Beach weddings are some of the most fun nuptials to attend–the ocean breeze, the vacation vibe; it’s all just so romantic and festive at the same time. Perhaps the least enjoyable part of receiving a shorefront wedding invite, though? Figuring out what you’re going to wear. Finding the right beach wedding attire can be trickier than others for a variety of reasons: Formality, terrain (ie: sand), and weather all factor into your decision. You want to look stylish and appropriate, but you also want to be comfortable–it’s a delicate balance.
It’s also important to remember that not all beach weddings are the same level of formality. Some beach weddings are quite casual; others require more sophisticated attire. And of course, it’s important to keep your venue in mind.
Beaches have a few more fashion challenges than your typical indoor wedding. You’re frequently at the mercy of the wind and sun, and warm temperatures can dip dramatically as the sun goes down.
Keep that in mind as you choose dress fabrics–a chiffon dress will keep you cooler during the day than something like sequins or taffeta. You can always add a layer, but you can’t take off your dress!
Formal Beach Wedding Attire
Even a formal beach wedding doesn’t necessarily call for floor-length gowns; realistically, beaches and black-tie don’t quite go together. But a beach wedding can still be formal, and if that’s what the dress code calls for, consider ankle-length maxi hemlines or elevated fabrics. Embellishments can go a long way towards dressing up a beach wedding outfit, too! You can always up the glam factor with statement, sweat-proof accessories like sparkly earrings or strappy embellished heels. This type of wedding is almost always an evening occasion (think cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing), so you may want to bring a lightweight shawl or wrap. Nighttime ocean breezes can be surprisingly chilly!
Cocktail Beach Wedding Attire
For cocktail shorefront vows, a cocktail or midi-length dress is perfectly appropriate. The ceremony will most likely be held in the late afternoon or evening, immediately followed by the reception, so you’ll want to opt for a style that’s a little dressier. Look for cocktail dresses in elevated fabrics like lace or chiffon, and consider colors that are a little richer, especially if the wedding is in the evening. Gold, silver, and pearl jewelry are all good options for cocktail beach wedding accessories–and because this kind of wedding is usually later in the day, a shawl or wrap might be a good idea.
Casual Beach Wedding Attire
For this most popular type of beach wedding, you’ve got lots of options. Casual seaside weddings are typically daytime events, meaning anything from a sundress to a flowy maxi dress or even a festive romper is acceptable.
Play around with punchy colors and patterns like nautical stripes, boho prints, or flirty florals, and since you’re likely celebrating under the afternoon sun, stick to lighter colors and fabrics to keep cool. The vibe is informal but remember: you’re still at a wedding, so leave typical beach attire like t-shirts, denim cutoff shorts, and rubber flip flops (unless the couple hands them out) at home. Resort wear can often be great inspiration for casual beach wedding attire.
Shoes for Beach Weddings
Choosing your shoes well is important for a beach wedding, because there will be sand. It’s a beach, after all! Consider platform sandals, wedges, and chunky heels instead of stilettos that sink into the sand. Flat sandals are another great option; they can move easily from the sand to a dance floor, and are super comfortable. And open toes are always appropriate, especially if you have a pretty pedicure to show off.
Also, consider that your shoes are likely to get wet or dirty. A beach wedding is probably not the place to wear suede or other delicate shoe materials. Sand is also rough and coarse, and it gets everywhere–so having a shoe with open construction means that you can easily and discreetly shake it out before it starts irritating your feet, just in case!
Wedding Guest Accessories
When choosing jewelry and a bag for a beach wedding, don’t be afraid to lean into the ocean vibes! Accessorizing might be one of the most fun parts of dressing for a beach wedding. Even the simplest summer dress can be elevated by festive jewelry or a standout bag.
For tropical weddings, have fun with tassel earrings, colorful bangles, and polished gold baubles. This season’s must-have hair accessories come in handy, too–a headband, bow, or hair clip look totally on-trend and keep your tresses in place during ocean breezes. Woven, embroidered clutches are the ideal finishing touch to complete your tropical wedding ensemble–their island vibes add a little touch of fun and whimsy to a seaside celebration. Mermaidcore is another fun trend to incorporate into your style. Oceanic accents like shells and sea stars, along with materials like pearls incorporated into your accessories will help you lean into this aesthetic.
What To Wear To A Beach Wedding
Ready to shop for a seaside ceremony? Check out beach wedding guest outfit ideas!
Chartreuse Satin Midi Dress
Satin is a great choice for a formal beach wedding, and a hemline that falls right above the ankle keeps your dress out of the sand.
Teal Pleated Cutout Mini Dress
Pleats and cutouts are on trend and playful, and an oceanic color gives mermaidcore beachy vibes.
Hot Pink Floral Midi Dress
The breezy skirt of this tiered dress is long enough for a cocktail wedding, but airy and cool enough to stand up to the heat.
Blue Floral Chiffon Maxi Dress
Elegant chiffon dresses were practically made to be gently tousled by the ocean breeze. You’ll look stunning as the sun sinks into the surf.
Hot Pink Ruched Midi Dress
This hot pink Barbiecore dress leaves your shoulders bare and has an open back cutout, so it’ll keep you cool, even though it’s got a bodycon silhouette–a dress that can do it all!
Blush Satin Maxi Dress
Summery floral prints are perfect for a beach wedding, and the soft pink background only adds to the tropical aesthetic.
Golden Yellow Plisse Maxi Dress
This rich yellow dress has a swimsuit-eque strapless twist top and an extra-comfy unstructured fit that perfectly matches the relaxed vibes of a beach wedding.
Orange Ruched Mini Dress
This adorable dress is ideal for watching friends take poolside vows. The bright, festive hue simply screams “Vacation!”
Blue and Green Floral Midi Dress
Who could say no to a ocean-colored frock? Playful print, a cutout back, and lightweight chiffon fabric make it just as cute as it is comfortable.
Green Floral Midi Dress
Slip dresses are completely effortless, and the emerald background of this gold print floral dress gives it a timeless sophistication that works for any season.
Sage Green Tie-Strap Dress
A printed sundress is perfect for a casual beach wedding! The side slit makes the skirt extra flirty–and it’ll look great on the dance floor.
Pink Multi Abstract Satin Maxi Dress
A halter neck gives you a sleek look, and the sleeveless, swingy silhouette is a great choice for a hot summer day at the shore.
Beach Wedding Guest Shoes
Finish off the look with the perfect footwear for the terrain and dress code.
Gold Bow Sandals
These adorable bow-toe sandals feature a wide, chunky heel that offers stability on the sand and some serious glam for dancing.
Gold Flat Sandals
These embellished sandals have beachy boho vibes, and the tiny decorations will make you look extra-glitzy on the dance floor!
Raffia Heeled Sandals
Braided raffia is classic beachwear, and the lower heel height is great for dealing with uneven terrain.
Lace-Up Espadrille Wedges
Charm everyone with the summery elegance of these lace-up wedges! You’ll love the extra support provided by the ankle ribbons, as well as how easy it is to walk across the sand.
Pink Bone Floral Sequin Sandals
Add a pop of sparkle and texture to your beach wedding outfit– a pair of shoes in summer sequins and embroidery are the statement finishing touch to even the simplest dress.
White Textured Slide Sandals
These minimalist sandals have a classic-yet-comfortable fit– and on a practical note, sand will wipe right off of the vegan leather!
Beach Wedding Guest Accessories
Sequin Beaded Bag
Lean into the resort vibes with this bright beaded bag. The playful floral decorations are island-ready and the detachable strap makes carrying the guest essentials totally convenient.
Rhinestone Shell Drop Earrings
A shell and crystal combo is perfect for a coastal wedding. The organic-meets-elegant vibe is one that fits in with all types of beach wedding attire.
Starfish Hair Clip
Protect your hairstyle from the wind with these aquatic hair clips. A starfish is a playful node, while the gold tone keeps things elegant.
Gold Metallic Crescent Handbag
What’s better for a wedding guest look than a metallic bag? Big enough to hold all of your essentials but small enough to be easily carried, the gold tone looks great with any outfit.
Consider this guide your beach wedding style cheat sheet. Now that you know what you’re looking for, come shop with us to find your perfect wedding guest outfit!
We want to see your beach wedding attire! Show us your outfits on Instagram or TikTok @lulus using #LoveLulus, and head to our Wedding Guest shop for more dresses!
