Got invited to a daytime wedding and not sure what to wear? You’re in the right place!
Whether it’s a church ceremony, a countryside celebration, or a beach wedding, this guide has you covered. From outfit ideas to dresses and accessories, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to help you feel confident and look your best on such a special day.
Daytime Wedding: Dresses and Accessories
A daytime wedding is all about light, flowy dresses and more understated accessories. That said, there are a few things worth keeping in mind before you choose your outfit, such as:
- Dress code: check with the couple (or take a close look at the invitation) to see if there’s a specific dress code. Some weddings are more relaxed and allow laid-back outfits, while others call for something a bit more formal;
- Venue: always pay attention to where the wedding is taking place so you don’t end up making the wrong choice – like wearing high heels to a countryside or beach wedding, where the ground is usually uneven;
- Season: a summer wedding, for example, is the perfect excuse to go for brighter, more vibrant colors like hot pink or lime green.
That said, let’s go a little deeper into what to consider when choosing your dress and accessories to complete your look.
Just keep in mind, these are simply suggestions. There are no strict rules when it comes to what to wear, and it really depends on the type of wedding. In my opinion, the most important thing is to stay true to your personal style and choose something that makes you feel beautiful and confident!
Dresses: lengths, fabrics, and colors
A daytime wedding calls for dresses that feel light and comfortable, whether that’s long, midi, or even short styles. Fabrics like tulle or silk crepe are perfect choices.
It’s also a good idea to lean into lighter, softer colors and avoid anything too flashy, like heavy sequins, or very dark shades such as black.
When it comes to the style of dress, it really depends on your personal taste! For example, sleeveless styles or designs that leave the shoulders bare – like strapless or off-the-shoulder necklines – are very on-trend right now and are a perfect choice for a feminine and romantic look.
It’s also really important to choose a dress that flatters your body shape. In most stores, you’ll find staff who can guide you and help you pick the most flattering style for your silhouette.
When it comes to color, it’s also worth considering the time of year:
- Spring: go for dresses in soft pastel shades or gentle colors like lavender, blush pink, light blue, or mint green. Floral prints are also a great choice for this time of year;
- Summer: go for brighter, more vibrant colors that match the energy of the season, like hot pink, fuchsia, yellow, or coral;
- Fall/Winter: shades like terracotta or olive green are a great choice. Just make sure to opt for slightly lighter tones, since the ceremony is taking place during the day.
Darker shades, like hot pink, work beautifully for afternoon weddings. If the ceremony starts in the morning and doesn’t go into the evening, it’s best to stick to lighter tones instead.
What to avoid:
- White, off-white, or overly light dresses that could take attention away from the bride;
- Very daring necklines if the wedding is in a church (bring a shawl or wrap if needed);
- Dresses in very dark colors, such as black;
- Sequin styles or anything with too much sparkle.
Shoes
For a daytime wedding, you really can’t go wrong with nude shoes. Heeled sandals in a shade close to your skin tone are perfect for a light, elegant look – they keep the focus on your dress while also helping to elongate your silhouette!
Alternatively, metallic heels in silver or gold are a beautiful way to add a touch of sophistication and polish to your outfit.
As mentioned earlier, it’s important to consider the venue. Stiletto heels, for example, aren’t the best choice for countryside or beach weddings. In these cases, go for block heels instead, or flat shoes like metallic sandals or styles with delicate beaded details.
Clutches
Clutches in materials like tulle, straw, or linen are ideal for creating an effortless and elegant look. If the wedding starts in the afternoon and carries on into the evening, you can also go for designs with a subtle hint of shine.
When it comes to clutches, I’m all for adding a little boldness and bringing in some color. Choosing styles in richer, more contrasting shades like emerald green, navy blue, or hot pink can really elevate your outfit, especially for a beach wedding!
That said, clutches in neutral shades like beige, silver, or gold – or even in a tone that closely matches your dress – are perfect if you’re going for a more understated yet still elegant look.
Jewelry
When it comes to jewelry, I always say less is more, especially for a daytime wedding, where you want an elegant look!
Of course, it’s still a matter of personal taste, but I’d recommend going for more minimal, understated pieces like drop earrings. On the other hand, crystal or rhinestone styles (like chandelier or fringe earrings) tend to be better suited for evening events, thanks to the extra sparkle they bring.
Drop earrings with colored stones that match your necklace or even your clutch (think emerald green or hot pink) are also a beautiful choice for a beach wedding!
At the same time, simple silver or gold earrings – like floral designs, for example – are a perfect way to keep your look elegant while still letting your dress take center stage.
And lastly, one of my personal favorites are ear cuffs! They’re ideal if you have short hair or are planning to wear your hair up, and they’re such a beautiful way to add a touch of sophistication and romance to your overall look.
Makeup and nails
As a wedding guest, you can definitely have a bit more fun with your makeup! Even so, I usually suggest keeping things light and natural. You can’t really go wrong with brown eyeshadow and a nude lip, and you can always add a touch of glow if the wedding starts in the afternoon and carries on into the evening.
When it comes to nail polish, nude nails or a French manicure are always a safe choice – they keep your look soft and polished while letting your dress take the spotlight. For an afternoon wedding, a classic red can also be a nice option if you want something a little bolder and more elegant.
See also
- What to Wear to a Winter Wedding: Guide for Wedding Guests
- Short or Long Dress for a Wedding: Which One Should You Choose?
Featured image: Closet da May