What to Wear to a Summer Wedding: Best Attire Options (2025)

Attending a summer wedding and puzzled about what to wear? You’re not alone! Selecting the perfect summer wedding attire can be a delicate balance between looking stylish, respecting the couple’s dress code, and staying comfortable in potentially sweltering temperatures. We’ve attended countless summer celebrations over the years and know firsthand how challenging it can be to look your best while battling heat and humidity.

Whether you’re headed to a beachside ceremony, a garden party, or a formal evening celebration, the right outfit can make all the difference between enjoying the festivities or counting down the minutes until you can escape the heat. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate summer wedding outfit options for every dress code, venue type, and personal style preference, ensuring you look and feel your best as you celebrate the happy couple.

Be sure to see our full guide on Summer Weddings, here!

Understanding Summer Wedding Dress Codes

Before you start shopping for that perfect outfit, it’s crucial to decode what the couple actually expects from their guests. Wedding invitations often include dress code information that can feel like a foreign language if you’re not familiar with formal event terminology.

Decoding Common Summer Wedding Dress Codes

White Tie: The most formal dress code you’ll encounter. For summer events, men should wear a black tailcoat, white vest, white bow tie, and formal black shoes. Women should opt for floor-length evening gowns in lightweight fabrics like silk or chiffon.

Black Tie: Slightly less formal than white tie. Men should wear a tuxedo with a black bow tie, while women can choose formal floor-length gowns or elegant cocktail dresses in breathable fabrics. We’ve noticed that summer black-tie events often allow for more colorful accessories than winter formal events.

Formal/Black Tie Optional: Men can wear either a tuxedo or a dark suit with a tie, while women can choose between a formal gown, dressy cocktail dress, or elegant jumpsuit. This is where breathable fabrics become especially important!

Cocktail: This versatile dress code calls for suits for men (ties optional in summer) and knee-length or tea-length dresses for women. We love this dress code for summer weddings because it offers the perfect balance of elegance and comfort.

Semi-Formal/Dressy Casual: Men can wear slacks with a button-down shirt and blazer (tie optional), while women can opt for sundresses, jumpsuits, or dressy separates. This is where you can really embrace summer-specific attire while still looking appropriate.

Casual: Even with a casual dress code, remember it’s still a wedding! Men should wear nice pants and a button-down shirt or polo, while women can choose a casual dress or nice separates. We think a casual summer wedding is the perfect opportunity to showcase a beautiful printed sundress or linen ensemble.

Adapting Dress Codes for Summer Heat

Summer weddings require some practical adaptations to traditional dress codes. For instance, a black-tie summer wedding might allow for lighter-colored tuxedos or suits in summer-weight fabrics. Women might opt for sleeveless or off-shoulder formal gowns rather than those with full coverage.

We’ve learned through trial and error that it’s always better to ask the couple or wedding party if you’re unsure about a dress code. Most couples would much rather answer a quick question than have guests uncomfortable or inappropriately dressed on their big day!

Regional and Cultural Variations

Keep in mind that wedding expectations vary widely across different regions and cultures. Southern summer weddings often embrace bright colors and traditional elements like seersucker suits for men, while West Coast celebrations might be more relaxed in their interpretation of formal dress codes.

If you’re attending a cultural wedding celebration, take time to research appropriate attire. Many cultures have specific expectations regarding modesty, colors, and styles that differ from Western wedding traditions.

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Fabric Choices for Summer Wedding Comfort

One of our biggest lessons learned after sweating through multiple summer weddings? The fabric of your outfit matters just as much as the style!

Breathable Natural Fabrics

Natural fibers are your best friends for summer wedding attire:

• Linen: The ultimate summer fabric, linen is incredibly breathable and has natural moisture-wicking properties. The only downside? It wrinkles easily. We suggest a linen blend that offers wrinkle resistance without sacrificing breathability.
• Cotton: Lightweight cotton is versatile and comfortable. Look for cotton voile, lawn, or poplin for dresses and shirts, and cotton suits with minimal lining for men.
• Silk: Natural silk breathes surprisingly well and drapes beautifully. Opt for lightweight varieties like silk chiffon, crepe, or georgette.

We once made the mistake of wearing a polyester dress to an outdoor July wedding. Big mistake! We spent the entire ceremony focused on how sweaty we felt instead of the beautiful vows being exchanged.

Modern Technical Fabrics

Technological advances have brought us some amazing fabric options that combine the look of luxury with practical comfort:

• Performance wool: Brands like Loro Piana have developed ultra-lightweight wool that breathes exceptionally well while maintaining a formal appearance.
• Technical silk blends: These combine the luxury of silk with synthetic fibers for wrinkle resistance and improved durability.
• Bamboo fabrics: Sustainable and naturally temperature-regulating, bamboo fabric feels similar to silk but with better moisture-wicking properties.

Fabric Weights and Weaves

Not all fabrics of the same type are created equal! Look for:

• Open weaves: Fabrics with visible space between threads allow for better air circulation.
• Lightweight or “tropical” weight: Men’s suits labeled as tropical weight (around 7-9 oz) are specifically designed for warm weather.
• Unlined or partially lined garments: Full linings trap heat, so look for minimal lining or none at all.

Wrinkle-Resistant Options

There’s nothing worse than arriving at a wedding looking like you slept in your outfit! We’ve found these fabrics tend to resist wrinkles better:

• Crepe: This textured fabric hides minor wrinkles and maintains its shape throughout the day.
• Jersey: A knit fabric that moves with you and rarely wrinkles.
• Wool-silk blends: Combine the breathability of natural fibers with better wrinkle resistance.

One savvy trick we’ve discovered: pack a small travel steamer like the Conair Travel Smart for destination summer weddings. It’s saved our outfits multiple times!

Men’s Summer Wedding Attire Essentials

Gentlemen, summer weddings don’t have to mean suffering in silence while sweat trickles down your back. We’ve compiled our best advice for staying cool without sacrificing style.

Lightweight Suit Options

The foundation of most men’s wedding attire is the suit, but summer calls for specific adaptations:

• Tropical wool suits: Despite the name, tropical wool is lightweight and breathable—perfect for maintaining formality while staying comfortable.
• Cotton or cotton-blend suits: More casual than wool but excellent for semi-formal summer events. Look for minimal structure and lining.
• Linen or linen-blend suits: The most casual and coolest option, ideal for beach or garden weddings. Expect some wrinkling throughout the day—it’s part of the charm!
• Seersucker: This classic Southern fabric features a puckered texture that keeps the material from sticking to your skin. Plus, the traditional blue and white stripe pattern is quintessentially summery.

Color-wise, lighter shades like tan, light gray, and pale blue reflect heat better than dark colors. We’ve noticed navy remains appropriate for most summer weddings while being slightly cooler than black.

Summer-Appropriate Tuxedos

For black-tie summer weddings, consider these adaptations:

• White dinner jacket with black trousers: This classic warm-weather formal option was popularized in tropical locales but is now acceptable at most summer formal events.
• Lightweight wool tuxedos: Opt for minimal lining and a summer-weight fabric.
• Ventless or side-vented jackets: These provide better air circulation than center-vented or ventless styles.

Our friend Mark wore a traditional heavy tuxedo to a June wedding last year and ended up having to leave early due to overheating. Don’t make his mistake!

Casual and Semi-Formal Options

For less formal summer celebrations:

• Blazer and trousers: A navy blazer with khaki, gray, or white trousers is versatile and appropriate for most semi-formal summer weddings.
• Dress shirt and trousers: For casual weddings, you might skip the jacket altogether and opt for a crisp button-down with well-tailored trousers.
• Guayabera: These traditional Latin American shirts are designed for heat and accepted as formal attire in many regions. They’re perfect for tropical destination weddings.

Accessory Choices for Men

Accessories can make or break your summer wedding outfit:

• Ties and bowties: Consider lightweight fabrics like linen, cotton, or summer-weight silk. Narrower ties are typically less stifling than wide ones.
• Pocket squares: Add a pop of color that complements (but doesn’t exactly match) your tie.
• Suspenders: Consider these instead of a belt for better ventilation and comfort during a long day.
• Watches and cufflinks: Keep jewelry minimal in hot weather—heavy metal accessories can become uncomfortable.

We think one of the best investments for summer wedding season is a set of collar stays like those from Wurkin Stiffs. They keep your collar looking sharp even as the day heats up.

Women’s Summer Wedding Outfit Ideas

Ladies, we know the struggle of finding that perfect summer wedding outfit that’s both gorgeous and practical. After years of trial and error (and yes, a few fashion disasters), we’ve got some solid advice to share.

Dress Styles for Hot Weather

The right dress can keep you cool while looking absolutely stunning:

• A-line silhouettes: These flattering shapes float away from the body, allowing for air circulation.
• Off-shoulder or strapless styles: Perfect for keeping cool while still looking elegant. Just remember to bring a lightweight wrap for air-conditioned venues!
• Halter or one-shoulder designs: These provide interesting necklines while exposing areas that help regulate body temperature.
• Backless options: A covered front with an open back offers the perfect balance of modesty and cooling.

I once wore a figure-hugging polyester dress to my cousin’s August wedding and spent the entire reception hiding my sweat marks. Learn from my mistake and choose breathable fabrics with forgiving silhouettes!

Jumpsuits and Separates

Don’t feel limited to dresses—these alternatives can be both practical and stylish:

• Wide-leg jumpsuits: These provide the elegance of a dress with the practicality of pants. Look for natural fabrics and minimal waist constriction.
• Skirt and top combinations: Mix and match separates allow for creative styling and can sometimes be more comfortable than one-piece options.
• Palazzo pants with a dressy top: This combination works well for beach weddings or more casual celebrations.

Color and Pattern Recommendations

Summer weddings are the perfect opportunity to embrace color:

• Pastels and soft tones: Light blues, lavenders, soft pinks, and mint greens reflect heat and look seasonally appropriate.
• Vibrant jewel tones: Emeralds, sapphires, and corals pop beautifully in summer lighting and photographs.
• Prints and patterns: Florals are a natural choice for summer, but don’t overlook elegant polka dots, subtle stripes, or even tropical prints for the right venue.

The only color to generally avoid? White or anything that could be mistaken for white (like very light beige or pale silver), which is traditionally reserved for the bride. We’ve witnessed the awkward moments when someone shows up in cream—don’t be that guest!

Length Considerations

The formality of the event and the venue should guide your hem length:

• Maxi dresses: Ideal for formal and semi-formal events, these provide coverage while still allowing for airflow.
• Midi dresses: Versatile and appropriate for most wedding scenarios, hitting at mid-calf.
• Knee-length: Perfect for cocktail attire and garden weddings.
• Tea-length: This retro-inspired length (between knee and ankle) is making a comeback and works well for various formality levels.

For beach weddings, we recommend considering a slightly shorter hem or a high-low style that won’t drag in the sand. Nothing ruins a beautiful outfit faster than a sand-soaked hemline!

Footwear Solutions for Outdoor Summer Weddings

We’ve learned the hard way that footwear can make or break your experience as a wedding guest—especially at outdoor summer celebrations.

Women’s Shoe Options

Balance style with practicality for various venues:

• Block heels: These distribute weight more evenly than stilettos, making them ideal for grassy surfaces. Stuart Weitzman offers beautiful options that won’t sink into soft ground.
• Wedges: The ultimate outdoor wedding shoe, providing height without the sinking issue. Plus, they’re typically more comfortable for long periods of standing.
• Fancy sandals: For casual to semi-formal weddings, elegant sandals with embellishments can be both comfortable and appropriate.
• Closed-toe options: For more formal affairs or if you’re concerned about dusty conditions, consider pointed-toe flats or low heels.

We still laugh about the time our friend Jen wore her favorite stilettos to a garden wedding and spent half the ceremony gradually sinking into the grass until she finally had to take them off completely!

Men’s Summer-Appropriate Footwear

Men have more limited options but can still make smart choices:

• Loafers: These slip-on shoes look elegant without the stuffiness of traditional oxfords. Cole Haan makes several with innovative cooling technology.
• Lightweight brogues: Look for perforated styles that provide better ventilation.
• Dress sandals: For very casual beach weddings, elegant leather sandals might be appropriate—but check the dress code first.
• Canvas options: Brands like Toms offer wedding-appropriate styles that breathe well in summer heat.

Alternative Footwear for Beach and Garden Settings

Some venues require specialized footwear solutions:

• Weddings on sand: Consider elegant flat sandals, espadrilles, or even going barefoot if the couple specifies a “barefoot beach wedding.”
• Grassy venues: Choose chunky heels, flats, or even elegant sneakers depending on the formality level.
• Stone or gravel pathways: Avoid thin heels entirely and opt for flats or wedges to prevent painful walking.

Comfort Features to Look For

Regardless of style, these features will help you stay comfortable throughout a long celebration:

• Padded insoles: These can make a world of difference during hours of standing and dancing.
• Breathable materials: Look for shoes with leather or fabric uppers rather than synthetic materials that trap heat.
• Proper sizing: Summer heat can cause feet to swell, so shoes with a bit of give or adjustable straps are ideal.
• Break-in time: Never wear brand new shoes to a wedding! We suggest wearing them around the house for at least a few hours before the big day.

One of our favorite tricks is to use Dr. Scholl’s Moleskin Padding on potential blister spots before the wedding. It’s saved us from painful dancing experiences more times than we can count!

Accessorizing Your Summer Wedding Look

The right accessories can elevate your summer wedding outfit while serving practical purposes too.

Heat-Friendly Jewelry Selections

Jewelry can become uncomfortable in hot weather if not chosen carefully:

• Lightweight earrings: Heavy earrings can become painful as the day progresses. Opt for lightweight statement pieces instead of heavy chandeliers.
• Minimal layering: While layered necklaces are trendy, they can become sticky and uncomfortable in high heat. Choose one statement piece instead.
• Heat-conducting metals: Be aware that metals conduct heat. Silver and platinum can actually feel cool against the skin, while some gold alloys retain heat.
• Alternative materials: Consider jewelry made from fabric, wood, or resin, which won’t heat up like metals.

We once wore a beautiful but heavy statement necklace to a July wedding, and by the reception, it felt like we were wearing a heated collar! Simple and lightweight is the way to go.

Practical and Stylish Headwear

Sun protection can be stylish with the right approach:

• Wide-brimmed hats: For outdoor daytime ceremonies, an elegant wide-brimmed hat provides shade while making a fashion statement. Just be mindful of not blocking others’ views during the ceremony!
• Fascinators: These decorative headpieces add flair without the full coverage of a hat. Etsy has beautiful handmade options.
• Dressy headbands: A sophisticated alternative that keeps hair off your neck while adding polish to your look.
• Hair accessories: Decorative clips or combs can serve the dual purpose of styling and keeping hair off your face and neck.

Bag Essentials for Summer Wedding Guests

Your choice of bag should balance style with practicality:

• Size considerations: Choose something large enough for essentials but not so big it becomes cumbersome.
• Clutches with wrist straps: These free your hands for greeting, eating, and dancing while keeping your belongings secure.
• Crossbody styles: For more casual weddings, a small elegant crossbody bag keeps your hands free all day.

What to pack in your wedding guest bag:

• Blotting papers or powder for shine control
• Mini deodorant or fragrance
• Lip product for touch-ups
• Small pack of tissues
• Cash for the bar if needed
• Wedding card for the couple

Layering Pieces for Temperature Changes

Summer weddings often involve moving between hot outdoor spaces and chilly air-conditioned interiors:

• Lightweight shawls or pashminas: These can be draped over shoulders when needed and folded into your bag when not.
• Formal cardigans: Look for thin, dressy options in silk blends or fine cotton.
• Stylish bolero jackets: These cropped jackets provide arm coverage without bulk.
• Linen blazers: For men, a lightweight blazer can be easily removed when temperatures rise.

We’ve found that Nordstrom usually has an excellent selection of wedding-appropriate wraps and cover-ups that don’t look frumpy or casual.

Dressing for Different Summer Wedding Venues

Each wedding venue presents unique challenges that smart guests will anticipate and dress for accordingly.

Beach Wedding Attire Considerations

Beach weddings have specific challenges including sand, wind, and intense sun:

• Fabric movement: Light fabrics that catch the breeze can create magical photos—or unfortunate wardrobe malfunctions. Consider the weight of your fabrics carefully.
• Sand-friendly hemlines: Floor-length dresses often become sand traps. Tea-length or slightly shorter options are more practical.
• Footwear solutions: Consider elegant sandals you can easily slip off, or look into specific beach wedding footwear options like beach wedding sandals.
• Sun protection: Remember that beaches typically offer no shade. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and consider outfits that cover shoulders.

We attended a stunning Maui wedding where the bride thoughtfully provided paper parasols for guests—a lifesaver for the 30-minute ceremony under direct sunlight!

Garden and Outdoor Venue Adaptations

Garden settings are romantic but come with their own challenges:

• Insect considerations: Unfortunately, floral perfumes can attract insects. Consider using unscented products on wedding day.
• Ground surface preparation: Grass, gravel, and stone pathways all affect your footwear choices. Research the venue ahead of time.
• Weather contingencies: Many garden venues have limited indoor space if weather turns. A lightweight, packable rain jacket might be worth carrying.
• Temperature fluctuations: Gardens can cool significantly after sunset. Layer accordingly!

Ballroom and Indoor Formal Summer Wedding Clothing

Indoor formal events have their own dress considerations:

• Air conditioning factors: Many venues overcompensate for summer heat with aggressive air conditioning. Always bring a wrap or jacket.
• Lighting considerations: Ballroom lighting is often more forgiving than harsh sunlight. This might influence your color and fabric choices.
• Traditional expectations: Indoor formal venues typically adhere more strictly to traditional dress codes than outdoor venues.

Destination Wedding Packing and Planning

Destination summer weddings require extra planning:

• Wrinkle management: Choose fabrics that travel well, and learn garment-rolling techniques to minimize creasing.
• Backup plans: Pack options for unexpected weather changes or activities.
• Local cultural considerations: Research local customs and weather patterns at your destination.
• Multi-event dressing: Many destination weddings include multiple events. Plan outfits that can be remixed with different accessories.

We’ve found that packing cubes like those from Eagle Creek are indispensable for keeping wedding attire organized and minimizing wrinkles during travel.

Weather-Ready Wedding Guest Strategies

Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate with wedding plans. Here’s how to prepare for various summer weather challenges.

Dealing with Humidity and Keeping Your Outfit Fresh

High humidity can be the enemy of both comfort and style:

• Antiperspirant application: Apply the night before as well as day-of for maximum effectiveness.
• Strategic layering: Choose moisture-wicking undergarments and breathable base layers.
• Hairstyle considerations: Work with your natural texture rather than fighting it. Humidity-resistant products like Living Proof can help.
• Makeup setting techniques: Primers, setting sprays, and waterproof formulations are your allies. We love Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray for summer events.

Sun Protection Tactics

Protect yourself while maintaining your wedding-appropriate look:

• Sophisticated sun coverage: Look for fashionable ways to cover up, like elbow-length sleeves or elegant wide-brimmed hats.
• High-SPF, non-greasy sunscreen: Apply generously before dressing and bring a face stick for touch-ups.
• Strategic seating: When given a choice, select seats in shaded areas for outdoor ceremonies.
• UV-protective accessories: Sunglasses with UV protection can be both stylish and practical if chosen carefully.

Preparing for Unexpected Summer Showers

Summer storms can appear without warning:

• Compact umbrella: Invest in a quality compact umbrella that fits in your bag. Repel makes windproof options that won’t flip inside out.
• Water-resistant outerwear: A lightweight, packable rain jacket can be a lifesaver.
• Shoe protection: Consider protective sprays for leather shoes or bring backup footwear if rain is likely.
• Quick-dry fabrics: Some modern fabrics are designed to dry quickly after light rain exposure.

Cooling Accessories and Practical Additions

Small additions to your outfit can make a big difference in comfort:

• Handheld fans: Folding fans can be elegant accessories that also provide relief from the heat. Paper fans from Luna Bazaar come in wedding-appropriate colors and patterns.
• Cooling towels: These specialized cloths can be discreetly used to cool down your neck and wrists during hot outdoor events.
• Portable stain removers: Products like Tide To Go can save your outfit from summer cocktail spills.
• Blotting papers: These absorb oil without disturbing makeup and are more elegant to use than tissues.

I’ll never forget attending my friend’s vineyard wedding where the thoughtful bride provided customized paper fans as both programs and cooling devices—genius for the 90-degree day!

Summer Wedding Attire Mistakes to Avoid

We’ve made (and seen) enough summer wedding fashion mistakes to know what not to do. Learn from our experiences!

Uncomfortable Fabric Choices

The biggest culprits that can ruin your wedding experience:

• Non-breathable synthetics: Polyester, nylon, and acrylic trap heat and moisture against your skin.
• Thick, heavy fabrics: Save the velvet, heavy brocade, and thick satin for winter celebrations.
• Dark colors that absorb heat: Black, navy, and dark brown absorb sunlight and heat up quickly in direct sun.
• Unlined light-colored fabrics: While light colors reflect heat, thin unlined options can become transparent when you perspire.

Style Faux Pas for Summer Weddings

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Overdone layers: Complex layering that works beautifully in cooler months can become uncomfortable and impractical in summer heat.
• Too-tight clothing: Allow for a bit more ease in summer attire, as heat can cause slight swelling and make tight clothes uncomfortable.
• Inappropriate footwear: High heels at beach weddings or open sandals at formal events are equally problematic.
• Forgetting about practical movement: Consider how you’ll sit, dance, and move in hot weather. That fitted pencil skirt might look great standing still but become restrictive when active.

Inappropriate Color Selections

Be mindful of these color considerations:

• White and off-white: Still generally considered off-limits unless specifically requested by the couple.
• Extremely bright neon: While summer allows for vibrant colors, eye-searing neon might draw attention away from the couple.
• Colors that show perspiration easily: Medium grays, some blues, and certain pastels can prominently display sweat marks.
• Cultural color considerations: In some cultures, colors like red (traditionally bridal in some Asian cultures) or black (associated with mourning in others) may be inappropriate.

Overdressing and Underdressing Pitfalls

Finding the right balance is key:

• Overly formal attire at casual venues: A full tuxedo at a beach barbecue wedding will leave you both uncomfortable and out of place.
• Too casual for formal settings: Sundresses without appropriate accessories might feel underdressed at a ballroom wedding.
• Ignoring the time of day: Daytime summer weddings typically call for lighter colors and less formal attire than evening celebrations.
• Regional expectations: What’s appropriate in Miami might differ from expectations in Boston or Seattle.

We once watched a guest arrive at a casual vineyard wedding in a floor-length sequined gown more appropriate for a New Year’s gala. She spent the entire day looking uncomfortable and overdressed—don’t make the same mistake!

Your Perfect Summer Wedding Look Awaits!

Navigating summer wedding attire doesn’t have to be stressful! By considering the venue, dress code, and forecasted weather, you can select an outfit that keeps you comfortable while looking perfectly appropriate for the celebration.

We’ve found that the most successful summer wedding guests prioritize both appearance and comfort. After all, you want to remember dancing the night away and celebrating the happy couple—not how your shoes pinched or how you couldn’t wait to escape the heat!

Remember that the best summer wedding guest attire balances style with practicality—choose breathable fabrics, consider the environment, and prepare for variable conditions. With these guidelines in mind, you’ll be ready to celebrate the happy couple while looking and feeling your absolute best!

Whether you’re attending a formal ballroom affair or a casual beach celebration, we hope this guide helps you navigate the sometimes confusing world of summer wedding attire. Here’s to beautiful celebrations, comfortable outfits, and wonderful memories that don’t include fashion regrets!

Have you found the perfect summer wedding outfit? Or do you have any questions about appropriate attire for an upcoming celebration? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear white to a summer wedding?

Generally, it’s best to avoid wearing white to any wedding unless specifically requested by the couple. This tradition holds true regardless of season, as white is traditionally reserved for the bride. This includes off-white, cream, and very light beige—basically anything that could be mistaken for white in photographs. When in doubt, choose another color from the many beautiful summer options available!

What’s the best fabric for a men’s suit at an outdoor summer wedding?

Linen, tropical wool, cotton, and lightweight seersucker are excellent choices that provide breathability while maintaining a polished appearance. We particularly recommend tropical weight wool (7-9 oz) for more formal events as it resists wrinkles better than linen while still providing excellent breathability. For more casual summer weddings, cotton and linen blends offer a nice balance between comfort and structure.

How can I stay cool in formal attire at a summer wedding?

Choose natural fibers, opt for lighter colors that reflect heat, consider appropriate cuts that allow air circulation, and bring discrete items like a handheld fan or cooling towel. We also recommend wearing moisture-wicking undergarments, minimizing layers, and staying hydrated throughout the event. Remember that alcohol can increase your body temperature, so alternate with water if it’s particularly hot!

Are sleeveless dresses appropriate for formal summer weddings?

Yes, sleeveless dresses are perfectly appropriate for formal summer weddings. Consider bringing a lightweight wrap or pashmina for air-conditioned indoor spaces or evening temperature drops. Sleeveless styles with high necklines or interesting structural elements can look particularly elegant and wedding-appropriate while keeping you cool.

What shoes work best for a beach summer wedding?

For a beach wedding, consider elegant sandals, espadrilles, or wedges that won’t sink into the sand. Men might opt for loafers or clean canvas shoes without socks. We’ve also seen beautiful options where couples provide a “shoe check” at the ceremony entrance, allowing guests to go barefoot on the sand without worrying about where to store their footwear.

How should I adapt my summer wedding attire for an evening ceremony?

Bring a lightweight jacket, wrap, or shawl as temperatures may drop. Consider slightly more formal fabric choices and perhaps darker colors than you would for a daytime event. Evening ceremonies, even in summer, typically call for slightly more formal attire than daytime events. Metallic accessories and slightly more dramatic makeup can help transition a look from day to evening.