What to Wear: Summer Wedding

What to Wear to a Summer Wedding (Guests & Bridal Party Edition)

Summer weddings are beautiful, but let’s be honest, they can also be hot. And when you're trying to look your best while keeping cool and comfortable, figuring out what to wear can feel a little overwhelming.

Whether you're a guest trying to nail the dress code, a bridesmaid wondering what fabrics won’t make you melt, or a bride or groom trying to dress your crew without causing a sweatstorm, we’ve got you covered. Let’s talk about how to dress for a summer wedding from Lakeside ceremony vows to beachside celebrations without sacrificing style or sanity.

For Wedding Guests: Look Good, Stay Cool

1. Think Light (in Both Color and Fabric)
When choosing what to wear to a summer wedding as a guest, your best bet is lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, chiffon, or rayon. These materials allow air to flow and help you stay dry even during an outdoor ceremony under the sun.

Stick to lighter colors, soft blues, pastels, florals, and neutrals are always summer wedding staples. Dark colors absorb heat, so save the black dress for fall or winter weddings.

2. Dress Code Decoding
Always check the invitation or couple’s website for the dress code. But here’s a quick cheat sheet for summer weddings:

• Casual/Beachy: Sundresses, short-sleeved shirts, linen pants, and sandals (not flip-flops).

• Semi-Formal: Midi dresses or dressy separates for women; button-down shirts with chinos or dress pants for men.

• Formal: Maxi dresses or cocktail dresses in dressier fabrics; lightweight suits or dress pants with a blazer.

3. Mind the Footwear
Skip the stilettos if the wedding is outdoors. Wedges, block heels, or dressy flats are perfect for navigating grass or sand without sinking. For guys, lightweight loafers or dress shoes work great without overheating your feet.

4. Accessories That Work with the Weather
Bring a wide-brim hat, a stylish fan, or even a sun umbrella if the ceremony is in full sun. Bonus points if your outfit includes UV-protective sunglasses (just be sure to remove them during important moments!).

For the Bridal Party: Fashion Meets Function

1. Bridesmaids Dresses That Beat the Heat
Let’s be real, nobody wants to feel sticky and sweaty while standing in front of a crowd. For summer bridesmaids, flowy dresses in breathable fabrics like chiffon, crepe, or lightweight silk are perfect. Consider styles with open backs, short sleeves, or spaghetti straps for comfort and style.

Popular summer bridesmaid dress colors include sage green, dusty blue, coral, and champagne. These tones look stunning in natural light and pop beautifully in outdoor photos.

Pro tip: If your wedding is in a super hot or humid location, consider letting bridesmaids pick their own dress styles in the same color or fabric for a little flexibility.

2. Groomsmen Attire That Doesn’t Overheat
Traditional tuxedos can feel suffocating in summer. Instead, consider lightweight suits in linen, cotton, or seersucker. Shades like light gray, beige, or soft blue not only keep the guys cooler but also look sharp and seasonally appropriate.

Ditch the tie or go with a relaxed look, especially for beach or casual weddings. Short-sleeved button-downs or rolled-up sleeves can look put-together without the sweat.

3. Brides and Grooms: Dress for the Season
Summer brides, think breathable fabrics like organza, tulle, chiffon, or lace. If you want sleeves, try illusion or flutter sleeves for airflow. And remember: a long train and 90-degree heat don’t always mix.

Grooms can keep it cool with unlined or partially lined jackets, lighter suit colors, and even vest-only looks for more laid-back weddings.

A Few Extra Tips for Everyone

• Pack a backup: Deodorant, blotting sheets, and a water bottle can be lifesavers.

• Plan for layers: Even summer evenings can cool off, so bring a wrap or lightweight jacket.

• Don’t forget sunscreen: Especially for outdoor weddings, apply before you get dressed to avoid stains.

Final Thoughts

Dressing for a summer wedding is all about finding that sweet spot between style and comfort. Whether you're a guest wondering what to wear to an outdoor ceremony or a bridal party member sweating the dress code, the key is breathable fabrics, lighter colors, and relaxed-but-polished looks that feel like summer.

After all, weddings are about celebrating love, not surviving a heat wave in a heavy suit or a stifling gown. So plan ahead, dress smart, and enjoy every sun-soaked moment.

We love supporting locally owned wedding venues. River House Montana, The Felt Estate, The Old Barns at Dry Run Farms, The Bella Rosa, Notting Hill Farm