Your Ultimate Summer Wedding Dress Guide
As the warmth of summer is right around the corner, the anticipation for wedding season grows! Now is the perfect moment to begin preparations for your summer wedding dress, ensuring that when the time comes, you're not caught in a whirlwind of decisions. This guide is tailored not only for guests pondering over their attire for upcoming nuptials but also for brides seeking outfit inspiration for events surrounding their big day. If you're attending an outdoor ceremony at the picturesque Sky High Lodge, one of the most beautiful wedding venues in Glenwood Springs Colorado, remember to check the weather forecast and consider layering your outfit for an adaptable and comfortable experience.
Understanding and adhering to the dress code specified in your wedding invitation is crucial. Whether it's a formal, cocktail, or casual event, knowing what's expected will guide your attire choice. For those attending an outdoor mountain wedding like you’d have at Sky High Lodge Glenwood Springs wedding venue, incorporating a western theme into your outfit could add a unique touch. Remember to visit our gallery for a glimpse of Sky High Lodge and to draw inspiration for your mountain wedding attire.
Formal Summer Wedding Outfits
Long Black Dresses: The Quintessential Elegance. Long black dresses stand as a testament to timeless elegance and versatility in formal wear. Ideal for a range of events from black-tie weddings to sophisticated receptions, these dresses offer a canvas for personal expression.
Styling Tips: Elevate your long black dress with shimmery heels that catch the light and add a touch of glamour. Pair with statement earrings that draw attention and complement the dress's sophistication. For a summer wedding, consider a dress with lighter fabrics or subtle cutouts to stay cool while maintaining elegance.
Emerald Green Dresses: The Trendsetter's Choice. Emerald green has emerged as a captivating choice for those looking to add a dash of vibrant chic to their formal attire. Symbolizing opulence and renewal, emerald green dresses make a bold statement at any event.
Styling Tips: Enhance the rich tones of an emerald green dress with gold accessories. A delicate gold necklace, earrings, or a clutch can add a refined touch. For an extra layer of sophistication, choose accessories with subtle emerald accents to create a cohesive look.
Pastel-Colored Outfits: Soft Elegance for Every Season. Pastel colors offer a fresh and soft approach to formal event dressing. Ideal for spring and summer events, or for adding a touch of lightness to fall and winter gatherings, pastel-colored dresses embody grace and elegance.
Styling Tips: Pair your pastel dress with white bow heels for a romantic and elegant look. Glitzy accessories like a sparkling clutch or diamond stud earrings can elevate the outfit further. For events in natural settings like Sky High Lodge, opt for dresses in lighter fabrics that flow with the breeze, adding movement and a ethereal quality to your ensemble.
Casual Summer Wedding Outfits
Light, Breathable Fabrics:
Materials: Choose outfits made from cotton, linen, or other light, airy fabrics to ensure comfort during outdoor ceremonies or receptions in warm climates.
Benefits: These fabrics help you stay cool and comfortable throughout the event, perfect for day-to-night celebrations.
Styling Tips: Complement these outfits with minimalist jewelry and open-toe sandals to maintain a relaxed yet elegant look.
Floral Dresses:
Overview: Floral dresses offer a playful and versatile option for casual summer weddings. Their timeless appeal suits outdoor settings, garden parties, or beach weddings perfectly.
How to Wear: Select a floral dress that flatters your body shape and matches the wedding's level of formality. Midi and maxi lengths work particularly well for casual settings.
Accessories: Pair your floral dress with neutral shoes, such as nude heels or tan sandals, and a rattan handbag to complete the summery vibe. A simple necklace or drop earrings can add a touch of sophistication.
Jumpsuits and All-Black Sets:
Jumpsuits: A linen jumpsuit in a solid color or with subtle prints can serve as a modern and chic alternative to traditional wedding attire. Look for features like chiffon ruffles or a structured design to add a touch of elegance.
All-Black Sets: While black might seem unconventional for a summer wedding, a lightweight two-piece set can look incredibly stylish. Opt for breathable fabrics to keep the look appropriate for the season.
Accessorizing: Elevate these outfits with the right accessories. For jumpsuits, consider a belt to cinch the waist and statement jewelry. For all-black sets, add color with accessories or a bold lip. Pair both options with heels or elegant flats to keep the look wedding-appropriate.
Cocktail or Semi-Formal Summer Wedding Outfits
Summer weddings call for outfits that blend elegance with comfort, allowing you to enjoy the celebration in style while keeping cool. Whether the invitation specifies a cocktail or semi-formal dress code, you have the perfect opportunity to experiment with colors, textures, and accessories. Here are some outfit ideas that will ensure you look your best at any summer wedding.
Silky Blue Midi Dresses:
Aqua blue dresses with asymmetrical designs are not only eye-catching but also offer a fresh look suitable for semi-formal events. The fluidity of silk fabrics adds an element of luxury and sophistication, making them an ideal choice for weddings.
Styling Tip: Gold accessories, such as bracelets, necklaces, or clutch bags, will complement the cool tones of the dress beautifully. This combination creates a harmonious balance between warmth and coolness, perfect for summer festivities.
Colorblock Gowns
For a more formal look that still incorporates fun summer vibes, consider a colorblock gown. These gowns combine bold colors in a single outfit, making a striking fashion statement.
Styling Tip: With such a standout piece, it's best to keep accessories simple. A minimalist approach allows the gown itself to be the focal point of your outfit. Opt for sleek, understated jewelry and a simple clutch to complete the look.
Accessories for a Summer Wedding
Shoes: For summer wedding dress attire, the key is finding shoes that are not only stylish but also comfortable and suitable for warm weather. Consider opting for open-toe heels or elegant sandals with a block heel to ensure comfort throughout the event. Shoes made from breathable materials, such as leather or canvas, can also help keep your feet cool. If the wedding is on grass or sand, wedge heels are a fantastic option to prevent sinking into the ground. For a touch of summer flair, look for shoes in light colors or with floral embellishments.
Purses: When selecting a purse for a summer wedding, aim for one that complements your outfit with summer hues like light pinks, corals, or nudes. Clutch bags or small shoulder bags with a delicate chain are perfect for keeping your essentials without compromising your look. Choose a style that matches your summer wedding attire while being practical enough to hold your necessities. Purses made from light materials or featuring summer motifs can also add a playful touch to your ensemble.
Earrings: Earrings are the perfect accessory to complete any wedding outfit, from simple pearls that add a touch of elegance to bold statement pieces that catch the eye. For a summer wedding, consider earrings that reflect the season, such as designs with floral patterns, vibrant colors, or lightweight materials like bamboo or rattan. Dangling earrings can add movement and sophistication to your look, while studs are perfect for a more understated or classic style.
Boots: If your summer wedding plans involve outdoor elements, like a barn venue or garden setting, a comfortable pair of boots can be both practical and stylish. Look for boots with a lower heel to ensure comfort throughout the day, especially if you'll be walking on uneven terrain. Ankle boots made from lighter materials or with cutouts can offer a summer-appropriate look while still providing support. For a unique twist, consider boots in unexpected colors or with decorative details that tie into the summer theme.
Conclusion
Approach wedding attire with a sense of fun rather than stress. Remember, the focus will be on the bride and groom, so wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident. For attire suited to other seasons, check out our guides on what to wear to spring, fall, or winter weddings.