Sharing exactly what to wear for a destination wedding so you can be the best dressed guest!
Heading to a destination wedding this year? Lucky you! There are so many amazing places around the world to tie the knot from the Caribbean to Europe! Destination weddings have become increasingly popular and I can see why. There’s nothing better than gathering your closest family and friends somewhere special for the trip of a lifetime. I was lucky enough to attend a wedding in the remote mountains of Greece last year and it was truly unforgettable.
But, what to wear for a destination wedding? There are so many things to consider depending on the location. Read on for all of my helpful tips so you can be the best dressed wedding guest!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- What to Wear for a Beach Destination Wedding
- Cute Dresses for a Beach Wedding
- Cute Shoes to Wear for a beach wedding
- What to Wear for a Destination Wedding in Europe
- Beautiful Dresses for a European Wedding
- Cute Shoes to Wear for A Destination Wedding
- Purses for Destination Weddings
- Accessories for a Destination Wedding
- Destination Weddings FAQ
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What to Wear for a Beach Destination Wedding
First up, let’s talk about tropical beach weddings. Maybe you are heading to Mexico, Hawaii, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, or even Florida! There are a few things you want to consider when deciding on your wedding guest outfit.
#1: What does the invite say? Common dress codes for beach weddings say things like: tropical elegant, beach chic attire, beach casual, or beach formal. It’s kind of vague if you ask me. I went to a wedding out West once and it said “rocky mountain chic” – I LOVED the term, but we were all a little unsure.
#2: Where is the venue? Is it literally on the sand or at a resort, beachside venue, etc? Use google maps to scope out the scene.
#3: What time is the wedding? Typically weddings after 6pm are more formal and earlier in the day leans cocktail attire. At a beach wedding, you can get away with a lot more!
For a beach destination wedding, plan to wear comfortable fabrics that won’t show too much sweat (incase it’s hot), flowy materials, and go for bright colors and bold prints. It’s supposed to be fun and you’re outfit should reflect the vibe. Think cotton, linen, chiffon, etc. Plus, your photos will really pop against the sand and sea! If it says “formal” assume they want people in longer dresses. If it mentions casual or cocktail attire, mini or midi length should work great.
Cute Dresses for a Beach Wedding
Here are some cute dresses to wear at a beach wedding whether casual or more elegant. Some of these would even work great for the welcome party, too!
CLICK ANY OF THE IMAGES TO SHOP!
Love a midi dress for a beach wedding guest outfit – the perfect length to not drag the floor, but also not get blown around if it’s breezy by the ocean.
Dresses for a Beach Wedding in the Winter Months (December, January, or February)
I would go for something with long sleeves for a winter beach wedding so you don’t have to keep up with a wrap or coat.Ā These are also perfect options for fall wedding guest dresses depending on the locale!
Cute Shoes for a Beach Wedding
Wondering what shoes to wear to a beach wedding? If it is on the sand, you absolutely need a wedge or block heel that isn’t too high. You may even want to wear sandals for a beach ceremony, then change if the reception is on harder ground. Here’s some options either way!
What to Wear for a Destination Wedding in Europe
However, if you are heading to a destination wedding in Europe the vibe might be a bit different depending on where. Is it a castle in Ireland? A vineyard in Tuscany, Italy? The Greek Isles? Or maybe on a mountain in Switzerland? Wherever it is, it will likely be a bit more formal than a tropical wedding (unless itās at a beach or island). Again, you want to consider the invite attire, timing and the venue.
For this event, I would go with more luxe fabrics like silk, satin, crepe, and chiffon so you look super glamorous! And choose colors that are more elegant like solids or softer patterns like a simple floral.
Beautiful Dresses for a European Wedding
Love all of these chic options for a destination wedding in Europe.
Cute Shoes to Wear for A Destination Wedding
I think you should go for it with really trendy shoes in Europe.
Purses for Destination Weddings
Next, you will want to have a cute purse or clutch to pair with your look. It should be large enough for a few basics like phone, lipstick, and hair brush! Here are a few that I am loving to compliment any look.
Tropical beach wedding purses
You can definitely go with a pop of color or tropical style here.
Formal clutches for a destination wedding
These are the perfect elegant compliment to your looks.
Accessories and Jewelry for a Destination Wedding
Lastly, complete your look with some gorgeous jewelry. Go more classic for Europe and more vibrant for a tropical wedding!
What Should Men Wear to a Destination Wedding?
Why do men always have it so much easier? For the guys, I think a casual suit would be appropriate for almost any beach wedding unless it says black tie or otherwise. A linen suit would be perfect wedding guest material for men. They can even play around with a printed shirt at a beach wedding.
If you are ever in doubt, donāt be afraid to ask the bride how she envisions her guests dressed. Sheāll be happy to clarify for you!
Now, you are all set on what to wear for a destination wedding! Get ready for the outfit compliments to roll in!š
FAQ for Destination Wedding Guests
Finally, I am answering all of your questions about destination weddings, but please ask any others in the comments or DM me on instagram @lindseycalhoun_
Female wedding guests should wear a dress, jumpsuit, or two piece set depending on the invitation. Weddings after 6pm are usually black tie meaning you need a floor length gown. Weddings early in the afternoon are more casual so you could wear a cocktail or midi dress.Ā
Guests of a beach wedding should wear summery dresses in vibrant colors and patterns. If the wedding is physically on the beach, plan your shoes accordingly and opt for sandals or low wedge.Ā
Destination weddings are like any other wedding. Consider the invite dress code, the timing, and the venue to determine the proper attire. Guests should wear dresses or jumpsuits depending on how formal or casual.Ā
There are a few colors that guests should avoid wearing to a wedding. Number one, do not wear white, ivory, or cream. That color is reserved for the bride although some do choose it for the bridal party as well. I would also try to find out her color palette so you donāt wear the same color as the bridesmaids. You can usually tell this by her wedding invites, wedding website, or by asking a bridesmaid.Ā
Not at all. Black is a timeless color and is completely fine to wear to a wedding in 2023! If itās a tropical wedding, you may want to avoid dark colors, but it is up to you.Ā
Yes, you absolutely wear shoes at any wedding unless they explicitly say otherwise. Shoes are a tough decision for a beach wedding. If it is literally on the beach, wear sandals or a low wedge so you donāt look silly. You can always change for the reception if it will be on harder ground.Ā
While you are spending a lot of money to attend a destination wedding, you are still expected to send a gift to the couple. Proper etiquette suggests that every wedding invitation comes with the obligation to send a gift, even if you do not attend. It is okay to opt for a budget-friendly gift or something handmade for destination weddings. If the invite says āno giftsā and there is not a registry, it is okay to take them at their word.
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