Outdoor weddings are becoming increasingly popular, with many couples opting for a picturesque garden or beach setting for their special day. While choosing the perfect outfit for any wedding can be a challenge, dressing for an outdoor affair brings its own set of challenges.
Here are some do's and don'ts to keep in mind when planning your outdoor wedding attire.
- Do Consider the Weather: It's important to dress for the weather by choosing breathable fabrics and layering for cooler temperatures. Even if the forecast predicts sunshine, it's always better to be prepared for any unexpected changes.
- Don't Wear High Heels: Sinking into the grass or sand in high heels can be a fashion disaster waiting to happen. Opt for a lower heel or wedge, or even flats if you're worried about sinking.
- Do Embrace Lighter Colors: From pastels to bright hues, lighter colors are perfect for outdoor weddings. They not only look great in natural light but also keep you cool under the sun.
- Do Coordinate with the Wedding Color Scheme: Coordinate your attire with the wedding color scheme to blend in seamlessly with the outdoor setting. It's always a good idea to check with the couple beforehand to ensure you're not clashing with the wedding party.
- Don't Be Too Casual: While outdoor weddings can sometimes be more relaxed affairs, it's important to still dress appropriately. Avoid anything too casual or beachy and opt for something that's still wedding-appropriate.
- Do Accessorize Smartly: Choose a statement piece like a clutch or earrings to add personality to your outfit. Just be careful not to overdo it and steal the spotlight!
- Do Opt for Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sunshine while also adding style by sporting a floppy hat or sunglasses. It's a win-win!
- Don't Forget the Bug Spray: Pesky bugs can ruin even the most beautiful outdoor wedding. Keep them at bay by using mosquito repellent or by opting for long sleeves and pants.
- Do Dress for the venue: Whether it's a beach wedding or a garden affair, make sure your attire coordinates with the setting. It'll make for some great wedding photos!
- Do Consider the Time of Day: Choosing lighter fabrics and colors for a daytime wedding and more formal attire for evening events is always a good rule of thumb.
With these do's and don'ts in mind, you'll be well on your way to choosing the perfect outfit for that upcoming outdoor wedding!
Do Consider the Weather
If you're planning to attend an outdoor wedding, it's important to dress appropriately for the weather. Outdoor weddings can be subject to unpredictable weather, so you need to be ready for whatever comes your way.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when selecting your attire is to choose breathable fabrics. Outdoor weddings can be hot and stuffy, so you'll want to avoid materials that don't allow your skin to breathe. Opt for light and airy fabrics like cotton, linen, or chiffon. These materials will keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day.
Another thing to keep in mind is to layer your clothing. The weather can change unexpectedly, so it's a good idea to be prepared for cooler temperatures. Bring along a light jacket or wrap that you can easily put on if the temperature drops. And if you're attending an evening wedding, be sure to bring a shawl or sweater to keep you warm.
Avoid heavy materials like wool or velvet, which can be uncomfortable in sunny, warm weather. If there is a chance of rain, bring an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Overall, dressing for the weather is key to ensuring that you are comfortable and able to enjoy the outdoor wedding festivities.
Don't Wear High Heels
One of the most important things to consider when dressing for an outdoor wedding is footwear. While high heels may look great, they can be a hazard on uneven terrain and soft grass. If you wear heels, you risk sticking them in the ground or worse, sinking into the earth altogether.
The solution to this problem is to choose a lower heel or wedge shoe or even opting for flats. These options will help you keep your balance and move around easily without struggling. Wedges are an especially great choice because they give you the height of heels without the pointy heel that can be so problematic on grassy areas.
If you are dead set on wearing heels, there are tools you can use to avoid sinking into the grass. There are heel protectors that are small rubber stoppers that slide over your heels and disperse the weight of your foot, or you could invest in stiletto heel covers. However, going for a comfortable and practical shoe option remains the best choice for any outdoor wedding.
Do Embrace Lighter Colors
When it comes to choosing the perfect attire for an outdoor wedding, embracing lighter colors is a definite “do.” Lighter colors such as pastels, soft pinks, and light blues are great options and can help keep you cool on those hot, sunny days. Soft yellows and greens are also ideal choices for outdoor weddings. These colors work well against the natural backdrop of the outdoors, and they can help you achieve a whimsical, romantic look.
If you want to get a little more daring with your color choices, brighter hues are a fabulous option. Bright oranges, pinks, and even reds can work well for outdoor weddings, particularly if the wedding is taking place during the summer months. If you aren't quite ready to wear a bright, solid-colored dress, consider a dress with a bold floral print. Floral prints always work well for outdoor weddings, and they can add a touch of fun and whimsy to your overall look.
Another great reason to embrace lighter colors is that they can help you stay cooler. Lighter colors reflect the sun's rays, rather than absorbing them like darker colors do. So be sure to keep this in mind when selecting your attire for an outdoor wedding. Stay cool, comfortable, and on-trend with your lighter color choices. And remember to coordinate your wedding attire with the wedding color scheme, so you blend seamlessly with the outdoor setting.
Do Coordinate with the Wedding Color Scheme
One of the most important things to keep in mind when choosing your outfit for an outdoor wedding is to coordinate with the wedding color scheme. This ensures that your ensemble complements the overall look and feel of the event.
Start by asking the happy couple for the color palette they've chosen for their big day. This will give you a clear idea of which colors to include in your outfit. You don't have to match every color exactly – instead, look for hues that complement each other. For example, if the wedding colors include a deep navy blue and soft pink, consider wearing a dress or suit in a dusty rose shade.
If you're having trouble finding the perfect outfit in the right color, accessories are a great way to incorporate the wedding colors. For example, you could wear a neutral-colored dress and add a scarf or jewelry in one of the wedding colors. This small touch will help tie your outfit into the overall wedding theme.
Remember, the goal is to blend in seamlessly with the outdoor setting, so avoid wearing anything that clashes with the natural surroundings. This means steering clear of neon colors or busy patterns that may detract from the beauty of the venue.
Overall, coordinating your attire with the wedding color scheme is an easy way to ensure that you look stylish and appropriate for the occasion. By staying within the color palette, you'll be sure to blend in with the atmosphere of the outdoor wedding.
Don't Be Too Casual
If you're attending an outdoor wedding that has a more relaxed dress code than traditional indoor weddings, it's still important to strike the right balance between comfortable and casual. While you might be tempted to throw on a sundress and sandals, it's important to remember that you are still attending a special event.
Avoid anything too beachy or overly casual, as this can detract from the ambiance of the wedding and make you stand out in a negative way. Instead, opt for lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen in a more polished cut. Maxi dresses are a great option that can be dressed up or down and are perfect for outdoor weddings.
To avoid looking too casual, stay away from denim and anything overly revealing. Also, avoid anything too short or too tight. Keep in mind that you are attending a wedding, not a beach party. Dress to impress while maintaining comfort and functionality.
When in doubt, it's always better to err on the side of being slightly overdressed rather than underdressed. You can always dress down a little by removing accessories or changing shoes if necessary, but it's much harder to dress up once you've already arrived at the wedding.
Do Accessorize Smartly
Choosing the perfect accessories can make a huge difference in your outdoor wedding attire. To add some personality to your outfit, consider opting for a statement piece like a clutch or a pair of earrings. These simple yet stylish accessories can add the perfect finishing touch to your look.
When selecting your accessories, make sure they match well with your overall outfit and coordinate with the wedding colors if possible. Consider the season and location of the wedding when selecting your accessories. If it's a summer wedding, opt for a colorful clutch or a statement necklace to add some pop to your outfit. For a winter wedding, try a pair of elegant gloves or a shawl to keep you warm without sacrificing style.
Remember, less is more when it comes to accessorizing. Avoid overdoing it by sticking to one or two statement pieces. It's better to have one standout accessory rather than several pieces that clash with one another. If you're unsure what accessories to wear, ask the bride or wedding planner for some guidance.
Accessorizing smartly also means considering practicality. Make sure your accessories are functional and won't be a hindrance during the ceremony and reception. For example, if you're wearing a long dress, avoid a long necklace that could get caught or tangled up. Avoid wearing a hat that could block the view of other guests, and choose sunglasses or a hat that can protect you from the sun.
Ultimately, accessorizing is a great opportunity to showcase your personality and style, so have fun with it! But remember to keep it classy and avoid anything too over-the-top or distracting. By choosing the perfect statement piece, you'll add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your outdoor wedding attire.
Do Opt for Sun Protection
When attending an outdoor wedding, it's important to not only look stylish but to also protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays. That's why opting for sun protection is a must-do. A fashionable and practical way to do this is by considering a floppy hat or sunglasses.
A floppy hat not only adds a touch of glamour to your outfit but also offers protection for your face, neck, and shoulders. It can also help keep you cool and shield you from the sun's glare when taking photos. Plus, there are many styles to choose from, whether it be a wide-brimmed sun hat or a playful straw option.
Sunglasses are another stylish way to protect yourself from the sun. Not only do they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they can also elevate your outfit by adding a touch of sophistication. When choosing sunglasses, keep in mind the shape of your face and what will suit you best. Consider going for timeless frames that will never go out of style.
If you're not a fan of wearing hats or sunglasses, another option is to choose a dress or outfit that has built-in sun protection. Many clothing brands offer dresses with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) in the fabric, which is designed to block out the sun's rays. You can also protect your skin by wearing long-sleeved tops and pants in light and breathable fabrics.
In addition to hats, sunglasses, and clothing, it's also important to wear sunscreen and reapply it regularly throughout the day. Don't forget to bring a small bottle of sunscreen in your purse and apply it to any exposed skin, such as your arms, legs, and chest.
Overall, opting for sun protection is not only smart but also stylish. By considering a floppy hat or sunglasses, protecting your skin with clothing, and wearing sunscreen, you can enjoy the outdoor wedding without worrying about getting sunburnt or damaging your skin.
Don't Forget the Bug Spray
Outdoor weddings can be a beautiful and memorable experience for everyone involved, but they also come with a few challenges, one of which is dealing with pesky bugs like mosquitoes and flies. To avoid being bitten or bothered by insects during the ceremony or reception, it's important to take the necessary precautions. One of the most effective ways to do so is by applying mosquito repellent before heading out to the event.
If you prefer, you can also try covering up with long sleeves and pants to minimize skin exposure and reduce the risk of bites. This is especially important if you're going to be in a wooded or grassy area where bugs tend to thrive. Additionally, you can also use mosquito nets or citronella candles to keep the bugs away and create a pleasantly scented atmosphere.
Another option to consider is choosing fabrics that are less attractive to bugs, such as synthetic materials that do not absorb sweat or moisture. Light-colored clothing is also less attractive to insects, so you may want to opt for pastels or brighter colors to help deter bugs.
Remember, outdoor weddings are meant to be enjoyable, so don't let bugs ruin your big day! With a little bit of preparation and planning, you can keep pesky insects at bay and focus on making memories that will last a lifetime.
Do Dress for the Venue
When choosing what to wear to an outdoor wedding, it's important to consider the setting of the event. Whether it's a beach wedding or a garden affair, it's crucial to dress appropriately to coordinate with the venue. For a beach wedding, consider wearing a flowy dress or a linen suit. You may also want to think about wearing sandals or other comfortable shoes that won't sink into the sand.
If the wedding is taking place in a garden or park, it's best to opt for lighter fabrics that are breathable and won't cause you to overheat. A sundress or light-colored suit would be fitting for the occasion. You can also add a touch of whimsy to your outfit with a floral print or a straw hat.
If you're attending an outdoor wedding in a more formal setting, such as a vineyard or a mansion, then you'll want to dress to impress. A long dress or a suit and tie would be appropriate for the occasion. Avoid anything too casual or beachy, as it may clash with the elegance of the venue.
In summary, when it comes to attending an outdoor wedding, dressing for the venue is key. Take into consideration the location and the setting of the event when deciding what to wear. By dressing appropriately, you'll not only fit in with the ambiance of the wedding, but you'll also be comfortable and stylish.
Do Consider the Time of Day
When deciding what to wear to an outdoor wedding, it's important to take into consideration the time of day of the event. For a daytime wedding, lighter fabrics and colors are more appropriate. Opt for flowy dresses or linen suits in pastel or light hues. Avoid anything too heavy or dark that may cause you to overheat in the sun.
On the other hand, for an evening outdoor wedding, it's typically more appropriate to dress up in more formal wear. Men can opt for a dark suit or tuxedo while women can choose a long gown or dress. Darker colors such as navy or black are acceptable for evening events. Be sure to follow the dress code outlined by the couple on the invitation.
Another important factor to consider is how the time of day affects the lighting. For daytime weddings, the natural light may be quite strong, so be mindful of this when choosing accessories and makeup. For evening events, it's appropriate to add some sparkle and glam to your outfit.
In essence, dressing appropriately for the time of day is crucial in making sure you look and feel comfortable at an outdoor wedding. Don't be afraid to mix and match fabrics and accessories to create a perfect, stylish look that will last throughout the event.
