What to Wear to a Summer Wedding
In 2022, there will be over two million weddings in the U.S, many of which will be held during the summer.
Knowing how to dress for a summer wedding is essential for showing the bride and groom that you to respect them and look great in photos with your loved ones. But with so many possibilities out there, it can be difficult to know which outfit does and doesn't work.
Maybe it's that curiosity that brought you here; you're unsure how to dress for a summertime wedding and are searching for inspiration.
Hit the nail on the head? Luckily, we've got you! Here's what to wear at a summer wedding.
Never Wear White
As a general rule, guests should never wear white wedding attire. This includes any shade of off-white, beige, or cream unless explicitly stated on the invitations. For instance, the bride may ask you to wear white to align with a beach theme.
But, to be safe, confirm with the happy couple to avoid upstaging the bride on her big day. Men can still wear a white shirt underneath a suit jacket, and a splash of white is acceptable on a dress as long as it's not a block color.
Avoid Wearing the Bridal Party's Colors
Unless you're part of the bridal party, avoid wearing their colors on the wedding day. You can tell the wedding theme by the invitation or the wedding website, so you know which direction the couple is going. If you're worried about clashing, don a printed or patterned dress, as most bridesmaids wear solid colors.
Consider The Venue
If you're still not sure what to wear to a summer wedding, consider the venue for hints. For instance, if your friend is tying the knot at a tropical beach, wear an airy dress and flat sandals, so you can easily walk over the sand. You should also research the venue and look at past events to determine which outfits work best.
Check the Weather Beforehand
Although it's a summer wedding, you should check the weather beforehand. You never know if it'll be windy or even drizzle in the evening. To be safe, bring a jacket to store in the cloakroom and don't wear a dress, so you can avoid having a Marilyn Monroe moment.
Alter Your Current Wardrobe
Another great tip for wedding guest attire is to work with what you currently have. This is a lifesaver if you've got a busy wedding season ahead and don't want to spend a fortune on several new outfits.
Instead, tailor your favorite dress because raising or lowering the hem can drastically change the look you're going for.
Accessorize Your Outfit
When you're brainstorming summer wedding attire options, decide which accessories work best with each one. You could wear dangly earrings or an intricate necklace to elevate a plain dress. Spend time finding the perfect jewelry combinations, so that it pulls your outfit together.
The same goes for men's wedding attire, too. For instance, men could add a colorful pocket square as an accent or sophisticated cuff links.
Don't Go Overly Casual or Formal
Still, stumped for what to wear to a wedding? Then, only choose outfits that aren't overly casual or formal for the best results.
Don't be fooled if the invitation has a "low-key dress code" because that doesn't mean you should wear a scruffy t-shirt and ripped jeans. If you're not sure where to stand, always go overdressed as it shows you care about your loved one's big day.
Be Wary of Your Neckline
As you browse wedding guest dresses, it's important to consider the neckline. You don't want to potentially upstage the bride because your tight dress has a plunging neckline and is turning heads. Not only is it disrespectful, but most weddings are family-friendly, so consider this when choosing an outfit.
Be Strategic About Shoes
Another important consideration is your choice of shoes. You should prioritize comfort, as you may be standing for long periods, and make sure your shoes align with your outfit. If the bride and groom are tying the knot on grass, go with wedges or heels that have a thick sole, so you don't sink into the ground as you walk.
If you're unsure, ask the happy couple for more details and you can dress accordingly.
Avoid Common Attire Mistakes
Many guests make mistakes with their outfits, which makes the day more stressful.
Make sure you never wear denim jeans, even during casual weddings, as it shows little care. You should also avoid buying dresses with sheer or see-through material because if you accidentally drop liquid down the front, you will be on display.
Further, avoid wearing animal prints and choose low-key patterns like polka dots or stripes instead. You should also avoid wearing t-shirts with a large graphic or slogan, as it looks overly casual for a wedding.
Check Out Different Boutiques
Spend time browsing different boutiques, as they vary in style. Also, the type of wedding will determine how high-end you can buy, so factor this in during your search. You should also visit these stores in person and you can check if it properly fits before making the purchase.
Know What to Wear at a Summer Wedding
Hopefully, you're now ready to wow at your loved one's summer wedding.
There are many factors to consider during your searches, such as the venue and the bridal party's colors. You should also choose an outfit that isn't overly casual and find the perfect accessories to complete it. Good luck with your search!
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