What to Wear (and What to Avoid) | Spring and Summer Wedding Dress Codes

Spring and summer weddings are some of the most beautiful, and often the most confusing, when it comes to what to wear.

The lighter colors, outdoor venues, and warm weather create a more relaxed atmosphere, but etiquette still plays an important role.

Here are a few key things to keep in mind:

Be mindful of very light colors
Soft pastels can be lovely, but if a shade is too close to white, ivory, or champagne, it’s best to choose something else. The goal is to avoid anything that could be mistaken for the bride or groom’s look…especially in sunny photos. 

Think twice about wearing all black
While black is classic, it can feel heavy for daytime or outdoor spring and summer weddings. Lighter tones or prints often feel more appropriate for the setting. An all black dress in some cultures may even be mistaken or someone in mourning of the nuptials! 

Choose the right shoes for the venue
If the wedding is on grass, stilettos can quickly become impractical. Wedges, block heels, or elegant flats are a thoughtful and stylish choice. To learn more about shoe etiquette and what kind of shoes to wear to what event, click here.

Dress for both style and setting
Outdoor weddings may require layers, breathable fabrics, and comfortable footwear. Looking polished should never come at the expense of comfort.

Dress Codes

Always look for a dress code on the wedding invitation. Second, if there is not one, be sure to look at the venue and see if there is a dress code on that website. Take into consideration the formality of the venue, the weather and season. 

Hat etiquette

Often in spring and summer weddings, you see one popular accessory: hats! Hats, when styled for a wedding, are entirely appropriate- and are often worn even indoors, particularly during church ceremonies. It’s very common to see both elegant hats and fascinators at spring and summer weddings, especially for daytime or more formal celebrations. Choose a style that complements your outfit without overwhelming it, and be mindful not to obstruct the view of guests seated behind you. As a general guideline, hats are traditionally worn for daytime events and should be removed after 6pm, so they are not typically worn to evening weddings or late receptions.

In the end, wedding guest etiquette is about being thoughtful- choosing an outfit that feels appropriate, respectful, and effortless for the occasion.

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