What to Wear to a Beach Wedding as a Guest, From Formal to Casual

Receiving an invitation to a beach wedding is basically like getting invited to a vacation…right? Well, before you add T-shirts and flip-flops to your packing list, there are a few things you need to know about appropriate beach wedding attire for guests. Beach wedding guest attire often leans a bit more casual given the climate and terrain (aka lots of sun and sand), however dress codes can vary depending on the venue and event style. That said, your outfit should still reflect that it's a special occasion. If you're not sure exactly what to wear to a beach wedding, we've got you covered. Below, we break down all the etiquette of beach wedding guest attire, including what to wear to respect different dress codes. And, to make your search for appropriate clothing even easier, we've included a handful of shoppable beach wedding attire ideas for men and women.

In this article: What's Appropriate? | Beach Dress Codes | Attire for Men | Attire for Women

Photo: Julia K.

What Is Appropriate Beach Wedding Guest Attire?

So, what is appropriate to wear to a resort wedding or a ceremony on the sand? Wedding attire for a beach wedding is commonly assumed to be dressy casual—and while this might be true for many weddings, others may be more formal. In general, though, beach wedding attire for men and women is heavily influenced by the setting. When planning out your outfit, look to popular beach wedding colors and patterns to get inspired. Think: pastels, neons, florals and other botanical prints.

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If you'll be attending a beach wedding, there are a few easy ways to make sure you're dressed appropriately. First, check the wedding invitation or wedding website for the event's official dress code. Then, look at the ceremony and reception location. Is it an outdoor wedding or will you be spending time indoors? That'll help you dress for comfort. Speaking of comfort, you should also research the destination's weather. Regardless of the time of year, there's a chance the climate will be hot—or, at the very least, warm—and humid. Because of this, fabric is a key element of your beach wedding attire. Breathable materials like linen and cotton are ideal for being outdoors. But don't forget about the possibility of a waterfront breeze—consider clothing that can withstand a little bit of wind (you might want to skip strapless 'fits in favor of more support).

The most common beach wedding outfits for men include a button-down shirt, slacks or chinos and a suit jacket or blazer if it's a formal ceremony. Flowy maxis and midis are common beach wedding guest dresses for women, but jumpsuits and dressy separates are also appropriate choices. When it comes to accessories, feel free to have some fun. A beach wedding is a great opportunity to wear a patterned tie or colorful statement earrings. It's also perfectly acceptable to pack nice sunglasses or a dressy hat for an outdoor ceremony or reception.

What to Wear to a Beach Wedding by Dress Code

With any wedding, it's always important to follow the celebration's dress code as outlined on the couple's wedding website. If you need more help figuring out the level of formality, the time of day can be a good cue. An evening beach wedding tends to be more formal than a midday or morning event. The venue can also serve as a resource. A waterfront wedding at an upscale club or resort will likely require a more formal outfit than a gathering right on the sand. Whatever the case, remember that weddings are special occasions. When in doubt, err on the side of elevated. Everyday attire is only ever appropriate if it's explicitly requested by the couple, so you can probably leave your jean shorts at home.

Beach Formal Wedding Attire

Even if you've been invited to a formal wedding on the beach, it's unlikely you'll be expected to wear a tuxedo or evening gown. For men's beach formal attire, a suit is usually your safest bet, but skip black and choose a color like blue or tan instead. Summer fabrics, like linen and seersucker, are appropriate for this dress code. Unless the invitation says otherwise, assume you'll need a tie or bow tie—feel free to choose a solid color or a modest pattern. Finally, don't forget a belt and complementary dress shoes. While an elevated maxi dress is an appropriate option for women, so are high-low and midi dresses or a classy jumpsuit or pantsuit. You can opt for bright colors, pastels or formal metallics, as well as simple patterns. As for accessories, look for block heels or a dressy wedge. Elegant jewelry is a great way to add an extra dose of formality.

Beach Cocktail Wedding Attire

Beach cocktail attire is similar to semi-formal beach attire. Typically, men's ties are optional, but still welcome. If you're shopping for menswear, start with a classic long-sleeve button-down and dressy pants; then, add a colorful blazer or patterned sport coat for festivity. Appropriate footwear includes nice loafers and on-theme boat shoes. Women can wear a semi-formal dress, like a maxi or midi, as well as a jumpsuit or dressy separates. A beach cocktail dress code gives you the flexibility to choose a vibrant color or bold print. Finish your outfit with a low heel, wedge or dressy flats. Beachy accessories, like a raffia clutch, are also acceptable.

Beach Casual Wedding Attire

Casual attire for a beach wedding is kind of like what you'd wear to a nice dinner on vacation. Usually, flip-flops and denim aren't appropriate, but this attire is more relaxed than other wedding attire. Men can wear khaki or chino pants, and sometimes even shorts (if you're not sure about shorts, play it safe and skip them). On top, men can wear a button-down shirt (short sleeves are acceptable) or a solid-color polo. Women can wear sundresses or dressy separates, like a nice top and skirt. Instead of heels, try a pair of strappy or platform wedding sandals.

Beach Wedding Attire for Men

Still not sure what to wear to a beach wedding? Don't sweat. We've done the thinking (and shopping) for you by rounding up the best men's beach wedding apparel. Below, you'll find a variety of buy-now options, from simple shirts and slacks to formal beach wedding suits.

Where to Buy Men's Beach Wedding Attire

Ready to shop wen's wedding attire for the beach? These three retailers are our go-tos.

• Bonobos: For a casual beach wedding, you can't go wrong with Bonobos' classic linen shirts and chinos. With a wide selection of sizes and colors it's easy to find exactly what you're looking for on their site.
• Jos. A. Bank: Jos. A. Bank carries affordable options for every occasion, whether you're headed to a casual ceremony on the sand, or a lavish destination wedding. We're big fans of their suiting separates, shoes and accessories.
• DXL Big + Tall: When it comes to big and tall sizing, DXL is your one-stop shop. They carry plenty of stylish options for beach weddings, including tropical printed shirts and colorful linen suits.
• The Black Tux: A beach-ready suit isn't necessarily a staple in every guy's wardrobe. Fortunately you can rent one from The Black Tux (and purchase it afterwards if you don't want to part ways with it).

Lightweight Tan Suit

Photo: The Black Tux

Maybe you're looking for beach formal wedding attire but aren't quite ready to invest in a brand new suit. If that's the case, we think you'll love this rental option from The Black Tux. The set includes a jacket and matching pants, so all you'll need to finish off your look is a classic white button-down shirt, a tie, a belt and shoes. Oh, and if you're wondering what suit color for a beach wedding is best, you can't go wrong with this sand-inspired shade.

Blue Linen Dress Shirt

Photo: Charles Tyrwhitt

If you've never tried one of Charles Tyrwhitt's gorgeous linen shirts, a casual beach wedding is a great opportunity to wear one. Made from 100% pure linen, this one has a relaxed yet pulled-together look that'll keep you feeling cool at a warm outdoor ceremony. It looks great with navy or khaki-colored chinos, which you might already own. Multiple size options, including classic, slim and extra slim fits, will help you find one that feels just right.

Relaxed Fit Khaki Chinos

Photo: Bonobos

The perfect companion to that linen shirt? Swap dress pants with chinos for a beach wedding outfit you'll wear time and time again. These Bonobos pants have built-in stretch for a comfortable fit and come in extended sizing. You can't go wrong with khaki, but they come in a range of other colors too. Altogether, it'll make for a classic and comfortable outfit.

Big and Tall Blue Linen Blend Suit

Photo: DXL Big + Tall

When you picture men's beach wedding attire, you might immediately think of a linen suit–and for good reason! Linen is a lightweight and breathable fabric that's great for warm-weather occasions. This suit jacket and straight-leg dress pants are cut from a linen blend which feels lighter and looks more laid-back than traditional wool. Not to mention, blue is one of the best suit colors for a beach wedding.

Blue Polo Shirt With Palm Tree Print

Photo: Jos. A. Bank

Don't be afraid to experiment with prints at a casual beach wedding. Add some fun to your outfit with this navy blue short-sleeve shirt which is patterned with a fitting palm tree motif. The button-down style, available in both standard and big and tall sizes, is perfectly festive. Pair it with slacks or chinos, slip on a blazer (or not) and you're good to go.

Woven Leather Penny Loafers

Photo: DSW

When it comes to footwear for a beach attire wedding, opt for a pair that's comfortable enough to wear on the sand. This pair of woven leather loafers features an open weave which will ensure you'll never have to take them off to shake the sand out. Their laidback look will add a coastal touch to any outfit you decide to wear them with.

Botanical Printed Pocket Square

Photo: The Tie Bar

Beach weddings don't typically require a tie, but if you're looking for a way to accessorize, a pocket square is an excellent alternative. This colorful option with a botanical print was practically made for sipping cocktail shoreside. It would look great with a light-colored linen suit and huarache sandals. Use code TIEBARxKNOT15 for 15% off your order.

Beach Wedding Attire for Women

Whether you'll be watching the vows outdoors on the coast or inside a tropical resort, beach wedding guest attire for women should be colorful and breezy. Here, we've rounded up the best beach wedding outfits for women. You'll find flowy silhouettes, trendy prints and super-stylish picks you can certainly wear again. Browse our editor-approved beachwear below.

Where to Buy Women's Beach Wedding Attire

There are countless options when it comes to women's beach wedding attire. Below are a few of our favorite places to begin your search.

• Lulus: For beach wedding guest dresses and jumpsuits for under $100, look no further than Lulus. Use code THEKNOT20 for 20% off first-time purchases.
• Petal & Pup: For classic floral midi dresses that can be worn all season long, Petal & Pup is our go-to. Use code PETALXKNOT for 15% off online purchases.
• ELOQUII: There's no shortage of stylish plus-size options at ELOQUII. We especially love their selection of summer and beach ready looks.
• Nordstrom: When it comes to beach wedding guest attire, Nordstrom has everything under the sun (pun intended). Shop in-store or online for clothing, shoes, accessories and more.

Teal Green Floral Maxi Dress

Photo: Lulus

This beautiful beach wedding guest dress comes in an eye-catching shade of teal to match the ocean. It's made from lightweight fabric with a high slit so the skirt flows (and cools) majestically with the wind. Shopping for a formal beach wedding? Dress it up with block or wedge heels that won't sink in the sand and some simple earrings.

Long Sleeve Floral Maxi Dress With Side Cutouts

Photo: Photo: ASTR The Label

A beach formal dress code doesn't have to equate to dark colors, especially when the wedding is on the sand. This floral printed maxi dress is an elegant choice as a formal beach wedding outfit. It has flirty side cutouts, a V-neckline and an open back. Pair it with a set of platform espadrilles and get ready to celebrate seaside.

Plus-Size Orange Maxi Dress With Asymmetric Neckline

Photo: ELOQUII

To find beach-chic wedding attire, take inspiration from these three things: sun, sand and sea. This bright orange beauty reflects the warm, sunny rays beaming down from above. But that's not all it does. The one-shoulder style is equal parts fashionable and functional, it'll help you keep your cool while also making a statement. Add elegant block heels to make it a formal beach wedding guest outfit.

Orange and Pink Gradient Jumpsuit With Side Cutouts

Photo: Petal & Pup

Looking for a beach wedding guest look that leans into the laid-back vibe? Say hello to this summer sunset colored jumpsuit. Its side cutouts and wide legs make it a breathable option to endure the heat and humidity in. You can dress it up with heels and a neutral-colored clutch or down with strappy sandals and your favorite pair of sunnies. Either way, you'll be in the running for best dressed guest.

Wood Beaded Clutch Purse

Photo: Anthropologie

It can get pretty sunny at the beach, so you'll probably want to keep a pair of sunglasses and some sunscreen on hand (along with some tissues if you get emotional at weddings). Keep all your belongings in check with this cute beaded clutch purse. Made from wooden beads, it will pair perfectly with your natural surroundings and complement virtually any color beach wedding guest dress.

Raffia Block Heels

Photo: Dolce Vita

If you're attending a ceremony on the sand, stilettos are a no-go. Instead, opt for a pair of wedding guest shoes with a thicker heel, like these raffia block heels. Their chunky two-inch heel will ensure you don't get stuck in the sand. Plus, their neutral color will work well with practically any outfit.

Additional reporting by Sofia Deeb