No matter whether you're the bride-to-be, the mother of the bride, a bridesmaid, or a guest, a beach wedding necessitates a particular etiquette. This tends to be more casual, but always check the invite before beginning your shopping spree.
From the dress to the shoes to the accessories, there are various wardrobe essentials to consider, shoes being particularly tricky, as walking on sand can be challenging.
Fabrics, the location, expected temperature on the day, and fit all play a part in choosing the perfect summer wedding attire. To inspire and help you, we've listed our top tips below.
Read on to discover more.
1. Match the Destination to your Style
When considering beach wedding attire, the location should play a big part in your final decision. Certain styles of dresses, such as heavy ball gowns, darker hues, and thicker fabrics, are ideal for winter weddings.
If you try to adopt this style on the beach, you’ll likely feel out of place and uncomfortable, especially if the sun is shining! With a beach wedding, you can have fun with cutesy, flirty styles, such as backless numbers, boho styles, short wedding dresses, and whimsical, relaxed designs.
These styles ooze elegance and are more practical for the location. Shorter styles provide more movement and can be teamed with flat sandals, cute ballet flats, or bare feet.
2. Consider the Fabric
The fabric of your beach wedding attire plays a massive part in choosing the perfect attire. Linen, chiffon, and cotton are all great options and promise to keep you cool in warmer climates.
Heavy, thick fabrics are a no-go! Other fabrics are too delicate for the sand and rocks. If you're planning on getting some action shots, the wrong fabric could result in damaging your gown.
If the place you're getting married in is humid, fabrics that crease should also be avoided. Popular choices include chiffon, a lightweight, cost-effective option that boasts a flattering translucent appearance, and silk, a more expensive offering that oozes elegance.
Other alternatives include tulle, organza, taffeta, and charmeuse.
3. Avoid Long Trains and Veils
A long train can look impressive in a church setting. For the beach, it’s less practical. For one, you’ll be hard-pressed not to get it covered in sand, and two, if there’s a slight breeze, your bridesmaids may find it hard to control.
Plus, if the train gets wet, it will look dirty! Similarly, a long veil can prove a nuisance if your heart is set on a beach wedding. If you catch any sand in it, or it’s a breezy day, it can come loose or ruin your hair!
4. Have A Secondary Option
If you have your heart set on a long dress for your big day, invest in an after-party option, too. This will allow you to walk down the aisle and get your desired photos in your dream gown, then change into something more practical to dance in or get some cutesy wedding shots on the dunes or in the ocean.
5. Try Before You Buy
Although it can be tempting to purchase a wedding dress based solely on the pictures you've seen online, always try before you buy. This doesn't necessarily mean trying this particular dress, but trying on a specific style will allow you to determine whether it suits your body type.
From A-line styles to halter neck designs, strapless numbers, and v-neck options, there are various cuts available. You'll likely already have a vision of what you want in your mind, but until you try it on, you won't truly know whether it flatters your figure.
For the Men
Now that we've discussed how to choose the perfect dress; it’s time to give some insight into what the groom and his guests should wear. Shorts are an absolute go in this situation, yet it’s important to avoid gym shorts and denim fabrics.
Instead, opt for a tailored linen suit or chinos. Linen is also one of the most environmentally friendly fabrics on the market, so you’ll be doing your part for the environment, too!
To ensure this style is smart enough for the occasion, pair your chosen shorts with a long-sleeved shirt in a bold or crisp white hue. Finish the look with a pair of loafers and a classic pair of shades.
The Bottom Line
Everyone wants to look perfect on their wedding day, yet comfort is just as important as style when you've decided on a destination or beach wedding. You need attire that allows you to feel confident and cool and lets you freely move around, capturing those must-have wedding day photos!
A dress crafted from a heavy fabric or a design boasting a long train or veil isn't an ideal option for the beach. You’ll feel hot and uncomfortable and struggle to dance.
Thankfully, there are various styles, lengths, and fabrics to choose from. Following the tips above will help you pick out a practical and flattering item, allowing you to enjoy your big day without any wardrobe malfunctions.
