Outdoor weddings are becoming more popular as people look for ways to celebrate their special day in a natural and scenic setting. However, choosing the right outfit for an outdoor wedding can be tricky, as you have to consider the weather, the terrain, the dress code, and the style of the event. In this article, we will give you some tips and suggestions on what to wear to an outdoor wedding, whether you are a guest, a bridesmaid, or the bride herself.
What to Wear as a Guest
As a guest, you want to dress appropriately for the occasion, but also comfortably for the outdoor environment. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
- Check the invitation for the dress code. Some outdoor weddings may have a specific theme or request a certain level of formality, such as black tie, formal attire, or smart casual. If you are unsure about the dress code, you can always ask the host or other guests for clarification.
- Dress for the season and the location. Depending on the time of year and the place of the wedding, you may need to adjust your outfit accordingly. For example, if the wedding is in a hot and humid climate, you may want to opt for light and breathable fabrics, such as cotton, linen, or silk. If the wedding is in a cold and windy area, you may want to layer up with a jacket, a scarf, or a shawl. If the wedding is in a rainy or muddy location, you may want to avoid wearing heels or delicate shoes that could get ruined.
- Choose colors and patterns that suit the outdoor setting. Outdoor weddings often have a natural and rustic vibe, so you may want to avoid wearing anything too flashy or loud that could clash with the surroundings. Instead, opt for colors and patterns that complement the landscape, such as earthy tones, pastels, florals, or stripes.
- Accessorize wisely. Accessories can add some flair and personality to your outfit, but be careful not to overdo it or wear anything that could be uncomfortable or impractical for an outdoor wedding. For example, you may want to skip wearing a hat that could fly off in the wind or block someone’s view, or wearing jewelry that could get tangled or caught on something. Instead, choose accessories that are simple and functional, such as sunglasses, a clutch, or a belt.
Here are some examples of outfits that you could wear as a guest to an outdoor wedding:
- For a black tie event: A long gown in a dark or neutral color with some embellishments or details. A pair of heels or flats that match your dress. A clutch or a small purse that holds your essentials. A shawl or a wrap that keeps you warm in case it gets chilly.
- For a formal attire event: A cocktail dress or a jumpsuit in a bright or pastel color with some prints or textures. A pair of dress shoes or sandals that are comfortable and sturdy. A statement necklace or earrings that add some sparkle to your look. A jacket or a cardigan that you can layer on if needed.
- For a smart casual event: A midi dress or a skirt and blouse in a floral or striped pattern with some lace or ruffles. A pair of wedges or flats that are cute and casual. A crossbody bag or a tote that carries your belongings. A hat or a headband that adds some charm to your outfit.
What to Wear as a Brides man
As a bridesmaid, you want to dress in harmony with the bride and the other bridesmaids, but also express your own style and personality. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Follow the bride’s instructions and preferences. The bride usually has the final say on what the bridesmaids should wear, so make sure you respect her wishes and follow her guidelines. She may choose the color, the length, the style, or even the exact dress for you and the other bridesmaids. If she gives you some freedom to choose your own dress, make sure you consult with her and get her approval before buying anything.
- Choose a dress that flatters your body type and skin tone. Even if you have to wear a specific color or style of dress, you can still find one that suits your body type and skin tone. For example, if you have an hourglass figure, you may want to opt for a fitted dress that accentuates your curves. If you have a fair complexion, you may want to avoid wearing white or beige that could wash you out.
- Coordinate with the other bridesmaids and the wedding theme. You want to look like part of the bridal party, not like an outsider who doesn’t belong. Therefore, try to coordinate your outfit with the other bridesmaids and the wedding theme. For example, if the wedding has a bohemian theme, you may want to wear a flowy dress with some embroidery or fringe. If the wedding has a vintage theme, you may want to wear a dress with some lace or pearls.
- Accessorize minimally and tastefully. As a bridesmaid, you don’t want to overshadow the bride or draw attention away from her. Therefore, keep your accessories minimal and tasteful, and avoid wearing anything that could compete with or clash with the bride’s outfit. For example, you may want to skip wearing a tiara or a veil that could make you look like the bride, or wearing a necklace or earrings that could clash with the bride’s jewelry. Instead, choose accessories that are simple and elegant, such as a bracelet, a ring, or a hair clip.
Here are some examples of outfits that you could wear as a bridesmaid to an outdoor wedding:
- For a black tie event: A long dress in a jewel tone or a metallic shade with some sequins or beads. A pair of heels or flats that match your dress. A small purse or a wristlet that holds your essentials. A pair of stud earrings or a pendant necklace that add some shine to your look.
- For a formal attire event: A knee-length dress or a tea-length dress in a pastel or a neutral color with some lace or chiffon. A pair of dress shoes or sandals that are comfortable and elegant. A clutch or a envelope bag that carries your belongings. A pair of drop earrings or a pearl necklace that add some sophistication to your outfit.
- For a smart casual event: A short dress or a romper in a floral or a geometric pattern with some ruffles or pleats. A pair of wedges or flats that are cute and fun. A crossbody bag or a bucket bag that holds your stuff. A pair of hoop earrings or a charm bracelet that add some flair to your look.
What to Wear as the Bride
As the bride, you want to dress in a way that reflects your personality and style, but also suits the outdoor setting and the wedding theme. Here are some suggestions to consider:
- Choose a wedding dress that is comfortable and practical for an outdoor wedding. You don’t want to wear a wedding dress that is too heavy, too tight, too long, or too complicated for an outdoor wedding, as it could make you feel uncomfortable or cause you some trouble. For example, you don’t want to wear a wedding dress that is made of thick or synthetic fabrics that could make you sweat, or that has a long train or a lot of layers that could drag on the ground or get dirty. Instead, opt for a wedding dress that is made of light and natural fabrics, such as cotton, linen, or silk, and that has a simple and elegant silhouette, such as an A-line, a sheath, or a mermaid.
- Choose a wedding dress that matches the season and the location of the wedding. Depending on the time of year and the place of the wedding, you may need to adjust your wedding dress accordingly. For example, if the wedding is in spring or summer, you may want to wear a wedding dress that has short sleeves, straps, or no sleeves at all, and that has some floral or colorful accents. If the wedding is in fall or winter, you may want to wear a wedding dress that has long sleeves, cap sleeves, or sleeves with some lace or fur details, and that has some warm or earthy tones.
- Choose a wedding dress that complements the wedding theme and the groom’s outfit. You want to look like you belong together with your groom and with the overall vibe of the wedding. Therefore, try to choose a wedding dress that complements the wedding theme and the groom’s outfit. For example, if the wedding has a rustic theme, you may want to wear a wedding dress that has some lace or crochet elements, and that goes well with the groom’s suit or tuxedo in brown or navy. If the wedding has a modern theme, you may want to wear a wedding dress that has some sleek or geometric features, and that matches the groom’s suit or tuxedo in black or gray.
- Accessorize with care and creativity. Accessories can make or break your bridal look, so be careful not to overdo it or wear anything that could ruin your outfit. For example, you don’t want to wear shoes that are too high or too uncomfortable for walking on grass or sand, or that could get damaged by water or dirt. You also don’t want to wear jewelry that is too flashy or too bulky for your neckline or hairstyle, or that could get lost or broken during the ceremony or reception. Instead, choose shoes that are comfortable and appropriate for the outdoor terrain, such as flats, sandals, wedges, boots, etc., and jewelry that is simple and meaningful for you, such as earrings, rings, necklaces etc.,
Here are some examples of outfits that you could wear as the bride to an outdoor wedding:
- For a black tie event: A strapless ball gown in white or ivory with some crystals or pearls on the bodice. A