Fashion Advice

What to Wear to a Beach Wedding

Beach wedding scene

I know I’m not alone when I get an invitation to a beach wedding and say,”YAAASSS!” And then, the very next thought is”what the heck am I going to wear to a beach wedding?”

It’s one of the kinds of weddings as easy and relaxing from the water as a wedding could possibly be. There is not any dress code and you need to contend with various factors — weather, time of day, level of formality, seating setup, sand. Yikes.

But do not decline that invitation. We’ve got some tips that will help you hone in on just the right piece.

Dressing for a Beach Wedding: Dos and Don’ts

Can

Accessorize with a hat (if the weatherman isn’t predicting gale-force winds). Think big and floppy and you’ll make sure that your skin is sun shielded and your own hair is wind-proof.

Floppy white sun hat with black trim

Nine West Packable Ruffle Floppy Sun Hat, $42, Macys

Choose a tidy updo (if the weatherman is predicting gale-force winds) There is nothing like a stiff wind mixed with sand to make you looking like you have been in a battle. Get defensive using a pulled-back do if wind is a possibility. Now is not the time to go amorous and soft.

Wear seaside colors. Blues, greens, turquoises and neutrals are beautiful options.

Faux wrap dress with blue and peach pattern

Women’s Bundle 7 Faux-Wrap Floral Dress, $59, Kohls

Bring a pretty shawl or scarf.  Late-afternoon weddings by the sea could subject you to a full-range of temperatures. Be well prepared with a layer that was extra.

Ask concerning the installation.  Spare yourself the despair of guesswork and ask how the wedding will be put up. Will guests be seated beside the sand on a solid-surface terrace, or right on the sand? Till you know the answer you can’t pick the right footwear.

Do choose a dress with movement.  Lightweight fabrics that fall away in the body will keep you comfy from the damp, salty beach air. Wrap fashion dresses, jumpsuits that are wide-legged and empire fashions are choices.

Blue fit and flare dress from Macys

Monteau Petite Flutter-Sleeve Ruffled Fit & Flare Dress Macys

Pink split-leg, floor-length jumpsuit

Split-Leg Crepe Jumpsuit
$158, Tahari ASL

Check your dress span.  If the dress is too short, a gust of wind could lead to a peep show for your fellow guests. Knee-length is secure — but if that feels too frumpy make sure your foundation layer is G-rated.

Don’t

Do not wear flip flops. There isn’t any reason, unless your chair is partly in the waves. Instead, go for leather sandals

Don’t wear heels.  If you’re anywhere close to the sand, you’ll mess your shoes. You’ll also subject yourself to the potential for falling over and getting your heels stuck.

Don’t forget to accessorize. Just because the event is beach-themed, it doesn’t mean you should leave your necklaces, rings, and earrings at home.

Do not wear anything utter, tight or revealing. Sure, you’re at the beach. But remember, this is occasion with family, friends and kids.

Don’t use black or navy black or blue green.  Dark colours do not fit the seaside vibe. Additionally, if sunlight is shining, then you are going to be the very first in the crowd.

The Beach Wedding Outfit — Location is Everything

The point to remember about dressing for a beach wedding is that location is key. Not all beach wedding are alike! Consider the setting:

Can this be a tropical destination wedding?  Will the service be in the sand? In both circumstances, sandals, sundress, floppy hat and lei are fair game.

Floral fit and flare dress

Gabby Skye Floral Cutout Waist Belt Dress, $40, JCPenney

Green silk dress with elastic waist

BGL Silk Dress, $90, Bluefly

What’s the weather pattern like? I recall a trip I took years ago into the Caribbean in late-June. It rained, difficult , for half an hour daily at 2pm. Ask the locals about some weather patterns, if you are traveling to this particular wedding.

Once the wedding is at the Sand

The ceremony is on the shore along with if the invite informs you the bride, it is OK to follow suit. But do not appear without shoes no one wants to walk into a public restroom with no shoes on. Yuck. Deliver a pair of sandals. You can put them in your own bag.

For all these ceremonies, your ensemble ought to be mild, casual and breezy. Try even, or spring and summer prints hemlines a halter-top chiffon dress with a flowy skirt. And, these fashions will work for a evening or day ceremony. When the sun goes down, keep in mind that shawl in case the temperature drops.

Pale pink embellished chiffon dress

Embellished Chiffon Midi Dress, Modcloth, $119

When the wedding is about the Boardwalk

If the wedding is”beachfront” or even”on the shore,” then you can bet that the bride is wearing heels. There ought to be a tough surface or a walkway beneath you. (It doesn’t hurt to verify this with a fast call!) .

In this case, go a step together with your outfit so that you can pair it with wedges vs. flat sandals. One of the simplest ways is passing on linen and cotton pieces. Go for silk, polyester blends or chiffon.

Floral halter top maxi dress from Modcloth

Essence of Presence Chiffon Maxi Dress Modcloth

What to Wear to a Formal Beach Wedding

When the invite references the word”formal,” accept that description seriously. Start looking for possibly a floor-length jumpsuit, or a dress that is lined. You’re still able to dabble in the beachy colors however — just be certain that the silhouette has a certain amount of sophistication.

Bright green maxi dress with grommets at waist

Tie Belt Maxi Dress, $65, Chicos

Beach Wedding Accessories Tips

Have I mentioned wind? Yeah, it is a theme. Avoid accessories which are not securely. Flowers in your hair ribbons that are loose — these touches end up askew, tangled or lost in knots on a windy day. Pick jewelry and other adornments that clip , stay near your own skin, or are heavy enough (like a pendant) they will not take flight from your body.

Beach Wedding Makeup

The rules of thumb when performing your makeup for a beach wedding to remember:

  • Foundation with SPF
  • waterpoof mascara and eyeliner
  • lip stain over gloss and stick (sand stuck on your lipstick? gross.)

I advise skipping the highlighter and going light on the contouring. You are going to be outside at the sun — some color will be delivered by the heat for your cheekbones and you do not need your highlighter.

Are you ready to go out searching for that perfect beach wedding outfit? Enjoy!

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