Attending a beach wedding is a wonderful experience, but when it comes to selecting the right outfit, things can get a bit tricky. The natural beauty of the beach, the laid-back atmosphere, and the warm weather all play a role in determining what to wear. You want to look stylish and comfortable without overshadowing the bride and groom or feeling too hot in the sun.
In this article, we’ll explore eight perfect outfits for guests attending a beach wedding, including both men’s and women’s options. We’ll dive deep into each outfit’s benefits, features, and offer product recommendations, including where to buy them, how much they cost, and the best ways to style them for the big day.
Top 8 Perfect Beach Wedding Outfits for Guests
1. Breezy Sundress for Women
A classic choice for a beach wedding, a breezy sundress is a stylish and comfortable option for women. Opt for a light, flowing dress in a fun color or floral pattern that will complement the beach’s natural surroundings.
Benefits:
- Perfect for warm weather and beach environments.
- Flattering and easy to move in.
- Available in a variety of lengths, from midi to maxi, to suit different tastes.
Where to Buy: Shop for high-quality sundresses from Anthropologie or Lulus.
Use Case:
A sundress is perfect for casual or semi-formal beach weddings where you want to stay cool and look chic without sacrificing comfort.
2. Linen Blazer and Trousers for Men
A linen blazer paired with linen trousers is an excellent choice for a refined but relaxed look for a beach wedding. Linen is a breathable fabric, which makes it ideal for the warm weather and coastal breeze.
Benefits:
- Linen keeps you cool, even in hot and humid conditions.
- The look is sophisticated, making it great for semi-formal or dressy casual weddings.
- Lightweight and breathable, ensuring comfort throughout the event.
Where to Buy: Check out Banana Republic or J. Crew for stylish linen suits.
Use Case:
This outfit works well for formal or semi-formal beach weddings where you want to dress up but still embrace the casual vibe of the beach.
3. Maxi Dress for Women
A flowing maxi dress offers elegance and comfort for a beach wedding. Its long, graceful silhouette is perfect for evening beach weddings or when you want to dress up while staying cool.
Benefits:
- Elegant, yet comfortable for outdoor settings.
- Can be dressed up with accessories like jewelry or heels.
- Works for both daytime and evening weddings.
Where to Buy: Look for maxi dresses at Nordstrom or ASOS.
Use Case:
Maxi dresses are ideal for beach weddings with a formal dress code, particularly those held later in the day when the temperature starts to drop.
4. Cotton Shirt and Khaki Shorts for Men
For a more casual beach wedding, a crisp cotton shirt paired with khaki shorts is an easy-going and comfortable choice. You can style the shirt with rolled-up sleeves and add a tie for a slightly more polished look.
Benefits:
- Light and breathable fabric, perfect for hot weather.
- Comfortable and versatile for casual beach settings.
- Easy to mix and match with different accessories, like hats or sunglasses.
Where to Buy: Find great options at H&M or Uniqlo.
Use Case:
Best for laid-back or beachy weddings where the dress code is casual or smart-casual. It’s a great choice for beach ceremonies or daytime receptions.
5. Off-Shoulder Dress for Women
An off-shoulder dress is a trendy yet timeless option for beach weddings. It adds an element of sophistication and sexiness while keeping you cool in the summer heat.
Benefits:
- Elegant and flattering neckline.
- Perfect for tropical or destination weddings.
- Can be accessorized with sun hats or chic jewelry.
Where to Buy: Shop for off-shoulder dresses at Revolve or Forever 21.
Use Case:
Ideal for destination beach weddings, this dress adds a touch of glamour while still being relaxed enough for the beach setting.
6. Bohemian-Inspired Dress for Women
For a more relaxed, boho vibe, a bohemian-inspired dress is a fantastic choice. These dresses often feature flowy silhouettes, unique prints, and intricate lace or crochet details.
Benefits:
- Boho styles offer a unique, earthy look that works perfectly at a beach wedding.
- Light, airy fabrics help you stay comfortable while looking stylish.
- Easy to move in, making them ideal for an outdoor setting.
Where to Buy: Explore bohemian dresses at Free People or Reformation.
Use Case:
Perfect for beach weddings with a relaxed, free-spirited vibe, especially if the couple has a more bohemian wedding style.
7. Casual Button-Up Shirt and Chinos for Men
A button-up shirt paired with chinos is an excellent casual option for a beach wedding. You can choose a lightweight fabric like cotton or seersucker, which is breathable and stylish for the beach setting.
Benefits:
- Casual yet refined look that suits both day and evening weddings.
- Breathable and comfortable fabrics ensure you stay cool and stylish.
- Versatile and easy to accessorize with belts, shoes, and sunglasses.
Where to Buy: Purchase button-up shirts and chinos at Mango or Zara.
Use Case:
This look works well for informal or beach parties where a smart-casual dress code is required.
8. Flip Flops or Espadrilles for Men and Women
Footwear is an important part of any beach wedding attire, and for a beach wedding, flip flops or espadrilles are a perfect choice. These casual yet stylish shoes will keep you comfortable on the sand while still looking appropriate.
Benefits:
- Comfortable and practical for walking on the sand.
- Versatile enough to be worn with almost any beach outfit.
- Available in a variety of styles, from simple flip flops to dressy espadrilles.
Where to Buy: Shop for flip flops and espadrilles at Birkenstock or Soludos.
Use Case:
Ideal for a laid-back beach wedding where you want to remain comfortable and stylish while walking on the sand.
Comparison Table of Beach Wedding Outfits
| Product Name | Use Case | Pros | Cons | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropologie Sundress | Casual Beach Weddings | Lightweight, feminine, versatile | Can be too informal for formal events | $70-$150 | Available in multiple colors and patterns, flattering fit |
| J. Crew Linen Suit | Semi-Formal Beach Weddings | Breathable, comfortable, sophisticated | Needs ironing | $250-$500 | Linen fabric, tailored fit, perfect for hot weather |
| Revolve Off-Shoulder Dress | Destination Weddings | Elegant and trendy, flattering | Expensive | $150-$300 | Off-shoulder design, tropical-friendly fabrics |
| H&M Casual Button-Up Shirt | Casual or Smart-Casual Beach Weddings | Stylish, versatile, affordable | Might not be formal enough for some weddings | $25-$50 | Easy-care cotton, button-up design, various colors available |
| Soludos Espadrilles | Beach Wedding Footwear | Comfortable, stylish, casual | Limited styles for men | $50-$100 | Canvas and leather materials, breathable and easy to wear |
How to Buy Beach Wedding Outfits
When shopping for beach wedding outfits, there are a variety of options available online. Simply click the links above to explore each retailer’s collection, check out different styles, and choose the outfit that best suits your needs. You can find beach wedding attire that fits any budget, from casual looks to semi-formal styles.
FAQs
1. What should I wear to a beach wedding as a guest?
For a beach wedding, opt for lightweight fabrics like linen, cotton, and breezy dresses. Choose comfortable, stylish footwear such as sandals or espadrilles.
2. Can I wear flip flops to a beach wedding?
Flip flops are acceptable at casual beach weddings, but if the wedding is more formal, you might want to go for espadrilles or dressier sandals.
3. What type of dress is appropriate for a beach wedding?
Maxi dresses, sundresses, or bohemian-inspired styles work great for beach weddings. Choose lightweight, airy fabrics for comfort and style.
4. Are linen suits suitable for beach weddings?
Yes, linen suits are a fantastic choice for beach weddings as they are breathable and keep you cool in warm weather while still looking sophisticated.
5. How can I ensure comfort at a beach wedding?
Choose lightweight clothing and breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or chiffon. Avoid heavy shoes and opt for footwear like espadrilles or sandals to keep comfortable on the sand.
By following this guide, you’ll be able to find the perfect beach wedding attire that’s stylish, comfortable, and appropriate for the occasion. Whether you’re looking for a flowing dress or a lightweight suit, we’ve provided options that will keep you cool and fashionable on the big day.
