Even if yours is a destination wedding, you can still use traditional attire. If you're planning a destination wedding in a church or are anticipating a formal reception, traditional wedding attire is the way to go. However, a destination wedding means you have to keep a few things in mind. The bride should select her wedding gown based on her travel plans. The best destination wedding gowns are sleek and don't take up much room. Layers, embellished backs and delicate trains add class without adding bulk. Dresses for bridal attendants and the mother of the bride should be equally simple and easy to pack. Men have it a little easier. The groom, father of the bride and best man should wear a lightweight suit or tuxedo with no cummerbund. Lighter colors are fine for outdoor or daytime weddings. Dark colors are more appropriate for an evening ceremony.

 

Beach Destination Wedding Guest Dresses

 

Formality

A Maxi Dress is a full length dress, ending just above the floor.

Maxi dresses are a great option when it comes to staying stylish and comfortable at any wedding you’re attending. A stylish flowy maxi dress for women is the perfect solution to the question of what to wear to a wedding. Maxi dresses make a good choice as they can be accessorized casually or formally to suit everything from outdoor daytime weddings to evening formal events to a romantic beach wedding event.

A pretty maxi dress for wedding guest can go anywhere if the fabric and accessories are right.  Wearing maxi dress can be the best choice if you’re not quite sure of the dress code or formality for the wedding. These long dresses are chameleons and can look just as good at laid-back outdoor weddings and destination weddings, as they do with a good dose of sparkly jewelry for semi-formal and formal events.  For more coverage, scroll long-sleeve maxi dresses in pretty floral prints, floaty fabrics and plain designs. The shop section below shows off a few favorites, updated for this season’s weddings!

Related: Read about all wedding guest dress codes

Gorgeous printed dress for women

1. Is a Maxi Dress appropriate for a wedding?

Floral Maxi Dresses are always an excellent and appropriate choice this time of year. They are feminine and fitting for a wedding.  Maxi dresses are always having a moment.  Our curated collection of styles from fresh floral prints maxi's to summer-inspired hues in this season’s must-have maxi dresses are swoon worthy. Whether you’re heading to brunch or a red-carpet event, a maxi dress is a safe option. Check out our designer edit, featuring everything from embellished maxi dresses to casual black maxi dresses.

When people think of maxi dresses, images of bohemian, flowy frocks often come to mind—but there are also a variety of silhouettes and embellishments that can make super-long dresses more tailored, more formal or more of whatever you're looking for. We've found maxi dresses for weddings that work well for a variety of events, from beach weddings to cocktail parties and black tie affairs. You could also try various necklines such as scoop, crew, surplice, and V-necks in maxi dresses and find the one that best suits your style and taste.

Casual Maxi Dresses go from Resort vacations to Dinner date night

As far as summer wedding guest maxi dresses go, this one is super versatile. Its wrap skirt could be seen at beach nuptials, but with its dark green top, it could work just as well at a swanky restaurant wedding. Maxi dress with long sleeves  are a great choice for an event that is more on the formal side.  Perfect as a wedding guest dress or for your go-to staycation outfit, get wrapped up in whimsical silk, romantic soft scuba, dainty crush cotton, or soft brushed knits.

Shop formal to casual maxi dresses that are updated regularly along with all the latest styles in mini, midi, shot to long dresses. 

2. What shoes do I wear with a maxi dress?

Find floor or ankle length maxis that’ll have you feeling gorgeous the moment you slip right in. With features like a chic cross back, a sultry thigh-high slit, sheer long sleeves, or romantic ruffles, you’ll make a standout appearance everywhere you go. You'll want to find every excuse in the book to step out and show off your gram-worthy OOTDs  with our maxi dresses with high slits, no sleeves, or chiffon layers !

To state the obvious, as the name suggests a Beach wedding is a wedding that happens by the beach.Have you recently opened a pretty invitation to learn that you’ve been invited to a beach wedding ceremony? Undoubtedly, a beach wedding is romantic, dreamy and it seems simple in theory. But how do you go from casual beach wear looks to planning a dress for a beach wedding as a guest.

The idea behind having a beach wedding is simple. You find a beautiful beach, throw on a delightful beach wear dress or a lightweight suit, skip the shoes, and get ready for a tropically themed walk down the sandy aisle. Many people who want a stress-free wedding opt for a simple relaxing beach wedding. However, not every beach wedding is simple or, casual. Many beach weddings are planned in luxury resorts and have a proper dress code. I suggest you follow the respective dress code as a lot of planning and effort goes into planning a destination beach resort wedding.

Fine here everything about Beach Wedding: Inspiration, Venues & Tips from Experts

There is no surprise, there is something super romantic about celebrating the special day alongside a gorgeous sunset, in the pink sand and chiming blue ocean waves with sea shells and flowers for decor.

While this is all so exciting, it may also leave you wondering what to wear to a beach wedding as a guest or what is the perfect beach wedding attire ?  Our first recommendation would be to avoid anything super big, it may be difficult to get around on a beach in a full skirted dress. Rather than spending time to figure out how to work around this, get something equally as dazzling, but less cumbersome. Dress for beach wedding should be light and they can be super fun by being a bold color or a tropical fun print. Find a lot of cute upscale beachwear outfits for dresses for beach wedding guests here.

Attire for beach wedding may be beautiful and easily put together with our Beach wedding guest dresses guide. 

•  Go for backless or strappy looks as they let you breather. Maxi backless dresses or a strappy dress can be perfect beach wear wedding dresses. On the beach they allow you to keep cool, while still looking amazing. A beach wedding gives you room to be more daring with your look, so be sure to take full advantage! 

 

• Tie your hair in a perfect updos (and super flattering!) – Especially when you’re on a hot beach you don't want to end up feeling sticky and uncomfortable. Hopefully the wedding is set at a convenient time (early morning, or close to sunset), but even if you do not have that option, wearing your hair up will help maintain your hairstyle for longer out on the beach.

 

• Avoid heels – or keep sinking your heels in the sand. Other options include c beach wedding sandals, or gorgeous bedazzled ones you can order online or pick up in store. You may also opt for espadrilles or wedges. When planning your beach wedding guest dress, keep in mind that sand heats up significantly at high temperatures. 

Expert Tip: Consider including a shoe changing station, where guests can swap fancy shoes for flip flops or sandals.

This is the ultimate guide to beach wedding attire for guests! 

What to wear for a beach wedding?

Casual, but not too casual is the way to go. For brides especially, beach weddings give you the opportunity to experiment with non-traditional gown options – everything from crochet and linen, to chiffon and lace. The goal is looking smart, and staying cool.

Related- If you are looking for cute Beach wedding dress plus size

Here are some tips from the experts:

There are a few ground rules women could follow in order to look great in beach wear, remain comfortable, yet formal enough for this non-traditional wedding. Beach wedding attire is a whole different look—you'll need to take into account how formal the wedding will be.  After reading this, you’ll know exactly what to wear to a beach wedding whether it’s a casual wedding dress code, semi-formal wedding dress code, or formal wedding dress code. 

Beach wedding look with a bohemian flare

Although a black dress looks chic, it may conduct heat and you may find yourself feeling extremely hot and uncomfortable. A day of fun in the sun is ahead of you and in order to look your best you need to feel your best. Ideal beach wedding guest dresses or jumpsuits or anything you prefer needs to be not only stylish but also comfortable. If you love the beach it might be a good idea to embrace the sights and sounds of the ocean. This can be easily achieved through wearing inspired colors, prints, and patterns. Colors like pastel shades of pinks, purples, blue, aqua, turquoise, sand, fuchsia, lime green, peach, and even yellow can all work. Or even gorgeous prints in these bright hues will make a statement and make you look gorgeous. Floral prints, geometric prints, Tribal prints, city prints can all look stunning.

A strong ocean breeze can kick up short, flirty skirts, so consider midi and maxi lengths instead of minis unless you're wearing a sturdier fabric like scuba or a fitted bodycon dress. Since you'll likely be walking in sand which can be a pain in high heels, we would recommend pairing dressy wedges or flat sandals with beach wedding guest dresses. Wearing sun protection (From my personal experience a tinted sunscreen with high SPF can be great) and on trend sun glasses (Colored rimless shades) can add to the look. A wide rimmed beach rattan hat can look super stylish as well.

Keep in mind that even formal beach wedding guest attire is a bit more casual than what you might wear to a chic city wedding venue or country club affair.

Are you wondering what to wear to a casual beach wedding? This is the most common type of beach wedding. A simple sundress for women fits the occasion, and khaki or linen shorts and shirt for men are appropriate. Casual beach weddings are usually held during the day, and wearing flip-flops or even going barefoot is acceptable. You've got a wide variety of choices when it comes to deciding what to wear to a casual beach wedding. We've rounded up a selection of beach wedding guest dresses that'll make you feel right at home in the sand.

• Our advice is a nice Maxi dress.  A maxi dress is loose fitting, especially around the bottom of the dress so you can easily sweep it across the sand and brush it clean on land for a seaside reception.  

• This color blocked beach wedding guest dress is fresh, super-chic and complete with a stylish geometric print. We love the bright pop of blue, and it pairs perfectly with white accessories like a woven handbag and block heels.

• Searching for dresses to wear to a beach wedding with sleeves for fighting off UV rays? Try this boho kaftan style beach wedding guest dress. The crush cotton number comes in 2 variations, the versatile palette goes with black or nude accessories.

Is it OK to wear black to a beach wedding?

Guests are free to wear whatever color they’d like for a beach wedding, unless the bride and groom specifically request a special theme or color. Black can be a little intense for a daytime beach wedding, and it is not the best color for keeping cool. It may be worth considering opting for a lighter color which better suits the occasion. Options are unlimited, just as long as you don’t upstage the bride!

•  What screams casual beach wedding? This super fun cotton silk geometric print dress with pleats and volume.

Can you wear white to a beach wedding if you are a guest?

Times are changing, and it started with the beach wedding. If you want to wear white on a beach wedding, perhaps choose off-white instead. It’s a little more understated, and that way you will avoid being a distraction, or coming off like you’re looking for attention.

• We love bohemian wedding looks. Checkout this midi dress in pastel prints tones. This gorgeous beach wedding guest dress begs for metallic sandals or wedge heels.

• A gorgeous tropical print is perfect, obviously. The flora and fauna print, and a front open criss cross cut elevate the casual shape of this beach wedding guest dress. Dress it up further with gold kitten heels that look ultra-chic and offer much-needed stability.

• For a super casual beach wedding, a silk kimono kaftan can be a super amazing option. Combine it with matching loose palazzo pants and you will give any fashionista a run for her money.

While rare, formal beach weddings do exist! These are almost always held in the evening, followed by a reception that often involves a cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing. Floor-length gowns are the standard for ladies, while a suit is the general rule for men. 

• If the invitation indicates that you should wear beach formal attire, then a long, elegant gown is perfectly appropriate or even a sequin dress can look amazing. Try beach wedding guest dresses in  metallics, satin or lace for even more elevated beach wedding attire.

• When it comes to beach formal dresses, bring on the checks! With the right accessories (like glam gold heels and a chunky chain bracelet to match the metallic neck accent), this fitted, midi beach wedding guest dress can be dressed up to the formality you desire.

• Gold-tone metallic embroidery shimmers against the bright pink hue of this flirty dress, mimicking the beauty of a sunset over the beach. When eyes aren't on the couple, you'll be the belle of the beach wedding.

• Channel your inner goddess with this elegant beach wedding guest dress. Green halter neck maxi with appliqué is a stunning yet unique choice. Overall, it's the ideal look for an elegant night-time soiree by the sea.

• This beach wedding guest dress is super classy. Pastel pink printed dress doubled by a crush cotton pink jacket that transcends as a wonderful reception dress too.

• For an upscale cocktail-style reception that's seaside, look to this leafy print mini dress with a one shoulder detail. Nude heels and a gold clutch complete this beach chic wedding attire look with ease.

• Flirty and fabulous, this ruffled embroidered midi dress looks pretty and party-perfect for an upscale bridal shower or chic beachside wedding. Add a thin belt if you're feeling extra-fancy.

Semi-formal beach attire calls for short or tea length dresses, which are great because they won’t drag in the sand, plus they transition beautifully to a reception venue held at a restaurant or oceanfront hotel.  A semi-formal beach wedding usually means an evening ceremony and reception to follow. Though beach clothing is still light and breezy, semi-formal men’s beach wedding attire should involve khaki, linen, or seersucker pants, a button down, and a sport coat. 

Women should look for cocktail or tea-length dresses made of a dressy material. Lace, chiffon, and organza are all beautiful and comfortable choices.

Hairstyles for a Beach Wedding Guest

Of course you want your hair and makeup to look perfect for all the pictures you’ll be taking with your loved ones. However, there’s some practical advice to be followed where your hair is concerned.

There’s nothing worse than flyaway hairs getting in your face, sticking to you lipstick, and making you look disheveled on a breezy beach. If you have long hair, consider pinning it back with a pretty clip or bobby pins. For maximum and cool comfort, go for an updo to keep your hair off your neck and in place. This will keep you cool and comfortable. Also consider adding flowers or some tasteful bedazzled hair pins for extra oomph. For a Bohemian touch, try doing loose braids and a touch of dry flowers to your hair. 

Make Up For Beach Wedding Guest

A beach wedding is not the time to wear your dark, vampy lipstick or a smoky eye. Heavy make up will be hard to maintain in heat, because increased sweat means your eye makeup and foundation might run or smudge. That is the last thing you want. 

Natural makeup can still make a statement and flatter anyone without being overwhelming or taking over the bride’s look. Modest amounts of foundation and eye makeup give a soft, dewy look that is perfect for the beach setting. If you want your makeup to have a subtle pop, opt for a pale pink or coral lip color or pastel eyeliner.

If you think it will be a long night, or if you’re a member of a wedding party trying to keep picture-perfect makeup for hours, consider a makeup setting spray or powder. Don’t forget the waterproof mascara!

 

Shop our gorgeous Beach Wedding Guest Attire here

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                          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.