Your Guide to Wedding Attire in the Summer: What to Wear for Every Dress Code

by Kyla Elliot

Attending a summer wedding can feel like navigating a sartorial minefield – you want to look your best, stay cool in the heat, and, most importantly, dress appropriately for the occasion. 

Whether you're heading to a countryside ceremony, a beach celebration, or a chic city soirée, understanding the dress code is key to choosing the perfect wedding attire in the summer.

If your invitation includes a dress code (or doesn't!), here's a breakdown of what each means – plus our go-to tips for looking stylish and staying comfortable in warmer weather.

White Tie

White tie is the most formal of all wedding dress codes, though rare in modern weddings.

  • Men should wear a black tailcoat, white bow tie, white waistcoat, and patent leather shoes.
  • Women must wear a full-length evening gown with elegant jewellery, optional gloves, or a tiara (if married).

Summer tip: Choose lightweight fabrics like silk or chiffon to stay cool while keeping the regal look.

Black Tie

A more common formal option, a black tie, usually applies to evening weddings.

  • Men should wear a tuxedo, white dress shirt, and black bow tie.
  • Women can opt for a long evening dress, though a formal cocktail dress or elegant trousers can also be acceptable.

Summer tip: Men can choose a lightweight wool tux, while women can embrace sleeveless or off-the-shoulder styles to stay breezy.

Formal

Also known as black tie optional, this dress code is bright but not ultra-strict.

  • Men should wear a dark suit with a tie.
  • Women can wear a formal dress of any length, a trouser suit, or dressy separates.

Summer tip: Lighter colours and breathable fabrics like linen or crepe can help you avoid overheating.

Morning Dress

Reserved for very formal daytime weddings, the morning dress is classic and traditional.

  • Men should wear a morning coat, waistcoat, and striped trousers, often with a top hat.
  • Women should wear a daytime dress, modest heels or wedges, and traditionally a hat or fascinator.

Summer tip: Stick to cotton-lined dresses and wide-brimmed hats to avoid the midday sun.

Lounge Suits

A step down from formal, this is still a polished and bright look.

  • Men can wear a standard suit and tie in navy, grey, or another classic colour.
  • Women might wear a midi or maxi dress, a bright jumpsuit, or a co-ord set.

Summer tip: Go for breathable blends like cotton or viscose, and opt for sleeveless or cap-sleeve styles.

Cocktail

Cocktail dress codes allow for more creativity and personality.

  • Men should wear suits and ties, but can get playful with colours or accessories.
  • Women can wear a chic cocktail dress, stylish midi, or tailored separates.

Summer tip: Think bold colours and fun prints – summer is the perfect time to embrace them!

Smart Casual

The most ambiguous of the bunch, bright casual, is where many guests stumble.

  • Men can pair a blazer with chinos or wear a bright shirt with tailored trousers.
  • Women have many options – from smart sundresses to jumpsuits or a blouse with a skirt or trousers.

Summer tip: Balance comfort and class – think linen shirts, flowing fabrics, and bright sandals.

When There's No Dress Code

If the couple haven't specified what to wear, don't panic. Use the venue and time of day as your guide:

  • A church wedding usually calls for more modest and formal outfits.
  • A beach ceremony might lend itself to floaty dresses and short-sleeve shirts.
  • For destination weddings with themed dress codes (like "tropical chic" or "garden glam"), look out for mood boards or style inspiration sent with the invite.

When in doubt, it's perfectly fine to ask the couple (well in advance!) or check in with other guests.

Wedding Guest Dos and Don'ts

  • Don't wear white. Or anything too close – cream, ivory, or pale silver is risky.
  • Don't show too much skin. Save sheer and micro-mini looks for the afterparty.
  • Do make an effort. Summer weddings are still special occasions – crisp, polished looks are appreciated.
  • Do dress for the weather. Being stylish is important, but comfort carries you through a long (often hot) day.

Final Thoughts on Wedding Attire in the Summer

From "white tie" to "smart casual," understanding summer wedding dress codes helps you show up looking the part while feeling comfortable in the heat. Stick to breathable fabrics, keep things polished, and err on the side of formality when in doubt.

You can enjoy the big day without a single fashion faux pas with the right outfit.

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