What to Wear to a Summer Wedding

Amy is wearing a gorgeous yellow halter top ruffle dress.

It’s been a while since I did a style post! Sorry for being MIA on the #ootd front – I’ve been trying to incorporate some lifestyle and wellness posts into the mix. What do you guys think so far? Yay or nay?! Anyway, I thought it would be a good time to do a little refresh on the topic of what to wear to a wedding. You’d be surprised how often people have questions about what to wear to a wedding!

Now, let’s talk about what to wear to a summer wedding.

First, let’s break down the different dress codes and what they mean.

Black Tie

Think very formal dress code. You want to wear something dressy – a floor length gown is usually the most appropriate, although some high low styles may work as well. Black tie doesn’t mean boring, though! You do not have to wear a long black dress – you can certainly add in colors and prints! If you’re not sure, always ask the bride or err on the side of being conservative.

For men, a tuxedo is required.

Black Tie Optional 

Similar to black tie, but slightly less formal. A long dress is still appropriate, but you’ll likely be ok to wear shorter styles or a jumpsuit.

For men, a tuxedo is optional. A dressy suit will work as well.

Beach Formal

Dressy beach attire. Forego the typical beach outfit and opt for something a little nicer. A long sundress or summer dress is fine for the occasion.

Men should still opt for a suit and tie, but can choose less heavy materials such as linen.

Keep in mind you will probably be outside, so be sure to bring sunglasses and a hat or umbrella to shade you from the sun!

Dressy Casual

Lean towards cocktail attire. Dresses are appropriate, but you could also opt for a jumpsuit or a conservative two piece.

A casual suit and tie for men is appropriate.

Casual

Resist temptations to show up in jeans or sweatpants and still do your part to look nice. You don’t necessarily need to show up in a gown or suit and tie, but choose something that is comfortable but nice for the occasion. After all, you’re still a guest at someone else’s special day!

What to Wear to a Summer Wedding | by The Luxi Look

 Amy is wearing a yellow halter top ruffle dress by The Luxi Look

What to Wear to a Summer Wedding | by The Luxi Look

 Amy is wearing a gorgeous yellow halter top ruffle dress by The Luxi Look

In terms of a summer wedding, I am loving brightly colored and printed maxi dresses. This yellow maxi by Arrive Clothing stopped me dead in my tracks.

Ok, I’m being a little dramatic. But HOW GORGEOUS is this color?! I know mustard is having a moment this season, but this bright yellow is so beautiful and full of sunshine!

Right away, I checked out Arrive’s entire collection and couldn’t believe how fashion forward the designs were at the price point (most items are around $100!).

Unfortunately this dress is sold out (fingers crossed it comes back in stock) – but I rounded up a bunch of other cute dresses from Arrive (seriously my new favorite brand) that would be perfect for attending a wedding! Check them out below and let me know what you think.

xx, Amy

what to wear to a summer wedding

18 Discussion to this post

  1. Alyssa says:

    That dress is really pretty, and it’s really perfect for a summer wedding. Plus, you look stunning 🙂

    xx Alyssa // STYLE VANITY

  2. Jamie says:

    The colour on this dress is a drop of sunshine! Going to a few weddings this summer. Loved reading up on this summer’s wedding dresses!

    Jamie

    http://jamieonthings.com/

  3. Elizabeth says:

    I’m loving this yellow dress so much <3 🙂 So pretty! I always love dressing for weddings! And I've been loving the wellness/lifestyle posts! Keep up the great work, love!

    XO, Elizabeth
    http://clothestoyouuu.com/

  4. Hillory says:

    Omg what a stunning dress! I feel like I neverrrr know what to wear to weddings — thanks so much for the tips 🙂

    xo,

    H

    http://firsttimethings.com

  5. ANGELEBABY says:

    such great tips! that dress is beautiful xx

    http://angelebaby.com

  6. Ellese says:

    That dress is absolutely stunning!! I love the color and the material. Thank you for sharing! XO, Ellese

    Rock.Paper.Glam.

  7. Jenny says:

    Absolutely love that dress on you! The color, the ruffles, it’s gorgeous, no wonder it sold out! Plus I really like that it’s not super fancy, so you can dress it down and make it a day dress. Will need to keep my eye out for dresses from this brand now!

    Jenny | Geeky Posh

  8. Rina says:

    This would be such a perfect dress to wear to a wedding! I am seriously crushing on all things yellow at the moment and this dress is no exception.

    xoxo
    Rina Samantha
    http://www.andshedressed.com

  9. Len Parent says:

    Love your sunshine dress gorgeous! Perfect for summer.
    Have a wonderful week!
    Much love, Len
    http://www.lenparent.com

  10. Paula says:

    All the choices look amazing! I’ll think about this when I have a wedding coming haha. Love how that dress looks on you btw!

    http://www.blossomikebana.com

  11. Jessica says:

    This dress is beyond stunning! Love the yellow and the tiered ruffles! So much to love!

    Jessica | notjessfashion.com

  12. OMG babe, you look so stunning!!! And definitely YAY on the wellness posts front. I love your blog so much!

    Much love <3
    Kay
    http://styleunsettled.com

  13. Mel says:

    That yellow dress is gorgeous!

    http://www.pennyanddash.com

  14. […] me realize how important it is to not only be a well dressed guest, but also a well behaved guest! Wedding planning is stressful and not for the faint of heart, anything you can do to minimize added stress […]

  15. […] By now, wedding season has officially kicked off for the year and you may be wondering what to wear. Once you know what the dress code is, you can figure what to wear that’s appropriate but still chic. Just because it’s a wedding, doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with your outfit! Here are some of my fave brands and options for not so basic dresses to wear to a wedding. […]

  16. […] you attending any weddings this summer? If so, what are you planning to […]

  17. Great tips! I really like your dress, beautiful bright hue and gorgeous ruffles! xx
    Much Love
    Elegant Duchess xx
    https://www.elegantduchess.com/

  18. […] see me wearing this Reformation Samba dress all summer. Shop my favorite sundress picks below and let me know which one is your fave below […]

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