Summer Guest Attire for a Stylish Wedding Season
The golden rules of wedding guest attire are simple, but in case you need a refresher, or you’re new to the wedding circuit, start by avoiding anything that’s too tight, too short, or too revealing. Also steer clear of ensembles that are too glitzy and always skip the white. It’s important to make sure that the outfit not only fits the season, but that it also matches the venue and time of day. Below you’ll find some suggestions on how to do just that, so let’s get started.
Garden Party
Look radiant without stealing the bride’s spotlight in a beautiful peach hued body-con silhouette that Lyst believes will work for day or, with embellishments, will really up the after-dark wow factor. This form fitting dress will definitely show off a svelte shape, but keep the neckline conservative and choose a midi length to keep things classy. When accessorized properly, this style is very sophisticated and perfect for a garden setting.
For daytime, wear your hair down and loosely curled. Grab a pair of espadrille wedges, a natural jute clutch, and choose brown or tan accessories, creating a lighter look. For evening, pull your hair back in a low chignon with lots of loose tendrils to frame your face. Choose a pair of strappy heels, structured clutch, glittering statement earrings, and a black blazer to really elevate this dress.
Seaside Soiree
Refinery 29’s staff believes wedding guests should be able to wear their attire even after the party’s over, and who wouldn’t agree. Whether it’s an A-line dress like they suggest, or a skirt and top, either look could be styled appropriately for a wedding by the sea. In this instance, I’d suggest a mod, A-line skirt with a horizontal stripe and solid, fitted tank-style blouse. This look can be worn again and it screams nautical without being too “themey.”
For daytime, play with color by pairing a navy and white striped skirt with a top that has a vibrant pop—choose coral, pink, or Kelly green for a fun look. Wear your hair in a loose fishtail braid for a soft, beach-inspired coif. For evening, pair your skirt with a crisp white top. Dress it up with metallic heels, a statement necklace, sparkly clutch, and a smoky eye. Wear your hair in finger waves for a glamorous retro look.
Backyard Bash
Backyard weddings usually set the stage for a meaningful, yet casual good time for everyone involved. And whether it’s an eclectic setting under a stately oak or a down home country vibe in a thoughtfully decorated barn, a peasant style dress as recommended by POPSUGAR’s team would work very well. Billowy and light, this type of design will keep you cool and looking great while celebrating outdoors.
For daytime, pair a prairie dress with flat sandals that have ankle lace details, a fringed shoulder bag, and mod sunglasses. Wear your hair half up-half down with loose waves to complete the look. For evening, team your prairie dress with a pair of ankle wedge booties, suede clutch, and a belt to cinch the waist. Wear a dramatic lip color and sweep your hair up into a high, tousled bun with a flower or two tucked in for good measure.
As you can imagine from the examples above, looking chic and appropriate for different summer weddings is not only possible, it can be fun, too. Take an outfit from day to night by paying attention to color, accessories, hair, and makeup. And while it’s important to feel good about your choices, remember to keep it moderate, consider the venue, and avoid white for successful nuptial attending ensembles in a variety of settings.