Stumped about what to wear to your next summer wedding? With all of the options out there, we get it—finding a look that’s appropriate but unique can feel nearly impossible. While a floral or sleeveless dress may be the first types of summer wedding attire to come to mind, there are limitless options you can buy for your next big event that go a step outside of the typical summer wedding outfit ideas. Whether you want a try a two-piece set, romper, summer wedding jumpsuit or even a chic pants suit, there’s sure to be an option for your personal taste and the type of wedding you’re attending.
If you’re unready to commit to buying a special outfit you’re not sure you’ll wear again, consider clothing rental services like Rent the Runway. You can find a stylish guest outfit for your loved one’s special day and return it after you wear it, rather than let your look collect dust in the closet.
To get inspiration and find the perfect summer wedding outfits for you, keep reading and see our picks for what to wear to a summer wedding.
What to Wear to a Semiformal Wedding
If you’re going for a more classic look, try a mid-length dress in bright shades or patterns, like this colorblock midi dress. The pleats add a classic design element, while pops of color update the silhouette.
Diane von Furstenberg colorblock pleat dress, $80 to $95 to rent, RenttheRunway.com
For a show stopping look that’s sure to be one of a kind, opt for a pantsuit. This light pink one is equal parts dressed up and fun. Satin details give a slight sheen to the tailored style.
Asos Design Petite tailored satin contrast suit, $87 for blazer, $64 for pants, Asos.com
Pairing eye-catching necklines with luxurious fabrics is an easy way to add a sophisticated flair. The high neck of this beautiful cobalt blue number balances out the delicate, strappy back details. Not the mention the delicate lace-like fabric is a total standout.
Slate & Willow cobalt lace midi dress, $40 to $55 to rent, RenttheRunway.com
It’s all about the blazer in this wedding guest look. The baby pink color and oversize fit create that cool-girl factor while structured details like shoulder pads and a collar keep the classic blazer look alive.
Topshop asymmetric hem blazer dress, $100, Topshop.com
A curve-grazing jumpsuit can be great wedding attire if you choose a structured one, like this sleeveless pice. The side frill dresses up the overall vibe of the piece.
Adelyn Rae Nora woven jumpsuit, $30 to $45 to rent, RenttheRunway.com
Flowy floral designs always feel right when it comes to summer wedding attire. This two-piece set features a maxi-length skirt with yellow flower embroidery for a pop of color. Pair it with the silky cami top for a delicate, feminine look.
Asos Design yellow floral embroidered lace maxi skirt two-piece, $127, Asos.com
If bright colors aren’t for you, try a muted hue for summer wedding season, like baby pink. The wide legs and high neckline make it the right amount of formal, while a tiny cutout is just the right touch of daring.
ELLIATT Arcadia Jumpsuit, $30 to $45, RenttheRunway.com
What to Wear to a Cocktail Wedding
Cocktail dresses are a great opportunity to experiment with different shapes and textures. Metallic thread embellishments on this A-line dress make the sleek and minimal silhouette really stand out.
Adrianna Papell A-line sequin dress, $189, LordandTaylor.com
If you want to go for a shorter frock, try one with an illusion neckline, which will make your short hemline appear more dressed up. Beaded details lend a 1920s-era feel to the look.
Aidan Mattox sleeveless beaded fringe dress, $195, SaksFifthAvenue.com
The intricate detailing of this lace midi dress, plus its Bardot-style neckline and fluttery 1970s-type sleeves, make it a surefire standout.
Paper Dolls Plus off-shoulder crochet midi dress with frill sleeve, $95, Asos.com
Yes, you can wear black to a summer wedding. The delicate embroidered fabric, lace hemline and dainty short sleeves make it wedding ready.
Tadashi Shoji short-sleeve lace sheath dress, $479, LordandTaylor.com
Color lovers will go crazy for this hot pink romper. Finish the look with a cute pair of heels and a classic clutch.
Laundry by Shelli Segal hot pink sail away romper, $50 to $65 to rent, RenttheRunway.com
For a more conservative jumpsuit, try an all-black option with an off-the-shoulder neckline. The classic style of the neck and the wide legs are flattering on all body types. You can either let the jumpsuit do all the talking or pair it bright shoes, jewelry or a bag to take the look to a whole new level.
Keepsake shooting star jumpsuit, $30 to $45 to rent, RenttheRunway.com
A jacquard print instantly dresses up a silhouette with its regal feel. This shorts and blazer set’s dusty pink color does just that and is a perfect wedding pick.
Sister Jane tailored blazer and shorts in gold leaf jacquard, $141 for blazer, $87 for shorts, Asos.com
The bold color of this pantsuit automatically makes this outfit a standout, and the tailored aesthetic is a classic look that’s perfect for wedding season, work and beyond.
Topshop suit jacket and trousers set, $95 for jacket, $50 for pants, Topshop.com
What to Wear to a Beach Wedding
The beach and summer nuptials go hand in hand. To look wedding appropriate while still feeling comfortable in the sun, wind and sand, opt for breathable fabrics and longer hemlines. A maxi dress like this floral one is an easy, breezy choice.
Topshop Devoré floral cold shoulder dress, $150, Nordstrom.com
Bold floral prints and bright hues fit right in in a tropical setting. This sunflower-printed two-piece features a billowy top and a skirt with a slight slit—a pairing that’s both playful and wedding appropriate.
Asos Design batwing top two-piece in spot daisy print, $48, Asos.com
This fun, out-of-the-box printed romper is a great option for a summer wedding. The wide legs let you breathe—even on the hottest summer day—while the ruched of-the-shoulder neckline and fun frilled sleeves make a great statement.
Finders Keepers faded jumpsuit, $30 to rent, RenttheRunway.com
Pair a bold floral print with an airy romper design and you have the perfect beach wedding look. This romper’s fluttery sleeves and loose shorts make it conservative enough for the occasion while still offering a flirty vibe thanks to a v-shaped neckline and, well, shorts.
Thakoon autumn flower romper, $130, RenttheRunway.com
The lavender hue of this set screams summertime. The skirt has a high-low design that’s breathable if you’ll be spending time on the sand. Pair it with delicate strappy heels or gladiator sandals.
Lulus Heyday lavender floral-print two-piece wrap midi dress, $86, Lulus.com
What to Wear to a Casual Wedding
Even at more casual summer weddings (think: backyard affairs and the like), it’s important to look polished. This two-piece, slightly cropped number is subtly sexy while still offering structure and classy lace touches.
New Look lace crop top and midi skirt co-ord, $32 for top, $40 for skirt, Asos.com
Paired with a billowy blouse, this set will make you the fashionista of your friend’s wedding guests. The pinstripes are reminiscent of formalwear and are balanced with a light baby blue color to add a punch of summer color to the overall aesthetic.
Boohoo stripe blazer and short two-piece, $53 for blazer, $32 for shorts, Asos.com
Structured silhouettes are simple and relaxed but still pack a visual punch. This tiered cotton-blend dress is great for a simple wedding because it’s both formfitting and flowy at the same time. The halter neckline creates a more casual element and the pastel colors scream summertime.
Lucky Brand pastel striped dress, $90, LordandTaylor.com
A brightly colored jumpsuit with floral embroidery is a no-brainer for a casual wedding. The slightly open back adds a fun and less buttoned-up element.
Asos curve embroidered tea jumpsuit, $72, Asos.com
A skirt suit is another inventive way to take on the two-piece trend during wedding season. The bright orange-red color of this outfit is super eye-catching. The metallic buttons dress up the look.
Missguided petite gold button blazer and skirt suit, $64 for blazer, $35 for skirt, Asos.com
A crochet dress feels summer ready while still offering a conservative knee-grazing hemline and neckline that’s appropriate for wedding season. Plus, its pretty pink color makes it an easy choice for the next nuptials you attend.
Milly knit lace dress, $475, SaksFifthAvenue.com
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