What to Wear to a Summer Wedding

The summer wedding season can be fun and exciting. Some invitations will state the dress code directly, while others require explanation. This article will cover some traditional dress options, as well as some more creative ones, so you can know exactly what to wear to a summer wedding.

Follow the Dress Code

When choosing wedding guest attire, there are two rules that must be spelled out upfront:

1. Follow the dress code. Couples spend a lot of time deciding on the details of their big day. The dress code they choose will match the location, theme, and timing of the ceremony and reception.

2. Don't steal the show from the couple. Traditionally, the bride is the only lady in a white dress, and etiquette dictates that the groom be the most well-dressed of all the men. If the dress code emphasizes personal style—such as beach chic or garden party—try it, but keep it classy.

If you're not sure what kind of attire is appropriate, reach out to family. Let's start with the least formal and work our way up:

What to Wear to an Outdoor Wedding?

Whether it’s a summer outdoor wedding at the beach, in a backyard or at a vineyard, there’s likely a specific dress code.

From beach formal to business casual to festive bashes, these dress codes can be a little confusing. Consider the temperature when creating a stylish look – if you opt for a tie, don’t forget to clip it with a tie clip to keep it from blowing in the wind.

Hot weather lends itself to light-colored suits like linen, seersucker and cotton, or, depending on the venue, slacks or chinos, which can be paired with a jacket. Soft, bright accessories in shades of yellow, pink and blue can also be easily paired, like pieces from our all-silk Sequoia Medallions collection:

For daytime events with cooler temperatures, the same bow tie may be called for, but with an extra layer for comfort, while nighttime events may lean more toward darker shades like brown, navy and black.

How Casual is Casual Attire?

When it comes to wedding attire, “casual” is a relative term. It’s more casual than smart casual, but doesn’t usually include jeans, shorts or anything with a smaller collar than a shirt. Chinos, blazers or sport coats are certainly appropriate, but so are other cool options like waistcoats and rolled sleeves.

The smart casual dress code also states that ties are allowed. Our Spring 2021 collection offers a range of gorgeous bow tie and tie options perfect for warm weather, including our all-silk Dogwood Medallions collection, available in navy and violet.

Cocktail Dress Code

The cocktail dress code reflects the party vibe, and you can dress it up to your style requirements.

Typically an evening event, opt for dark suits and shoes – but don’t be afraid to break away from traditional evening dress colours. Show your personality with creative bow tie and pocket square pairings and pocket square folds to provide more visual interest and movement.

Black Tie and Black Tie Optional

Black tie is the second most formal dress code and is usually reserved for evening events.

Black tie requires specific attire choices, including a tuxedo, a white tuxedo shirt, patent leather shoes, a white pocket square, and a bow tie. While black tie is undoubtedly stylish, it is not mandatory.

Black tie optional—and the increasingly popular creative black tie—allows the choice between a tuxedo and a two- or three-piece suit. Elegance is still the order of the day, so dark suits (such as black, charcoal, and navy) are preferred over lighter suits.

White Tie Dress Code

White tie is the most formal of all dress codes and is rarely required to be worn at weddings.

It does require a specific outfit: a tuxedo jacket, a pair of tuxedo trousers, a waistcoat, a pair of white tuxedo shirts, a pair of patent leather shoes, and, of course, a white bow tie or necktie.

White Tie is not as popular today as it was a few years ago, but it is not out of fashion.

If you receive an invitation to a White Tie party, remember that the time you put into making sure your dress and exquisite accessories are perfect is worth it because it means a party where no expense is spared.

----

If you need help with your look, please contact us and be sure to show us your creations on social media using the hashtag #Hisdern. Check out our Instagram, Facebook and YouTube feeds for ideas, inspiration and must-have tips.