What to Wear to a Summer
Wedding as a Guest

Summer is the season of love. For many couples, that means tying the knot surrounded by family and friends. It’s definitely a joyous occasion but finding the perfect outfit can be a real challenge. Whether you’re watching the happy couple exchange vows on a sandy shore, sipping champagne in a cozy backyard, or dancing the night away in a fancy ballroom, RW&CO. has got your back (and your front and your sides) with all the summer wedding guest attire you could ever need!

RW&CO.: Your Go-To Retailer for Summer Wedding Attire

When it comes to dressing for a summer wedding, RW&CO. is the go-to destination. Whether you’re after a stunning dress, a sharp suit or mix-and-match separates, you’re sure to find the perfect outfit for the big day. From casual to formal events, our summer wedding guest attire selection has something for everyone to feel amazing in.

Dress According to the Dress Code

The dress code is one of the most important things to consider when dressing for a summer wedding. You don’t want to show up looking completely out of place — it’s the bride’s day to stand out, not yours! Many couples will specify the dress code on their wedding invitation, so make sure to read it carefully. If the invitation doesn’t mention a specific dress code, take a cue from the time and location of the event.

For example, a beach wedding may call for a more relaxed look, while an evening wedding at a formal venue will likely require more fancy attire.

Choose Your Outfit Based on the Season

Summer weather can sometimes be unpredictable, so when it comes to dressing for a wedding, it’s all about striking that perfect balance between fashion and function. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen and consider layering with a light jacket or cardigan just in case the weather takes a turn for the chilly.

Our summer wedding guest attire collection offers a variety of options to help keep you looking good and feeling great, all day long.

Take Cues from the Venue to Determine Your Clothing

Another great way to choose your outfit for a summer wedding is to let the venue be your guide. Consider the terrain of the location — stiletto heels and sand don’t mix, trust us — and opt for appropriate footwear. Keep it breezy and beachy with flat sandals or wedges for seaside nuptials and choose a dress that won’t get caught on sand or wind. For a garden party wedding, a flowy dress or jumpsuit is the way to go.

A formal ballroom wedding may require more traditional attire like a tuxedo, suit or dress with extra attention to your shoes and accessories like pocket squares and jewelry. Just remember to choose pieces that fit the wedding’s location, theme and how formal it is — and, of course, make sure you look and feel fabulous!

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Elevate Your Look with the Right Accessories

Accessories can make or break an outfit, so add some finishing touches to your summer wedding guest attire. A statement necklace or earrings can add a pop of colour to a simple dress, while a clutch or small handbag can keep your essentials close at hand. For men, a patterned tie or pocket square can add a touch of personality to a classic suit.

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The Best Women’s Summer Wedding Attire

Dresses for Summer Weddings

When it comes to summer weddings, dresses are a timeless option. Keeping in mind how formal the event is when selecting the appropriate dress is crucial. A light-coloured sundress with a floral print can be the perfect choice for a casual summer wedding.

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If the wedding is more formal, you may consider a floor-length gown in a bold colour or even a metallic fabric.

Things can start to heat up during cocktail hour and dancing, so a dress with a beautiful back keeps you cool and adds a touch of elegance. So go ahead and embrace the love-filled season with your fashion game on point, because when you look good, you feel good!

Women’s Suits

Suits are a chic alternative to dresses and are an excellent choice for a formal or semi-formal wedding. Choose a suit in a lightweight fabric, such as linen or cotton, to stay cool in the summer heat. Experiment with bold colours or patterns to make a real statement or keep it classic with a neutral suit and statement accessories.

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Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits are an on-trend option for summer weddings and can be easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Opt for a sleek, tailored jumpsuit in a bold colour or print for a formal wedding, or choose a flowy, bohemian style for a beach or outdoor ceremony.

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The Best Men’s Summer Wedding Attire

Summertime weddings are all about love, celebration and, of course, fashion. As a gentleman guest, knowing what to wear to these special events can be overwhelming. You want to look your best and support the happy couple, but you also want to feel comfortable and confident in your outfit. Here are some RW tips on how to put together a flawless summer wedding outfit, from the type of suit, all the way down to the shoes.

The Perfect Suit

Gents, listen up! The key to nailing your summer wedding outfit is finding the perfect suit. Opt for a light-coloured or pastel suit to keep cool and comfortable in the heat, while still looking suave and stylish.

Here are some outfit ideas to inspire you:

Light Grey Suit: Pair a light grey suit with a crisp white
dress shirt and a navy tie for a classic summer wedding look.
Beige Suit: For a more casual summer wedding, choose a beige suit paired with a light blue dress shirt and a patterned tie.
Blazers and Dress Pants: A blazer paired with a dress pant is an excellent option if the dress code is more casual. Choose a lightweight cotton or linen blazer and pair it with khaki or navy dress pants.
Bold Colour Suit: If you’re feeling adventurous, a bold colour suit, such as burgundy or forest green, can make a statement at a summer wedding. Pair it with a white dress shirt and a neutral tie to balance out the look.

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Colours and Patterns for Wedding Menswear

While following the dress code is essential, you can still have fun with your outfit by incorporating colours and patterns. While sticking to classic colours like navy, grey and black may be more appropriate for a formal wedding; playing with brighter colours like pastels, light blues and greens, can be a fun way of expressing your style at a more casual event.

Avoid anything too bold or flashy, as it can distract from the main event. Choose subtle patterns like pinstripes or small checks to incorporate designs.

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Colours and Patterns for Wedding Menswear

What to Wear as a Guest to a Formal Summer Wedding

A formal summer wedding calls for more dressy attire. A classic tuxedo with a black bow tie is the best choice for men. However, if a tuxedo seems too formal, you can opt for a dark-coloured suit, such as navy or charcoal, paired with a white dress shirt and a tie. Again, choosing lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton is key to staying cool in the summer heat. Add a little something extra to your look by accessorizing with a pocket square, cufflinks and dress shoes.

When it comes to womenswear, a formal dress is the way to go. Long dresses in jewel tones or pastel colours are an excellent option for a traditional summer wedding. If you prefer a shorter dress, choose one that is not too casual and in a dressy fabric like silk or chiffon.

Remember to accessorize with statement jewelry and comfortable yet stylish heels. Just remember that it's better to be overdressed than underdressed for a formal summer wedding.

What If the Summer Wedding Is Casual?

For a casual summer wedding, you have a little more freedom to play around with different styles and colours. A lightweight summer suit is an excellent option for men, paired with a casual shirt or even a t-shirt if the dress code allows.

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A sundress or a jumpsuit in a fun print or bright colour will work well for women. You can also go the dressy separates route, such as a skirt and blouse or trousers and a blazer. Keep your footwear comfortable yet stylish, and don’t be afraid to add some accessories to take your look to the next level.

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Reusing Pieces from Your Existing Wardrobe

Reusing pieces from your existing wardrobe is not only budget-friendly but also sustainable. For summer weddings, you can wear a statement skirt or a blazer that you already own and pair it with a dressy blouse.

Mixing-and-matching different items is a great way of creating a unique and chic wedding guest outfit. If you have a dress that you previously wore to a wedding, try switching up the accessories to make it look fresh and different.

Reusing pieces of clothing also allows you to add your personal touch to the outfit and showcase your unique style. Not only will you feel good about being sustainable, but you’ll also look great without spending a fortune on a new outfit.

Summer Wedding Attire: Do’s and Don’ts

When attending a summer wedding as a guest, following some basic do’s and don’ts is essential to ensure you look great without taking the attention away from the guests of honour. As a guest, it’s necessary to dress appropriately for the event’s formality and follow any dress code requirements.

Avoid wearing white or anything that might be mistaken for the wedding party attire, such as a black tie or formalwear. Soft, pastel colours, bold prints, or bright hues are excellent choices for summer weddings, but avoid wearing overly casual clothing like shorts or denim. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of being too dressy than too simple.

Tips for Staying Comfortable During the Ceremony
and Reception

Attending a summer wedding can be a beautiful experience, but the heat and humidity can quickly become unbearable if you’re not dressed appropriately. To stay comfortable during the ceremony and reception, there are a few things you can keep in mind.

First, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton, linen or rayon, which allow air to circulate and help you stay cool. Avoid heavy materials like wool or velvet which trap heat and sweat. Breathable fabrics like chiffon, cotton or silk work well for women during the hot season.

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Second, consider layering options like a lightweight blazer or cardigan, which can be removed to regulate your body temperature. And finally, remember to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially if the event is outdoors or you plan to dance the night away.

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FAQ

Why is It Important to Not Wear White as a Guest to a Wedding?

Wearing white to a wedding as a guest is a major fashion faux pas. The bride traditionally wears white on her big day, and by wearing the same colour, you may upstage her or give the impression that you’re trying to compete with her.

Respecting the bride’s outfit choice and letting her be in the spotlight is essential. Plus, there are many other beautiful colours to choose from for wedding attire, so it’s better to leave the white outfits for the bride.

Is it Ok to Wear Black When Going to a Summer Wedding?

While black used to be considered inappropriate for weddings, it’s now widely accepted. However, it’s essential to consider the dress code and formality of the event before choosing a black outfit. If in doubt, choose a lighter colour or print.

What Do I Wear to an Outdoor Summer Wedding?

Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics for outdoor summer weddings and opt for comfortable footwear like sandals or wedges. It’s also a good idea to bring a light jacket or cardigan in case of cooler temperatures or a bit of a breeze.

What Colour to Wear to a Summer Wedding?

Summer is the perfect time to experiment with bright colours and bold prints. Soft pastels, bold florals, and jewel tones are all great options. However, it’s always a good idea to consider the wedding colours and avoid wearing anything that may clash.

What is The Summer Wedding Dress Code?

The summer wedding dress code can vary depending on the couple’s preferences and the event’s formality. A casual or beach wedding may call for more relaxed attire, while a formal evening wedding may require a black tie or formal wear.