Packing for a beach vacation takes little more than choosing a few sexy designer bikinis, cover ups, and sandals. However, if your next excursion involves being a guest at a wedding ceremony, there’s additional wardrobe planning that must be involved.
When the destination for such a dreamy affair involves surf and sand, you have to take into account weather conditions, plus the style of wedding you’re attending. The good news is there are plenty of options of special occasion outfits and beach dresses to wear that will prepare you nicely for the big day.
From formal wedding attire to unique outfits ideal for a boho-inspired celebration, we’re sharing our guide for what to wear to a beach wedding with the hottest resort wear 2021.
Formal Beach Wedding Attire
No need to worry when it comes to wondering what to wear to a beach wedding. Typically, the couple shares an idea of the preferred dress code, so you’ll be well prepared. For a formal beach wedding, specifically, think long gowns and sparkly shoes.
Although, skip the heavier materials or sky-high stilettos, since it’s likely, you’ll be spending part of the ceremony in the sand. With formal beach wedding attire, there are ways to be comfortable while achieving the formality necessary for the occasion.
Bamboo Rose Long Dress
As a chic, floor-length sheath, the Bamboo Rose Long Dress is simplistic yet elegant enough for formal beach wedding attire. By covering both the shoulders and knees, it’s appropriate for any space, while still being sexy. The rich green shade is gorgeous when paired with gold jewels to accent the streamlined look of this curve-hugging dress.
Our best-selling moon necklace is a fashionable choice, though keeping accessories to a pair of chandelier earrings alone will complement the drama of the dress. Pair with chunky, neutral heels or gold gladiator sandals for ceremonies held on the sand. Then, if you want more height for dinner and dancing, break out the higher heels then.
Divino Bia Long Dress
One of the boldest dresses to wear to a beach wedding is the Divino Bia Long Dress. The red hot color is enough to make a statement, while the pretty dress details elevate the styling of the dress. A thigh-high slit makes it easier to move when dancing, and the longer length makes it suitable for beach formal attire.
With adjustable parallel straps to secure the fit, the gorgeous style is a must-have for any type of wedding. Pair with a loose jacket or shawl for extra coverage, if needed. Otherwise, let the color and style of this stunning dress take center stage.
Black Nora Jumpsuit
When deciding what to wear to a beach wedding as a guest, you can do no wrong with black, especially when the dress code calls for formal. Rather than reaching for the go-to LBD, choose an equally timeless selection, the Black Nora Jumpsuit. Jumpsuits for women can be worn casually but dressed up when the occasion calls for it. Whenever you start with such a stylish base, it’s easy to transform it for the look and mood you want.
The subtle v-neckline, halter-style back, and wide-leg style keep the feeling light and airy, perfect for being on the beach. Plan an updo style and dramatic earrings and bangles to dress up the style even further. Or, layer with a sparkly, structured jacket that skims the thighs and shoes to match to pull the wedding outfit together.
Casual Beach Wedding Dresses
Since there are weather conditions to think about when it comes to a wedding on the beach, most of the time, the dress code allows guests to be a little more laid-back than usual. However, skip the sheer cover ups and swimsuits worn beneath clothing, and find a few styles that are wedding appropriate and feel good to wear.
A formal wedding dress code is easy to understand, but what is semi-formal wedding attire and casual wedding attire? Casual wedding attire for guests can be interpreted many ways. A midi dress hits all the right notes, balancing between the formality of a long dress and the playfulness of a mini skirt. There’s a midi style for every fashion preference and wedding event, whether it’s a ladies’ bridal brunch, rehearsal dinner, or the ceremony itself.
Zalie Gisa Midi Dress
The gorgeous green- and white-striped pattern of the Zalie Gisa Midi Dress is an optimal choice as you consider what to wear to a beach wedding. The jade shade emulates a beachy vibe, while the figure-flattering wrap-style keeps the look classy. With an adjustable tie-wrap skirt and high-low hemline, there’s added stylish flair to an otherwise simplistic look.
Made with 80% rayon and 20% silk, the feel is lightweight, and the dress itself is fully lined to avoid any wardrobe mishaps. Pair with earth-toned lace-up sandals or opt for a bright pop of yellow or red heels for an unexpected twist. For jewelry, keep it to a minimum with diamond studs and a dainty necklace to allow the midi dress pattern shine through.
Periwinkle Fran Midi Dress
The soft, feminine shade and style of the Periwinkle Fran Midi Dress are elegant with a flirtatious twist. The form-fitting bodice keeps the look refined, and the ruffled, off-the-shoulder straps create a laid-back element that’s ideal for a casual beach wedding. With a slit on the front, there’s also movement for this midi dress that’s ultimately suited for a wedding, beachside or not.
Crisp white peep-toe pumps keep the look classy while silver resort sandals compliment the undertones of the dress. Complete the outfit with delicate silver necklace chains and matching earrings to maintain the effortlessly chic look this midi has to offer.
Retro Dot Midi Dress
A fresh take on the classic midi dress is the Retro Dot Malti Midi Dress. The bright white background is dotted with burgundy for a fashionable flair with a throwback twist. The corsage-style top and slit in front are design elements that elevate the look of this structured silhouette.
It’s one of the best dresses to wear to a beach wedding during the day, thanks to the lightweight feel and breezy quality of this beautiful dress. Pair with heels to match the polka dots or stick to neutral-colored wedges for wedding guest attire that’s pretty and playful.
Boho Beach Wedding Outfits
Boho beach weddings usually have the fewest dress code rules when compared to formal beach weddings or even casual ones. Think floaty, ethereal outfits, filled with color and a focus on unique styles. While it’s best to err on the side of formality by skipping over super-sheer fabrics, there’s a carefree spirit attached to boho summer wedding wear. We love a structured silhouette as much as the next person, but the loose-fitting style of this type of beach outfit is where fashion meets comfort.
Artsy Scarf Dress
The vibrant color combination and billowy style of the Artsy Scarf Dress come together in the best possible way. The camouflage pattern of red, pink, and orange hues speak to a tropical location, while the straight cut maxi keeps the outfit from losing its shape. Dress features like the low v-neck back and resin, shell-inspired beaded straps work as their own accessories to the dress.
Therefore, keep the jewelry simple with a few thin bangles and a pair of hoop earrings. Consider wearing block heels to create a statuesque appeal. This maxi dress is flattering on every body type and an instant wardrobe staple to consider when deciding what to wear to a beach wedding.
France Gisa Short Dress
With an equal burst of gorgeous color as the Artsy Scarf Dress, the France Gisa Short Design is a fashion-forward take on a traditional tie-dye pattern. The multi-colored design is made of a soft rayon blend to keep you cool during the beach ceremony, especially helpful if you’re sitting directly in the sun.
Thin straps and a wrap-style dress with a front tie keep the look laid-back and also provides shape to this loose-fitting dress. For the boho beach wedding that allows you to go barefoot, the France Gisa Short Dress was simply made for such an occasion.
Aqua Juju Top and Aqua Edna Pant
When looking for an airy, casual outfit that’s not a dress, pairing the Aqua Juju Top with the Aqua Edna Pant is a warm-weather dream come true. The pale seafoam color is beautifully suited for a boho beach wedding, and wide-leg style and front leg slits keep this look breezy.
The tie-wrap top offers a stylish element to this fresh and modern look with a chunky sandal being a go-to pairing to help elongate the frame. The two-piece outfit is a stunning color and style that works well with a boho-type dress code. It’s classy and comfortable all in one.
Dressing for a summer beach wedding gives you plenty of opportunities to get creative with your wardrobe. Whether it’s long dresses, midi lengths, or a mix of flowy designer vacation pants and tops, there’s no shortage of the types of outfits you have to choose from when your name appears on the guestlist. Choose lightweight materials, crisp colors, and work in your own fashionable personality to any look, and you’re guaranteed to be the best-dressed guest in attendance.
