Look and feel your best at any wedding this summer with these outfit tips and inspiration. From neutral to vibrant and satin to chiffon, there's something for everyone
This post contains some affiliate links. We may earn commission if you buy something from one of these links. All prices are accurate at time of writing.
Wedding season is well and truly upon us. And while this is a happy time, it might also have you ransacking your wardrobe to find something to wear to all of these celebrations.
Fear not, we've got plenty of ideas to suit different budgets, colour schemes and styles as well as some FAQs about wedding guest dress etiquette.
Scroll to get inspired, and you might even find the perfect outfit while you're here!
What colours shouldn't I wear to a wedding?
Depending on the couple, they might ask guests to avoid or wear certain colours. Outside of this in Western weddings, typically people avoid wearing white as it’s reserved for the bride. Some people also think of black as a funeral colour and not one to wear to a happy occasion like a wedding unless instructed otherwise.
If you know what colour the bridesmaids and groomsmen are wearing, make sure you’re not accidentally matching with them and looking like a wedding party extra.
How formal should I dress as a wedding guest?
This is normally specified on the invitation, and you can probably get a sense of it from the venue as well. Keep the venue in mind when choosing whether to take a jacket and what shoes to wear too.
You want to strike the balance between being as dressed up as the bridesmaids and being too casual. A shorter or midi dress and prints can help set you apart from the wedding party, while jewellery will enhance a plain dress.
Wedding guest outfit inspiration
Dresses with ruffles
Ruffles are in right now, and they dress up an outfit nicely. From texture along the hemline to layered skirts, there are lots of ways to incorporate this element into a dress.
Wedding guest jumpsuits
Dare to be different in a jumpsuit. All the glam of a long dress but with the range of movement you need for the dancefloor. Trips to the toilet might take a little bit longer, but it's totally worth it.
Dresses with bows
The bow trend is here to stay, and not just for brides. From statement to subtle, a bow will add a cute touch to any outfit. Why not pair with some bow accessories?
Neutrals
Neutral tones will always look classy; choose to add some colour with your accessories or opt for a chic monochromatic look.
Florals and prints
Nothing says summer more than the florals coming out. Reach for bold colours and prints to really get in the summer spirit.
Suits
For something a little bit different from a dress, a suit is a great option to look dressed up and put together. Pastel shades add a feminine touch to the business silhouette.
Chiffon dresses
Lightweight and floaty, these dresses are perfect for warm summer weddings.
Vibrant summer dresses
The summer is the best season to dress in bold colours, and what better time to strut your stuff than a wedding?
What shoes to wear to a wedding?
If you're a day guest, chances are you're in for a long day. Although a good portion of this will be spent sitting down, you don't want to be in pain by the time the dancing starts.
Make sure you've taken your shoes for a test drive before the wedding day and broken them in if they're new. And be realistic about how high of a heel you can handle.
If there's room in your bag, or you're staying over at the venue pack a nice pair of flats to change into later on. It's better to be safe than sorry.
Bear in mind the venue and which terrain you'll be walking on; grass, gravel, carpet, wooden floors, lots of stairs, slippy dancefloors etc. A chunky heel will see you through them all.
White or neutral coloured shoes will likely match your summer pick and can be worn to plenty more occasions. Tie in this colour with your other accessories to pull the outfit together.
Should I bring a jacket to a wedding?
Scotland serves up all weather year-round so prepare for anything. While keeping your fingers crossed for sunshine, bring a jacket or scarf you can wrap around your shoulders in case it gets colder.
You probably won't have the jacket on for long, so don't worry about buying something new for the event.
Other wedding must-haves
Check the forecast on the day and consider bringing an umbrella if you'll be travelling between venues or using public transport and could get caught in the rain.
Sunglasses are also a summer wedding must and they upgrade any photo.
