Exactly What to Wear to a Summer Wedding in 2023

Figuring out what to wear to a wedding as a guest can be a challenge in itself — maybe you're trying to decipher a confusing dress code or struggling to find outfit options that won't break the bank. Add in the unpredictable weather patterns that accompany the summer season and choosing an outfit can seem like an impossible task.
We turned to a handful of style experts to give you
everything you need to know about summer wedding attire. Discover the best styles, fabrics, and silhouettes for the season, plus insider tips for
understanding the most creative dress codes for summer wedding guests. And to
make your shopping experience even easier, we've also rounded up the best
retailers to shop for men's and women's summer wedding guest clothes. Then, if
you're an expert on what to wear to a summer wedding, head over to our roundup
of this year's best summer wedding guest dresses to help you choose your outfit
and win best-dressed guest title.
First things first: where do you start when deciding what to wear to a summer wedding? You might assume that wedding guest wear is synonymous with dark colors and rich fabrics like silk or velvet, but these are the last things you want to wear on a warm July afternoon. To avoid an unwanted fashion faux pas, here are five things to consider when it comes to choosing an outfit for your summer wedding.
Airy dresses and skirts
Lightweight, breathable fabrics will be your salvation when deciding what to wear to a summer wedding, especially if you're attending a high-end event in hot and potentially humid weather. "Think about the heat when dressing for a summer wedding," suggests style expert and former Rent the Runway style director Blaire Walsh. "Use styles that allow a bit of air and have lighter fabrics like patterned charmeuse, jersey, crepe, and viscose or polyester that give a satin look." (Think maxi skirts and dresses for a formal wedding, or midi and mini skirts for informal gatherings and cocktail parties.)
Mixed suit fabrics
If you are looking for formal wear for summer weddings, you may need a new suit. To avoid getting too hot as a whole, look for styles with blended fabrics for added breathability. “Lightweight wool offers the year-round apparel so many customers look for when investing in a suit,” explains Dean Handspiker, vice president of retail for Indochino. He points out that while 100% wool is a reliable option, a variety of blends are ideal for the summer season. “Linen and wool is a popular choice for our customers because it has the strength and durability of wool, but is blended with linen for a slightly lighter weight and summery feel, without the wrinkles and creases associated with an option 100%. . A wool-silk blend is also a great option, as the softness of silk is ideal for warmer destinations.”
open backs
There's no better way to embrace the summer sun than with a
look that shows a little skin. However, if you're attending a formal wedding
this summer, a short dress or two-piece set may not fit the dress code.
Fortunately, we have backless dresses and jumpsuits on our radar for the
upcoming season. Think: sophisticated meets sexy. From bare backs to unique
cutouts to crisscross straps, this trend is the perfect way to beat the heat
while looking stylish. Whether you're going to a beach wedding this summer.