Springtime and Summertime are the backyard wedding seasons.
With the weather warming up, couples are opting to say their vows outdoors, surrounded by friends and family, instead of in a stuffy church or reception hall.
But if you’re not used to dressing for outdoor weddings, the seemingly endless outfit options can be daunting.
What are the dress code rules for these events? And what should you wear if you’re attending as a guest?
Unlike black-tie or semiformal weddings, there are no hard-and-fast backyard wedding dress codes
Planning a backyard wedding is a great way to keep your costs down.
And while you may be tempted to go casual with your dress code, there are still some guidelines you’ll want to follow to make sure your guests feel comfortable (and look chic) at your shindig.
Ahead, we’ve got the dos and don’ts for backyard wedding attire.
When in doubt, choose something comfortable and airy.
When picking out a backyard wedding dress, the most important thing to remember is that you want to be comfortable.
Since the temperature is likely to be warm (if not hot), opt for a style made from light, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or chiffon.
And if you’re going to be spending time outdoors in direct sunlight, make sure to choose a dress with straps or sleeves for added coverage.
As for the silhouette, anything goes.
Flowy maxi dresses and skirts are always a good choice for an outdoor wedding (they look beautiful blowing in the breeze), but structured styles can work too as long as they’re made from the right fabric.
And don’t forget about the shoes!
Wedges or flat sandals are a great choice for navigating uneven terrain, but if you are spending most of the day on your feet, you might want to consider a more comfortable option like a low block heel.
When it comes to dress codes, backyard weddings are pretty relaxed.
There’s no need to go out and buy a new outfit just for the occasion.
In fact, many guests choose to wear clothing they already have in their closets.
And since there’s no hard-and-fast dress code, you can really let your personal style shine through.
Just make sure your outfit is appropriate for the time of day (no short shorts or mini skirts after sundown) and the level of formality the couple has chosen for their event.
If you’re stuck on what to wear, try to take your cues from the bride and groom. Are they opting for a more casual affair?
Then dress accordingly in something comfortable and stylish that you would normally wear to a summer BBQ or picnic.
If they’re going for a more formal vibe, then you’ll want to step it up a notch with a nicer dress or separates.
And if you’re really unsure, always err on the side of caution and go for something slightly more formal than you think might be necessary.
It’s better to be overdressed than underdressed at a wedding!
Still, stumped on what to wear to a backyard wedding? Check out our roundup of the best casual wedding guest dresses below.
Casual Wedding Guest Dresses
1. Lulus “Say Yes to the Dress” White Backless Maxi Dress – $128
2. ASOS DESIGN Petite Tea Mini Dress in Stripe – $48
3. Loft Striped Tie Front Midi Dress – $129.50
4.Club Monaco Rianna Wrap Dress – $219
5. Free People “Sweet Thing” Mini Dress – $108
6. Reformation Linden Dress – $198
7. rachel Antonoff Nora Floral Print Tie Front Midi Dress – $248
8. Faithfull The Brand Femme Rompers – $149
9. Topshop Crepe Midi Tea Dress – $75
10. BB Dakota “Adalyn” Dress – $88
Are outdoor weddings more casual?
Yes, outdoor weddings are typically more casual than indoor weddings.
This doesn’t mean that you can wear whatever you want, but it gives you a little more flexibility when choosing an outfit. Just make sure to take the time of day and level of formality into account when picking out your ensemble.
What is the best fabric to wear for an outdoor wedding?
The best fabrics to wear for an outdoor wedding are ones that are light and airy. Cotton, linen, and chiffon are all great choices. And if you’ll be spending time in direct sunlight, make sure to choose a dress with straps or sleeves for added coverage.
What shoes should I wear to an outdoor wedding?
Wedges or flat sandals are a great choice for navigating uneven terrain, but if you’ll be spending most of the day on your feet, you might want to consider a more comfortable option like a low block heel.
How do you do a casual backyard wedding?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it really depends on the couple’s preferences.
However, some tips for throwing a casual backyard wedding include keeping the guest list small, opting for simple decor, and choosing comfortable yet stylish attire for both the bride and groom and the guests.
And of course, don’t forget about the food!
BBQs or picnic-style meals are always a hit at outdoor weddings.
What should a bride wear to a backyard wedding?
The bride’s outfit will really depend on the overall style of the wedding.
If it’s a more casual affair, then a simple sundress or maxi dress would be appropriate.
The bride might opt for a nicer gown or separates for a more formal backyard wedding.
And no matter what, make sure to choose an outfit that is comfortable and will work well with the outdoor setting.
What should guests wear to a backyard wedding?
Guests should take their cue from the bride and groom when deciding what to wear.
If the couple is opting for a more casual backyard wedding, then guests can dress accordingly in something comfortable yet stylish.
However, if the event is on the more formal side, guests will want to step up their attire a notch. And as always, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed at a wedding!
Conclusion
Still stumped on what to wear to a backyard wedding? Check out our roundup of the best casual wedding guest dresses above.
We’ve got you covered, from pretty floral frocks to chic stripes and solids no matter what the bride and groom’s style is.
And don’t forget to consider the shoes! Wedges or flats are a great choice for an outdoor setting.
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