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Beach weddings are magical! The sound of gentle waves lapping at the shore, the warm sun on your skin, and the joyous celebration of love – it’s no wonder they’re a dream come true for many couples. But for guests, amidst the excitement comes the question: “What should I wear for a beach wedding?
This guide will unveil the best beach wedding guest dresses, ensuring you find the perfect look and feel amazing on the big day.
Choosing a Wedding Guest Dress for a Beach Wedding
Beach weddings call for a dress code that’s both stylish and practical. You want to celebrate the laid-back atmosphere while still looking appropriately dressed for the special occasion. Here are some key things to consider:
Fabric is Everything
Opt for breathable fabrics like chiffon, cotton, and linen that will keep you cool and comfortable in the warm weather.
Flowy Silhouettes Reign Supreme
Ditch the bodycon styles and embrace flowy silhouettes that move effortlessly with the breeze. Think maxi dresses, midi dresses, and breezy silhouettes.
Accessorize Wisely
Keep your accessories light and simple. Opt for statement earrings, delicate bracelets, or a woven hat to complement your beach wedding guest dress.
Finding Your Perfect Beach Wedding Guest Dress
Let’s dive into my top picks of wedding guest dresses that will make you a radiant beach wedding guest!
1. Dress for a Beach Wedding: Bright Colors and Vibrant Colors
Beach weddings are all about embracing sunshine and joy. Popular choices are bright and vibrant colors like coral, turquoise, or marigold. A flowy maxi dress in a bold hue is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, while shorter mini dresses with a flirty silhouette adds a touch of fun. These are the perfect summer wedding guest dresses.
Do: Pair your vibrant dress with simple sandals or wedges and minimal jewelry for an effortlessly chic look.
Don’t: Go overboard with clashing colors or overly busy patterns.
Perfect for: A casual beach wedding or tropical destination wedding
Here are some of my favorite bright colored dresses for a beach wedding:
2. Dress for a Beach Wedding: Flowy Maxi Dresses
The epitome of beach wedding style, flowy maxi dresses are a timeless and universally flattering option. These breezy beauties come in a variety of styles and lightweight fabrics, ensuring you find the perfect match for your taste.
Do: Accessorize with a statement necklace or a chunky bracelet to add a touch of personality. These cute floral purses can be paired with a simpler dress.
Don’t: Choose a fabric that’s too heavy or clingy, as it can get uncomfortable in the heat.
Perfect for: Almost any beach wedding dress code, from casual to semi-formal.
Here are some of my favorite maxi dresses for a beach wedding:
3. Dress for a Beach Wedding: Special Occasion Dresses with a Beachy Twist
Special occasion dresses can work perfectly for a seaside ceremony, as long as you choose a style that reflects the relaxed vibe. Look for dresses in light and airy fabrics with soft ruching or delicate lace details.
Do: Opt for short sleeves or a strapless fitted silhouette to keep things cool.
Don’t: Go for a dress that’s too formal or made of heavy fabrics like satin or velvet.
Perfect for: Semi-formal beach weddings
4. Dress for a Beach Wedding: Formal Attire (Beach Wedding Edition)
While beach weddings are typically more relaxed, there might be some that require a more formal dress code. If that’s the case, don’t fret! You can still achieve a beach-appropriate formal look.
Opt for a long dress in a light and airy fabric like chiffon or silk georgette. A simple silhouette with a delicate sweetheart neckline or a slit adds a touch of elegance without compromising on comfort.
Do: Elevate your look with a pair of statement earrings and a sparkling clutch.
Don’t: Wear a dress that’s too heavy or embellished, as it can appear out of place at a beach wedding.
Perfect for: A formal beach wedding.
5. Dress for a Beach Wedding: Mini Dresses for a Touch of Fun
For a playful and flirty beach wedding look, consider a mini dress. However, be sure to choose one that’s still appropriate for the occasion. Look for styles with a slightly longer hemline or a flowy silhouette to avoid appearing too casual.
Do: Pair your mini dress with wedges or sandals for a comfortable and stylish ensemble.
Don’t: Choose a dress that’s too short or revealing.
Perfect for: Casual beach weddings with a relaxed dress code.
6. Dress for a Beach Wedding: Tropical Prints and Bold Prints
Embrace the beachy vibes with a dress featuring a tropical or bold print. Palm leaves, florals, or geometric patterns can add a touch of personality to your beach wedding look. However, keep the scale of the print in mind. Opt for smaller, scattered prints for a more sophisticated look, while larger, bolder prints can add a touch of fun. Salty Crush have the most beautiful flowy prints for more casual occasions.
Do: Keep your accessories simple when rocking a printed dress to avoid a busy look.
Don’t: Choose a print that’s too loud or overwhelming.
Perfect for: Casual beach weddings, tropical destinations weddings.
7. Dress for a Beach Wedding: Midi Dresses
Midi dresses offer the perfect balance between a maxi and a mini dress, making them a great choice for a beach wedding. They come in a variety of styles, from flowy silhouettes to fitted bodices with a skirt that hits below the knee.
Look for dresses in breathable fabrics with delicate details like ruching or lace for an effortlessly elegant look. Midi wedding guest dresses can be used again for elegant date night outfits.
Do: Pair your midi dress with wedge sandals for a comfortable yet stylish ensemble. These Loeffler Randall dupes are beautiful and won’t break the bank.
Don’t: Choose a dress made of a stiff or heavy fabric that can wrinkle easily.
Perfect for: Almost any beach wedding dress code, from casual to semi-formal.
8. Dress for a Beach Wedding: The Long and Elegant Dress
A long dress is a classic and elegant choice for a beach wedding guest. However, to ensure it translates well to a seaside setting, opt for a dress made of a lightweight and flowy fabric like chiffon or crepe.
A simple silhouette with a delicate v-neckline or a slit adds a touch of sophistication without compromising on comfort. For more formal wedding guest dresses, read this blog post.
Do: Accessorize with a statement necklace or a pair of sparkling earrings to elevate your look.
Don’t: Choose a dress with a heavy train or too many embellishments, as it can be impractical for a beach setting.
Perfect for: Semi-formal to formal beach weddings.
Beach Wedding Guest Tips: Beyond the Dress
Now that you’ve found the perfect wedding guest dress for a beach wedding, here are some additional tips to ensure you’re a stunning and comfortable beach wedding guest:
Shoes
Skip the high heels! Opt for wedges, sandals, or flats that you can easily walk in on sand. Sarah Flint have beautiful sandals and wedges. Find my full Sarah Flint Review and Sarah Flint discount code here. Birdies also have beautiful flat shoes and sandals.
Hair and Makeup
Keep your hair and makeup simple and light. Beach waves or a braid are perfect for a relaxed look, while waterproof mascara and lip gloss will ensure your makeup stays put.
Sun Protection
Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Here are some of my favorites sunscreens:
The Invitation is Key
Always pay attention to the dress code mentioned on the wedding invitation. This will be your ultimate guide in choosing the perfect outfit.
By following these tips and choosing a dress that reflects your personal style, you’re sure to be a radiant guest at any beach wedding celebration!
Traveling for the wedding, see my favorite comfy airport outfits here. These will be the perfect addition to your capsule wardrobe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear white to a beach wedding?
Traditionally, it’s best to avoid wearing white as it can clash with the bride’s dress. However, if you’re unsure, it’s always best to check with the couple beforehand. I would always avoid white, very light pinks, very light greys or anything that may appear white in photos.
What if the beach wedding has a cocktail dress code?
A cocktail dress in a light and airy fabric is a perfect option for a beach wedding with a cocktail dress code. Look for styles that are knee-length or slightly longer.
Are short sleeves appropriate for a beach wedding?
Yes! Short sleeve dresses are a great choice for a warm-weather beach wedding. You can also opt for a spaghetti strap or strapless dress if the weather permits.
What kind of jewelry should I wear with my beach wedding dress?
Keep your jewelry simple and elegant. Statement earrings, a delicate necklace, or a stack of bracelets can all work well.
What colors should I avoid wearing to a beach wedding?
While there aren’t any strict color restrictions beyond white (to avoid clashing with the bride), it’s generally best to avoid very dark or formal colors like black or navy. These colors can appear too heavy for a beach setting. Opt for lighter, more breathable fabrics in colors that reflect the joyous and relaxed atmosphere of a beach wedding.
With so many gorgeous options to choose from, finding the perfect wedding guest dress for a beach wedding is an exciting adventure! Enjoy shopping and browsing these beautiful dresses.
If you have any more questions about wedding guest dresses for a beach wedding, dress recommendations, or all things fashion, please reach out via Instagram or my contact page. I would love to help you out!
