What to Wear to a Summer Wedding in 2025

It’s officially wedding season. Many couples decide to say “I do” during the warm weather months—and for good reason. This time of year features late sunsets, bright color palettes, and temperatures that enable you to host an outdoor celebration. However, if you’ve been invited to such an occasion, you may having one key question that’s top of mind: What do you wear to a summer wedding? Luckily, whether you’re dressing for a black-tie ceremony on the beach or a laid-back affair on a farm, selecting your outfit doesn’t have to be complicated.

When it comes to a summer wedding, in addition to the dress code, focus on the fabric and color of your ensemble. “Your safest choice is to dress light and bright but not white,” says Lisa Grotts, an etiquette expert. Women attending an outdoor celebration should also pay particular attention to their shoe choice—and their accessories. “For a beach wedding, think sand, sandals, and a maxi dress,” Grotts says. “For an outdoor country wedding, you may have to walk on grass, which means wedges and a dress that won’t drag to the floor.” While you may assume you’ll be dripping in sweat at such a fête (and that may be the case!), make sure to bring a wrap to account for an air-conditioned room.

A good rule of thumb when choosing your outfit for a summer wedding (or any wedding, for that matter) is that being overdressed is always better than being underdressed. “When in doubt and if it’s not clear on the wedding invitation or website, ask,” Grotts says. Below, we break down what to wear to every type of summer wedding. From a black-tie affair to a casual celebration, we’ve got you covered. Read on for more.

What to Wear to a Black-Tie Summer Wedding

When it comes to a black-tie wedding in the summer, focus on lighter materials to avoid sweating through your ensemble. “Long shimmery fabrics or silk is an elegant choice with loose or slit sleeves,” Grotts says. With this dress code, men are expected to wear a tuxedo, and women should opt for a floor-length gown. In the warmer months of the year, women can embrace colors that reflect the season, such as blue, pink, or orange—rather than darker or more muted hues.

However, they’ll also want to pay extra attention to their shoe choice, as stiletto heels may not be the best option for a beach celebration. Instead, women should opt for fancy wedges or formal sandals if the ceremony is taking place on the sand, then change into another pair of shoes if they’d prefer to wear heels for the reception. While men have to stick to a tuxedo, they can opt for a midnight blue ensemble versus the traditional black, Grotts adds.

What to Wear to a Summer Wedding With a Formal or Black-Tie Optional Dress Code

With a formal or black-tie optional dress code, women should essentially adhere to a black-tie dress code, opting for floor-length gowns in a seasonally-appropriate fabric. While they can also don a slightly shorter dress, it should still hit below the knee. Men can choose between a dark suit and a tuxedo.

What to Wear to a Summer Wedding With a Cocktail Dress Code

Cocktail attire is one step below a black-tie optional dress code—but one step above semi-formal. Women can select a tea-length, knee-length, or midi-style dress with a fun or interesting element, such as a cutout, slit, or dramatic neckline. Men should wear a suit and tie.

What to Wear to a Summer Wedding With a Semi-Formal Dress Code

If the invitation indicates a semi-formal dress code, Grotts suggests a maxi dress for women. “Easy and breezy,” she says. “It’s always a safe bet. From V-necks to one shoulder or a high-low hemline. Wedges or a metallic heel would [also] complete the look.” Yellow, green, pink, and blue are wonderful hues for guests to consider when searching for a semi-formal dress for the summer months. Men should opt for a dark suit in navy or gray with a necktie, Grotts sadds.

What to Wear to a Casual Summer Wedding

“Floral and flowy” is Grotts’s motto for a casual summer wedding. She recommends women choose a strapless, halter, or sleeveless dress. In terms of footwear, she suggests women wear sandals or wedges, especially if the terrain isn’t suitable for heels. Men should select khakis or chinos with a blazer and an open-collar shirt or polo. And even though the affair may feel casual, flip-flops are still not appropriate.