Not sure what to wear to a beach wedding? 5 style tips you need to know

When you were first invited to your friend’s beach wedding, you were thrilled; who doesn’t love a destination celebration? But now, with the date getting closer, you’re thinking to yourself: what do I wear to a beach wedding? No need to stress! To keep chic at the beach, these are the simple style tips you’ll want to follow as well as some do’s and don’ts to keep you from making a fashion faux pas.

With the beauty of a beach wedding also comes the inevitable ocean breeze. Stick to longer midi or maxi styles to avoid any unfortunate wind-meets-mini dress mishaps.

Unlike in indoor ceremonies, you’re going to want to keep in mind the fabric of your dress. Too many layers and you’ll be stifling, too delicate, and your dress is at the peril of the mist, sand, and sweat. Stick to light and natural fabrics like linen, jersey, and cotton to keep cool in the sun.

If you’re going to a beach wedding, chances are it’s going to be hot. So you’re better off going with a flowy silhouette, rather than tight or skin-hugging. Cut-outs are another way to stay cool during the day, but avoid wearing anything that is too flashy or shows too much skin – no one want to be that guest at a wedding.

A beach wedding will most likely mean sunshine and a lot of it. If you plan on taking a photos, a bright or high contrast colored dress will help you stand out against the blue sky and sand on the beach. Pale colors might wash you out in photos or make you blend in with the background.

Keep your larger bags stowed away in your suitcase and opt for smaller handheld styles for the celebration.  How cute is this silver shell clutch worn by Lauren Ireland at Sophia Richie’s wedding earlier this year? You can stick with an ocean theme  or go for a beaded or rhinestone clutch.

One of the most important things to remember to bring to a beach wedding? Sunglasses. Keep the sun out of your eyes and avoid any awkward squinting when the couple says their “I do’s” with one of these chic styles.

1. Don’t forget sunscreen. The last thing you want is to have a sunburn that ruins all the wedding photos at the afterparty. Don’t forget to apply a good amount of sunscreen before and during the wedding ceremony.
2. Can I wear black to a beach wedding? While it may have been frowned upon in the past, nowadays it’s totally fine to wear black to a wedding. Pick a black dress that has a pattern or at least another color integrated into the dress. All-black is also fine and can look incredibly chic – just don’t choose anything that’s too conservative or somber, otherwise it will like you’re going to a funeral.
3. Don’t wear white. This might seem like common sense, but to avoid any unncessary drama – avoid wearing white even if the dress has flowers or other details on the dress. The same goes for cream, beige, off-white. Unless you know the bride reaallly well, and know that she won’t mind, stay on the safe side and stick to the unwritten rule.
4. What shoes should I wear to a beach wedding? Although this next point may seem obvious, a beach wedding is not the time nor the place to be flaunting your sky-high stilettos. Is it okay to wear sandals to a beach wedding? Of course! We recommend going with metallic or jewelled sandal instead of the classic black or brown leather. And as much as well love a good Birkenstock, there’s a time and place for them and a beach wedding is not it.

Original text: Kayla Kuefler

Updated text: Rebekah Ortquist