For a September afternoon, you might be wondering what to wear to an afternoon wedding. The best thing to remember is that the dress code for this type of event is casual. This means that wearing jeans and a t-shirt would be perfectly acceptable, but if you want to look like a refined professional and impress everyone there, you’ll probably want to wear something a little more formal. If you’re going for the casual look, try wearing a nice pair of slacks or khakis with a nice button-down shirt and some loafers or boat shoes. If you’re going for something more formal, try pairing all of those same items with a blazer over them instead of just a shirt alone.

What to Wear to an Afternoon Wedding in September

September is a great time to get married. The weather is just right, the leaves are starting to change, and you can wear all the fun fall colors without worrying about freezing your tush off.

But what do you wear to an afternoon wedding in September? There are so many options! That’s why we’ve put together this guide on what to wear to an afternoon wedding in September.

September is a great time for an afternoon wedding. There’s still plenty of warm weather, and you don’t have to worry about sweating through your suit or dress.

But what should you wear? [company name] has the answer!

It’s almost September, and we’re getting excited for the cooler weather.

The best part about fall is getting to wear cozy sweaters and boots, but we also love the fashion opportunities that come with September weddings. Whether you’re in a big city or a small town, there are plenty of adorable, fun options for your wedding attire this September.

So what are some trends to look out for? We’ve got you covered with our list of the top 5 things to wear this September!

Fall is here, and that means it’s wedding season!

We know you’ve got the perfect dress picked out for you and your date, but what about the rest of your look? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ll cover everything from what to wear when the sun sets (even if it’s still 80 degrees outside) to how to keep your makeup looking fresh all day long. We’ll also give you some tips on how to deal with sweat and humidity without ruining your hair.

A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and you want to look like the best version of yourself. But it’s hard to know what that means!

If you’re like most people, you probably haven’t been to many weddings. And if you have, your vision for what’s appropriate probably comes from watching other people who look nothing like you. That’s why we created this guide: to give you some guidance on what to wear so that when you show up at a wedding, you can feel comfortable, confident, and ready to make it an awesome day for everyone involved.

There are only a few things more important than a wedding, and one of them is your outfit.

Weddings are an opportunity to shine—which is why it’s so important to get it right.

It’s not just about looking great, though. Your dress can be a statement about what you stand for, who you are as a person, or even what you want your future to look like. It’s like wearing a billboard on your chest (or back).

So how do you make sure that billboard is as effective as possible? By doing some research and making smart decisions!

For the daytime wedding, think dressy or semi-formal attire. This is the time to wear a nice colorful dress or suit. Wear pumps or dressy flats. If this is for a summer or late spring wedding, you may wear nice sandals but never flip flops, unless it’s an ultra-casual beach wedding.

WEDDING GUEST ATTIRE GUIDELINES
A visual guide of what to wear to every kind of wedding!

WHAT TO WEAR TO A WEDDING
Wedding guest attire guidelines can be tricky, but we’ll decode the dress codes for what to wear to a casual wedding, a beach wedding, a semi-formal wedding, and the most formal events.

When your next wedding invitation arrives, guests typically get all the details of who, when, and where – but the specifics of the other “w”s–namely, what to wear to a wedding are sometimes left for guests to interpret between the lines.

wedding guest attire guidelines dress codes

Links to details product sources for the individual collages created by Dress for the Wedding Beach Chic: Outfit for an Outdoor Summer Wedding | Daytime: Pretty Yellow Printed Dress | Cocktail: Sequin Cocktail Dress for a Wedding Guest | Black Tie: What to Wear to a Fall Black Tie Wedding | | Formal: High Low Ball Gown | Destination: Blue Strapless Dress for a Wedding Guest | Afternoon: Coral Lace Dress | Rustic: Cold Shoulder Floral Maxi Dress

WHY FOLLOW THE WEDDING DRESS CODE?
It is a sign of respect for the couple and the event to get dressed up for a wedding, and your attire should always be respectful, conservative, and appropriate. But keep in mind, the rules of etiquette were designed to help one feel more at ease and comfortable in all social situations. So simply remember your cheerful presence at the wedding is what counts here, and you’re likely to have a good time no matter what you decide to wear.

WEDDING GUEST ATTIRE GUIDELINES FOR ANY TYPE OF WEDDING
BEFORE 4 PM
In general, daytime weddings are more casual, so lighter fabrics, festive colors, and less-formal attire is the rule.

For women, a nice daytime dress, skirt, top, or jumpsuit are good choices.

For men, a well-tailored suit in a mid-to-dark neutral color like gray, blue, or charcoal is appropriate.

AFTER 4 PM
In the case of evening weddings, more formal styles, longer dresses, and gowns special occasion fabrics are appropriate for women

Men should wear darker suits in navy, black, gray.

Although sometimes a white dinner jacket or suit in a fun color can work too! We go into deep detail in our wedding attire style boards

Above all, the wearer should also always chose something that fits with one’s own personal style as well as the requested dress code.

WHAT NEVER TO WEAR TO A WEDDING
JEANS, HATS, NON-COLLARED SHIRTS
The standard rules of being well-dressed for a wedding still apply, so just like a restaurant or private club, the warning of ripped jeans, baseball hats, and non-collared shirts aren’t appropriate –unless it’s at the request of the couple that you dress down. (You may be asking, do people really wear that? But I have been to weddings where I have seen all of these things recently so I have edited this post just to address this!)

WHITE OR OFF-WHITE
Please don’t wear white or off-white dresses or anything that could perhaps photograph as white. Head- to-toe white suits or jumpsuits are also off-limits, too. Pale pastels like the palest blues, greens, yellows, grays, nudes, and blushes all have a tendency to look lighter than they are in photos. A white wrap or sweater to throw on if you get chilly is generally fine, especially if it’s after the ceremony. Prints with some white elements are ok but just be sure the colors are much more predominant than any white background. We wrote a whole post about wearing white to a wedding, but we’re sure you get it — please, just don’t!

ANYTHING TOO REVEALING OR TOO SHORT
And of course, don’t wear anything too short or revealing, and don’t look unkempt or wrinkled. If you have to fight with your outfit to keep parts of your body you’d rather not show, it might not be the right choice.

ANYTHING TOO FORMAL OR GLAMOUROUS FOR THE REQUESTED DRESS CODE
This means, that if it’s a casual outdoor wedding, it’s not the time to break out your favorite super glam sequin maxi dress or the tux you still have from your own wedding. You never want to outshine the couple. Try to read the tone of the invitation to get a glimpse into the style of the wedding.

THE WEDDING PARTY COLORS AND STYLES
It’s sometimes hard to know this, but sometimes you can guess at a potential color scheme from the invitation and other elements. It’s not the end of the world, but it can be awkward if you’re wearing exactly the same outfit as the wedding party. For instance if you wear a suit like the groomsmen and the same color tie – you will probably get mistaken as one of the gang. For women, we think it’s really hard to completely avoid most bridesmaid dress colors because popular colors blue, pink, and green make great colors for wedding guest dresses too. However, if you know for sure what the color scheme is or what style of dress the bridesmaids are wearing, try to avoid coming too close to that style and color with your own attire.

HEAD TO TOE BLACK, (BUT NOT FOR THE REASON YOU THINK!)
It’s more than ok to wear a black dress to a wedding in my book, in fact, it’s pretty common! However, dressing in a non-festive black outfit–for instance, a very simple work-type black sheath dress or a black shirt and pants is a bad idea. Why? Because usually, a tasteful all-black outfit is the uniform of choice for the catering staff, photographers, DJ, and other vendors who are working the event. You don’t want to have to spend the reception explaining you’re a guest – so add a little bit of color and sparkle to your outfit.

RED – IN SOME CASES
We think burgundy and berry reds are perfect and very tasteful colors to wear to a wedding. However, some of the more fiery red dresses with a hot orange hue to them can be a little attention-grabbing, especially if the dress or suit itself makes a huge statement with its general silhouette. We still love them and even recommend some of them in our posts, but in some cultural areas of the US, and perhaps some couples see a red dress as a no-no. We leave this to your judgment on your personal feeling on whether red would be festive or offensive in your own situation. Here are more details on red dresses you can wear to a wedding!

Even after those general wedding guest attire guidelines, there can still be many gray areas. We’ll go into much more detail about wedding dress codes below!

Affiliate links are used in the shop sections of this post.

Quickly find attire for your next wedding by dress code, or read below for the guidelines of what to wear!

Dressy Casual Semi Formal Formal or Black Tie

Winter Summer Spring Fall

Daytime Afternoon Evening Semi Formal Evening Formal

WHAT TO WEAR TO A DAYTIME WEDDING
If both the wedding ceremony and reception will start and end before 5, it’s a daytime wedding! Morning or early afternoon weddings are usually slightly more casual. (But if your invite still requests formal attire, then certainly defer to that! )

In general, lighter colors and more casual styles and fabrics like floral prints, soft chiffons, and even cotton will work for daytime casual or dressy casual weddings. Here’s a bit more decoding the daytime dress code.

WHAT IS CASUAL WEDDING ATTIRE?
While this type of dressing sounds the most relaxed, it can also be the most open-ended, and, therefore, sometimes the most mystifying! The venue may help you better determine the best level of formality –or lack thereof. Usually, this casual style is reserved for a morning or daytime wedding in an outdoor or informal venue.

For Women: A skirt and top or nice pants with a pretty top, and a casual sundress or casual cocktail would certainly be appropriate.

For Men: If it’s a very casual event, just a nice collared or button-down shirt in a short or long sleeve, worn with a tie, and some dress pants might suffice. However, unless it’s a casual outdoor wedding or a beach wedding, usually a little more formality is good. If you’re sure it’s casual enough that a full suit isn’t required, try a navy or subtly patterned blazer and dress pants with a crisp collared shirt with no tie, or if you forgo that tie, vest, and shirt can work. After all, it’s a wedding, and still calls for a little more formality. So err on the side of being overdressed; it’s easy enough to take off the tie or blazer if you feel like you’ve gone overboard.

For the Feet: Heeled or structured sandals (not flip-flops) for footwear for women are fine, and dress shoe like a loafer or similar style would be nice for men. Sneakers or sneaker-like shoes should be avoided.

What not to wear: jeans, tank tops, t-shirts, stretchy pants, cargo shorts, flip-flops, and athletic clothing would still be a poor choice, unless specifically approved.

It is almost always better to err slightly on the side of being overdressed, so dress as you would for meeting with clients in a business casual setting. And, if you accidentally go dressed too casually, as long as you have a smile on and your best manners, you’ll probably be just fine. Find a casual wedding look, and check out The Wedding Guest Boutique


BEACH WEDDING ATTIRE (CASUAL AND FORMAL)
This style of wedding sounds soothing and peaceful at first, but can be very intimidating to dress for. Again, let the venue, weather, season, and time of day be your guide. Are you headed to the local State Beach at sunset for an informal exchange of vows, or are you going to be at a four-star hotel’s private beach club, with elegant cabanas and white-gloved waiters surrounding you?

If it’s the former, wearing approximately the same thing as a casual wedding – but with a beachy twist and beach-appropriate fabrics should be fine.

Women can also wear a beachy look with a linen or cotton shirt and nice pants, or a pretty, light, flowy skirt, tunic dress, or casual sundress.

Men can wear a festive linen shirt, a cotton short-sleeved shirt or button-down, or a tasteful tropical printed shirt. I’d pair this with dress pants in linen, cotton, or twill, or – if you have the knees, socks, and courage for it– Bermuda shorts.

If it’s a more formal venue, women can wear a sundress, a casual maxi dress, or beachy-but-elegant skirt and top, and make the look a little bit dressier with some dazzling accessories.

At a more formal beach affair, men’s shirts should be of elegant linen or crisp cotton. A summer suit or sport coat in madras or seersucker or linen would fit well here. A tie is not required, but some of the lovely preppy or beachy print ties would certainly look wonderful, just be sure to wear them with a shirt with a full-length sleeve.

Because of the sand, you’ll want to wear flat shoes with some grip in case there’s a slippery rock step or two for you to navigate. Or, be prepared to swap out your heels for some flip flops, and then change back if you find yourself on solid ground again.
Find attire for a beach wedding guest, or check out The Wedding Guest Boutique
This designation is a bit of a contradiction but if you combine elements that are a little bit dressy with casual you should be just fine.

For instance, a cotton dress in a formal cut will work, or a chiffon dress made in a casual style would also be fine. Overall, I take this dressing designation to mean more festive, elegant attire. Casual fabrics like cotton or knits are acceptable here if the overall style of dress is correct. The time of day and venue again will be a good guide here. If it’s daytime, then a sundress would be fine. If it’s evening, then wear cocktail attire in darker, richer colors, and fabrics like silk or satin in a casual length and cut. Make it dressy with more accessories and a simple dress. Find a Dressy Casual look or check out The Wedding Guest Dress Boutique

WHAT IS A SEMI-FORMAL WEDDING DRESS CODE?
A semi-formal dress is an evening style of dress with formal fabrics like a satin, chiffon, silk, and a bit of beading. A rich fabric like velvet or velveteen in the winter months would also be very nice.

Generally, the dress length would be cocktail length—in other words, just above, or at the knee; or a little longer. A tea-length, midi length, or a longer, ankle-skimming hemline–like a maxi dress would also be perfect, as long as it is not an overly formal silhouette or material–save those ball gown style dresses for the fully formal wedding invites you receive!

Find a Semi-Formal look or check out The Wedding Guest Dress Boutique
Black tie optional dress code, is formal but with the option of black tie. I would assume that the wedding party will be wearing tuxedos and formal attire, but the guests need not exactly meet that level of formality.

For the women, a dressy cocktail dress, jumpsuit or sleek pantsuit, or a long formal dress or long skirt and top is appropriate for black-tie optional attire. You can see more details below in Black Tie required.

For male guests, you have easy access to a tuxedo, by all means, wear black tie. However, there will be probably many other men in a dark suit and dark tie or bow tie and these gentlemen will look just as elegant and appropriate as the dapper tuxedo-wearing folks. Find a Black Tie Optional look or Find a black tie optional wedding guest dress.
FORMAL ATTIRE FOR A WEDDING
Formal attire, to me, is nearly the same as black tie optional, but I also think this implies slightly less pressure for the men to wear a tuxedo. A dark navy or black suit, and crisp white shirt, with a dark, or neutral tie is appropriate here. Look at Formal Styling ideas or find a formal dress for a wedding,

Women should wear an elegant cocktail dress or full-length dress, and beautiful real jewelry or costume jewelry. Sparkling accessories are encouraged for formal events!

A BLACK TIE WEDDING DRESS CODE
This one clears up any ambiguity for the men. In this case, a tuxedo in a dark color is in order with the other elements: either vest, or cummerbund, or suspenders, and appropriate bow tie or tie. In some cases, a well-cut black suit and black tie will do!

Women should generally wear a full-length gown for black tie dress codes, but those rules are changing. Many styles of types of mid-length, cocktail, or tiered skirt length are usually appropriate if the material, cut, or embellishment is highly formal. A long or ball gown style skirt paired with a dressy top is also a great look.

If dresses aren’t your thing, a formal pantsuit or women’s style tuxedo or formal jumpsuit is also appropriate, especially if a skirt or gown isn’t part of your personal style.

If you know it’s a very formal event, to be truly correct, full-length is the standard. Find a Black Tie Look or check out The Wedding Guest Dress Boutique

FAVORITE FORMAL LOOKS
WHITE TIE DRESS
This is the most formal type of wedding, so you should adhere to the rules on this one. I had to consult Emily Post again on this since these types of weddings are rare in my life.

Women should wear a floor-length, formal evening gown (No knee-length dresses here!)

Men should wear a tailcoat with a white vest, white shirt, and tie with white gloves (gray is an acceptable choice as well), and fine black shoes without laces. Find a White Tie Look

CULTURAL ATTIRE AT A WEDDING
If the wedding party will be wearing some sort of cultural dress that is not your own culture–for instance, kilts or saris you could wear something that might complement those other guests’ styles, as long as you are sure you are not appropriating cultural dress.

For instance, if you know the groomsmen will be wearing kilts, perhaps wearing a tie with a bit of plaid is a way to join in, without upstaging the attire of the wedding party or misappropriating cultural dress.

If your own religion or heritage states that you wear a certain type of dress to an occasion, as long as you’re sure it’s in keeping with the event and won’t cause offense or detract from the event, then I’m sure most couples would welcome this expression of respect and festivity. I’m eager to hear first-hand stories on cultural dress, so if anyone has experience here, please let me know.

GETTING MORE INFORMATION ON WHAT TO WEAR IF THE WEDDING INVITATION IS VAGUE
If the invitation is vague, and there’s no wedding website, getting more information on what to wear can also be gleaned from the wedding party. They are likely to know the attire in advance.

I would avoid asking couple getting married about the dress code unless you are already in frequent communication. Please especially don’t ask the couple for details within a few days of the wedding. The couple has so much going on already! One of the roles of the wedding party is to support and attend to other details –like assisting guests with questions like this!

HOW TO FIND OUT THE WEDDING DRESS CODE
If you know a member of the wedding party, ask them about the dress code. Attending the showers, and bachelorette parties, are good avenues for getting in touch with the bridal party. Asking someone in the wedding party about what to wear, also help to ensure you pick a dress that is complementary to the wedding theme. It will also help you avoid wearing a dress that is similar to the wedding party. It’s an easy mistake to make since many guests and bridesmaids shop at similar stores.

If you don’t know the couple — perhaps you are a date of a friend — then you might call the venue or check their Instagram of other weddings to see what type of dress is appropriate. Sticking with a classic semi-formal look is usually a good rule!

What to Wear to an Afternoon Summer Wedding

Are you getting married in the summer? Congratulations!

As you’re planning your wedding, we know one of the most important things to consider is what to wear. You want to look great, but still be comfortable as you celebrate with friends and family. And let’s face it: weddings are usually pretty hot, so you don’t want to overheat in a dress made for winter.

We’ve got some ideas for what to wear when it’s warm out—and they don’t all involve tents and chunky sweaters!

When the going gets hot, it’s important to dress for the occasion.

Summer is here, and that means summer weddings are in full swing—and you’re probably going to be invited to one. Whether you’re attending a casual beachside wedding or a star-studded black-tie affair, there are some basic rules of thumb for what to wear that apply no matter what kind of event you’re heading to.

First things first: No matter how much fun you want to have, keep your outfit classy. The last thing you want is for your friends or family members who aren’t familiar with your sense of style and humor to question whether or not they should invite you back next year!

Second: Be comfortable. You’ll be standing around all day in the sun, so make sure whatever shoes or sandals you choose have good support and cushioning so that your feet don’t get tired too quickly.

Third: Think about fabrics! Summer weather can be as unpredictable as it is beautiful, so make sure whatever dress or skirt suits you best can be paired with a jacket or cardigan if it gets chilly at any point during the day (and most likely will).

There’s nothing like an afternoon summer wedding—except maybe an evening summer wedding.

No matter what time of day you’re getting married, though, the weather can be unpredictable. You never know when a summer shower will roll through and ruin your perfect hair and makeup. Or worse: Your dress!

That’s why it’s important to know what to wear to an evening/afternoon summer wedding. We’ve compiled some of our favorite looks here for you so that you can look great on your big day no matter how long or short it is!

What should guests wear to a summer wedding? Dresses in floral prints and bright colors are always a stylish and fun choice for warm-weather weddings. For summer weddings with a formal dress code, guests should consider wearing mid-length to floor-length gowns in light and breathable fabrics.


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If your mailbox is full of save-the-dates and wedding invitations for this summer, you certainly aren’t alone. By now, you probably know that 2022 is the year of the wedding boom; Our data indicates that over 2.6 million couples will get married this year, proving that weddings are back and better than ever. Of course, a majority of those nuptials will take place in the summer, because our insights also show that 80% of all weddings tend to fall between May and October. So, if you find yourself grappling with what to wear to a summer wedding, we’re here to help.

Navigating what to wear to a wedding as a guest can be a challenge in itself—you might find yourself trying to decipher a confusing dress code, or struggling to find outfit options that don’t break the bank. Add in the unpredictable weather patterns that accompany the summer season, and picking an outfit can feel like an impossible task. Not to worry: As your go-to source for all things wedding guest attire, we’ve created this ultimate guide that breaks down what to wear to a summer wedding.

We tapped a handful of style experts to share everything you need to know about summer wedding attire. Read up on the best styles, fabrics and silhouettes for the season, along with expert tips on how to understand the most creative summer wedding guest dress codes. And to make your shopping experience even easier, we’ve also rounded up the best retailers to buy summer wedding guest attire for men and women. Then, once you’re an expert on what to wear to a summer wedding, head over to our roundup of the best summer wedding guest dresses of this year to nail your outfit picks and earn yourself the title of “best dressed guest.”


First things first: Where do you even start when figuring out what to wear to a summer wedding? You might assume that wedding guest attire is synonymous with dark colors and rich fabrics, like silk or velvet—but those are the last things you’d want to wear on a balmy July afternoon. To avoid an unwanted fashion faux pas, here are five things to look for when it comes to picking an outfit for summer nuptials.

Airy Dresses & Skirts
Lightweight, breathable fabrics will be your saving grace when choosing what to wear to a summer wedding, especially when you’re attending a high-end affair in a hot—and potentially humid—climate. “Keep the heat in mind when it comes to dressing for a summer wedding,” suggests Rent the Runway’s Style Director Blaire Walsh. “Wear styles that allow for a bit of a breeze and are lighter in fabric such as printed charmeuse, jersey, crepe, and viscose or polyesters that give off a satin look.”

The formality of the event will typically indicate what silhouette you should opt for. (Think: long skirts and dresses for a formal wedding, or midi and mini skirts for casual and cocktail gatherings.) Beyond that, additional elements like patterns, unique colors and design details will help make your outfit summer-appropriate too. “Wedding guests are leaning into the summer heat by wearing strappy necklines, cutout details, unexpected hemlines, and bold florals,” Walsh adds.

Blended Suit Fabrics
If you’re in the market for formal summer wedding attire, you may need a new suit. To avoid getting too hot in your ensemble, look out for styles that have blended fabrics for added breathability. “Lightweight wool will provide the all-season wear that so many clients are looking for when investing in a suit,” explains Dean Handspiker, Vice President of Retail at Indochino. He notes that, while 100% wool is a reliable choice, a variety of blends are ideal for the summer season. “Wool-linen is a popular choice for our clients because it has the strength and durability of wool, but is blended with linen for a slightly lighter weight and a summer feel without wrinkled creases that may come with a 100% linen option. A wool-silk blend is also a great option, as the softness of silk is ideal for warmer destinations.”

Cutouts
Remember the “hot girl summer” phenomenon of 2021? Well, we have great news: It’s not going away any time soon. In fact, this mentality that centers around confident dressing is going to carry over into summer 2022 as well, especially when it comes to wedding guest attire. “All signs point to 2022 being even sexier than last year, the year of ‘hot girl summer’ that turned into ‘hot girl fall,'” Walsh tells us. “Sexy styles with mini hemlines, deep v-necklines, and fancy cropped sets continue to dominate trends.”

Metallic Accents
Summer will always be synonymous with bright colors and patterns—but this year, Walsh says that more shoppers are gravitating toward a different color palette. “While color is always on-trend during these months, basic black styles have dropped in popularity, with high shine metallics like gold and silver topping the charts as 2022’s most sought-after shades.”

Although you might assume a shiny dress is better for a winter wedding, consider shaking up tradition this summer. As guests prepare for a return to weddings, opting for an outfit outside of your traditional repertoire will put the fun back in fashion. “A ‘more is more’ attitude prevails when getting dressed up this season,” Walsh adds.

Floral Prints
You can’t go wrong with florals when crafting your go-to wedding outfit formula. When choosing what to wear to a summer wedding, consider something like a maxi chiffon dress with a mini floral print for a look that’s fun and flirty. Or, if you tend to take more risks with your style, keep an eye out for oversized or abstract floral prints to make your outfit stand out in a crowd. The same is true of suiting too—look for button-up shirts or pocket squares with vibrant floral motifs to put together an outfit that’s seasonally appropriate.

Earth Tones
Perhaps you’re shopping for a suit and don’t want to don a traditional black-and-white look this summer. Instead, Suitsupply Style Expert Marc Harmeling recommends trying something a little more neutral. “Earth tones like beige, light gray and greens are go-to seasonal colors,” he explains. “A natural color palette with beige and brown tones paired with a crisp white shirt freshens up any look.”

For guests looking to push the envelope a little more, Harmeling shares that brighter shades are also going to be big this year. “We’re seeing that pop colors like lilac, green and sky blue are doing really well among our clients.”

How to Decipher Summer Wedding Guest Dress Codes
Newlyweds with family members at summer wedding
Lena Mirisola Photography
While rising temps may have you in a more laid-back state of mind, summer wedding attire still has a sense of formality. Key factors such as the location, venue and dress code all indicate exactly what you should wear. But, what happens when the invite says something out of the ordinary, like tropical beach formal or whimsical garden party?

Deciphering summer wedding guest dress codes isn’t for the faint of heart. And, as it turns out, more events are likely going to skew formal in 2022. “After two years of waiting, weddings are back and guests are using events as their time to shine to look and feel their best,” Walsh says of Rent the Runway’s clientele. “With this excitement, the season’s wedding boom has brought on unprecedented demand for our most formal inventory. Utilization of black tie-formality items is up 150% from 2021, the highest it’s been since the 2018 holiday season, clearly indicating that guests want to go all out in show-stopping, high-formality pieces.”

It’s always best to check the couple’s wedding website for dress code details—and if you’re still confused, check out photos of the venue for a better understanding of what the vibe is. (What you wear to an afternoon backyard wedding will be quite different than what you wear to an evening fête at a luxury country club, for example.) For even more help, read up on the most common summer wedding guest attire dress codes below, and follow our style tips to find a great outfit for any occasion.

Formal Summer Wedding Attire
Formal summer wedding attire can encompass both white tie and black tie dress codes. Generally, you can never go wrong with a well-tailored tuxedo or glamorous long gown in material like chiffon or crepe. These days, though, the term “formal attire” can also mean a dress code that’s slightly less formal than black tie or black tie optional. This means that a tuxedo or floor-length gown might not be required, but the event is still formal enough for one to be appropriate. (Pro tip: If you aren’t sure how formal to dress, always choose the more formal option.)

Elements like a high-neckline, one-shoulder sleeve or a printed pocket square can all make your formal outfit great for summer. Elevate your ensemble with accessories like statement earrings, a bold headpiece, or luxe loafers (sans socks!) to complete the look.

Beach Formal Summer Wedding Attire
Choosing what to wear to a summer wedding at the beach or a seaside venue comes with even more factors to consider. Opt for garments made of breathable fabrics and unfussy accessories like flat sandals, sturdy block heels or boat shoes that will stand up to warm weather and uneven terrain. This summer wedding attire also opens up the door to a world of possibilities when it comes to prints; palm patterns, color blocking, oversized florals and rattan textures are all ideal elements of beach formal summer wedding attire. You might even consider wearing white bottoms with a contrasting blazer for the ultimate coastal look, “White pants embody summer and add an elegant touch to any look,” Harmeling suggests. “Pair them with a darker jacket for contrast or a lighter jacket for true beach vibes.”

Cocktail & Semi-Formal Summer Wedding Attire
Depending on the time of the event, you’ll want to dress somewhere between formal and casual for a semi-formal summer wedding. Wear darker, more formal hues for an evening soiree; opt for light colors and fabrics for daytime nuptials. Keep in mind that semi-formal still has the word “formal” in the description, so you’ll still want to look elegant and put together. Sure, you can keep your ball gown or tuxedo at home, but avoid dressing like you’re going to a low-key family barbeque. Breezy midi dresses and suits in alternative colors like dusty blue or forest green are all great options for a summer wedding with this summer dress code.

Casual Summer Wedding Attire
Generally, casual wedding attire means just about anything goes—but denim, shorts and tank tops are probably not appropriate unless they’re specifically noted as acceptable. Regardless of how casual the summer wedding may be, it’s still best to skip the jeans and flip-flops to be sure you’re appropriately dressed for the occasion. For the purposes of wedding wear, assume this dress code means business casual to be on the safe side. Consider something like a jersey mini dress, or chinos and a polo shirt.

Where to Buy Summer Wedding Guest Attire for Men
Guests at indoor summer wedding
Stephanie Rogers Photography
Ready to shop? Here are five retailers to start your search for summer wedding guest attire for men.

Bonobos
In addition to suits and tuxedos, menswear brand Bonobos also offers a variety of outfit selections for less-formal weddings too, like blazers, chinos, button-ups, and colorful printed dress shirts. You’ll even find outfit accessories too, like ties, pocket squares and belts to complete your look.

Shop Bonobos
Indochino
Given that 2022 is the year of the wedding boom, it may be time to invest in a custom suit you can wear for years—especially if you’re going to be a frequent guest. “This year, the wedding season is going to be bigger than it has ever been, so it’s a great idea to invest in a custom suit for multiple occasions,” Handspiker says. Indochino does just that: The brand, which is accessible online or at select Nordstrom stores across the US, specializes in made-to-measure formal wear at great prices. “In customizing a suit, you get to select all of the details, large and small, such as lapel sizes, personalized lining, monograms, and even button and thread colors,” he adds. “These elements make the suit your own—you won’t see it on anyone else at the event because it was made just for you.”

Shop Indochino
Nordstrom
When you aren’t sure what to wear to a summer wedding, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Nordstrom. The big-box retailer has over 300 locations across the country, which means you’re never too far from a psychical location. But even if shopping online is more your style, you’ll find tons of wedding-worthy outfits for summer weddings, from black tie suits to botanical dress shirts.

Shop Nordstrom
SuitShop
Fact: Suits aren’t just for men. This philosophy is at the forefront of SuitShop, a brand that offers accessibly-priced suits and tuxedos for everyone starting at $194. Their styles come in a variety of trendy colors for guests who like to be a little more adventurous with fashion, from dusty blue to burnt orange and rich green. (Psst: They’re also the brand that suited Netflix’s Love Is Blind Season 2 couples on their wedding days!)

Shop SuitShop
Suitsupply
Need a wedding suit, pronto? Check out Suitsupply’s diverse collection of both classic and contemporary styles that are simply perfect for guests. And if you’re feeling creative, try taking advantage of the brand’s unique customization program to make your guest attire uniquely your own. “A great option for personalizing is our Custom Made Program, through which you can design your own suit from scratch,” Harmeling explains. “Ultimately, the best advice is tailored to the individual, so, when needed, you can also book an appointment with one of our style advisors in your nearest Suitsupply store.”

Shop Suitsupply
Where to Buy Summer Wedding Guest Attire for Women
Guest wearing light blue dress at summer wedding
Lauren Dobish Photography
Instead of frantically Googling “what to wear to a summer wedding” days before your event, try browsing these five retailers ahead of time to find the trendiest summer wedding guest attire for women.

Abercrombie & Fitch
If it seems like everyone online is raving about the renaissance of Abercrombie & Fitch, we’re here to say the hype is justified. The buzzy retailer is no longer what it once was back in your middle school days. Now, A&F is proving to be a go-to destination for wedding guests looking for great attire without breaking the bank. (There is a reason we collaborated with them on a Best Dressed Guest collection, after all.)

Shop Abercrombie & Fitch
Lulus
When you need an outfit that’s trendy, affordable, and fun, consider a Lulus wedding guest dress. With most options under $100, you can’t go wrong with the brand’s expansive collection of maxis, midis, two-piece sets and accessories that are just perfect for frequent guests.

What to Wear to an Afternoon Winter Wedding Male

The best outfit for an afternoon winter wedding is a suit. Whether you’re the groom or a groomsman, you should wear a suit.

If you’re the groom, you can go with a traditional black tuxedo or you can opt for something more unique and fun. A gray tuxedo will be more appropriate for an afternoon wedding in the winter than a white one would be, but if you want to stand out, go for it! If you want to wear something even more stylized and fun, look up some examples of men’s fashion from the 1920s through 1960s—they were known for their love of color, so don’t be afraid to let your own personal style shine through.

If you’re a groomsman or another member of the wedding party who isn’t wearing a suit (like the best man), it’s still important that your outfit matches that day’s theme. You can wear either dark gray trousers or black trousers with a dark gray jacket (or other neutral color). The collar of your shirt should match the color of your tie (if there is one) and not stand out too much from it; if there’s no tie, then choose something subtle and tasteful like white or light blue.

When you’re going to an afternoon wedding, it can be hard to know what to wear. You want to look your best, but you also don’t want to overdress. The solution? A suit in a dark color that’s not black.

This is the perfect occasion for a light gray or charcoal-colored suit—it’ll keep you warm while still looking sharp and professional. If you’re feeling extra fancy, try pairing your suit with a tie (and maybe even a pocket square!) in a complementary color like burgundy or dark blue.

If you’re attending a wedding in the afternoon and it’s going to be cold outside, you’ll want to dress appropriately.

A good rule of thumb is to keep things simple and warm.

If you’re a guy, you can wear a button-down shirt and slacks if the ceremony is inside, or a suit if it’s outside. If the ceremony is inside, but there will be an outdoor reception afterwards, you can wear a sweater or jacket over your button-down shirt.

If it’s an outdoor ceremony followed by an indoor reception, try wearing an outer layer that’s waterproof. This will help protect against rain (or snow!) during the outdoor ceremony and save you from having to change into something dry for the reception.

For either scenario, make sure your pants aren’t too long! If they drag on the ground or get wet from snow or rain, it can ruin them—and potentially ruin other people’s shoes too!

Want to look your best at a winter wedding? Here’s what you need to know.

Suits are always a good choice for an afternoon wedding, but if it’s snowy or icy out, you may want to consider a tuxedo instead of a suit jacket. This will keep you warmer and more comfortable throughout the ceremony.

A tie is always appropriate for an afternoon wedding, but when it comes to color, you should go with something earthy—browns or greens are best. Avoid bright colors like reds and blues, which tend to stand out in photos and make the groom look less dapper than he deserves! (And no ties with polka dots on them!)

Black dress shoes are fine for an afternoon wedding—they’ll match whatever color your suit is made of (as long as it’s not too bright). Brown shoes may be too much of an attention-grabber in photos; they’re better suited for evening events!

For an afternoon winter wedding, a man should wear a suit and tie.

The suit should be black or dark gray, with a white shirt and black tie.

It is acceptable to wear dress shoes or boots, but it is not recommended that you wear sneakers or sandals.

When you’re invited to an afternoon winter wedding, it’s important to know what to wear.

This is especially true if you’re not sure whether the ceremony will be indoors or outdoors. If it’s indoors, a suit and tie are appropriate; if it’s outdoors, dress for the weather by wearing a coat and boots.

If you’re attending an afternoon winter wedding, the first thing to consider is your attire. A winter wedding can be a great excuse to wear something dressier than you would typically wear for an afternoon affair, but it’s important to still make sure that your outfit is appropriate for the occasion.

For men, we recommend sticking with dark colors and avoiding patterns when possible. The goal is to look classic and masculine, so stick with solid black or navy blue suits that aren’t too formal but aren’t too casual either (think more casual than a blazer but not as relaxed as a cardigan). Make sure that your tie matches your suit! Add a pocket square for some extra flair.

When it comes to shirts, stick with white or light blue shirts that are not too bright of an hue (avoid pinks or purples). You can also try wearing a button-down shirt instead of a t-shirt if you really want some patterning in your outfit without being over-the-top about it. Dark jeans are another good option here—they’ll keep things looking classy without being too formal since they’re not dress slacks or anything like that!

In the winter, it’s tough to know how to dress. You don’t want to wear your heavy winter coat and scarf, but you don’t want to look under-dressed either. If you’re attending an afternoon wedding in the winter season, here are some tips for what to wear:

1) Wear a suit that’s not too light. Nothing screams “I’m trying too hard” like wearing a bright red suit when everyone else is in dark colors.

2) Make sure the suit fits well! This goes without saying, but it’s worth mentioning because there are so many men out there who think they can get away with wearing a baggier suit. Not only does this make them look sloppy, but it also makes them look smaller than they actually are.

3) Don’t go overboard with accessories like watches and jewelry—just stick with one or two pieces at most!

For an afternoon winter wedding, men can dress in a suit and tie. A dress shirt with a tie and matching suit pants is a classic look that will work well at any event. If you choose to wear your suit jacket, make sure it has lapels that are wide enough to be seen by the wedding party members. Men can also wear a vest over their shirt if they want to add some flair to their outfit.

If you’re headed to an afternoon winter wedding, you’ll want to dress in layers.

The first layer should be a good pair of trousers and a nice shirt that can be easily removed when the time comes. You might also consider a vest or blazer if you think it will be cold enough for it.

The second layer should be a jacket—either a sport coat or a peacoat will do.

The final layer is more optional: you can go with a scarf, necktie, or even just a nice hat if you want. But don’t forget your gloves!

We know you’re going to look great, but when it’s time to dress for an afternoon winter wedding, there are some tips and tricks you should follow.

Wear a black suit. Black is the best option because it won’t clash with the bride’s white or ivory dress.

If you want to be bold, try a black tie or bow tie instead of a white one.

Make sure your jacket has plenty of pockets—they’ll come in handy if you need to keep your hands warm or store something during the ceremony.

Consider wearing suspenders instead of belt loops if you want to add some color or pattern to your outfit.

For a winter wedding, you don’t want to wear a black suit. Instead, opt for a gray or navy blue suit. This will keep you warm and not look too dark in the cold weather.

You can also add some color with your tie. Try something like burgundy or gold, which will add a touch of warmth to your outfit.

You can also add some color with your pocket square or tie bar. Try something like burgundy or gold, which will add a touch of warmth to your outfit.

You can also go for a more casual look by wearing khakis with brown leather shoes and a white button down shirt with the sleeves rolled up above your elbows so it looks like you just rolled out of bed and put on clothes as quickly as possible (but still looked good doing it).

When it comes to the winter season, you might be thinking that you don’t have many options for what to wear—and maybe you’re right! If you’re looking for a stylish outfit that will keep you warm and still look great at a winter wedding, then this article is for you. Read on for some tips on what to wear to an afternoon winter wedding.

Dress for the weather: If it’s going to be cold outside and you’ll be outside for most of the day, make sure that your outfit isn’t too heavy or bulky. That means no wool coats or anything with lots of layers—they’ll only make you sweat more in the cold weather! Instead, try wearing something lightweight like a sweater or blazer over a collared shirt and khakis/jeans combo. Or if it’s going to be really cold outside, try wearing something long like a trench coat over jeans and boots!

There are many different types of weddings, and each one comes with its own set of rules. Some weddings require formalwear, while others are more casual. The bride will likely have a dress code in mind for her guests, but it’s always good to check.

If you’re planning on attending an afternoon winter wedding, here’s what you should wear:

Accessories are key: You can always add accessories no matter what kind of outfit you’re wearing—even if it’s warm enough not to need gloves or scarves (which should be reserved only for people who are actually going somewhere where it

The wedding is in a few hours, and you’re still not sure what to wear. You don’t want to be too formal, but you also want to look nice. The best bet would be to go with one of our

suits. This suit has a hint of class without being too stuffy or boring, so you’ll stand out from the crowd without looking like you’re trying too hard. It’s available in a variety of colors, so whether you want something more traditional or something that’s on-trend right now, we’ve got the right suit for you!

Men’s Winter Wedding Attire

When the weather turns cold, it can be hard to know what to wear to an afternoon winter wedding. If you’re attending a formal event on a crisp day in December or January, you’ll want to stick with a suit that is both warm and stylish. Here are some tips for picking out the perfect outfit for your event:

1) Make sure the suit is made of wool or cashmere—these fabrics will keep you warm without making you sweat.

2) Choose a three-piece suit instead of a two-piece one; it’ll be more comfortable in the winter weather and will keep you looking sharp all day long.

3) Stick with classic colors like dark gray or navy blue; these will look great against any background (from snow-covered hillsides to candlelit banquet halls).

When you’re invited to an afternoon winter wedding, you might be wondering what to wear. You don’t want to show up overdressed, but you also don’t want to be underdressed. This can be a difficult balance to strike. The good news is that there are many options available for men who want to look great without breaking the bank or spending a lot of time getting ready.

Here are some suggestions for what to wear if you are attending an afternoon winter wedding:

1) A dark suit – A dark suit is always appropriate and will never go out of style. Choose a color that works well with your skin tone and hair color, such as charcoal gray or navy blue. If possible, try on different suits before deciding on one because they all fit differently depending on the brand and style (some are better suited for tall people than others). Also make sure that the jacket fits properly around your shoulders so it doesn’t look too tight or too loose when buttoned up; this is especially important if you plan on wearing it with no undershirt underneath!

The best thing to wear to an afternoon winter wedding is a suit.

You want something that will stand out, but not too much. You don’t want to look like you’re trying too hard.

A dark blue or black suit will do the trick. It’s classic and timeless, so you can wear it for years to come without looking dated.

The wedding season is upon us, and it’s time to get your wardrobe in line. Here are some tips for what to wear to an afternoon winter wedding.

If you’re invited to a daytime wedding, you’ll want to show up looking sharp and ready for the festivities. This is not the time for a suit, but you don’t want to go too casual either. A nice pair of slacks and a button-down shirt will do the trick. If it’s cold out, consider adding a scarf or vest (but don’t tuck your shirt into your pants—it’s not formal). And if there’s snow on the ground, consider wearing boots instead of dress shoes—you don’t want to slip on your way down the aisle!

A dark suit and tie are the best bet for the groom.

Something that looks great at night, but still feels appropriate for daytime. You want to look like a gentleman, not a party animal.

If your wedding is outside, you can go with a lighter color or patterned shirt instead of white.

A solid-colored tie is recommended for daytime weddings; if you’re going to do stripes, make sure they’re thin enough to not be overwhelming.

The key to looking good and staying comfortable when it’s cold is layering.

If you’re going to an afternoon winter wedding, the first thing you’ll want to consider is the temperature of the venue. If it’s a warm room, you can get away with just a light sweater and slacks. But if it’s an outdoor event, or if it’s cold inside, you’ll want to layer up a bit more.

When choosing your outfit, think about what kind of sweater you’d like to wear: V-neck or crew neck? Cardigan or pullover? Do you want a vest or jacket? For pants, think about whether you’d prefer khakis or dress pants. The idea here is to find pieces that are both warm and stylish so that you look put together but not overdressed for the occasion. You can always add accessories like scarves or hats for extra warmth if necessary!

The winter wedding season is upon us, and with it comes a whole new set of challenges for the stylish man.

What to wear to an afternoon winter wedding? It’s not as simple as it sounds. Here are some tips:

Don’t wear black. Black can be too formal for an afternoon event and will make you look like you’re attending a funeral rather than celebrating your friend or family member’s marriage.

Avoid white suits in general—they’re just too formal and can make you look like a waiter (no matter how well-fitted they are).

Leave the sunglasses at home if possible—if you’re indoors all day, your eyes will probably be sensitive to light anyway; take them off before you enter the venue so that no one mistakes you for a celebrity who showed up uninvited!

Stick with neutral colors—you want people to notice your tie or pocket square more than anything else! If your outfit is too busy, it won’t get noticed at all!

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