Summer weddings set in gardens, vineyards, or beaches are magical. But as temperatures rise, staying comfortable becomes just as important as looking great.
Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or chiffon to beat the heat. Men can opt for light-colored suits or linen shirts, while women can go for airy dresses or flowy skirts. Don’t forget comfy, weather-friendly shoes—think loafers or sandals that handle grass or sand.
Enhance the outdoor vibe with personal touches: sunglasses that match your outfit, wide-brim hats for shade, or stylish handheld fans. Couples can make guests feel even more comfortable with shaded lounge areas, chilled signature cocktails, hydration stations, and fun outdoor games like cornhole or giant Jenga.
Get prepared early. Dress smart, pack your essentials, and enjoy the day without worrying about sweat or sore feet. Make your outdoor wedding experience both stylish and stress-free!
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Outdoor Wedding Dress Code: How to pick the perfect outfit for an outdoor wedding, blending comfort with style.
- Footwear Tips: Discover the best shoes to wear for outdoor weddings, from grassy lawns to sandy beaches.
- Weather-Proofing Your Look: Tips on dressing for unpredictable weather while staying stylish.
- Accessorizing for the Outdoors: Find out how accessories like hats and sunglasses can enhance your outdoor wedding look.
- Outdoor Wedding Ideas: Inspiration for outdoor wedding outfits that are both stylish and practical for the setting.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Learn what not to wear to avoid discomfort or looking out of place at an outdoor wedding.
Your Go-To Outdoor Wedding Guide
Outdoor weddings are unique and beautiful, but they come with their own set of considerations. Whether you’re a guest or part of the wedding party, dressing for comfort and style is important. Outdoor venues offer plenty of space and natural beauty, but weather and logistics need to be factored into your plans.
Summer outdoor weddings are the perfect chance to dress light and stylish. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the right outfit:
Men’s Attire
Opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen. A suit or dress pants with a button-down shirt is ideal. You can leave the tie behind for a laid-back look. Choose comfortable shoes that are easy to walk on grass or uneven ground.
Footwear
Women should wear comfortable flats, wedges, or sandals, especially if the ceremony is on grass. Men should choose loafers or comfortable dress shoes.
Accessories
Sunglasses, hats, and simple jewelry will keep your look polished. A light scarf or shawl can be useful if the evening turns cooler.
By choosing breathable fabrics and the right accessories, you’ll stay comfortable and stylish for the entire event.
10 Outdoor Summer Wedding Ideas You’ll Absolutely Love!
Planning a summer outdoor wedding? Make it unforgettable with these creative and fun ideas that will add a personal touch and keep your guests entertained:
Pimp Your Prosecco
Set up a Prosecco station where guests can customize their drinks with fresh fruit garnishes like strawberries, raspberries, or citrus slices. You can even add a splash of elderflower or peach syrup for a unique twist. It’s a refreshing way to toast the happy couple.
Sweets Table
A sweets table can add a fun, interactive element to your wedding. Display a variety of treats such as cupcakes, macarons, cookies, and candy jars. You can even incorporate themed treats like mini wedding cakes or chocolate fountains. It’s a sweet way to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Lawn Games
Outdoor weddings are the perfect time to bring out some classic lawn games. Set up cornhole, croquet, giant Jenga, or ring toss to keep guests entertained during downtime. Games add a fun, relaxed vibe and get people mingling.
Ice Cream Bar
Beat the heat with an ice cream bar! Offer a selection of ice cream flavors and a variety of toppings like sprinkles, chocolate chips, or caramel sauce. You can even add fun extras like waffle cones or sundae cups to create a cool treat station for guests.
Water Bucket
Keep your guests hydrated on hot summer days by offering a water bucket stocked with bottled water. You can personalize the bottles with fun labels, maybe even with the couple’s names or a cute wedding quote. Add a few lemon slices or mint leaves for an extra refreshing touch.
Sunglasses Bucket
Protect your guests from the sun and add a playful touch by providing sunglasses. Set up a bucket filled with sunglasses for guests to grab as they arrive. It’s a fun way to ensure everyone is comfortable and looking stylish while outdoors.
Flower Crown Station
Set up a DIY flower crown station where guests can create their own flower crowns using fresh blooms. It’s a fun, interactive activity that allows guests to add a personal touch to their look while also enhancing the wedding’s natural beauty.
Outdoor Lounge Area
Create a cozy lounge area with comfortable seating like cushioned benches, poufs, or lounge chairs. This gives guests a relaxed place to unwind and chat during the event, and it adds a stylish touch to your outdoor space.
Photo Booth with Fun Props
Create a photo booth with fun props like oversized sunglasses, hats, and signs. A photo booth is a great way for guests to capture memories and adds an element of fun. You could even provide instant printouts for guests to take home as keepsakes.
Chilled Drink Stations
For those hot summer days, provide cool beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or infused water in large jars or dispensers. You can offer different flavored drinks, such as lavender lemonade or cucumber water, to keep things fresh and interesting.
These thoughtful and creative touches will help elevate your outdoor wedding and keep your guests happy, comfortable, and engaged. With just a few simple ideas, your wedding will be the talk of the season!
Top 12 Summer Wedding Outfit Color Picks
Choosing the right color for a summer wedding outfit makes all the difference. Here are the top choices for both men and women:
- Pastels: Soft shades like blush pink, lavender, and mint green create a fresh, airy look.
- Bright & Bold: Vibrant colors like coral, teal, or sunny yellow add a cheerful tone.
- Neutrals: Ivory, beige, or light gray offer a classic, versatile style.
- Floral Prints: Floral patterns bring a romantic and natural feel.
- Navy or Deep Blue: A lighter formal option for men, perfect for summer.
- Earth Tones: Sage green or terracotta add a rustic touch for outdoor settings.
- Metallic Accents: Subtle metallics like champagne or rose gold add elegance.
- Tropical Colors: Bold shades like fuchsia or emerald green suit tropical-themed weddings.
- Whites & Creams: A sophisticated choice, especially for women.
- Soft Blues & Greens: Cool shades perfect for a serene, outdoor atmosphere.
- Burgundy or Wine: Deep colors for late-summer or evening weddings.
- Patterns & Prints: Fun patterns like gingham or tropical prints add personality.
Mix and match these shades to create the perfect summer wedding look!
Must-Have Accessories to Elevate Your Look
Accessories are the finishing touch that can make your summer wedding outfit stand out. Here are some key accessories to elevate your look for an outdoor celebration:
Hats
A wide-brimmed hat is not only stylish but also practical, offering shade from the sun. For men, a fedora or a Panama hat can give a cool, relaxed vibe. For women, a floppy hat or a classic straw hat adds elegance and charm.
Sunglasses
A must-have for sunny outdoor weddings, sunglasses are both functional and fashionable. Choose classic styles like aviators or oversized frames to protect your eyes while looking chic.
Light Scarves or Shawls
A lightweight scarf or shawl can keep you comfortable in the cooler evening breeze. Choose one in a complementary color to your outfit, or go for a soft, sheer material for a delicate touch.
Jewelry
Keep it simple but elegant. For women, delicate jewelry like a simple necklace, bracelet, or stud earrings works best. For men, a stylish watch or cufflinks can add a refined detail. Avoid heavy jewelry, as it may feel uncomfortable in the heat.
Ties and Pocket Squares
For men, a tie or pocket square is a great way to add a pop of color or pattern to your suit. Choose a light, breathable fabric like linen or cotton, perfect for summer.
Footwear
Choose shoes that are both comfortable and stylish. For women, wedges or block heels are ideal for outdoor weddings as they are easier to walk on grass or sand. Men can go for loafers or light-colored leather shoes that match the casual vibe of a summer wedding.
Bags and Clutches
For women, a small clutch or crossbody bag is perfect for holding essentials without overwhelming your outfit. Keep it simple with a neutral color or something that matches your overall look.
Belts
A belt can be a subtle yet stylish accessory for men, especially when coordinating with your shoes. Choose a leather belt that matches the color of your shoes for a polished appearance.
These accessories can add personality, style, and comfort to your outdoor summer wedding look, ensuring you feel great throughout the celebration.
Finding the Perfect Summer Wedding Shoes
Choosing the right footwear is essential for comfort and style at an outdoor summer wedding. Prioritize comfort by selecting shoes with a sturdy base and good grip, especially for walking on grass, sand, or uneven terrain. Make sure your shoes complement your outfit while being practical for the outdoor setting.
Summer Wedding Shoe Ideas for Women
Wedges or Block Heels
These are perfect for outdoor weddings because they offer more stability and won’t sink into grass or sand like stilettos.
Flats or Sandals
If you prefer something more comfortable, opt for stylish flats or sandals. Look for ones with embellished details or elegant designs to elevate your outfit.
Espadrilles
A popular choice for outdoor summer weddings, espadrilles offer a casual yet chic vibe and are great for walking on uneven surfaces.
Summer Wedding Shoe Ideas for Men
Loafers or Brogues
Loafers are a versatile and comfortable choice for a summer wedding. Look for leather or suede options to stay cool and stylish. Brogues are another great option if you’re aiming for a more formal look.
Dress Shoes
If the event is more formal, a pair of lightweight dress shoes in leather or canvas will keep you cool and comfortable.
Boat Shoes or Moccasins
If the wedding has a more casual feel, boat shoes or moccasins are stylish and comfortable options for outdoor settings.
Essential Shoe Tips for Outdoor Summer Weddings
Consider the Wedding Location
If the wedding is by the beach or near a pool, waterproof shoes or sandals might be necessary. For a garden wedding, shoes with a solid base or low heel are ideal to avoid sinking into the grass.
Color and Style
Make sure your shoes complement your outfit’s color scheme. Neutral tones like beige, navy, or tan work well for both men and women, while metallics or subtle prints can add a bit of flair.
By choosing the right footwear, you’ll ensure that your outdoor summer wedding experience is as comfortable as it is stylish.
How Should I Decorate for an Outdoor Wedding?
Decorating for an outdoor wedding involves blending the natural beauty of the setting with thoughtful details that enhance the atmosphere. Here are some ideas to help you get started:
Embrace Nature
Take advantage of the natural surroundings. If you’re having a garden or forest wedding, let the plants, flowers, and trees be the focal point. You can add small touches like lanterns, floral arrangements, or even hanging fairy lights to complement the environment.
Use Seasonal Flowers
Summer weddings can be enhanced with fresh, seasonal flowers. Think of sunflowers, peonies, roses, or lavender. These flowers can be used for bouquets, centerpieces, and decorative arrangements.
Create Cozy Seating Areas
For outdoor weddings, comfortable seating is essential. Set up lounge areas with outdoor sofas, chairs, and throw pillows. You can also incorporate benches or hay bales for a rustic feel.
String Lights and Lanterns
Create a magical atmosphere with string lights, fairy lights, or lanterns. These can be hung from trees or along pathways to add a warm, romantic glow as the evening progresses.
Aisle Decorations
For the ceremony aisle, consider adding petals, small floral arrangements, or fabric runners. These details guide guests’ attention and create a beautiful, Instagram-worthy moment.
Personalized Touches
Add personal elements like custom signs, vintage furniture, or photo displays. These small touches make the event feel unique and special.
Outdoor Wedding Decor Tips You Need to Know
Consider the Weather
Make sure your decorations can withstand the elements. If it’s likely to be windy, avoid using light, delicate materials that might blow away. Consider bringing umbrellas or a shaded area for guests to stay cool.
Eco-Friendly Choices
More couples are opting for sustainable decor, such as reusable tableware, recycled materials, and potted plants that guests can take home. This is a great way to ensure your wedding leaves a minimal environmental footprint.
By choosing thoughtful, nature-inspired decorations, you’ll ensure that your outdoor wedding looks stunning and feels special.
How to Choose the Right Outdoor Wedding Venue
Selecting the perfect outdoor venue for your summer wedding is key to setting the tone and creating lasting memories. Here are some important factors to consider:
Consider the Time of Day
The time of day will affect the overall mood and lighting of your wedding. A morning wedding may give you soft, natural light, while an evening wedding offers the chance for a sunset backdrop and twinkling lights. Keep in mind that outdoor venues may not have full lighting options, so plan accordingly if you’re having an evening ceremony.
Consider the Logistics
Make sure the venue has the necessary facilities and services for your needs, such as restrooms, parking, and catering options. You’ll also want to check if there are any noise restrictions or rules about alcohol, music, or decorations. Make sure there’s enough space for guests to mingle and comfortably move around.
What if It Rains?
Weather is unpredictable, so always have a backup plan. A tent or marquee can help protect your guests from rain or strong sun. Alternatively, select a venue that offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, so you can move the event inside if needed.
Fan Bucket
If the temperature is expected to be high, a fan bucket can help guests stay cool. Offering simple, hand-held fans as favors or placing them around seating areas can keep everyone comfortable.
Umbrella Bucket
For unpredictable weather, provide umbrellas for guests. Keep a bucket full of umbrellas handy, just in case the rain decides to join the party. It’s a practical touch that also adds to the charm.
Blankets
As the evening cools down, consider providing blankets for guests to stay warm. This adds a cozy, thoughtful touch, and guests will appreciate having a way to stay comfortable.
Flipflops Bucket
After hours of standing or dancing, your guests might appreciate some comfortable shoes. Provide a flip-flop bucket for those who want to change out of their formal footwear and enjoy the rest of the celebration in comfort.
Choosing the right venue requires thoughtful planning, but with these considerations, you can ensure that your outdoor wedding will be a memorable and enjoyable event for all your guests.
Final Thought
When dressing for a summer outdoor wedding, the key is to stay cool, comfortable, and stylish. Choose breathable fabrics like linen or cotton, and opt for light colors to reflect the heat. Footwear should be practical for outdoor settings, and accessories can help add personality to your look. Don’t forget to prepare for unexpected weather with a light jacket or shawl. With the right outfit, you’ll feel confident and ready to enjoy the celebration while keeping comfort a priority.