A beach wedding is a picturesque setting for couples looking for a unique and alternative spin on their nuptials. However, it can also lead to a conundrum in what to wear as a guest. Of course, you want to look fabulous for the happy couple’s special day, but the hot sun, ocean breeze, and sandy terrain can present a challenge in dress code. This article will guide you through what to wear for a beach casual wedding, taking into account comfort, style, and practicality, to ensure you look (and feel) your best on the big day.
Women’s Attire
When it comes to women’s beach wedding attire, the goal is to be comfortable, chic, and not too overdone. The ideal outfit can be a simple yet elegant sundress, designed to keep you cool while looking stylish. A breathable cotton or linen fabric is ideal to combat the heat and humidity. Look for dresses that are loose-fitting, with a light and airy feel, and steer clear of heavy materials such as velvet or bulky embellishments that can prove too cumbersome for the beach.
A maxi dress or a flowy beach dress can also be the perfect choice. To add some style, try wearing a bold pattern or bright colors. Dressy sandals are appropriate, but avoid typical beach flip-flops. Instead, opt for a pair of strappy sandals or espadrilles for a chic but comfortable look.
Another excellent option is a romper or jumpsuit, which is both playful and functional. With this outfit, one can dance the night away, and the playful style is a perfect fit for a beach wedding. A jumpsuit in a classic black, navy, or bold print emanates refinement while a romper in pastel or floral shades exudes a carefree vibe.
Men’s Attire
Men can get away with dressing somewhat more casually for a beach wedding, but it is still essential to look polished and put together. A short-sleeved, button-down shirt like a polo shirt or Henley shirt, paired with comfortable dress shorts chinos, or even lightweight trousers, is an excellent option for comfort and style. You have a host of color options to play with, but it is safest to go with muted palettes, such as white, beige, navy, or light blue.
You can add a little playfulness with patterns such as stripes, floral or tropical prints, or checks, while still maintaining an overall classy look. Footwear is also a crucial element to get right for men’s beach wedding attire. While beach sandals or flip-flops may seem appropriate, they don’t project a respectable image at a formal(ish) event. Instead, opt for chic leather loafers or boat shoes for a smart and timeless look.
Accessories
Accessories are the perfect way to complete your outfit while adding styles and personality to your look. Women can jazz up their outfits with statement jewelry, such as bold beaded necklaces, chandelier earrings, and stacking bracelets. To accessorize, you can also add a lightweight scarf, hat, or sunglasses to complete your beach chic look.
For men, hats are a stylish and practical accessory for the beach wedding. A classic Panama hat or wide-brimmed fedora complements a smart-casual outfit while offering protection from the sun. If you happen to need a tie, consider a bow tie in a fun, cheeky print.
What Not To Wear
To avoid a potential fashion faux pas, there are a few things you should avoid when dressing for a beach wedding. First of all, leave the high heels at home! It’s likely that the sandy terrain will make it hard to walk in sophisticated stilettos or pumps, and you’ll end up sinking into the sand. Secondly, avoid anything too tight or clingy as the beach vent and humidity cause discomfort.
You should also avoid white as a color as a general rule for wedding attire because that’s reserved for the bride. You don’t want to upstage her on her big day. Lastly, avoid anything that’s too revealing or too sheer, such as cut-offs, crop tops, or beachwear.
Conclusion
Choosing what to wear to a beach wedding can present some tricky decisions as the goal is to strike a balance between comfort, style, and practicality. A beautiful dress or chic jumpsuit works well for most women, and dress shorts or a casual button-up shirt paired is acceptable for men. Accessorize with statement jewelry, hats, or sunglasses to complete your look, and remember to avoid anything too tight, revealing, or casual. With these tips, you can attend the perfect beach wedding and leave a lasting impression on the newlyweds.
FAQ
What is coastal casual attire?
Coastal casual attire is a dress code that is often requested for a wide range of events and occasions. It is also sometimes referred to as “beach chic” attire. This dress code is a combination of relaxed and preppy styles that is appropriate for events that take place in coastal areas, such as beach weddings, outdoor parties, and seaside dinners.
When it comes to coastal casual attire, there are no hard and fast rules to follow. However, there are a few style tips that can help you create a look that is both appropriate and stylish. One of the most important things to keep in mind when dressing for this dress code is to choose fabrics that are lightweight and breathable. This is especially important in coastal areas, where the weather can be hot and humid.
In terms of colors and patterns, coastal casual attire typically calls for bright and vibrant hues that are reminiscent of the ocean and the beach. Think shades of blue, green, coral, and pink. While prints and patterns are certainly welcome, it is generally best to avoid overly busy designs in favor of simpler and more classic looks.
When it comes to footwear, sandals are a perfect choice for this dress code. Flat or low-heeled sandals in neutral colors are a great option for more casual events, while dressier sandals with embellishments or metallic details can be worn for more formal occasions.
Coastal casual attire is a fun and versatile dress code that allows for a range of style options. Whether you prefer a more casual and laid-back look or something a bit more dressed up, there are plenty of ways to create a coastal-inspired outfit that is perfect for your next seaside event.
What is the best fabric for a beach wedding guest dress?
When attending a beach wedding, it’s essential to select the right fabric, not only to stay comfortable throughout the event, but also to match the formality of the occasion. Lightweight fabrics that complement the beach environment are perfect for beach weddings. These include materials such as linen, cotton, chiffon, lace, and organza, which all suit the beach theme and can be used to create both casual and formal beach wedding guest dresses.
Linen is an excellent choice for beach wedding attire due to its light and breathable properties. It’s perfect for those hot or humid beach days, as it allows air to circulate and keep you fresh. Linen fabric drapes perfectly, giving it a naturally elegant look that’s perfect for a beach wedding. Its rustic texture also offers a beach-inspired mood, setting the tone for a casual or semi-formal event.
Cotton is another great fabric for beach wedding guest dresses as it is breathable and comfortable. It allows air to circulate, and it’s great for those who tend to sweat or get hot easily. Cotton is versatile and can be used to create both casual and formal beach wedding guest dresses, depending on the style and design.
Chiffon is a lightweight and flowy fabric that’s perfect for beach weddings. Its translucent nature gives it a romantic, ethereal feeling that best suits a formal beach wedding. Chiffon dresses also look stunning in the wind, adding an extra touch of elegance to the dress.
Lace is an elegant and romantic fabric that’s perfect for a beach wedding guest dress. It brings a timeless feel to the outfit and looks stunning in a variety of colors. Lace dresses are versatile, and the intricate designs add a touch of sophistication and beauty that complements the beach setting.
Organza is a sheer, lightweight fabric that’s perfect for formal beach wedding guest dresses. It has a translucent appearance and looks beautiful when layered over other fabrics or used as an overlay. Organza is also versatile and can work in many different styles, making it an excellent choice for beach weddings.
There are many fabrics available for beach wedding guest dresses, but the best ones are light, breathable, and comfortable. When selecting a fabric for a beach wedding guest dress, it’s essential to choose one that matches the theme and formality of the event while still being comfortable enough to enjoy the beautiful beach setting. Linen, cotton, chiffon, lace, and organza are all great choices that can create both casual and formal looks suitable for a beach wedding.