What to wear to a beach wedding
Light linen or cotton in soft colour, flat or wedge sandals, and nothing that drags in the sand. Skip white, stilettos and heavy fabrics, and bring a layer for the sea breeze.
Three outfits that work
Flowing maxi dress, flat sandals
- sage flowing maxi dress
- flat leather sandals
- light shawl
- woven clutch
A flowing hem moves well in the breeze, and flat sandals stay out of the sand and out of the way.
White linen shirt, sand trousers
- white linen shirt
- sand linen trousers
- light blue linen jacket
- tan leather sandals or loafers
Linen stays cool in the sun, and rolled trousers or bare ankles suit sand and sea.
Long-sleeved maxi dress, cotton scarf
- coral long-sleeved maxi dress
- light cotton scarf
- flat sandals
- woven bag
Long sleeves in a light fabric protect from sun and wind while keeping shoulders and arms covered.
By weather
| Hot22° and up | Loose linen or cotton, a hat and sunglasses, and plenty of water. |
|---|---|
| Mild10° to 21° | The outfit as planned, with a light jacket or shawl for the wind. |
| ColdBelow 10° | A warm layer over a lined dress or trousers, closed flat shoes, and a scarf against the wind. |
Do and don’t
- Choose light fabrics that flow and dry fast
- Wear flat or wedge sandals, or go barefoot
- Pack sunscreen and sunglasses
- Bring a layer for the evening breeze
- Check whether the ceremony is on sand or a deck
- Wear white or cream
- Wear stiletto heels
- Choose a long train or dress that catches the sand
- Wear dark heavy fabric in full sun
Check the night before
- Check the forecast, wind and tide times
- Choose shoes you can take off easily
- Pack sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Pack a layer and a small bag for sand
- Pack the gift
Questions people ask
Can I wear a suit to a beach wedding?
A light linen suit is fine; leave the heavy jacket and tie unless the invitation asks.
What shoes are best?
Flat sandals, espadrilles or wedges. Many guests go barefoot for the ceremony, so check.
What if it is windy?
Choose a dress with enough weight to stay down, or wear shorts or trousers underneath.
Can I wear white?
No. Leave white and cream to the bride, even on the beach.
Pick Beach wedding in FeinLens and see what you already own
FeinLens builds complete outfits for this occasion from photos of your own clothes, dressed for the forecast where you’ll be.
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