Summer is one of the most popular times of year for weddings. Couples enjoy the many options of venues, colors, flowers, fashions, and food the season brings. The warmer months are also ideal for beautiful outdoor gatherings that can last well into the night. If you are fortunate enough to be invited to a summer wedding, you’re in for a real treat. Of course, the most significant factor as a guest is deciding what to wear.
Key Considerations For Wedding Guests
Deciding what to wear to a summer wedding isn’t as easy as it sounds. You want to dress appropriately for the occasion while ensuring that you’re comfortable in the warmer temperatures. Before you decide on an outfit, keep these considerations in mind.
Dress Code
Some couples provide a dress code for their wedding guests to follow. Their requirements often tie in with the theme or mood of the day. Once you receive your invitation, review it to see if a dress code is in place. For instance, an evening wedding dress code might include wearing something upscale or formal like a black suit, tuxedo, evening gown, or cocktail dress. On the contrary, a daytime brunch wedding might require you to dress casually. A few rules of thumb are to avoid wearing all white as this is typically reserved for the bride.
Weather
The weather will be a significant determining factor in your fashion choices. If it’s a hot, humid, and sunny day, you want to avoid wearing tight clothes or uncomfortable fabrics to prevent sweat. If there are storms predicted for the wedding day, you may want to bring an umbrella or wear shoes that won’t be an inconvenience in the mud.
Indoor/Outdoor
Is the wedding being held indoors or outdoors? Indoor weddings are usually hosted in venues with air conditioning, which would mean you should bring a blazer, sweater, shall, or scarf to keep you warm. If it’s outdoors, the “less is more” mindset (within reason) will be your best bet.
Destination/Atmosphere
Another consideration when deciding what to wear as a wedding guest is the destination or atmosphere. For example, if you’re going to a beach ceremony and reception, you’ll need to consider the sun, sand, and water. Opting for something more free-flowing like a maxi-dress or a-line skirt and a tank top with a beach hat, sunglasses, and sandals would ensure you’re fashionable yet comfortable. On the other hand, if you’re going to an outdoor country wedding, you’ll want to wear wedge sandals or comfy flats and short sundresses that won’t drag in the mud or get grass stains.
Avoid Dark Colors
Unless the dress code requires you to, you should avoid wearing dark colors like black, navy, brown, and dark gray. The darker colors tend to absorb more heat, leaving you feeling hot and sweaty during the wedding. Instead, opt for bold, bright, and seasonal colors and patterns as they keep you cool and lift your spirits to match the joyous occasion.
Pack A Pair of Flats
While high heels may be the preferred shoe to wear to a summer wedding ceremony, they’re not ideal for certain activities. It’s not uncommon for guests to walk around and mingle or dance during wedding receptions. If you want to avoid body aches or accidents, it’s best to have a pair of ballet flats, flip-flops, or slide-on shoes handy so you can move around with ease.
Accessories
You may not wear jewelry every day, but going above and beyond is often required when you’re a guest at a summer wedding. Once you’ve decided on your outfit, select pieces that add personality and style. A multi-layered diamond necklace and matching earrings may be ideal for formal weddings. Statement necklaces, bracelets, and stackable gold rings for women are perfect for a casual daytime gathering.
Being invited to a wedding is an honor. A couple has selected you to witness their love and devotion for one another. As weddings are a beautiful occasion, it’s important that you dress to impress. If you’re having difficulty deciding what to wear, these tips can help you narrow down your options to choose something that fits the occasion and is comfortable for the season.
