earrings and a light scarf or shawl to add a touch of flair while still staying functional.
3. Casual Weddings: Effortless and Comfortable
Casual weddings, especially those held outdoors or at less formal venues, are all about embracing a relaxed, easygoing style. For women, this could mean a knee-length sundress, a cute jumpsuit, or even a flowy maxi dress for a bohemian vibe. You can play with prints and bold colors here—florals, stripes, or tropical-inspired patterns are always a hit at casual weddings. Comfort is key, so opt for flat sandals, espadrilles, or low wedges that you can wear throughout the day without worrying about sore feet.
Outfit Tip: Casual doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! Choose playful accessories like a wide-brimmed hat, layered necklaces, or colorful earrings to add some personality to your outfit.
4. Shoes and Accessories: The Finishing Touches
When it comes to shoes and accessories, consider the venue and the overall vibe of the wedding. For formal and semi-formal weddings, choose shoes that complement your dress, whether they’re classic stilettos, block heels, or elegant flats. For casual weddings, opt for something more relaxed but still chic—think strappy sandals, wedges, or cute ballet flats.
For accessories, a clutch or small handbag is always a great choice, but make sure it’s large enough to hold your essentials. Jewelry should enhance your outfit without overwhelming it—think delicate earrings, simple bracelets, or a statement necklace depending on your dress’s neckline. Don’t forget the sunscreen and a stylish hat if you'll be outdoors!
5. Don’t Forget the Dress Code
It’s always important to consider the dress code or theme when dressing for a wedding, especially in the summer when you want to stay cool and comfortable. Here are some common dress codes and how to interpret them for summer weddings:
Cocktail Attire: For a cocktail attire wedding, a knee-length dress or a chic jumpsuit is perfect. Fabrics like silk or cotton blends work well for keeping you cool. Pair with dressy flats or heels, and opt for simple yet elegant accessories like a delicate clutch or statement earrings.
Black Tie Optional: For a black tie optional wedding, a long, elegant dress in breathable fabrics like chiffon or satin is ideal for summer. You could also opt for a stylish midi dress if you're not ready for a floor-length gown. Pair with dressy heels and sophisticated jewelry.
Beach Chic: For a beach or outdoor wedding, choose a relaxed, flowy dress or jumpsuit in natural fabrics like linen or cotton. Think tropical prints or soft pastels, paired with flat sandals or wedges for comfort. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses will keep you stylish while protecting you from the sun.
Wrapping It Up
Choosing the right outfit for a summer wedding can be tricky, but by considering the venue, dress code, and comfort level, you’ll be able to strike the perfect balance between looking stylish and feeling great. From formal to casual and everything in between, there’s a summer wedding guest style that will suit you perfectly.
If you have an important event, like a wedding, coming up and you want personalized help to make sure you look your best, contact me! I'd be glad to have a conversation about event styling and how I can support you with outfit recommendations and styling advice.