Summer wedding guest outfits

With early sunrises and warm days, it is no wonder that summer is the season of romance, with most weddings occurring between December and February. While this may be the perfect time for a wedding, it does present an important question: what outfits are best for a summer wedding? How do you combine clean lines and sophisticated cuts with lightweight and breathable fabrics? We’ll share styling tips about how to make the right impact with the best summer outfits for a wedding.

Summer weddings can often be a little more casual, particularly if you are attending an outdoor or destination beach wedding. However, reflecting the breezy, carefree attitude of the season does not mean you have to sacrifice looking your very best. A wedding at any time of year is the perfect excuse to dress to the nines and arrive on the scene with stylish intent. Here are some key things to consider when choosing a summer wedding guest outfit:

LOCATION AND DRESS CODE

Many couples establish the level of formality they want at their wedding with a dress code. The most popular dress codes for weddings is often cocktail or semi-formal. Both offer a nice balance of formality and comfort, perfect for a summer wedding.

Whether a dress code is established or not, choosing the right wedding guest outfit is all about matching your attire to the occasion. For popular outdoor locations such as beachside venues, vineyard estates, and landscaped gardens, you want to choose a material and style that blends the right level of casual breathability with stylish formality.

For a male summer wedding outfit, that could mean a slim suit jacket in a lightweight linen or cotton blend with partial lining. A wedding guest outfit for a woman, on the other hand, could translate to a chic cocktail dress or a modern midi-skirt and blazer combo. For a destination beach wedding, dare to go even more casual by ditching the blazer and rocking a linen shirt of unparalleled summer comfort or donning a playful and flowy floral summer dress.

COLOUR

Unless the dress code specifies a certain colour scheme, you are free to choose the tone to match your personality. White is, of course, typically reserved for the bride, and light creams can often be something of a grey area. If unsure, it’s probably best to err on the side of caution. A winning summer wedding guest outfit for ladies often reflects the romance of the season through bright and cheerful colours or light floral patterning.

For suits, dark tones such as black, navy blue and grey have long been safe wedding choices. However, for a smart-casual dress code, they tend to fall a bit further on the formal end of the scale. A summer wedding is a great time to look for men’s outfit ideas that are a little more out of the box. Think pastels, such as light greens, blues, and yellows in block colours or subtle micropatterning. Just make sure to align your styling ambitions with those of the bride and groom.

Dressing for the occasion can sometimes be easier said than done. Subtle differences in materials, finishes and even accessories can spell the difference between smart-casual success and overly formal failure. No matter what type of wedding you’re invited to, we show you how to look and feel your best with the right summer wedding outfit for men.

SMART-CASUAL

We understand the subtle nuances that exist under the ‘smart-casual’ umbrella. For a casual look that still adheres to convention, why not try a slim-fit two-piece suit in a performance-unlocking stretch weave or a moisture-wicking linen blend? Trust in clean and minimalist lines without the high formality of a more conventional cut.

Need a wedding summer outfit for men that truly breaks the mould? The classic long-sleeved polo shirt is the very embodiment of the smart-casual spirit. Ditch the pocket square and silk tie and get back to basics with a button-down collar in cotton piqué and smart chinos ensemble. Pare up with the inclusion of a breathable checked jersey jacket or pare down with a pair of designer leather trainers with a subtle trim.

CLASSICALLY FORMAL

For a more conventional dress code, your best bet is to depend upon the classics of sartorial refinement. Particularly suited to evening and indoor weddings or traditional church settings, dark tones of navy blue and grey in slim or regular fit always cut a refined silhouette.

Finish with a waistcoat to create one of the sharpest summer looks possible. Alternatively, go all out with a tuxedo suit complete with classic satin accents at the lapels, buttons, and pocket trims. Of course, the tuxedo is not suitable for every occasion, so be sure not to overdo it.

ACCESSORIES

To achieve the perfect summer wedding look for men, do not overlook the importance of choosing the right accessories.

There’s a reason the saying goes ‘suited and booted’ – your choice of footwear is just as crucial as your choice of suit. For most weddings (and most occasions, in general) a premium-quality pair of leather evening shoes will never let you down. A pair of Oxfords in black or brown is one of the most versatile styles. With footwear sorted, it’s a good idea to match the rest of your leather accessories, including a classically buckled belt and a leather watch strap.

Next up, choosing the right neckwear can make or break a man’s wedding guest outfit. Slim silk ties emanate style and touch-ability are always a safe choice. Alternatively, the bow tie can be a personality-laden option, with traditional silk or bold velvet fabrics proving popular choices. Round out a smarter look with a pair of cufflinks or capture the summer spirit with some designer sunglasses.

Whether you are looking for a classic cocktail dress or an easy-breezy trousers/skirt and blouse/blazer combination, we have you covered. If you don’t know what to wear to a summer wedding, read on to discover some of our best outfit ideas:

SMART-CASUAL

Just because it’s summer, a wedding outfit doesn’t always have to mean wearing a dress. In fact, there are endless opportunities to tailor an outfit to your unique blend of style and individuality.

A stylish blouse offers great versatility and can be worn with either skirt or trousers. Think relaxed fit cotton or smooth silk with frill collars, ruffle detailing, or keyhole cut-outs in seasonal tones of deep reds, light blues, or bold patterning. Pair with suit trousers for an on-trend BOSS finish or a maxi skirt with a pleated finish for a comfortable and distinctly feminine ensemble.

Of course, you can still opt for a dress without sacrificing that casual air. Summer dresses with their lightweight fabrics, colourful and floral prints, and loose-fitting cuts make for the perfect outfits for outdoor weddings.

CLASSICALLY FORMAL

The dress, like the three-piece suit, is and will always be the quintessential wedding guest outfit for formal affairs. For true sophistication, a floor-length ball gown is unmatched, and there is no greater excuse to wear one than a wedding. For something a little more seasonal, a maxi dress combines fluid fabrics and playful prints with a contemporary silhouette and can be worn long or short-sleeved to suit any weather.

Alternatively, a cocktail dress is often a great summer wedding outfit for women looking for a middle-ground between casual daywear and formal evening wear. Choose from warm tones of yellow or amber finished with subtle satin straps, side slits, and a range of lengths.

ACCESSORIES

The adage “less is more” rings true for summer weddings where the aim is to make an impression without imposing. Whether to choose sandals, flats or trainers will depend on the setting and the dress code. Although, it is best to rely on quality designs and premium materials to do the walking and talking rather than oversized stiletto heels or extravagant flourishes.

Likewise, when pairing a handbag, it is all about that refined quality. A small leather clutch bag or sleek shoulder bag is perfect for marrying stunning form and function. Finish the look with a subtly paired necklace, earring and bracelet jewellery ensemble, and you’re ready to show off your perfect summer wedding guest outfit to the masses.