The invitation has arrived. The location is stunning. And now comes the fun part—figuring out what to wear to a dream destination wedding. Whether you’re headed to a sun-soaked beach, a vineyard abroad or a scenic mountain top ceremony, the dress code doesn’t pack itself. You’ll want looks that travel well, keep you comfortable and photograph beautifully from ceremony to send-off.
This guide covers the style essentials, from summer wedding attire like breezy dresses and polished separates to the must-pack extras that make travel smoother. So before you zip up your suitcase, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need.
Understanding Formal, Semi-Formal and Beach-Friendly Attire
Read the Room (or the Sand): Decode the Dress Code Before You Pack
Destination weddings rarely come with all-encompassing style rules. A sunset ceremony on the beach calls for something very different than a vineyard reception in the hills of Tuscany. Before you start filling your suitcase, take a moment to check the invitation—then double-check the venue and weather forecast.
Formal and Semi-Formal
Formal destination weddings still lean into classic elegance, but there’s room to keep things lighter. Think formal dresses or flowing dresses for special occasions and breathable suiting that look polished without the bulk. For semi-formal or garden-style events, sundresses and shirt dresses for women and tailored men’s dress pants with a crisp dress shirt for men strike the right balance.
Casual
Beach-friendly attire is typically more relaxed but still intentional. Women’s maxi dresses in lightweight fabrics are a natural fit. For men, linen-blend men’s no-iron clothes and dress shirts worn untucked with rolled sleeves create a breezy but presentable look.
No matter the setting, the trick is dressing appropriately without overdoing it—and packing pieces that arrive as fresh as you do. Keep reading for specific outfit ideas and travel-smart essentials.
Style Ideas That Travel Well
Wrinkle-Resistant, Photo-Ready & Ceremony-Approved
Finding the right destination wedding guest dresses starts with knowing what your suitcase can handle—and what will still look great after a few hours in transit. The goal? Lightweight, packable fabrics that move well, resist wrinkles and won’t hog valuable luggage space.
Beach Weddings
For beach weddings, flowy women’s maxi dresses are an easy win. Look for breathable knits or cotton blends with subtle prints or flattering solids. A halter or off-the-shoulder style adds just enough drama for an oceanside backdrop.
Vineyard and Garden Weddings
Vineyard or garden weddings often call for something structured but still soft. A tea-length A-line or belted sheath in a floral or jewel tone works beautifully. Browse women’s special occasion dresses with tailored seams and easy-zip backs for styles that hold their shape through dinner, dancing and the plane ride home.
Evening Weddings
Evening weddings may lean more formal—think darker colors, refined silhouettes or a touch of sparkle. For added versatility, choose a dress you can wear again to a formal dinner or anniversary event. Many of our women’s plus size dresses offer the same attention to detail and travel-friendly design, with built-in comfort features that don’t sacrifice style.
The right dresses for special occasions can handle a three-hour flight and still be aisle-ready. And if you pack a pair of flat sandals and a polished clutch? You’re officially set.
Men’s Wedding Attire
Sharp Looks Without the Steam Press
Getting dressed for a destination wedding doesn’t have to mean battling hotel irons or stuffing a garment bag into an overhead bin. With the right fabrics and a few smart pairings, men’s wedding attire can look crisp straight out of the suitcase—no extra effort required.
Buttoned-Up, Zero Fuss
Start with a lightweight men’s dress shirt in a breathable cotton blend. A classic button-down in white, pale blue or soft chambray works for most settings, and you can roll the sleeves if things get warm. For even less hassle, opt for a no-iron dress shirt—a travel day essential that keeps its structure without looking stiff.
Pants That Pull Their Weight
Pair your shirt with dress pants in a lighter neutral tone like stone or gray. For beach or casual settings, you can even sub in a nice pair of chinos. Add some no-iron pants to the mix if you’re attending something more formal but still want to skip the dry cleaner drama.
Your Carry-On’s Secret Weapon
Layering over your shirt is where things get practical. A linen-blend sport coat or an unstructured blazer travels better than a full suit and still hits the right notes for semi-formal to dressy events. And because most destination weddings include a mix of daytime sun and evening breezes, these layers earn their space in your luggage.
Travel Totes, Extras & Easy-Carry Luggage
Small Details, Big Difference
Even the most thoughtfully chosen outfit can fall short without the right extras in your bag. Smart packing means looking put together the entire trip—from airport lounge to farewell brunch—without overstuffing your suitcase. The key? Versatile pieces and hardworking accessories that earn their place.
The Tote That Goes Everywhere
Canvas totes and bags are your destination MVP. Use them as a personal carry-on, a day bag for excursions or a catch-all on the big day. Roomy enough for a change of shoes, a lightweight wrap and a sunhat—without feeling bulky or fussy. Bonus: They slip under the seat with ease.
Accessories That Pull Double Duty
Pack with purpose. A wide-brimmed hat adds sun coverage and style. A soft wrap or lightweight cardigan can dress up a casual dress—or keep you warm during chilly flights. Jewelry and pocket squares take up no space but instantly boost your look. Stick to a tight color palette so every piece works overtime.
Luggage That Moves With You
Destination weddings often include planes, trains, ferries—or all three. A lightweight, durable suitcase is essential. Look for expandable compartments, smooth-glide wheels and sturdy zippers to keep everything secure and accessible. Travel days run smoother with luggage and suitcases that roll with ease.
Let your tote hold the essentials, your suitcase handle the rest and your wardrobe do its job without fuss. The easier you make packing, the more energy you’ll have to enjoy the main event.
What To Wear En Route
Arrive Ready—No Quick Changes Required
You never know who you’ll run into on the way to a destination wedding—extended family at the gate, the couple at baggage claim or even an impromptu welcome dinner upon arrival. The goal is to travel in comfort without looking like you just rolled off a red-eye.
For Women: Easy Layers That Don’t Wrinkle Under Pressure
A wrinkle-resistant dress doubles as an ideal travel outfit—especially when paired with a soft cardigan or denim jacket. Look for breathable knits or jersey blends that offer stretch without losing shape. Slip-on shoes and a canvas tote keep things smooth from the security line to the reception line-up.
For Men: Classic, Clean and Carry-On Friendly
A men’s no-iron dress shirt over a plain tee strikes a balance between polished and relaxed. Pair it with chinos or lightweight men’s dress pants, and you’ve got a look that transitions easily from the terminal to the welcome toast. Skip the hoodie—an unstructured blazer or lightweight jacket works just as well and looks sharper doing it.
The Secret Is in the Swap-Outs
Keep one small pouch in your tote with travel-size grooming essentials and a few outfit refreshers: mints, face wipes, cologne, lip balm. A five-minute touch-up can go a long way if you’re stepping off the plane and straight into celebration mode.
Looking the part from the start doesn’t mean packing too many outfits—it just means choosing one that works harder while you fly smarter.
Pack Smart, Dress Sharp
Skip the What-Ifs—Here’s What You’ll Want To Wear
No one needs to haul a suitcase full of clothes and only wear half of them. The trick to packing for a destination wedding is knowing what you’ll need and what you won’t. These checklists keep it simple, stylish and suitcase-friendly so you can focus on the celebration, not second-guessing your outfits.
What To Pack: Women’s Checklist
From ceremony to send-off brunch, these pieces are lightweight, versatile and polished—without the overpacking guilt. Although, you may be guilty for being the best dressed!
- Cotton Dobby Smocked Dress with Ruffle Straps - for the rehearsal dinner.
- Creaseless One Shoulder Midi Dress - for the ceremony.
- CashTouch Travel Wrap - made for travel and cuts the evening chill.
- Soft Denim Jacket - save room in your bag and wear it on the flight.
- Supima Cotton Boatneck Elbow Sleeve Tee - in between formal activities.
- Starfish Mid Rise Pull On Crop Pants - discreet comfort while you relax.
- Women’s Satin Slingback Low Heels - classy, simple elegance.
- Women’s Classic Espadrille Flats - for a casual, tropical vibe.
- Canvas Multiway Pocket Tote - the BEST carry-on option!
- Canvas Crescent Crossbody Bag - holds the essentials.
- Water-Resistant Link Star Y Necklace - always accessorize!
- Tugless Strappy X-Back Romper Swimsuit - your favorite swimsuit.
- Long Sleeve Hooded Full Zip UPF 50 Rash Guard - save your skin.
What To Pack: Men’s Checklist
Every item here is meant to mix, match and repeat—with enough polish for formal moments and enough ease for the rest.
- Traditional Fit Year’rounder Stretch Wool Suit Jacket - for a formal ceremony.
- Traditional Fit Year’rounder Stretch Wool Dress Pants - yes, they stretch!
- No Iron Supima Cotton Dress Shirt - the travelling man’s best friend.
- Performance Pieced Yoke Social Active Polo - from the links to dinner.
- Flex Golf Shorts - good for 18 holes and then some.
- Linen Blend Tailored Blazer - a simple upgrade to any outfit.
- Linen Cotton Pleated Relaxed Pants - to cut the chill on breezy beach nights.
- Suede Penny Loafers - for reliable, casual comfort.
- Elastic Braid Belt - make sure it matches your shoes!
- Timberland Geometric Plastic Sunglasses - because it’s ok to cry at a wedding.
- Short Sleeve UPF 50 Rash Guard - a t-shirt, and then some.
- Packable Cargo Swim Shorts - versatile options while saving space.
- Comfort Slide Sandals - wear these for the TSA check, trust us.
One suitcase will make you one confident traveler. Lands’ End has you covered with the right clothes, totes, accessories and luggage, no matter where the celebration takes you.
Destination Dressing
Knowing how to dress for a destination wedding is key. Discover Lands’ End’s Occasion Dressing collection, designed to help you look and feel your best at every celebration. Find the perfect pieces to make a statement at your next destination wedding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Even with a well-packed bag, a few questions usually pop up. These quick answers cover the things the invitation didn’t spell out but you’ll definitely want to know.
Can I wear white to a destination wedding?
Unless the couple says otherwise, probably not. Let them take center stage. Soft blush, champagne or muted pastels are safer (and just as stylish).
What kind of shoes work for a beach ceremony?
Heels and sand rarely get along. Go with dressy flats, strappy sandals or a low wedge, something that handles uneven ground and still looks good in photos.
Do I need a second outfit for the reception?
Not usually. One outfit that layers well and feels dressy enough for dinner and dancing will carry you through; accessories do the heavy lifting here.
What if the weather's all over the place?
Bring one versatile layer that goes with everything, such as a cardigan, shawl or unstructured blazer in a neutral tone. It'll save you space and keep your look consistent no matter how the forecast shifts.
Dress for the Destination With Lands’ End
Ready to book the trip and the outfit? Explore our collection of travel-friendly styles to find exactly what to wear for a destination wedding—from lightweight dresses to crisp, no-iron shirts that go from suitcase to ceremony without missing a beat. Wherever the invitation takes you, Lands’ End makes it easy to arrive in style.