A Wedding Guest's Guide to Beach Attire (2024)

While sandy shore weddings are a dream for many, they can cause some perplexity amongst guests concerning what to wear. As opposed to traditional dress codes such as cocktail, semi-formal, or formal, the “beach” element often adds a confusing component to many style rules given the comfy, cool, and casual vibe of seaside locales.

“Beach wedding attire is the same as any other wedding where you dress according to the formality of the event, but unlike a normal celebration, there are some small changes to accessories and fabrics that will make you much more comfortable,” shares wedding planner Megan Papageorge. More specifically, the time of the year, the weather, and the venue will all be deciding factors when choosing your look.

To make things as clear as possible, however, we consulted with Papageorge, in addition to wedding planner Pamela Spence, to help break down everything you need to know about beach wedding attire for women and men. Plus, details on how to perfectly nail the dress code for any upcoming nuptials you have to attend.

Meet the Expert

  • Megan Papageorge is the owner of Sweet Peach Planning, an event planning company based in Long Beach and Los Angeles, California.
  • Pamela Spence is the founder of Making Memories, a boutique wedding and event planning firm based in North Carolina’s sprawling Cape Fear coast.

A Wedding Guest's Guide to Beach Attire (1)

Beach Wedding Attire for Men and Women

In general, Spence notes that “The two biggest differences between beach wedding attire and other wedding dress codes lies in the color palette and footwear. You won't typically see a little black dress and heels at a beach wedding.” That's why it's important for guests to utilize breathable fabrics, fun prints, and simple, high-end staples for an effortless-yet-refined beach wedding look. Avoid denim and cotton t-shirts at all costs, and only wear shorts or sandals if the venue and event are especially casual.

In addition to avoiding black, a traditional wedding guest color, consider small touches that lend toward the theme without going overboard. Carry a sweetgrass clutch or consider a fishtail braid for your hair to elegantly add a beachy vibe.

The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Guest Attire

Beach Formal

A dress, suit, or jumpsuit all work for women to wear to a beach formal wedding. Opt for solid, lighter colors (avoiding black, cream, and white) and breathable fabrics. To up the elegance factor, consider sumptuous fabrics like lace and tulle, both of which are light and airy but have an upscale vibe. As for shoes, since stilettos are a hazard on the sand, wear chunky heels or formal wedge sandals. If the wedding isn't taking place on the beach, however, you can bring a formal pair of heels to wear for the evening.

As for men, wear either a suit or a long-sleeved shirt and tie with a jacket and slacks. Opt for solid colors, like beige and light blue, avoiding black, cream, and white, if possible. Additionally, be sure to select a look with a breathable fabric such as linen, khaki, or seersucker (you don't want to burn up under the summer sun). Dress shoes or a nice pair of shoes that compliment the slacks are required, while shorts and sandals are not permitted.

Beach Semi-Formal or Cocktail

For women, a dress, suit, formal romper, or jumpsuit all work for a semi-formal or cocktail affair. Feel free to include prints, avoiding anything too loud or any style that might clash with the venue. If you choose to wear a beachy dress, specifically, consider it in either tea-length or maxi to avoid looking too casual. What's more, dressy sandals, chunky heels, and wedges are acceptable footwear options.

For men, while a jacket isn’t required, a breathable sport coat or unique blazer is a fun addition. Feel free to include prints, avoiding anything too loud as well. Shoes can be a little more casual, but they still need to be closed-toe, such as a loafer or deck shoe. Again, shorts and sandals are not permitted.

Beach Casual

Women should opt for a simple sundress, breezy maxi dress, or high-quality romper. And while dressy sandalsareacceptable, avoid standard, beachwear flip-flops.

Nice, short-sleeved shirts, such as polos, are permitted for men, as well as nice shorts (think Chinos) with a belt. In general, stick with lighter colors and/or bold prints, and absolutely avoid denim, cargo, swim shorts, and cotton T-shirts. This is also the only instance when sandals may be acceptable, but ensure your feet are well-manicured before considering an open-toe look.If not, wear a deck shoe or loafer, never sneakers.

Beach Wedding Attire Etiquette

While the formality of the dress code is often stated on the invitation, some couples might just request “beach wedding attire.” If that’s the case, “It's always better to be overdressed than under-dressed,” advises Papageorge. “In the event that the invitation doesn't indicate formality, dress for a semi-formal event.”

Another important rule to remember is that this isn’t a family outing at the beach—it’s a wedding. Leave the bathing suits and swim shorts at home, and if opting for sandals, make sure they’re dressier than your normal beachy flip flops. Sun hats are permitted, but remove them during the procession so as to not block the view of other guests.

Whether it’s a breezy maxi dress, a seersucker suit, a formal romper, or a palm print jumpsuit, beach attire is a fun way to showcase your personality and rock some warm-weather favorites—just be sure to lather on the sunscreen!

A Wedding Guest's Guide to Beach Attire (2024)

FAQs

A Wedding Guest's Guide to Beach Attire? ›

What should guests wear to a beach wedding? Guests should opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, in light and neutral colors. Flowy dresses or skirts for women and linen pants or khakis with a button-down shirt for men are suitable options for beach wedding attire.

What do you wear to a beach wedding as a guest? ›

To keep cool, choose lightweight, breathable fabrics such as linen or cotton, or consider a seersucker suit. You'll also want to wear formal dress shoes and thin socks. Avoid shorts, hats, flip-flops or open-toe shoes.

What is considered beach formal for a wedding? ›

Any hem that falls below the knee is a safe bet, as are formal jumpsuits and tailored suit separates, a lá Bianca Jagger—so long as they're not white or anything adjacent. Unlike more traditional wedding attire, beach formal dress codes give guests a bit more freedom to play around with colors.

How do you write a beach wedding dress code? ›

For the most formal beach weddings, the invitation should specify that guests should wear attire that is "semi-formal" or "dressy casual."

What is the best color to wear to a beach wedding? ›

Light blue, turquoise, coral, yellow, etc., are all fantastic colours to pair with it. There is no more stunning sight than a group of bridesmaids all dressed in the same hue. Those hues are perfect for a seaside ceremony. You're free to mix and match colours from the provided palette to find the perfect fit.

What is beach casual attire? ›

Beach casual: You should wear chinos, shorts, or linen pants, with a T-shirt, a shirt, or a polo shirt. You can also wear a denim jacket, a cardigan, or a linen shirt as a layer. You can wear sandals, slippers, or sneakers, and avoid boots or oxfords. You can also wear a hat, sunglasses, or a bracelet for some fun.

Can you wear black to a beach wedding as a guest? ›

Consider Location And Time Of Day

For example, if you're attending a daytime wedding on the beach, it may be best to skip the black attire. Although in other circumstances, black is both wanted and expected.

What colors not to wear to a beach wedding? ›

A dress, suit, or jumpsuit all work for women to wear to a beach formal wedding. Opt for solid, lighter colors (avoiding black, cream, and white) and breathable fabrics.

Can a woman wear pants to a beach wedding? ›

If you have one of these on your calendar, your invitation may say resort casual or something similar. A beach wedding calls out for loose and lightweight pants with natural accessories. Think shoes when planning this outfit. Any sort of heel is a nightmare in the sand, so opt for flats.

Can I wear navy to a beach wedding? ›

Avoid monochromatic suits in navy, black, or dark grey. If you know it's going to be very hot and humid at the wedding, wearing a button-up dress shirt with a vest and dress pants is appropriate for men. Accessories are another important factor for your beach formal wedding attire.

How should I wear my hair to a beach wedding? ›

For a romantic and ethereal look, a braided updo is an excellent choice for your beach wedding! This style keeps your hair off your face and neck, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable throughout the day. Choose from a variety of braided updos, such as a fishtail braid, a loose boho braid, or a twisted braided bun.

Can you wear a black dress to a beach wedding? ›

Although beach weddings are more casual affairs, there are a few common points to note: It is standard not to wear white in order to not conflict with the bride's dress. Try to avoid wearing black for a daytime beach wedding... the sun gets hot!

Can a guest wear white to a beach wedding? ›

Don't wear white

All eyes should be on the bride, but if you wear white, you're taking the attention away from her. You may need to pick another color regardless of how flattering the dress is. Besides, when you wear white, you might bump into someone asking you if you're the one who will get married.

Which color dress looks good on beach? ›

Best Colors to Wear to the Beach

that are loose, airy, and lightly colored, such as whites, light grays, corals, yellows, or powder blue. Think pastels but don't get stuck on hues that are really washed out. Feel free to be brave when working with this color palette.

Which Colour looks best on beach? ›

6 Best Color Palettes to Wear for Beach Pictures
  • All White. Many people like to go for an all white look when it comes to beach pictures. ...
  • Baby Blue + White. Baby blue and white is a great color combination for beach pictures. ...
  • Turquoise + White. ...
  • Pink + White + Blue. ...
  • Lemon Yellow + White + Blue. ...
  • Mandarin Orange + White.
Feb 1, 2023

Do you go barefoot at a beach wedding? ›

Dress shoes and high heels will make walking in the sand difficult, and might limit some of your possibilities for more dramatic and beautiful photos. Some of our brides like to opt for jewelry for their feet instead of shoes, but many of our couples go barefoot, and love it!

Do you wear shoes to a beach wedding? ›

Beach wedding dress codes can range from formal, semi-formal, to no dress code. While you may be barefoot for the initial ceremony, you're going to want to have a pair of shoes on hand.

What should my husband wear to a beach wedding? ›

Men can wear khaki or chino pants, and sometimes even shorts (if you're not sure about shorts, play it safe and skip them). On top, men can wear a button-down shirt (short sleeves are acceptable) or a solid-color polo.

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