If you’ve been invited to a few weddings this summer, you’ll know the struggle of deciding what to wear as you watch your friends walk down the aisle. With so many fashion and style trends to follow, attending as a guest might feel like a competition. And since August is the most popular month for weddings, there’s not much time left to prepare. But don’t panic! With just a few tips and tricks, you can still dress to impress.

No matter how close you are to the happy couple, it’s important to look and feel your best in your summer wedding guest attire. We’ve compiled a few of our top tips to help you put together an outfit that turns heads – without any of the stress.

 

An infographic on The Perfect Wedding Guest Outfit

Follow these easy steps to nail the perfect wedding guest outfit for summer

What to wear for summer weddings: Our fool proof style tips

  • Don’t upstage the bride or match the wedding theme

It’s essential to never wear full white that looks too much like a wedding dress or anything low cut to divert attention. Plus if the theme colours are known, try to avoid the likely shades of the bridesmaids dresses unless you want to be confused with a bridesmaid.

The wedding invitation may give you an idea of the theme palette in the details, but you can always ask or pick a mix of vibrant colour. If it’s a garden wedding that means a lot of time outdoors, so you want to look nippy.

bride and guests

Patterned dresses or bright colours will help clashes with the bridal party

  • Dress for the weather

You’ll need to stay flexible. With such changeable conditions throughout the typical British summer, sticking too rigidly to a certain plan could end in disaster on the day.

Make sure you think of a few outfits so that you have options when the wedding comes around. Dress for the weather and the temperature of the day – if it’s breezy, it’s more likely that you’ll need a light outer layer to keep cosy. And this could come in very handy if you later move to an indoor venue. With so many people socialising and dancing, things can heat up pretty quickly.

A maxi dress is a flattering and floaty option that could be ideal for summer wedding attire when paired with the right cardigan. Plus, outdoor ceremonies might need protection from sun exposure.

  • Stick to the dress code

Most wedding invitations will include details of  the wishes of the couple, but it will always be semi formal. It’s important to respect this – it reflects your level of care and consideration towards their special day and nuptials. Men can wear a lounge suit if it’s detailed as smart casual. And for women formal means a gown, although a midi dress may work.

If you’re uncomfortable with the dress code or you really want to include a special accessory of your own, make sure to check with one or both newlyweds. They will appreciate the thought and won’t think anything of it at the wedding – you might even get a compliment!

floral prints are great to wear to a summer wedding

Floral prints are a great choice for Boho wedding themes if more your style

  • Choose a perfect dress

During your first few planning sessions and audit of the wardrobe, make sure you opt for comfortable outfits that follow the dress code and seasonal conditions. You could go for a pretty floral print or a classy colourful maxi dress as your occasion wear, but make sure you feel confident in the one you choose.

It’s a sensible idea to shop around for summer wedding guest dresses and find a few options you’re happy with well in advance of the big day. That way, you can enjoy the peace of mind that you’ll have a strong choice to turn to, no matter what the weather throws at you on the day.

  • Finish the look with comfy shoes and a small bag

Lastly, don’t forget that you’ll be wearing your outfit all day long in what could be warm summer months– and possibly into the balmy night, too! Make sure that you wear shoes you know you’ll be comfortable in. Try to avoid brand new heels unless you absolutely must, but you might want to pack some flip flops or ballet flats as backup.

A small and dainty handbag will be the most useful accessory for a summer wedding. Make sure your phone fits inside it along with some makeup and all your other essentials for the whole occasion.

And finish with some statement earrings to complete the look.