What to Wear to a Wedding: A Seasonal Guide to Guest Outfits

As a wedding guest, it can be overwhelming to decide what to wear to the big day. With so many different dress codes, venues, and seasonal styles to consider, it’s easy to feel lost. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll break down the ultimate seasonal guide to wedding guest outfits, covering the latest trends, dos and don’ts, and expert advice to ensure you look and feel great at any wedding, any time of the year.

Spring Wedding Guest Outfits (March to May)

As the weather starts to warm up, spring wedding guest outfits are all about fresh, bright colors and lightweight fabrics. For women, consider a pastel-hued dress or a flowy maxi dress with floral patterns. A pair of neutral-colored heels or sandals is a great addition to complete the look.

For men, a lightweight suit in beige, gray, or navy is a great option. Pair it with a crisp white shirt, a patterned tie, and brown or loafers for a stylish and put-together look.

• Trendy Tip: Add a pop of color to your outfit with a statement handbag or a bold tie.

Some popular spring wedding guest outfit ideas include:

• A flowy sundress with sandals and a wide-brimmed hat
• A pair of high-waisted pants with a bright blazer and heels
• A patterned blouse with a pair of white linen pants and sneakers

Summer Wedding Guest Outfits (June to August)

Summer weddings are all about keeping cool and comfortable while still looking stylish. For women, opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk. A sundress or a pair of shorts with a nice top and wedges is a great combination.

For men, a light-colored suit or a pair of linen pants with a short-sleeved shirt is perfect for a summer wedding. Don’t forget a pair of sunglasses and a Panama hat to complete the look.

• Trendy Tip: Don’t be afraid to add some fun and colorful accessories like a belt, scarf, or pocket square to your outfit.

Some popular summer wedding guest outfit ideas include:

• A flowy maxi dress with sandals and a floppy hat
• A pair of distressed denim shorts with a graphic tee and sneakers
• A pastel-colored suit with a white shirt and loafers

Fall Wedding Guest Outfits (September to November)

As the leaves start to change colors, fall wedding guest outfits are all about warm, rich tones and cozy textures. For women, consider a dress or skirt with tights and boots, or a pair of corduroy pants with a cute top and ankle boots.

For men, a warm-colored suit or a pair of corduroy pants with a patterned shirt is perfect for a fall wedding. Add a pair of boots and a leather belt to complete the look.

• Trendy Tip: Add a statement piece of jewelry, like a bold necklace or earrings, to elevate your outfit.

Some popular fall wedding guest outfit ideas include:

• A cozy sweater dress with tights and boots
• A pair of high-waisted corduroy pants with a plaid shirt and ankle boots
• A patterned scarf with a pair of dark-washed jeans and a white shirt

Winter Wedding Guest Outfits (December to February)

Winter weddings are all about glamour and sophistication. For women, opt for a dressy coat, a cocktail dress, or a pair of high-waisted pants with a nice top and heels.

For men, a formal suit or a pair of dark-washed trousers with a patterned shirt and tie is perfect for a winter wedding. Don’t forget a pair of dress shoes and a slim tie to complete the look.

• Trendy Tip: Add some shine and sparkle to your outfit with metallic accessories like a clutch, belt, or cufflinks.

Some popular winter wedding guest outfit ideas include:

• A floor-length evening gown with heels and a clutch
• A pair of high-waisted black pants with a white shirt and a bow tie
• A patterned scarf with a pair of dark-washed jeans and a leather jacket

Wedding Guest Outfit Dos and Don’ts

Before we dive into the FAQs, here are some general dos and don’ts to keep in mind when choosing your wedding guest outfit:

• DO dress according to the dress code specified on the invitation
• DON’T upstage the bride with a outfit that’s too flashy or attention-seeking
• DO consider the time of day, venue, and season when choosing your outfit
• DON’T wear white, ivory, or champagne, as these colors are usually reserved for the bride
• DO dress for comfort and mobility, as you’ll likely be standing, sitting, and dancing throughout the day

FAQs

Q: What is the dress code for a wedding if it’s not specified on the invitation?
A: If the dress code is not specified, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and dress more formally. A good rule of thumb is to dress as if you were attending a nice dinner party.

Q: Can I wear jeans to a wedding?
A: It depends on the type of wedding and the dress code. If the wedding is formal or black-tie, it’s best to avoid jeans. However, if the wedding is more casual, a pair of dark-waisted jeans with a nice top and shoes can be acceptable.

Q: How much should I spend on a wedding guest outfit?
A: The amount you spend on a wedding guest outfit depends on your budget and the type of wedding. As a general rule, aim to spend around $50-$100 on a dress or outfit.

Q: Can I wear a outfit that I’ve worn to another wedding?
A: While it’s not necessarily a faux pas to wear an outfit that you’ve worn to another wedding, it’s generally considered more polite to wear something new or different. If you do choose to wear an outfit that you’ve worn before, make sure it’s clean, pressed, and in good condition.

Q: How early should I start planning my wedding guest outfit?
A: It’s a good idea to start planning your wedding guest outfit at least 2-3 months in advance. This will give you time to find the perfect outfit, get it altered if necessary, and make any necessary purchases.

By following these seasonal style tips and guidelines, you’ll be sure to make a stylish and memorable impression at any wedding, any time of the year. Happy shopping and happy wedding guest-ing!