Summer weddings are the perfect excuse to dress up and show off your style. Whether you are attending an intimate garden wedding or a grand celebration, finding the perfect outfit can be a challenge. With so many dress codes and style options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, fear not, because we’ve got you covered with the perfect summer wedding outfit for women.
From elegant dresses to stylish jumpsuits, there are endless options when it comes to choosing your outfit. But before you start shopping, it’s important to consider the dress code and location of the wedding. Whether it’s a beach wedding or a formal black-tie event, you want to make sure you look appropriate and stylish.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the dos and don’ts of summer wedding attire and provide you with tips and ideas for putting together the perfect outfit. So, if you’re wondering how to dress for a summer wedding as a woman, keep reading to discover our expert tips and advice.
Ready to find your perfect summer wedding outfit? Let’s dive in and explore the world of fashion and style to make sure you look and feel your best on this special day.
Summer Wedding Dress Codes Explained
Summer weddings can be tricky when it comes to choosing the perfect outfit. One of the most important things to consider is the dress code. The dress code for a summer wedding will typically be mentioned in the invitation, but it’s important to understand what each dress code means before deciding on your outfit. If the invitation states “black tie,” it means you should wear a formal gown or a dressy cocktail dress. For a “cocktail attire” dress code, choose a dress that’s fun and flirty, but not too revealing. “Semi-formal” dress codes usually mean a dress that’s knee-length, while “casual” dress codes are more relaxed and allow for sundresses and skirts.
When choosing your outfit, it’s important to consider the venue. A beach wedding may require a different outfit than a wedding in a church or ballroom. If you’re attending an outdoor wedding, make sure to choose a breathable fabric, such as cotton or linen, to stay cool in the summer heat. Accessories can also make a big difference in your overall look. Consider wearing a statement necklace or earrings to add some sparkle to your outfit.
Another important factor to consider is the color scheme. While you may be tempted to wear a bright and bold color, it’s important to avoid wearing white, which is traditionally reserved for the bride. If you’re unsure about the color scheme, don’t be afraid to ask the couple or the wedding planner for guidance.
Lastly, make sure to wear shoes that are comfortable enough to wear all day and night. Weddings can be long affairs, and the last thing you want is to be stuck in uncomfortable shoes. If you’re attending an outdoor wedding, consider wearing flat sandals or wedges to avoid sinking into the grass or sand.
Black Tie Affairs
Gowns: A formal event calls for a formal gown. Choose a floor-length dress that fits your body type and flatters your curves. Opt for a simple silhouette with minimal embellishments.
Accessories: A statement necklace or a pair of chandelier earrings can add a touch of glamour to your outfit. A clutch purse and a pair of heels will complete your look.
Makeup: Go for a dramatic look with bold lips and smoky eyes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with darker colors, but make sure your makeup complements your dress.
Hair: A sleek updo or a classic chignon will never go out of style. Consider adding a hair accessory, such as a rhinestone hairpin or a flower crown, for an extra touch of elegance.
Remember to keep it classy and elegant. Avoid dresses that are too revealing or flashy. A black tie wedding is a formal affair, so dress to impress. With the right gown, accessories, makeup, and hair, you’ll be sure to turn heads.
Top 5 Do’s and Don’ts When Choosing Your Outfit
Summer weddings are a great opportunity to showcase your fashion sense, but you don’t want to be remembered as the guest who wore the wrong outfit. Here are the top 5 do’s and don’ts when choosing your outfit:
Do: Consider the venue and time of day. For example, a beach wedding calls for a more casual outfit, while an evening wedding at a ballroom requires formal attire.
Don’t: Wear white or black. White is typically reserved for the bride, while black can be seen as too somber for a wedding celebration.
Do: Opt for breathable fabrics. You’ll be more comfortable in lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, or chiffon, especially in warm temperatures.
Don’t: Choose an outfit that’s too revealing. While you want to look great, avoid anything that’s too short, low-cut, or tight. It’s important to dress appropriately for the occasion.
When choosing your outfit for a summer wedding, it’s essential to consider the venue and time of day. Venue plays a significant role in determining the formality of the dress code. An outdoor wedding may allow for more casual attire than an indoor ceremony held at a historic estate. Similarly, the time of day can impact the formality of your outfit. A morning or afternoon wedding calls for lighter colors and fabrics, while an evening wedding typically requires more formal attire.
Another factor to consider when selecting your outfit is the weather. Summer weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to plan for both hot and cool temperatures. Opt for breathable fabrics, like cotton or linen, and choose dresses with shorter hemlines to keep cool. Additionally, consider bringing a light jacket or shawl to keep warm during any chilly moments.
Your outfit should be comfortable and allow you to move freely. When deciding what to wear, think about the type of activities that may be involved in the wedding celebration, like dancing or outdoor games. Choose shoes that you can wear for an extended period without discomfort, and avoid any outfit that restricts your movement or causes discomfort.
Finally, it’s essential to respect the dress code. The invitation or wedding website will typically indicate the dress code for the event, and it’s essential to follow it. If in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and opt for a more formal outfit.
When attending a summer wedding, it’s important to choose the right outfit that’s both appropriate and stylish. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of top do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when selecting your attire.
First up on our list of don’ts is wearing white or anything too revealing. While it may seem tempting to show off your summer tan or wear a cute white sundress, these colors should be avoided as they can be seen as disrespectful to the bride and groom. Opt for lighter shades of pastels or bold prints instead.
Additionally, keep in mind that a wedding is a formal event, so avoid anything too casual such as denim or shorts. Instead, opt for dresses, skirts, or jumpsuits in breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen.
Do: Choose Appropriate Footwear
When it comes to footwear, choose a pair that complements your outfit and is comfortable enough to wear throughout the day. For outdoor weddings, avoid high heels that may sink into the grass or sand. Opt for wedges, block heels or flats instead.
For indoor weddings, closed-toe shoes are generally more appropriate than sandals or open-toe shoes. However, if you decide to wear open-toe shoes, make sure your toes are well-groomed and polished.
Another factor to consider is the height of your shoes. Make sure your shoes are not too high that you can’t walk or dance comfortably. If you’re not used to wearing heels, choose a pair with a lower heel or opt for dressy flats instead.
Finally, always bring a spare pair of flats or flip-flops in case your feet start to hurt, especially if you plan on dancing the night away.
Accessorize Your Outfit to Perfection
Accessories can make or break an outfit, and this is especially true when it comes to weddings. Here are some tips to accessorize your outfit to perfection:
Choose the Right Jewelry: When it comes to jewelry, less is often more. A simple necklace and earrings can add just the right amount of sparkle without overwhelming your outfit.
Don’t Forget a Clutch or Small Purse: A small clutch or purse is the perfect accessory to carry your essentials while still looking chic. Choose a color that complements your outfit, and make sure it’s large enough to hold your phone, lipstick, and other small items.
Consider a Hat or Fascinator: A hat or fascinator can add a touch of glamour to your outfit, and they’re especially appropriate for daytime weddings. Make sure to choose a style that complements your outfit and isn’t too overpowering.
Add a Pop of Color with a Scarf or Shawl: If you’re wearing a neutral outfit, consider adding a pop of color with a scarf or shawl. This is a great way to add some interest to your outfit without going overboard.
Finish with the Right Shoes: Shoes are one of the most important accessories for a wedding outfit. Choose a comfortable pair that complements your outfit and is appropriate for the venue. Avoid stilettos if you’ll be walking on grass or uneven surfaces.
Add a Pop of Color with Jewelry
If your summer wedding outfit is on the simpler side, you can use accessories to add some visual interest and personality. One way to do this is to incorporate jewelry that features a bright pop of color. Consider choosing pieces that pick up on the colors of your dress or suit, or that complement them in an interesting way. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different colors and metals to create a unique look.
Statement earrings are a great way to add a pop of color and draw attention to your face. Choose a bold pair that features bright gemstones or interesting textures. If you’re wearing a necklace, make sure it doesn’t compete with your earrings – you don’t want to overwhelm your look.
Another option is to add a bold cocktail ring to your outfit. This can be a great way to add a pop of color without going overboard. Look for a ring that features a bright gemstone or an interesting design. Pair it with simple, understated jewelry to keep the focus on the ring.
Find the Perfect Clutch or Handbag
Choosing the right handbag can complete your outfit and add a touch of elegance. Consider the color, size, and material of your handbag when choosing one for a wedding. Neutral colors are always a safe choice, but if you want to add some excitement to your outfit, opt for a bolder color.
If you’re going to a daytime wedding, a small clutch will suffice. For an evening wedding, consider a larger bag that can hold all of your essentials. Be mindful of the material of your handbag, avoid anything too casual or beachy.
When it comes to embellishments, less is more. Look for a simple and elegant design that complements your outfit without overpowering it. Remember, your handbag should be functional as well as stylish, so look for one that is comfortable to carry.
If you can’t find the perfect handbag, consider renting one or borrowing from a friend. Just make sure it complements your outfit and you feel confident carrying it.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can find the perfect handbag to complete your wedding outfit and add a touch of sophistication to your look.
Hairstyles to Complement Your Look
When it comes to dressing up for a special occasion, your hairstyle can make or break your entire look. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect hairstyle to complement your outfit:
Consider your outfit: Your hairstyle should match the formality and style of your outfit. For a formal event, an updo is a classic choice, while loose waves or curls can give a more relaxed, bohemian feel to your look.
Highlight your features: Choose a hairstyle that flatters your face shape and emphasizes your best features. For example, a high ponytail can highlight your cheekbones, while a side-swept style can draw attention to your eyes.
Accessorize: Hair accessories can add a touch of glamour to any hairstyle. Consider adding a sparkly hair clip or a statement headband to complete your look.
Don’t forget about your hair color: Your hair color can also play a role in choosing the perfect hairstyle. For example, if you have highlights or balayage, consider a hairstyle that shows off these colors, such as a half-up, half-down style.
Braids and Updos for Formal Events
For a formal event, braids and updos can create an elegant and sophisticated look. A French twist is a classic choice that works well with a variety of dress styles. Another popular option is a chignon, which can be styled low or high depending on your preference. If you prefer a more intricate style, consider a braided bun or a waterfall braid. These styles look great with statement earrings or a bold necklace.
When choosing a braided or updo style, keep in mind the shape of your face. If you have a round face, consider a style that elongates your face such as a sleek ponytail. If you have a long face, choose a style that adds volume at the sides to balance out your features.
It’s also important to consider the neckline of your dress when choosing a hairstyle. For example, if you have a strapless dress, a side-swept braid or a tousled updo will accentuate your neckline. If your dress has a high neckline, consider a sleek updo to show off your earrings or a statement necklace.
Best Colors to Wear to a Summer Wedding
Summer weddings are the perfect opportunity to wear bright, bold colors that reflect the season. Coral is a popular choice that pairs well with both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. Its warm hue adds a pop of color that’s perfect for a beach or garden wedding.
Another great option is mint green, which is light and refreshing for hot summer days. It looks great with both light and dark skin tones, and can be paired with neutral accessories or bold statement pieces for a more daring look.
If you’re looking for a more classic color that never goes out of style, consider navy blue. It’s a sophisticated color that’s perfect for any wedding venue, from a ballroom to a beach. Navy also pairs well with many other colors, making it a versatile choice.
Pink is another popular choice for summer weddings. Its bright, feminine tone is perfect for a romantic ceremony, and can be dressed up or down depending on the venue. From blush to fuchsia, there are many shades of pink to choose from that will flatter any skin tone.
Finally, don’t forget about yellow. This sunny hue is perfect for summer and adds a touch of happiness to any wedding. It pairs well with many other colors, including navy, white, and gray, and can be worn in a variety of shades, from pale lemon to bright canary.
Go Bold with Bright Colors
If you’re attending a summer wedding, don’t be afraid to go bold with bright colors. Bold colors like bright pink, turquoise, and orange are perfect for adding a pop of color to your outfit. However, you should avoid wearing neon colors, which can be too bright and distracting.
When choosing your outfit, look for dresses or suits in bold prints like floral or paisley. These prints are perfect for summer weddings and will help you stand out from the crowd.
To complete your look, add some bold accessories like statement earrings or a colorful clutch. This will help tie your outfit together and make you look stylish and put-together. Just be sure not to overdo it – stick to one or two bold accessories to avoid looking too busy.
Pastels for a Soft, Romantic Look
Lavender: This soft shade is perfect for a summer wedding, and looks great on any skin tone. Pair a lavender dress with silver or nude accessories for a dreamy, romantic look.
Powder blue: A pale blue dress is a classic choice for a summer wedding. This cool and calming shade pairs well with silver or gold jewelry and accessories.
Pink: A pastel pink dress is feminine and playful. This shade looks great with metallic accents or white accessories for a fresh, summery look.
Peach: A warm peach tone is perfect for a beach or outdoor wedding. Pair a peach dress with gold jewelry and natural makeup for a soft, sun-kissed look.
Mint green: This light and refreshing shade is a great choice for a summer wedding. Pair a mint green dress with neutral or metallic accessories for a chic and elegant look.
When choosing pastel colors for a summer wedding, keep in mind the overall color scheme and theme of the wedding. Pastels work well with neutral tones like beige, ivory, and white, but can also be paired with other soft colors for a cohesive and stylish look. Don’t be afraid to mix and match pastel shades or add a pop of bright color for a fun and playful twist.
Prints and Patterns to Make a Statement
Floral: A classic print that can be dressed up or down, floral prints are perfect for a summer wedding. Choose from delicate pastels or bold, bright hues to make a statement.
Stripes: Stripes are a timeless pattern that can add a touch of sophistication to your wedding guest look. Opt for pinstripes for a subtle effect, or go bold with thick, colorful stripes.
Animal print: Make a statement with a bold animal print dress or accessories. Leopard and snake prints are popular choices and can be paired with neutral colors for a chic look.
Geometric: If you want to add a modern touch to your wedding guest outfit, consider a geometric print. Triangles, squares, and diamonds in bold, bright colors can create a fun and playful look.
Polka dots: A classic pattern that never goes out of style, polka dots can add a touch of whimsy to your wedding guest look. Choose from small, subtle dots or larger, more playful ones.
No matter which print or pattern you choose, be sure to pair it with simple accessories and let the print be the statement piece of your outfit. Consider neutral shoes and jewelry to keep the focus on your dress or jumpsuit. With the right print and accessories, you’re sure to turn heads at the wedding!
Stay Comfortable and Stylish in Outdoor Weddings
Outdoor weddings can be tricky to dress for, but don’t sacrifice style for comfort. Look for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to keep you cool in the heat.
Choose comfortable shoes like flats or low heels if you’ll be walking on grass or uneven surfaces. If you prefer heels, consider wearing heel protectors to prevent sinking into the ground.
Don’t forget to accessorize with a sunhat or sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. And if you’re attending an evening outdoor wedding, bring a light jacket or shawl to keep you warm when the temperature drops.
Wear Breathable Fabrics
Outdoor weddings can be beautiful, but they can also be hot and humid. To stay comfortable in the heat, it’s important to choose breathable fabrics for your outfit. Look for materials like cotton, linen, or silk, which are lightweight and allow air to circulate around your skin.
Not only will breathable fabrics help keep you cool, they’ll also help you look your best. Sweating in a heavy, non-breathable outfit can cause unsightly stains and wrinkles, so it’s best to avoid fabrics like polyester or rayon.
If you’re not sure which fabrics are breathable, just ask the sales associate at your local clothing store. They should be able to guide you towards materials that will work well for outdoor events.
Opt for Flat or Low Heeled Shoes
When attending an outdoor wedding, it is important to consider the type of shoes you will wear. High heels may be stylish, but they can sink into the grass or sand, making it difficult to walk. Instead, opt for flat or low heeled shoes that will provide comfort and stability.
Flat sandals or ballet flats are perfect for a beach wedding, while a low block heel is a great choice for a garden wedding. If you must wear heels, choose ones with a wider base or a wedge heel for added stability.
Remember to break in your shoes before the wedding day to ensure maximum comfort. Blisters and sore feet can quickly ruin your day, so take the time to choose the right pair of shoes.
Add a Stylish Hat or Sunglasses
Accessorizing your outdoor wedding outfit with a hat or sunglasses is not only fashionable but also functional. A hat can protect you from the sun’s rays, while sunglasses can help protect your eyes and add a touch of glamour.
When it comes to choosing a hat, consider the style of the wedding and the formality of your outfit. A floppy sunhat may work well for a beach wedding, while a classic fedora or Panama hat may be more suitable for a garden or vineyard wedding.
For sunglasses, opt for a style that complements your face shape and outfit. Round sunglasses are perfect for a retro-inspired look, while oversized sunglasses can add a touch of Hollywood glamour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fabrics should women choose for a summer wedding?
When dressing for a summer wedding, women should choose fabrics that are breathable and lightweight. Cotton, linen, and chiffon are great options that will keep you comfortable in the heat.
What colors are appropriate for a summer wedding outfit?
Colors like pastels, brights, and soft neutrals are all appropriate for a summer wedding outfit. Consider the wedding’s location and theme when choosing your outfit and choose colors that complement the occasion.
What styles of dresses are appropriate for a summer wedding?
When choosing a dress for a summer wedding, consider a dress that is lightweight and airy. Dresses with flowy skirts, off-the-shoulder styles, and halter necklines are all great options for a summer wedding.
What accessories should women wear to a summer wedding?
For a summer wedding, women should choose accessories that are both stylish and practical. Consider adding a hat or sunglasses to your outfit for extra sun protection, and choose comfortable shoes that you can wear throughout the day.
How can women style their hair for a summer wedding?
For a summer wedding, women can style their hair in a variety of ways. Consider wearing your hair in a sleek ponytail, a chic updo, or beachy waves for a relaxed, yet stylish look.