What to Wear to a Beach Wedding?

This is one of the most commonly asked questions and it is a very good one. If you are planning a beach wedding there are no hard and fast rules as to what you should wear. First of all, the setting of the wedding will play an important part in what is worn. Some beach weddings are very casual with a small gathering on the sand near the water. There may be a canopy or archway to designate the location, but otherwise it is very simple. Other wedding locals will be off the sand, perhaps overlooking the beach.

The Bride

For the Bride who's wedding will be on the sand, I would suggest wearing an informal wedding dress, either short, tea length or long, of gauzy soft fabrics. A slip dress is a popular style this year that is perfect for a beach wedding.

If you have your heart set on the classic wedding dress avoid satin or heavy fabrics and choose silk or lightweight fabrics. Tulle and Organza are a great option and look beautiful blowing in the ocean breeze.

Keep embellishments and lace to a minimum. Avoid a long veil or headpiece that will play havoc in the wind. A short wrap of organza or tulle is all that is needed to keep the sun off.

The bride could choose to go barefoot or a great alternative are barefoot sandals? Alternately look for flat shoes or a small heel. It is difficult to walk in sand with high heels. A good rule of thumb - if the Bride is wearing shoes then everyone in the bridal party should wear shoes too. And if she is barefoot, then the same holds true.

The Groom

For the groom I would suggest a crisp cotton dress shirt or Guayabera or a light weigh cotton or linen suit. Colors should be pale or pastel.

Sandals or bare feet are both appropriate.

The Bridesmaids

The bridesmaid dresses should be something equally light weight and comfortable. Short bridesmaids dresses look best in my opinion and show off tanned legs. Hats are a practical accessory for a beach wedding or small colorful umbrellas.

What Should the Mother of the Bride & Groom Wear?

The mothers of the Bride and groom should choose a dress or a 2 piece suit in soft fabrics. Look for styles that are not too form fitting and choose low or flat shoes. Lightweight jackets or wraps are fine if needed.

What Should The Guests Wear To A Beach Wedding?

Perhaps the most difficult question is 'What should the guests wear to a beach wedding'? Unless it will be a VERY casual wedding, I would stay away from shorts and T-shirts. After all it is still a wedding. I would say that denim is a no-no.

Women invited to a beach wedding can choose a cool light weight dress or 2 piece pant suit. Dress shorts are OK if they look more like a skirt than athletic shorts. Low or flat heel and accessories should be limited to a shawl to protect your shoulders or a large brimmed hat.

Other beach weddings are elaborate affairs set near the beach. And this is where the formality of the wedding comes into play.

Seaside Wedding

If the wedding location is near the water, but not on the beach the, what to wear is a bit more flexible. All of the above suggestions hold true with one exception - shoes are a must. Women can opt for a higher heel and dressing a little more formal is acceptable.