Even though I’m done with weddings for the summer, you might have a few to attend so I’ve put together a guide for what to wear to a summer wedding! Weddings are joyous occasions, but the wrong outfit during a summertime wedding can leave you scowling through the whole ceremony. Here are my suggestions for different summer wedding guest looks, including details on what I’ve worn to weddings this summer.
Most of these dresses are available to rent via Rent the Runway for a fraction of the retail cost!
Save $30 on your first order by shopping here.
Daytime/Informal Wedding – Cocktail Attire

If you want to take advantage of your summer glow, wear a bold and bright colored form fitting dress. Warmer skin tones look great in yellows and oranges, while cooler skin tones pop in jewel tones, like royal blue or magenta. If you’re in the middle like me, kudos, pick a color, any color!
Beach Wedding – Beach Chic Attire

Dress: Cynthia Rowley
Florals are more than appropriate for beach weddings, so incorporate them in breezy maxi dresses and playful coordinating sets. You can even find rompers and playsuits that work for beach weddings, just make sure they aren’t too short or you’ll be uncomfortable getting low on the dance floor!
Formal Wedding – Black Tie Attire
Dress: Mignon [more outfit details in this post]
Summertime black tie weddings are probably the toughest to dress for, because formal ball gowns can be stuffy and hot. Opt for long dresses with tasteful cutouts, pastel colors, and geometric patterns. If you want to really stand out, choose a formal jumpsuit in a rich tone.
Cultural Wedding – Bright Attire
Dress: Monique L’Huillier
If you’re attending a Nigerian, Indian, or other cultural wedding, the very last thing you want to do is wear an LBD. Cultural weddings tend to be very colorful, so stand out with a brightly colored dress! Better yet, join the rest of the crowd and wear cultural attire – you can borrow one from a friend, or try Etsy for a one-of-a-kind piece.
Lovely ideas!
Thanks hon!
I don’t always like high-low dresses but that blue number is gorgeous. The overall silhouette is definitely my style!
I could see you rocking something similar, maybe with straps?
I’ll be attending a couple weddings soon, so this is very helpful! Also, I’ve always wanted to try Rent the Runway, so maybe I’ll check them out. By the way, the purple gown is stunning!
Thank you!!
Every choice that you made I love them. For each occasion, I chose the perfect outfit. I’m a fan of maxi dresses but will wear a short dress. The first choice dress for the beach wedding was nice sorry that it was not available for you. On formal gown, I have to have a cut out or backless dress like you said to be comfortable and cool. I can definitely get down with a jumpsuit any day because I love jumpsuit. My family use to get on me about wearing them so much but I like being comfortable. Great choices!
Your family just didn’t know how comfy jumpsuits were, they’re everything!