It’s wedding season, and if you’ve been left to scratch your head at the many nuances of destination weddings you’ve come to the right spot. Check out my ultimate guide to destination weddings, where I provide styling and shopping inspiration for Country, Beach and City weddings! Shop my favorite beach wedding guest dresses, read all about which coverups to wear with your dresses, check out my suggestions for wedding-appropriate shoes that hold up on outdoor terrain and SO much more below.
Don’t know what to wear to this year’s summer events and weddings? Utilize Los Angeles Personal Stylist Meg Gallagher’s women’s styling services for your next destination wedding, special event or party look.
In the Country or Garden: Outdoor Wedding Guest Dresses
A wedding in the forest, country, outdoor property or garden calls for light, airy outfits that can hold up in the weather. Delicate jewelry like lockets and coin necklaces work well for the more played down vibe of a country wedding.
For Dresses: Aim for more soft and less structured. Aim for delicate elements like small prairie/floral prints, lace, ruffle and spring-like color palettes.
For Shoes: Terrain should be the biggest factor when it comes to your shoes. Chunky heels, mary Janes, kitten heels, embellished flats and upscale flat sandals are best for avoiding shoes sinking into dirt and grass!
For Cover Ups: Delicate cardigans and lightweight pashmina scarves pair perfectly with the country wedding aesthetic!
The Country Wedding Edit
Beach or Resort Weddings: Beach Wedding Attire for Women
Beach formal wedding attire can be confusing to define for many. Beach wedding guest dresses should mimic the feeling of the occasion: Sophisticated, colorful, and breezy. Keeping thematic beach elements in your accessories is a sure way to keep your outfit within the vibe!
For Dresses: Incorporate tropical elements like flowy silhouettes, light and bright colors, seashell/pearl/starfish embellishments, bold patterns and ruching.
For Shoes: Depending on if your wedding is directly on the beach, at a resort or simply at an event space nearby, you’ll need to adjust your outfit accordingly. A dramatic evening sandal is ideal for resorts and event spaces. For a wedding on sand, opt for a chunky heel, platform or upscale flat wrap sandal.
For Cover Ups: Lightweight sheer evening dusters/kimonos, or draped pashmina scarves are the perfect way to cover up without smothering your outfit!
The Beach Wedding Edit
In the City: Urban Chic Wedding Guest Dresses
Urban city weddings are a great time to incorporate more edge into your outfit.
For Dresses: Structural elements, shiny metallics or sequin, and deep powerful colors like black, navy and red are all game for a night in the city!
For Shoes: Think dramatic heels and high heeled mules. If heels aren’t for you, opt for still-fabulous kitten heels or party-ready crystal mesh flats.
For Cover Ups: Top your dress with a black blazer, cape or silk/organza duster.