Attending a summer outdoor wedding can be a delightful experience. However, figuring out what to wear can be tricky. You want an outfit that is wedding-appropriate but also comfortable for the heat and outdoor setting. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about dressing for a summer outdoor wedding.
Choosing Fabrics and Materials
The first step in selecting an outdoor wedding outfit is choosing fabrics and materials suitable for warm weather.
Lightweight Fabrics
Stick with lightweight, breathable fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable. Great options include:
- Linen – A lightweight and airy fabric that comes in a range of colors. Linen wrinkles easily though, so it’s best for more casual weddings.
- Cotton – A versatile fabric that comes in many weights. Lightweight cottons like voile or seersucker are perfect for summer.
- Chiffon – A lightweight, flowing sheer fabric that works well for dresses and skirts.
- Lace – Gorgeous when made from cotton, great for accentuating dresses, skirts or tops. Avoid polyester lace.
- Crepe – A lightweight fabric with a crinkly texture, available in silk and synthetic blends.
- Chambray – A lightweight cotton material with a crisp finish, ideal for summer suits and dresses.
Avoid heavy fabrics like brocade, velvet or satin that will be sweltering in summer heat. Stick to light, airy fabrics that breathe.
Choosing Colors and Patterns
The colors and patterns you choose can also help beat the heat.
Light Colors
Opt for light or bright colors that won’t absorb heat as much as dark colors. Pastels, neutrals and brights like yellow, pink, mint, white, beige and sky blue are great choices.
Bold Patterns and Prints
Vibrant floral prints, graphic palm prints and geometric patterns are fun options that suit a summer wedding. Just avoid busy patterns that look distracting up close.
Avoid black, navy and other dark colors that will absorb and retain heat. Sheer fabrics and layers will also help you stay cool.
Dresses
For women, dresses are the most popular option for both semi-formal and formal outdoor weddings.
Casual and Semi-Formal Dresses
For informal ceremonies and daytime receptions, casual sundresses are ideal for staying cool and comfortable:
- Maxi dresses in lightweight jersey, chiffon or cotton are breezy and feminine.
- Wrap dresses and shirt dresses are effortlessly chic options.
- Sheath dresses in linen, chambray or lace are easy to dress up or down with accessories.
- Skater dresses and swing dresses with a full skirt provide great coverage and airflow.
Consider dresses with:
- Breathable natural fabrics like cotton, linen or silk.
- Loose, flowing silhouettes.
- Fluttery sleeves.
- Accents like embroidery or lace rather than heavy embellishments.
- Strategic cut-outs in back or along the sides.
Formal Dresses
For formal evening weddings, elegant dresses in luxurious fabrics work best. Consider:
- A-line gowns with lightweight chiffon, tulle or lace that won’t cling.
- Column gowns with intricate back details, perfect for showing off during the reception.
- Mermaid and trumpet gowns in crepe, with appropriate coverage for an outdoor venue. Avoid heavy satins or velvets.
- Designer gowns with strategically placed cut-outs, sheer panels or lightweight open backs to keep you ventilated.
For especially hot climates, short formal dresses are a cute option. Mini dresses and knee-length cocktail dresses provide ample airflow. Just be mindful of dress codes.
More Tips for Dresses
- Look for dresses with easily adjustable elements like sashes, ties or ribbon belts to adapt your look from ceremony to reception.
- Sturdy fabrics with structure like cotton shantung and faille will avoid looking limp or wrinkled.
- Wear slipped petticoats under full skirts for shape and coverage.
- Fitted bodices with defined waistlines are universally flattering.
- Halter, strapless or sleeveless necklines will keep shoulders breezy.
Suits and Jumpsuits
If dresses aren’t your style, structured suits and elegant jumpsuits are fantastic options.
Linen Suits
A linen suit is perfect for keeping cool at a summer wedding. Opt for lightweight linen in neutral tan, ivory and other light colors. Pair with a breezy button-down shirt.
Jumpsuits
From sleek and tailored to wide-legged and flowing, jumpsuits are a chic alternative to dresses. Look for:
- Lightweight fabrics like crepe, chiffon or linen
- Halter, strapless or spaghetti strap necklines
- Low open backs and side cut-outs
- Wide, cropped or flowing legs
- Tailored waists and pleated detailing
Tuxedos
Lightweight tuxedos in colors like ivory, light grey or tan are a classic and stylish option for formal outdoor weddings for men. Substitute tux shirts and accessories with similarly breezy fabrics.
Shoes
Outdoor weddings call for shoes that can handle grass, dirt and uneven terrain.
Flats and Sandals
For casual weddings, flats and sandals are comfortable options:
- Ballet flats, loafers or oxfords allow you to move easily. Look for breathable leather or linen.
- Strappy sandals in metallic, sparkling or neutral leathers add flair.
- Simple slide sandals or thong flip flops work for ultra casual.
Low Wedges and Block Heels
For semi-formal and formal weddings, low wedges and block heels strike the perfect balance between height and comfort:
- Espadrilles with ankle ties give a summery, nautical vibe.
- Wedges or chunky block heels in silk, satin or lace elevate your look without sinking into grass.
- Low kitten heels or stacked heels provide height without compromising stability.
Avoid skinny stiletto heels that will easily sink into dirt and grass. Prioritize stability and comfort.
Accessories
The right accessories can tie your entire look together.
Lightweight Wraps
In unpredictable weather, bring a pashmina shawl or stole to stay warm during breezy hours or ceremonies. Choose lightweight silk, chiffon, crochet or lace.
Jewelry
Delicate jewelry suits the casual vibe of outdoor weddings. Opt for:
- Simple pendant necklaces, layered necklaces or lariat styles.
- Stacked bracelets in metallic or carved materials.
- Drop earrings, hoops and simple studs.
- Jeweled hair clips and pins.
Hats
Hats not only shield you from the sun, they add great style. Consider:
- Floppy sun hats in breathable straw or cotton.
- Decorative fascinators with netting or feathers.
- Wide-brimmed fedoras.
- Panama hats, boater hats or classic caps for men.
Clutches
A small silk clutch adds polish to any outfit. Look for intricate beading or metallics for outdoor-friendly shine.
Tip: Avoid bulky tote bags that may look sloppy. Carry only essentials.
Hairstyles and Makeup
Hairstyles and makeup should be suited to the heat and humidity.
Hairstyles
The best outdoor wedding hairstyles won’t frizz or wilt. Consider:
- Chignons or buns that keep hair off your neck.
- Braided styles and twists suitable for all hair types.
- Deep side parts and half-up styles to avoid flattened hair.
- Pretty hair clips, flowers and accessories.
- Natural curls or flat iron waves with anti-frizz product.
Makeup
Use sweat and humidity-resistant makeup:
- Primer, long-wear foundation and setting powder or spray.
- Cream or liquid blush and bronzer in matte formulas.
- Waterproof mascara and eyeliner.
- Neutral matte eyeshadow suitable for daylight.
- Lip stains or matte liquid lipstick that won’t smear.
Avoid thick formulas like heavy cream contours or powder eyeshadows that can crease and melt off. Stay minimal.
What to Wear: Quick Tips
Some key tips for dressing for a summer outdoor wedding:
- Prioritize lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, chiffon and cotton.
- Opt for loose, flowing silhouettes where possible.
- Wear strategic cut-outs, straps and sleeveless or strapless styles.
- Pack a pashmina or shawl in case of cool weather.
- Wear flats, low wedges or block heels.
- Choose delicate jewelry that works for daytime.
- Carry minimal accessories.
- Use sweat and humidity-proof makeup.
- Wear updos or braided hairstyles off your neck.
Focusing on breathability, comfort and appropriately formal choices will ensure you look and feel great at a summer outdoor wedding!
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about what to wear? Here are some common questions about dressing for summer outdoor weddings:
What is appropriate attire for an outdoor wedding ceremony?
For the actual ceremony, semi-formal attire is recommended. For women, wear knee-length or longer dresses, skirt suits or dressy pant suits. For men, a suit and tie or at minimum a button-down shirt and nice pants.
Can you wear black to an outdoor summer wedding?
Yes, but very lightweight black fabrics only. Flowy black maxi dresses or linen black suits can work well, just avoid heavy fabrics like satin that will be hot. Pair with light accessories.
What do you wear to a beach wedding as a guest?
Casual sundresses, maxis and cover-ups are perfect for beach weddings. Lightweight suits or linen pants and shirts are nice options for men. Barefoot or sandals are ideal for footwear.
What should mother of bride wear to summer outdoor wedding?
Mothers of the bride or groom should wear dressy pant suits, skirt suits or knee-length dresses. Lightweight fabrics like chiffon, lace or linen are ideal. Accessorize with a stylish sun hat and delicate jewelry.
Can you wear sequins to a daytime wedding?
Sequins are better suited to evening weddings. For daytime, opt for metallic accents on shoes or jewelry instead of all-over sequins, which can look overly flashy. Save sparkly dresses for the reception.
What do you wear to a boho chic outdoor wedding?
Floral maxi dresses, kimonos or caftans, wide-leg jumpsuits and fringe or macrame accents embody the boho vibe. Pair with sandals and flower crowns for a hip, relaxed look.
Conclusion
Dressing for an outdoor summer wedding means balancing style, formality, and comfort. Focus on breathable fabrics, loose silhouettes, versatile colors and accessorizing for the environment. With these tips in mind, you’ll stay cool while dressing perfectly on-point for the occasion. Most importantly, remember that the style rules can be flexible for outdoor weddings – you’ll look beautiful celebrating with friends and family no matter what!