The sun is shining, love is in the air, and your inbox is filling up with wedding invitations. Welcome to the summer wedding season.
As a guest, one of the most exciting parts, aside from witnessing love and dancing the night away, is picking the perfect outfit.
And so the big question remains: what to wear as a guest to a summer wedding? Since you’re already thinking about it, let’s help you figure it out.
7 Style Tips That’ll Help You Slay as a Summer Wedding Guest
Dressing for a summer wedding can be a bit confusing. You don’t want to be overdressed for a garden ceremony or underdressed for a ballroom reception.
The key is to find that perfect balance, looking stylish, feeling comfortable, and, of course, being ready for those wedding photos. These seven tips will help you pick an outfit that perfectly fits the season and the moment.
1. Stick to the Dress Code
Every wedding invite has hidden clues, and the dress code is one you don’t want to ignore. If it says “formal,” lean into floor-length dresses or elegant jumpsuits. If it’s “semi-formal” or “cocktail,” shorter dresses or classy separates will do.
Even if there’s no stated dress code, you can often gauge the venue’s vibe. Showing up in something that fits the setting is the first step to nailing your look.
2. Choose Light Fabrics
Hot weather and heavy fabrics don’t mix. Thick materials like velvet or brocade will only make you sweat and feel sticky. Go for light, airy fabrics that allow airflow and comfort.
Linen, chiffon, cotton blends, or satin keep you cool while maintaining elegance. These materials also tend to move well, giving your outfit a more graceful flow, which is great for those mid-reception dance floor moments.
3. Let Color Do the Talking
If you’re unsure what to wear as a guest to a summer wedding, start with color. Summer weddings are the perfect excuse to step away from neutrals and embrace more vibrant or soft seasonal tones.
Colors like coral, turquoise, lemon yellow, blush pink, or mint green not only fit the mood of a summer celebration but also photograph beautifully.
Just steer clear of white (unless the couple says otherwise) and super dark tones that can feel out of place in such a sunny, cheerful setting.
4. Go for Midi or Tea-Length Dresses Over Floor-Length Gowns
Unless the dress code is strictly black tie, you don’t have to go full glam with a floor-length gown. Midi and tea-length dresses are perfect for striking the balance between formal and comfortable.
They allow you to move easily, feel the breeze, and show off your cute shoes. They’re also versatile, flattering on most body types, and easy to dress up or down depending on your accessories.
5. Pick Shoes That Look Good and Feel Good
Don’t fall for the beauty-pain trap. Summer weddings often take place in outdoor settings like gardens, beaches, or grassy fields, where stilettos will only leave you stuck in the ground.
Opt for block heels, kitten heels, wedges, or flats with a stylish twist. If you’re attending a more formal affair, sleek mules or open-toe heels with a sturdy sole can elevate your look without ruining your comfort.
6. Keep Accessories Simple but Intentional
You don’t need to go overboard to make a statement. A few well-chosen accessories can elevate your whole look. Dainty layered necklaces, a statement earring, or a bold clutch can do the magic.
Also, consider sun-friendly accessories like a wide-brim hat (if appropriate) or chic sunglasses for daytime outdoor weddings. Aim for that effortless elegance that turns heads without shouting for attention.
Check out our collection of accessories to find the perfect pieces to complete your wedding guest look.
7. Comfort Is the Real Dress Code
If you’re going to be sitting through a long ceremony, eating, dancing, and mingling, your outfit needs to keep up.
Don’t just think about how it looks; think about how it feels. Does it ride up? Does it pull anywhere? Are you constantly adjusting it? These little things add up.
Choose something that fits your body well, lets you move freely, and doesn’t need constant fixing.
Ready to Dress the Part?
Figuring out what to wear as a guest to a summer wedding doesn’t have to be stressful. Keep the dress code in mind, choose breathable fabrics, and let the season’s colours inspire your outfit.
Most importantly, wear something that feels like you, just a little more polished. That’s how you show up in style and still enjoy every moment of the day.
Now that you’ve got all the tips, it’s time to put them into action. Browse our collection of elegant dresses and find the perfect style that was made just for you.