What to Wear to a Summer Wedding -10 Common Questions

Have you been invited to a summer wedding, but left it a little late to buy a dress? Not sure what to wear either?

Here’s a look at some beautiful summer wedding guest dresses in stores right now and answers to your questions on what to wear to a summer wedding.

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1.  What to Wear to a Daytime Wedding in Summer

The mood of a daytime wedding is light, fresh, and romantic, so wear a feminine dress in a light or bright color of the season. A classy one-shoulder dress is classy and right on trend. Accessorize your dress with elegant metallic heels, a sleek clutch, and a few touches of sparkle. How often do you get to go to a wedding? Have fun and dress up.

2.  Can You Wear White to a Wedding?

Sorry, that old rule of no white at weddings still stands because you never want to upstage the bride. The only time it is acceptable is to wear a tiny bit of white as a detail on a dress or within a pattern of a dress- but we’re talking small. Cream or beige is o.k. Unless you know the bride is wearing cream.

3.  Can You Wear Black to a Wedding?

A black cocktail dress is too heavy for a daytime wedding but appropriate for an evening one. If you want to wear black by day, you could try a black floral dress, which consists mainly of bright-colored flowers on a dark background (e.g., black or navy). This gives black a much more daytime feel. Just make sure it’s more floral than black.

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4.  What To Wear to a Garden Wedding?

There are a lot of garden weddings these days, which is a lovely thing. Some are more formal, and some are very casual, but what they all have in common is light and a cheery natural vibe.

Florals, soft shapes, and flowy fabrics fit right in with the environment. A ruffled maxi is as pretty as a flower. You’ll fit right in.

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5.  What To Wear to a Beach Wedding?

Beach weddings are adventurous and fun – the perfect time to wear anything from a pretty sundress to a chic, summery cocktail dress.  Low heels are fine if you are on a patio, but if you’ll be walking on sand, be sure to bring some cute flat sandals to slip into.

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6.  What to Wear to a Winery Wedding?

Winery weddings can range from boho to glam, but they always have an air of sophistication. Why not toast the bride and groom with a glass of champagne in this gorgeous blue sheath with a twist-tie neckline that is both modern and chic?  Add sexy heels and a glamorous clutch, and party on.

7.  Can You Wear a Jumpsuit to a Wedding?

Yes, absolutely! If your legs are not your best asset or dresses are not your thing, then pants are an excellent choice. However, I’m not talking about any old pair of slacks and a top. To look more elegant, wear a solid color pantsuit or a beautiful blouse and Palazzo pants, which are flowy and feminine, almost like a dress.

A dressy jumpsuit can also work for daytime weddings. Be sure to choose fabrics that are relaxed and a little more luxurious than what you’d wear every day.

8. Maxi Dresses are Summery – Can I wear a Maxi Dress to a Summer Wedding?

Yes, a breezy maxi dress is perfect for a spring or summer wedding, but make sure it is not too casual or too revealing. Check out my post on appropriate maxi dresses for weddings.

9.  What to Wear To an Evening Wedding?

Easy Answer – Unless the evening wedding is very formal and calls for a long gown, a cocktail dress is perfect! Just make sure it is not too flashy, short, or revealing.  You don’t want to look like you should be out clubbing. For example, a tight-fitting red satin dress with sequins and a plunging neckline is too showy.

Another option for an evening wedding is to wear a dressy suit or a cocktail suit. Remember, it’s night. You shouldn’t look the slightest bit corporate. No pinstripes, shirts, tweeds, serious suit styles, and heavy materials. You need to wear a fitted suit, not a boxy suit, one that is softer, a little sexy, feminine, and luxurious – the type of thing you’d wear if you were going out to a special dinner. Think sophisticated. (A very dressy pantsuit with this same feel would work too.)

10.  What to Wear to a Black Tie Wedding?

A black-tie wedding is the most formal and calls for something very glamorous like you are going to a formal ball. Here’s where a full-length black dress would be your very best choice. However, a black cocktail dress would be acceptable, too. If you don’t like black, then a single-color dress in rich color is elegant, too. Also, a dress that is simple with clean lines is what’s right for this elegant affair—no fussy details.

Always respect the fact that it will be one of the most special days in the bride’s life. Honor her by putting some effort into what you wear and dressing up for the occasion, but never try to outshine her. It’s her moment to be in the spotlight. Make sure she feels like the star.

More ideas for what to wear to a wedding reception over 40 are here, or you can read about bridal shower outfits.