An outdoor casual wedding provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature while celebrating the betrothed couple’s love. However, choosing an outfit for this type of event requires some extra thought. The setting is more laid-back than a traditional wedding, but you still want to look stylish without compromising comfort. Here are some tips on how to dress fashionably for an outdoor casual wedding.
Factors to Consider for an Outdoor Casual Wedding Outfit
When selecting an ensemble for an outdoor casual wedding, here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Weather and Location
Consider the climate and geography where the wedding will be held. An outdoor summer wedding in Florida will require much lighter fabrics than a fall or spring one in Ohio. Research the average weather and temperature during the time of year and location. Check if the area is known for wind, as breezy conditions will require secure dresses and hairstyles.
Time of Day
An afternoon or evening wedding may be cooler than one held at midday. Plan attire that can comfortably accommodate fluctuations in temperature. Light layers work beautifully for outdoor weddings.
Venue Considerations
Will the ceremony and reception be in an open field or a garden with grass, dirt, or stone pathways? High heels will fare better on paved surfaces. Open-toed shoes may be ideal on soft ground or in sand. Know the terrain when coordinating outfits.
Theme or Dress Code
The couple may have provided a theme or dress code for guidance. “Garden chic” or “boho casual” set a stylistic tone while still allowing flexibility. Ask about any expectations or suggestions from the couple.
Level of Formality
An outdoor wedding indicates casualness, but assess just how informal. Shorts and sandals may suit a beachside celebration but seem underdressed for a vineyard. Evaluate the formality level before settling on attire.
Photography
Will there be a photographer? Coordinate clothing hues that will stand out well against the outdoor scenery. Soft neutrals and pastels tend to photograph beautifully outdoors.
Comfort
Above all, choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that allow freedom of movement and provide comfort sitting, standing, and mingling outdoors. Avoid anything too restricting.
What to Wear for Female Wedding Guests
For women attending an outdoor casual wedding, here are some fabulous outfit ideas:
Pretty Printed Sundress
A breezy sundress in a lively floral, graphic print, or soothing watercolor wash is perfect for a garden or outdoor celebration during warmer months. Look for waist-defining details like a tie belt or ruched bodice. Cotton, rayon, or linen are great choices. Bring a cardigan or jean jacket for cooler hours.
Feminine Jumpsuit or Romper
A sleeveless jumpsuit or romper with delicate prints or textures lets you feel dressed up yet comfy. Look for wider leg versions to balance proportions. Pair with low or mid-heel sandals or wedges and statement earrings.
Dressy Separates
Team a solid tunic or tank with a lightweight printed kimono cardigan and slim cropped pants or midi skirt in coordinating colors and patterns. Add pretty beaded flat sandals and a pendant necklace.
Maxi Dress
A breezy maxi dress with an empire waist or soft smocking easily takes you from the ceremony to reception in uncomplicated style. Bring a scarf or cropped jacket to warm up later if needed.
Palazzo Pants Outfit
Pair flowing palazzo pants in a vibrant print with a relaxed cami or halter and platform sandals. Finish with stacked bangle bracelets and bold chandelier earrings.
High-Low Hem Dress
Fun and flirty, high-low dresses make legs look amazing while keeping you covered. The shorter front allows movement while the gracefully trailing back adds glamour. Go for solid brights or feminine floral prints.
Pencil Skirt and Top
For venues with a slightly dressier code, don a solid pencil skirt with a sleeveless collared blouse or structured camisole bodysuit tucked in. Add open-toed booties and a belt.
Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Sophisticated yet ultra-comfy, a wide leg jumpsuit in a lightweight, breathable fabric provides an effortlessly chic look. Accent with metallic strappy sandals and gold hoops.
Fringed Kimono Dress
Channel boho vibes in a flowy kimono-sleeved midi dress with tactile fringe trim. Finish with braided leather sandals and a beaded headband or hairpin.
A-line Midi Skirt and Blouse
An A-line midi skirt with fun godet panels pairs beautifully with an off-the-shoulder peasant blouse and flat lace-up sandals for a romantic look.
No matter the specific outfit, choose pieces in lightweight natural fabrics that allow ease of movement and comfort. Bring a stylish hat, cool toned sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection during an outdoor event.
What to Wear for Male Wedding Guests
For men getting ready for an outdoor casual wedding, consider these attractive, comfortable options:
Khaki Pants Outfit
A well-fitting pair of khakis in tan, olive, or gray paired with a short-sleeve linen button-down provides a classic look. Add leather loafers or boat shoes and aviator sunglasses.
Printed Short-Sleeve Button-Down with Chinos
Swap khakis for slim-cut chinos in navy or black and combine with a breezy printed short-sleeve button-down. Pair with suede bucks or oxfords.
Lightweight Suit Outfit
For a beach, vineyard, or garden wedding with a slightly dressier dress code, wear a lightweight suit in a light neutral hue. Opt for an unlined jacket, pre-washed cotton shirt and texture-woven tie for optimal comfort and style.
Palazzo Pants and Tunic
Channel island vacation vibes with breezy wide-legged palazzo pants in a dark tropical print paired with a solid color linen tunic shirt. Add leather sandals and woven bracelets.
Camp Collar Shirt and Patterned Shorts
A short sleeve camp collar shirt offers a vintage sensibility while patterned flat front shorts keep the look modern and fun. Finish with casual sneakers or espadrilles.
Seersucker Suit Ensemble
The quintessential summer suiting, lightweight seersucker is perfect for outdoor summer weddings. Wear the jacket and pants with a solid colored knit tie and leather loafers or oxfords.
Chambray Shirt with Chino Shorts
A relaxed chambray button-down shirt with cuffed chino shorts in tan, gray, or navy has timeless appeal. Add a woven belt, boat shoes and shades.
Linen Pants and Shirt
Lightweight linen pants have a breathable weave that keeps you cool, making them ideal for outdoor weddings. Pair with a short-sleeve linen button-down in a complementing solid color or subtle print.
Jogger Pants and Polo Shirt
For ultra casual venues, joggers in lightweight technical fabrics and a performance polo shirt balance comfort with a touch of refinement. Finish with clean high-top sneakers.
The key is choosing nice fabrics and silhouettes while remaining mindful of the outdoor venue and weather. Paired with dressy leather sandals, loafers, or oxfords, you’ll look relaxed yet polished.
Shoes To Wear To An Outdoor Casual Wedding
Carefully selecting shoes for an outdoor casual wedding ensures you both look and feel your best while standing, sitting, strolling and dancing under the stars or in the grass.
Women’s Shoes
For women, excellent outdoor wedding shoe options include:
- Wedge heels or flat strappy sandals – Provides stability on uneven terrain
- Espadrilles – Lightweight with traction soles to prevent slipping
- Ankle-strap block heels – Secure fit for mobility and comfort
- Metallic or leather ballet flats – Polished yet comfortable; pack folded flats as backup
- Low kitten heels – Better stability than stilettos; go for sturdy stacked heels
- Wedge espadrilles – Give height while remaining comfy and steady underfoot
- Platform sandals – Adds height with a sturdy sole that prevents sinking in grass
- Strappy dance flats – Ideal for twirling on the dance floor after kicking off heels
- Embellished slides – Glides on and off easily while adding a touch of glam
- Jeweled thong sandals – Delicate yet durable for outdoor wear
Men’s Shoes
Recommended men’s footwear options include:
- Leather loafers – Classic choice that works with most outfits
- Oxfords – Sophisticated and practical with a slip-resistant sole
- Boat shoes – Suited for waterfront or coastal weddings
- Brogues – Handsome perforated details add flair
- Espadrilles – Natural jute soles, ideal for sandy venues
- Canvas sneakers – Casual yet smart, pack an extra pair in case conditions are muddy
- Monk strap shoes – Light and airy, the buckle strap provides security
- Chukka boots – With lightweight soles, complements casual ensembles
- Chelsea boots – Pull-on style translates well from day to night
- Driving moccasins – Effortless slip-on style with grippy soles
Select shoes offering traction and stability for outdoor surfaces. Carry a compact shoe cleaning kit and extra pair of foldable flats or sneakers in case ground conditions call for unexpected footwear.
What to Wear for Outdoor Weddings by Season
Dressing for an outdoor casual wedding also depends on the season when it occurs. Here are some seasonal style suggestions:
Spring
As weather can still run cool, layers work beautifully.
For women:
- Tea-length floral dress with jean jacket
- Printed wrap dress with cardigan
- Sleeveless romper or jumpsuit with kimono
- Palazzo pants with striped boatneck top
For men:
- Lightweight wool blazer with chinos and knit polo
- Camp collar shirt with sweater vest and trousers
- Linen-cotton suit jacket with short sleeve button-down
Summer
The hottest season calls for lightweight, breathable fabrics.
For women:
- Strappy sundress with metallic sandals
- Flowy maxi dress and flat thong sandals
- High-low skirt with sleeveless tank or tee
- Printed kimono cardigan over camisole and shorts
For men:
- Seersucker suit with leather loafers
- Madras shirt and chino shorts with boat shoes
- Lightweight joggers with short-sleeve polo
- Linen pants with mesh knit shirt
Fall
As temperatures drop, dresses with tights or layered separates work well.
For women:
- Midi shirtdress with boots or booties
- Fleece-lined leggings with tunic sweater and ankle boots
- Sleeveless dress with leather moto jacket
- Printed wrap skirt with sweater and tall boots
For men:
- Corduroy sport jacket with sweater and jeans
- Henley shirt layered under casual blazer with suede boots
- Jogger pants with puffer vest and sneakers
- Flannel shirt with bomber jacket and chukka boots
Winter
The coolest season calls for good outerwear you can layer over dressy outfits.
For women:
- Sweater dress with wool coat and knee boots
- Velvet jumpsuit with faux fur coat
- Sleeveless turtleneck midi dress with cape
- Sparkly skirt with fuzzy sweater and booties
For men:
- Sweater with sport coat, tie, and wool trousers
- Button-down with vest, blazer, and wool slacks
- Turtleneck with fitted overcoat and leather boots
- Chunky turtleneck with peacoat and relaxed trousers
What to Wear For Various Outdoor Wedding Locations
Dress choices for outdoor casual weddings can vary depending on the setting. Here are location-specific outfit recommendations:
Garden
A garden wedding calls for romantic and floral styles.
For women:
- Floral printed maxi dress with floral crown
- Lace mini dress with flower embellishments
- Off-the-shoulder lace gown with flower necklace
For men:
- Light grey suit with floral print necktie
- Tan linen suit with pink dress shirt
- Navy suit with floral printed pocket square
Beach
By the sea, lightweight and breezy looks work best.
For women:
- Flowy midi sundress with flat thong sandals
- Strapless maxi dress with kimono cover up
- Printed romper with straw sunhat
For men:
- Lightweight seersucker suit with loafers
- White or coral guayabera shirt with linen pants
- Swim trunks and linen shirt for very casual weddings
Farm, Barn or Rustic Venue
Play up the pastoral, countryside ambiance.
For women:
- Floral printed midi wrap dress with boots
- Lace mini dress with denim jacket and booties
- Pleated midi skirt with off the shoulder sweater
For men:
- Dark wash jeans with button-down and blazer
- Khakis with plaid flannel and worn-in leather boots
- Overshirt with linen trousers and canvas sneakers
Vineyard or Winery
Channel Tuscan countryside chic.
For women:
- Long floral maxi dress with tie belt
- High-low sundress with lace trim
- Palazzo pants with ruffled poet blouse
For men:
- Olive suit with earth-toned tie
- Crisp linen shirt with vineyard print vest
- Light tan chinos with navy sport coat
Park or Campground
Get back to nature with rustic yet refined ensembles.
For women:
- Midi wrap dress or caftan in retro prints
- Textured knit sweater with fluid palazzo pants
- Boho mini dress with flared sleeves and suede boots
For men:
- Dark washed jeans with corduroy sport jacket
- Camp collar short-sleeve button down with shorts
- Textured sweater with relaxed fit trousers
10 Frequently Asked Questions About What to Wear to an Outdoor Casual Wedding
1. Is it okay to wear white to an outdoor casual wedding?
Unless specifically requested by the bride, avoid wearing solid white, which is reserved for the bride. Cream, ivory, blush, and light prints are fine. Ask the bride and groom if concerned.
2. How dressy should you be for an outdoor wedding?
Aim for dressy casual, mixing elegance with comfort. Nicer fabrics, pretty prints and dresses balance casualness of the outdoor setting. Avoid ripped, tattered clothing.
3. What is considered too casual for a wedding?
Jeans with holes, shorts, flip flops, spaghetti strap tops, crop tops, sweatpants, and baseball caps are generally too casual. Use your best judgment based on the couple and location. When in doubt, err on the side of slightly dressier.
4. Can you wear jeans to a casual outdoor wedding?
Dark wash, dressier jeans paired with a blazer and nice top for women or sport jacket for men can work for casual outdoor weddings, but avoid overly distressed styles. Black, gray, or white jeans can also look sharp when styled well.
5. Should your shoulders be covered at an outdoor wedding?
Baring shoulders is fine for outdoor weddings. Simply bring a wrap or light jacket to cover up during cooler hours or more formal occasions like an indoor ceremony.
6. What do you wear to a boho wedding?
Boho weddings call for free-spirited, earthy styles like maxi dresses, jumpsuits, fringe, florals, crochet, lace, kimonos, ankle boots, sandals, and anything with embroidered or peasant-style details.
7. Can you wear sneakers to an outdoor wedding?
While avoiding ripped or dirty sneakers, new, clean white leather sneakers can work well for outdoor weddings with a casual vibe. Pack an extra dressier pair of shoes too.
8. Should mother of the bride cover shoulders?
Today, baring shoulders is generally acceptable for mothers of the bride or groom. Simply bring a stole or jacket for any religious services requiring more modest attire. Coordinate colors with the wedding party.
9. What do you wear to a rustic chic wedding?
Great rustic chic options include sundresses with cowboy boots, lace gowns, vintage-inspired dresses, lightweight suits, florals, relaxed linen pieces, hoop earrings, and natural hair with minimal makeup.
10. Can the mother of the groom wear the same color as bridesmaids?
It’s recommended mothers of the groom avoid matching bridesmaids’ colors exactly. Complementing hues work well. Ask the bride and groom if you want to match colors.
Conclusion
An outdoor casual wedding provides a fun opportunity to craft a stylish yet comfortable ensemble. Keep the location, weather, formality and your own style preferences in mind when planning attire. Most importantly, consult the couple if you have any dress code questions. By dressing thoughtfully, you’ll stay true to the relaxed vibe while looking your best celebrating with the bride and groom.