What to Wear to an Outdoor Wedding
For various reasons, outdoor weddings have become increasingly popular. Many couples love the way wedding photos are shot in natural settings appear. The outdoor setting adds an air of romance. Of course, current health concerns can also be mitigated by an outdoor ceremony.
If you’ve been invited to attend a wedding ceremony that is taking place outdoors, you’ll need to consider several factors when deciding on your wardrobe for the day: season, time of day, and whether the post-ceremony celebration will also take place outdoors or move indoors. With that in mind, here are some suggestions on what to wear to an outdoor wedding.
Summer
Outdoor weddings and summer were practically made for each other. Depending on where the wedding is taking place, there may be little chance of inclement weather spoiling the day. Summer outdoor weddings are often held in the afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day and having people overheat while they’re celebrating after. Maxi dresses for women are the perfect option for summer beach weddings. The dresses’ flowing lines are naturally flattering, and the length ensures that an unexpected, gusty breeze will not cause you to inadvertently flash the wedding party or other guests.
When you’re choosing shoes to go with your dress, keep in mind that sand can be unsteady to walk on, so skip the heels for the ceremony and instead opt for a pair of flat, strappy sandals or embellished flip-flops. Do feel free to bring another pair of shoes if the reception will be indoors and you prefer to wear heels inside.
Autumn
As summer gives way to fall, many parts of the U.S. are blanketed in the glorious colors of changing leaves. The golden yellows, burnished rusts, and deep reds complemented by the rich greens of evergreen needles, provide a spectacular backdrop to an outdoor ceremony. Such stunning colors call for a stunning dress that is both wedding and outdoors appropriate. Try a silk blend jersey dress in a fall shade. Instead of the standard yellow or white gold jewelry, opt for rose gold or copper. Wear with a pair of ballet flats, then change into your favorite dress heels once the party moves indoors.
Fall days can be cool, but if you’re at a wedding, you’re not going to want to throw on just anything. A cashmere cardigan in a neutral shade will add a layer of warmth without adding bulk or detracting from your overall look.
Winter
Winter hardly seems the season for an outdoor wedding, but numerous such events take place each year, with ski resorts being a popular venue. That doesn’t mean you get to show up in ski pants and jacket, though you do need to dress for the cold weather. Now’s your chance to show off that women’s wool coat you love but never get to wear. To keep your ears warm without messing up your hair, opt for earmuffs. Also, it’s worth investing in some hand and foot warmers to keep your fingers and toes from going numb. You want to be able to focus on the radiant couple, not worrying about frostbite, after all.
Although dresses are typical wedding wear, it’s also appropriate to wear a dressy pants suit—and easier to hide that you’re wearing women’s long underwear underneath to stay warm. Do feel free to wear snow boots—save the high-heel dress boots for after. Once the ceremony is over and the celebration moves indoors, you can sneak away to a restroom to remove the thermals and change out your boots.
Spring
Many couples choose spring weddings because the new plant life emerging during this season is symbolic of the new life they are embarking on together. Spring weather can be somewhat unpredictable, though, so if you’re going to be attending an outdoor wedding, plan accordingly. It’s not a bad idea, for example, to bring a small, collapsible umbrella that you can discretely keep under your chair. In the event of a sudden shower, you can stay dry while joining the mad dash to get inside.
Spring weddings call for dresses in floral prints. Fit and flare dresses are great choices because of their flirty vibe. Plus, they come in a variety of fabrics and lengths, so you’re sure to find something suitable. Pair with a cardigan in case it’s chilly. Be sure to wear flats; your ankles will thank you. Not only can the ground be uneven, but it might also be muddy. The last thing you want is to have a heel sink into the ground. Switch out for your favorite dancing shoes once the indoor reception begins.
Whether or not you’re attending an outdoor wedding, remember you are out in the open and exposed to the sun. Be sure to wear moisturizer or sunscreen with an appropriate SPF. Sunburn is not the party favor you want to come home with. That being said, when you’re at an outdoor wedding, be sure take a few moments to enjoy the natural beauty of your surroundings.