Beach Wedding Attire & Clothing

For beach weddings, less formal dress is expected - after all, you're unlikely to want sand or seawater on your Armani silk dress !

Although a beach wedding can be wonderfully fun and romantic , it can nevertheless present a few challenges as to what is the appropriate clothing to wear as a guest.   You can take your cue from the style of the wedding invitation, and whether it's formal or casual, as this will set the tone for the wedding day.

The backdrop of the sun sparkling on the sea and sand is likely to make for some great photographs, and you'll want to look your best.

Whilst you can choose less formal , more relaxed style of clothing, it's still important to look smart and elegant, so a simple dress in cooler fabrics such as linen or cotton, is likely to be both appropriate and comfortable.

Simple A-line, cocktail or tea length dresses are a classic style of attire , but any style of dress that suits your figure and will look good on this formal, but fun occasion will be great.

Remember to consider what might happen if a sea breeze picks up - will your gown stay in place, and will you need a light wrap or bolero jacket to keep your shoulders warm?

You may wish to avoid high heels - simple elegant flat sandals are probably the order of the day.  There are some beautiful styles and designs that will both look great and enable you to walk on the sand!

If the sun is likely to be hot or strong, you may wish to add a hat, and, of course, that invisible accessory and friend, sun cream, to protect your skin.  A simple wide brimmed or floppy hat with a simple ribbon tied round can look great without busting your budget.

Whatever your normal hairstyle, you won't want to look windswept in the brides photo album.  So using some styling products to add control, or hairspray, can help keep your hair style looking great all day. 

Alternatively, you could plan to wear your hair up for the ceremony, and wear it down for the reception.  Make sure you've got all the brushes, clips and combs you'll need in your bag!

You may wish to pop some bottled water in your bag, in case it gets a little hot.

Appropriate formal wear for boys or men on such an occasion is likely to be comfortable linen trousers and a shirt.  If weather is warm, a lighter color jacket would be expected. 

Recommended Resources

Barefoot Weddings - Florida beach weddings at their finest , everything provided from the officiant to photos & licences

Cocktail Party Dresses - elegant dress ideas for summer weddings

Wedding Guest outfit ideas -  semi-formal  or casual styles for the bridal party