A Guide To Beach Wedding Guest Attire
Beach Weddings or Resort weddings or coastal weddings are very popular.
While getting married with the sand under your toes is the dream of many, it may cause some confusion or questions amongst guests concerning what to wear at the beachy event. As opposed to traditional dress codes such as cocktail, semi-formal, or formal, the “beach” element in dress code means you can think a little more coastal, nautical, comfy, colorful, cool, and casual when dressing for the event. Naturally, the time of the year, the weather, and the venue will all be deciding factors when choosing your look. Fall / Winter beach destination wedding dressing will be completely different from Spring / Summer Beach Wedding Guest Dress code.
Related Read Article- BEST BEACH WEDDING GUEST DRESSES
First of all let me explain - What Is Beach Wedding Attire?
Beach wedding attire is the same as any other wedding where you dress according to the formality of the event, but unlike a normal celebration, there are some small changes to accessories and fabrics that will make you much more comfortable and suited to the event. Making memorable photos and memories for a lifetime.
For dressing up appropriately for a Beach wedding let us first, do a quick search of the venue to check the level of formality. “If the location simply overlooks the beach on a rooftop or patio, then just plan your outfit as usual. If, however, the ceremony and/or reception takes place in the sand, you can dress with confidence and adhere to the fun beachy vibes.
Beach Wedding Attire for Men and Women
The two biggest differences between beach wedding attire and other wedding dress codes lies in the color palette, accessorizing and footwear. You won't typically see a little black dress and heels at a beach wedding. Utilize breathable fabrics, fun prints, and simple, high-end staples for an effortless-yet-refined beach wedding look. Avoid denim and cotton t-shirts at all costs, and only wear shorts or sandals if the venue/event is especially casual.
In addition to avoiding black, a traditional wedding guest color, consider small touches that lend toward the theme without going overboard. Carry a clutch or consider a fishtail braid for your hair to elegantly add a beachy vibe. Some excellent and easy choice for beach wedding dress for guest for women would be-
1. Maxi Dresses
2. Loose Dresses
3. Midi Dresses
4. Floral Frocks
5. Long Dresses
6. Beach Dresses
Some examples for beach wedding attire for men include-
1. Linen Suit in light colors
2. Colorful jacket with jeans or shorts
3. White Linen shirt with beige pants
4. Colorful patterned shirt in fine fabric
5. Seersucker cotton jacket or suit
Beach Formal
Beach Formal for women- A dress, suit, or jumpsuit all work for a beach formal wedding. Opt for solid, lighter colors (avoiding black, cream, and white) and breathable fabrics. Tea-length dresses and jumpsuits are acceptable for beach formal attire. To up the elegance, wear silk or linen. Since stilettos are a hazard on the sand, wear a platforms, chunky heel or formal sandals. Consider bringing a formal pair of heels for the reception if it’s not on the beach. Accessorizing with a nice pair of sunglasses or/and hat can add to your look as well.
Beach Formal for Men- Wear either a suit or a long-sleeved shirt and tie with a jacket and slacks. Opt for solid colors, avoiding black, cream, and white—a summer suit is a perfect solution. Consider a breathable fabric such as linen, khaki, or seersucker. Dress shoes or a nice pair of shoes (Sliders, loafers) that compliment the slacks are required. Shorts and sandals are not permitted
Beach Semi-Formal/Cocktail
A dress, suit, formal romper, or jumpsuit all work for semi-formal. Feel free to include prints, avoiding anything too loud. If you choose to wear a beachy dress, consider it in either tea-length or maxi to avoid looking too casual. Dressy sandals, chunky heels, and wedges are acceptable footwear options.
While a jacket isn’t required, a breathable sport coat or unique blazer is a fun addition. Feel free to include prints, avoiding anything too loud. Shoes can be a little more casual, but still need to be closed-toe, such as a loafer or deck shoe. Shorts and sandals are not permitted.
A Guide to Semi-Formal Wedding Attire for Men and Women
Beach Casual
Opt for a simple sundress, breezy maxi dress, or high-quality romper. While dressy sandals are acceptable, avoid standard, beachwear flip flops. Nice, short-sleeved shirts such as polos are permitted as well as nice shorts (think Chinos) with a belt. Lighter colors and/or bold prints will elevate your casual look. Avoid denim, cargo, and swim shorts. Cotton t-shirts are not permitted. This is the only instance when sandals may be acceptable, but ensure your feet as well-manicured before option for an open-toe look. If not, wear a deck shoe or loafer, never sneakers.
Beach Wedding Attire Etiquette
While the formality of the dress code is sometimes stated on the invitation, other times the couple will just request “beach wedding attire.” If that’s the case, “It's always better to be overdressed than under-dressed” . “In the event that the invitation doesn't indicate formality, dress for a semi-formal event.”
Think normal semi-formal attire but with summer suits, breathable fabric, and touches of tropical elements. If attending a beach casual wedding, remember: This isn’t a family outing at the beach —it’s still a wedding. Leave the bathing suits and swim shorts at home and if opting for sandals, make sure they’re dressier than your normal beachy flip flops. Sun hats are permitted, but remove them during the procession so as to not block the view of other guests.
Whether it’s a breezy maxi dress, a seersucker suit, or formal romper, or a palm print jumpsuit, beach attire is a fun way to showcase your personality and rock some warm-weather favorites — just be sure to lather on the sunscreen!
ABOUT THE WRITER
Sandhya Garg is a Project Runway designer. She studied and specialized in women's fashion at London College of Fashion, UK and has worked at Alexander McQueen, Gucci, Liberty London, Alice Temperley to name a few.
She has her own successful resort dresses, special occasion dresses, wedding guest looks, swim coverups label. While on Project Runway Season 13, she won 2 challenges and was fortunate to show her collection at Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week. The brand has been featured in Marie Claire US, Ftv.com, Elle Magazine, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Vogue online to name a few.
She designs limited edition high end printed spring dresses and swim coverups. Beautiful prints are inspired from around the world to be worn during travel, resort stay or cruise holidays.
Dress for Wedding Guest
About Wedding-Guest Dresses- Wedding season approaches, and we have a gorgeous selection of wedding-guest dresses so chic, you'll almost (but not quite) outshine the bride. We've got breezy frocks in pastel and earthy hues perfect for beach weddings and other destination nuptials, along with reception-ready cocktail dresses in bold red or classic black—ideal for more formal events. Whether you're the mother of the bride, her sister or her bestie, we have a style and a silhouette to suit. Shop now, and forever love your piece. (And don't forget to find the perfect pair of sandals or statement earrings to complete your look.)
View DetailsWhat to wear at a Spring wedding?
Hello beautiful weather and hello to the weddings that happen during the gorgeous spring season. To look perfect for that special family or friends wedding. Here is a list of Spring wedding guest dress codes that have been explained with examples for you to look fabulous at the next event, dress up and have fun and don't forget to take pictures while you are at it!
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