The invitation comes in the mail. You pore over the details of your good friend’s summer wedding and excitement builds. Spelled out in elegant scrolling script is the dress code. 'Summer formal' seems easy enough but when you start to browse for styles online, questions start to flood in.
We talked to two expert Glamhive stylists Elly Brown and Alexa Baxt for some professional pointers on how to dress for each summer wedding dress code.
Follow The Dress Code
“I'm a stickler for dressing in the appropriate dress code,” said Elly Brown, influencer-turned-stylist based in Houston. There is a lot of misleading information out there when it comes to wedding and dress codes. And at the end of the day, if you have to question what you're wearing, chances are there are better things to wear.”
Summer Wedding Attire for Women
Dress Code: Summer Formal Wedding
Summer formal can seem like a confusing phrase, but remember this one tip: “When it comes to anything formal, dresses must be floor length,” said Brown. “When it's a summer formal event, you can have a little fun with color or print—but please avoid any print with white.”
Alexa Baxt, a former celebrity stylist who now helps men and women look great in everyday life, adds that maxi dresses are a lot more versatile than you think. Her trick? Know your fabrics. “Look for light and breathable fabrics like chiffon, silk, or lightweight cotton to ensure comfort in the heat,” said Baxt.
Dress Code: Cocktail Attire Wedding
Less formal, but still dressed-up, cocktail attire often refers to the length of your dress. “Think midi or above-the-knee dresses! It can be fun and playful; just be careful not to go too mini,” said Brown.
The first thing that many of us think of when we hear ‘cocktail’ is the little black dress. It’s a safe option, but don’t be afraid to mix it up. “To make a statement at a cocktail party, opt for a different flattering hue instead of the usual black. Consider the season and select a color that complements the weather,” said Baxt.
Dress Code: Destination Beach Wedding
The main thing you’ll want to consider for a beach wedding is sand. “Shoes need to be both comfortable and practical when walking on the beach,” said Baxt. “Opt for a wedge-style sandal with some lift. Aquatalia is my top choice brand for their lightweight construction and durability, making them ideal for a beach wedding.”
From there, get inspired by the location and play around. “Regarding destination weddings, I love adding color and beautiful prints!” said Brown.
When In Doubt: Opt For Go-To Staples
Baxt recommends a stain slip dress in mid-length as a versatile choice for any type of wedding. “It is always a safe bet and can be easily dressed up or down,” she adds.
Brown’s accessories formula simplifies the decision-making process. “My go-to staples for a wedding are a simple clutch, statement earrings, and a comfortable heel that's easy to dance in,” said Brown.
Summer Wedding Attire For Men
Dress Code: Summer Formal Wedding
Wedding attire for men is a different ballgame. “When it comes to semi-formal for men, I would pay close attention to the time of the event,” said Brown. “During the day, you can wear softer colors or even a mismatched jacket and pants. For the nighttime, I would wear the same color suit and stick to black, navy, or even a dark gray. Semi-formal is not the time to wear jeans and a blazer.”
Baxt adds that men should avoid wearing neon or fluorescent colors, bright bold patterns, overly casual hues like bright orange or bright yellow, very informal shades of denim, or bright white to a semi-formal event.
Dress Code: Cocktail Attire Wedding
Cocktail attire is less formal, but still pay attention to the details to honor the event. “If you don't want to wear a tie, I suggest a bow tie,” said Brown. “If that is still uncomfortable, you can opt out of a tie, but I recommend adding a pocket square. Make sure your shoes are oxfords or dress shoes to keep the look polished."
To add some extra personality to your outfit, Baxt also recommends ascots, collar pins or bars, lapel pins, suspenders, and cufflinks as stylish options.
Dress Code: Destination Beach Wedding
Beach weddings are the time to let loose, so let fabric choice lead the way. “Men should opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, bamboo, modal, and microfiber,” said Baxt. “These materials are breathable, moisture-wicking, and help to conceal sweat. Choose loose-fitting styles and consider wearing moisture-wicking undershirts for added protection.”
“There is no need for a tie, and you can also leave your button-up top unbuttoned a little here!” said Brown.
When In Doubt: Opt For Go-To Staples
Many men buy a few classic suits to rotate for each wedding event. “A well-fitted suit in navy blue, charcoal gray, or black is a classic go-to wedding staple for men,” said Baxt. “Pair it with a dress shirt, tie, and dress shoes for a timeless and polished look. Accessorize with a watch, cufflinks, and a pocket square for added style.”
Looking for one-on-one help with your wedding wardrobe? Book a Special Event Service on Glamhive and work with a stylist to get the outfit perfect! Curious what The Special Event Service is exactly?
More about The Special Event
Why do it: Whether you want to wow them or simply not have to worry about what to wear, your stylist will find the perfect look for you -- for any occasion.
What you get: A virtual meeting to discuss the event and dress code followed by a custom style board with looks to choose from. Once you land on your desired look, your stylist will add shopping links to your style board or suggest what to wear from your existing wardrobe.
Both Elly Brown and Alexa Baxt are available to book on Glamhive.
And for more tips, watch Elly’s TikTok about wedding dress codes here.
-Contributing writer, Alexis Scarlett
