An outdoor summer wedding calls for special consideration when choosing an outfit. You want to look and feel your best while also staying cool and comfortable. This guide covers all the essentials for dressing appropriately for an outdoor summer wedding.
Introduction
Outdoor summer weddings are romantic and beautiful. The warm weather and sunshine provide a cheerful backdrop for the special occasion. However, the heat and potential for sun exposure require some extra thought regarding your attire.
You want an outfit that is wedding-appropriate but also breathable and functional for an outdoor setting. The good news is there are many gorgeous options that check all the boxes. From lightweight dresses and pretty prints to sleeves and accessories, you can create a look that is both stunning and weather-appropriate.
Follow the tips in this guide to help you feel confident and comfortable at your next outdoor summer wedding!
Factors to Consider
When shopping for an outdoor summer wedding outfit, keep the following factors in mind:
Temperature
The temperature at an outdoor summer wedding can vary greatly depending on the time of day and location. Research the average weather for that date and place. Temperatures in the 70s Fahrenheit will allow for more options than temps in the 80s or 90s. Plan for the hottest part of the day and you can always bring a wrap if the evening cools down.
Venue
Consider the venue when choosing attire. A wedding in a grassy meadow calls for flat shoes and a hem above the ground. One on a beach or near water means you may want a strapless or sleeveless look.
Time of Day
Daytime weddings are usually warmer, so choose lightweight, breathable fabrics. For a sunset or evening wedding, you may want slightly more coverage and fabrics like chiffon or lace.
Dress Code
The invitation may specify attire like “casual,” “semi-formal,” or “formal.” This gives you guidance on things like lengths and fabric choice. Outdoor summer weddings typically lean towards the more casual end.
Activities
If there will be lawn games or dancing, opt for an outfit that allows free range of motion. Avoid full skirts that could get in the way.
What to Wear: Dresses
For outdoor summer weddings, dresses are the most popular choice. Consider the following dress options:
Sundress
A breezy sundress is perfect for a casual outdoor wedding. Look for lightweight cotton, chambray or linen sundresses with details like embroidered straps or eyelet trim. Knee-length or midi lengths work well.
Maxi Dress
A maxi dress is feminine and comfortable for summer heat. Flowy chiffon or maxi wrap dresses with fun prints look lovely outdoors. Slits up the side provide leg room.
Cocktail Dress
Knee-length cocktail dresses suit semi-formal and formal weddings. Look for sleeveless styles in materials like lace or crepe. Add metallic sandals and sparkly earrings.
Slip Dress
Slip dresses are back in style and ideal for outdoor weddings. Look for lace-trimmed or beaded embellished slip dresses to take the look up a notch. Pair with strappy heels.
Elements of a Summer Wedding Outfit
Beyond the dress itself, complete your outfit with these elements:
Shoes
Opt for low or mid wedge heels in materials that won’t sink into grass or sand. Strapped sandals or block heels work well. Flats or strappy flat sandals are also great for maximum comfort. Sparkly metallic shoes add glam.
Wrap or Cardigan
In case of cool breeze or evenings, bring a lightweight wrap or cropped cardigan. Choose an airy chiffon kimono-style wrap or soft lace shawl. Neutral colors work with everything.
Hat or Fascinator
A hat or fascinator adds an extra stylish touch and also provides sun protection. Wide-brim sun hats are chic and practical. Fascinators fasten into your hair with minimal fuss.
Clutch Bag
A beaded or metallic clutch bag stores essentials and doubles as a stylish accessory. Opt for a style large enough for lipstick, phone and keys but avoids bulky totes.
Jewelry
Statement earrings, layered necklaces and stacks of bangles complement a summer wedding dress. Sparkly jewelry reflects the light beautifully outdoors. Delicate florals work for a boho vibe.
Dress Styles and Details to Look For
To maximize comfort and style for outdoor summer weddings, look for these dress features:
Lightweight Materials
Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, chiffon, lace and linen. Avoid heavy materials like velvet or wool that absorb heat.
Short Sleeves
Cap sleeves, flutter sleeves and short sleeves allow air flow while protecting shoulders from sun exposure. Sheer long sleeves also work.
Loose, Flowy Silhouettes
Avoid clingy styles and opt for A-line cuts, empire waists and loose skirts or dresses. They will billow gently in the breeze.
Slits
Leg-baring slits enable walking freely while adding a flirty element. Side, front or high back slits work beautifully.
Bright Colors and Prints
Embrace summer with joyful pops of color and vibrant floral prints or stripes. Botanical and tropical motifs fit the season.
Back Details
Open backs, cut-out details, and straps crossing at the back keep you cooler while also creating a gorgeous focal point.
What to Wear: Alternatives to Dresses
If you prefer to skip the dress, these alternative outfits work wonderfully:
Jumpsuit or Romper
A sleeveless jumpsuit or romper looks chic while allowing mobility. Choose loose shapes with wide legs. Lace and off-the-shoulder necklines add formal flair.
Skirt Outfit
Pair an airy midi skirt in chiffon, silk or lace with a sleeveless blouse. Tuck the blouse in or tie it at the natural waist.
Pants Outfit
High-waisted, wide-leg linen pants feel breezy when paired with a simple camisole or halter-style bodysuit tucked in.
Culottes
The loose, skirt-pants hybrid style of culottes allows air to circulate. Team them with any sleeveless, lightweight top.
Coordinating Set
Match a sleeveless crop top to a midi skirt in the same print. Or wear a two-piece set of shorts and camisole in coordinating solids.
Shoes for Outdoor Summer Weddings
The right footwear completes your outfit while providing comfort on softer or uneven terrain.
Block Heels or Wedges
For height with support, opt for espadrilles, cork wedges or chunky block heels. Neutrals like nude or metallic pairs go with everything.
Lace-Up Sandals
Sandals with slim laces winding up the ankle or calves add a pretty accent while keeping feet in place.
Flat or Low Sandals
Flip flops are too casual but flat or low-heeled sandals in leather, suede or metallic materials work beautifully.
Ankle-Strap Heels
To avoid sinking in the grass, heels with two ankle straps are a great choice for securing the shoes in place.
Embellished Flats
For comfort, wear metallic or crystal-embellished ballet flats that dress up an outfit without heels.
Outfit Inspiration
Here are some gorgeous head-to-toe outfit ideas for outdoor summer weddings:
Boho Chic
A billowy off-the-shoulder floral maxi dress paired with brown lace-up flat leather sandals, a woven sun hat and beaded multi-strand necklaces.
Romantic
A pink chiffon cold-shoulder midi dress with ruffle skirt and tie waist, combined with rose gold barely-there heels and a floral hair comb.
Glamorous
A sequin slip dress with spaghetti straps, metallic strappy sandals, silver chandelier earrings and a beaded evening clutch.
Retro
A yellow fit-and-flare knee length dress with cap sleeves, white peep-toe heels, pearl stud earrings and red lipstick.
Sophisticated
A sage green sundress with off-the-shoulder neckline and tie belt, nude block heel sandals and a neutral straw sun hat.
Rustic Chic
Dark wash high-waist denim shorts with a white eyelet off-the-shoulder peasant top and brown ankle-tie wedges.
The options are endless! Use these ideas as inspiration while choosing an outfit that fits your personal style. Most importantly, select pieces that make you feel confident, comfortable and allow you to enjoy the special day.
What the Mother of the Bride/Groom Should Wear
As mother of the bride or groom, you also want an appropriate yet stylish look. Here are flattering options that suit most outdoor summer weddings:
Knee-Length Dress
Opt for knee length in lightweight material like chiffon or lace. Sleeveless is great but short sleeves also work. Solid colors or subtle prints are safest.
Midi Dress with Light Jacket
Pair a solid midi dress with a cropped cardigan or a kimono-style jacket. This gives you options for covering up when needed.
Skirt and Blouse
Select an ankle or knee-length skirt with a silk blouse. A sleeveless style blouse stays cool.
Jumpsuit
A dressy sleeveless jumpsuit with wide or tapered legs looks chic. Add sparkly earrings and heels.
Pantsuit Outfit
A linen or silk pantsuit in a light color feels dressy yet comfortable. Choose a sleeveless shell underneath.
Aim for an outfit a notch above the guest dress code specified on the invitation. The mother of the bride/groom’s attire should complement their role while also keeping comfort top of mind.
What Men Should Wear
For outdoor summer weddings, men should opt for the following attire:
Light Suit
A well-fitting linen, seersucker or tropical wool suit in light tan, gray or blue keeps men cool. Pair with leather loafers or oxfords.
Chinos and Button-Up
Crisp chinos in white, tan or other light colors work well with a short-sleeve button-up shirt. Add a simple belt and leather shoes.
Linen Pants and Shirt
Lightweight linen pants and a linen button-down shirt provide airflow and comfort. Roll long sleeves up.
Khakis and Polo
Dark khaki shorts or pants combined with a cotton polo shirt make a casual yet dapper choice.
Light Jacket
For evenings, wear a light jacket like cotton, linen or seersucker over the top.
The most formal outdoor weddings call for a suit while more casual affairs allow polos, button-ups and chinos. Just be sure all pieces are lightweight, breathable materials.
What to Avoid Wearing
When choosing an outfit for an outdoor summer wedding, there are certain items to avoid:
- Heavy fabrics like wool or velvet
- Dark colors that absorb heat
- Clingy styles that stick to skin
- Long-sleeves or pants
- Full skirts that can snag
- Delicate sheer fabrics and embellishments
- Flip flops or casual sandals
- Short hemlines (unless specified as very casual)
- White or colors close to the bride’s gown
- Anything overly revealing or distracting
Use common sense and the dress code as a guide. The focus should remain on the bride and groom rather than daring fashion choices. Opt for attire that draws just the right amount of appropriate attention.
What to Wear: Ideas for Wedding Guests
As a regular wedding guest, you can use these gorgeous summer wedding outfit ideas:
Floral Sundress
A sleeveless sundress with a bold floral print makes a cheerful statement. Add flat sandals.
Romper
A chic lace romper with flats looks dressy yet comfortable for all-day wear.
Midi Skirt and Top
Pair a solid midi skirt with a sleeveless printed top tucked in at the waist.
Jumpsuit
A wide-leg jumpsuit in a bright color creates an eye-catching yet breezy look.
Lace Sheath Dress
A classy knee-length lace sheath dress suits cocktail attire. Simply add heels.
Maxi Wrap Dress
A bold maxi wrap dress makes a stylish impact at any summer wedding.
Take cues from the style of the bridesmaid dresses while expressing your own personal flair. Outdoor summer weddings allow you to embrace colorful, flowing fabrics suited to the season.
What to Wear: Wedding Attire for Kids
Dressing little girls and boys for a summer wedding should focus on comfort while looking coordinated and polished.
Girls
For girls, choose from sundresses, flower girl dresses with twirl-able skirts, and rompers or shorts sets in breathable cotton. Add sandals, Mary Jane shoes or ballet flats. Flower crowns, headbands and shawls add sweet touches.
Boys
Fitted linen shorts or pants paired with button-up shirts or lightweight sweaters suit boys. Add leather shoes and socks. For hotter weather, polo shirts work well.
Aim for children’s outfits in colors that complement the wedding palette. Pastels, white and neutrals fit most summer weddings. The style should balance appropriate formality with ease of movement for play.
Accessories to Beat the Heat
Take advantage of summertime accessories that provide protection and cooling comfort:
- Sun hats with wide brims
- Sunglasses (avoid overly bug-eyed styles)
- Paper hand fans
- Pretty parasols
- Foldable clip-on handheld battery operated mini fans
- Shawls or scarves (to cover shoulders from sun)
- Flat shoes for relief from heels
Look for accessories in colors and fabrics that coordinate with your outfit. These items help you beat the heat while adding style.
What to Wear: Indoor Backup Option
Even summer weddings planned for outdoors sometimes move indoors unexpectedly. Pack a backup option in case of extreme heat, rain or other factors.
Choose an outfit that works both indoors and out. Some examples include:
- Sundress with lightweight cardigan or jean jacket
- Romper with kimono-style cover up
- Jumpsuit with simple heels instead of sandals
- Sleeveless maxi dress with shawl
Select transitional pieces you can easily add or remove according to conditions. Avoid heavy materials like velvet that are too hot indoors. Also skip overly revealing styles unsuitable for both venues.
With the right backup options, you will stay stylish rain or shine!
General Tips and Reminders
Keep these final tips in mind when dressing for outdoor summer weddings:
- Research the weather forecast and plan attire accordingly
- Choose outfits in a color palette that suits the wedding colors
- Pick fabrics that breathe and shoes designed for outdoor terrain
- Apply sunscreen, insect repellent and lip balm with SPF
- Consider hats, sunglasses and other sun protection
- Pack backups like flat shoes and a shawl or scarf
- Have your outfit freshly pressed and ready ahead of time
- Keep jewelry simple, modest and dainty for outdoor wear
- Add some fun summery flair like tropical prints or bright pops of color!
Conclusion
Dressing for an outdoor summer wedding requires some additional forethought compared to indoor events. But it is easy to create a gorgeous wedding guest look with the right lightweight dress, breezy separates, accessories and shoes.
Consider the weather, activities and dress code while assessing your personal style preferences. Seek fabrics and silhouettes designed to keep you cool and comfortable outside in the warm months. Look for colors, prints, shapes and details that express your unique taste.
With so many lovely options for outdoor weddings, you can readily find an outfit that keeps you feeling and looking fabulous from ceremony to reception. You want to look back at the pictures with confidence that your attire suited the special occasion. Follow these tips to discover that perfect summer wedding outfit!