Not all wedding receptions are the same, and of course, the dress requirements of the party comers are the same. What you wear to the wedding is also a way to show the level and respect of the guests to the bride and groom. Outfits for outdoor weddings are more liberal and comfortable than those held traditionally. However, there are still a few rules you should keep in mind. Depending on the location as well as the preferences of the couples, each wedding has different dress code requirements that confuse the guests.
The wedding fashion “dress code dictionary” below includes general rules and suggestions for choosing clothes for each specific type of wedding. Save this list of tips right away so you don’t have to mess around when choosing an outfit for an outdoor wedding.
1. Mini Dress

If it’s a summer wedding, you’ll want to look for a mini dress. Choose a short but not way too short dress, so you can show off your legs without being too risqué. You’ll also want to choose one with sleeves or cap sleeves so it’s not entirely sleeveless. If it’s an outdoor wedding in the spring or fall, the weather won’t be as warm, and you can probably get away with wearing a strapless dress, but in the summer, stay covered up and choose an outfit with sleeves.
Pair your mini dress with comfortable footwear such as tennis shoes to be wedding-ready yet practical. You can also wear a jacket or coat over your dress to stay warm during chilly nights, check out the 40 outfit ideas to wear over a dress for more inspiration.
2. Halter Neck

There are numerous varieties of halterneck dresses. Another summertime option is a halterneck. For anyone who wants to showcase their figure without donning something too exposing, this dress is ideal. To avoid wearing a bra, you can wear it open-fronted or knot it at the waist to make it slightly more modest. Even flip-flops and a nice cap would look cute with this style of gown. There are several alternatives available for halterneck dresses, including sleeveless and cap sleeve variations.
3. Strapless Dress

A strapless dress is best worn to a summer outdoor wedding. The dress will show off your figure and arms, which look fantastic if you don’t have tan arms. If anyone at the wedding will be super tan from vacationing or working on a farm, choose a long sleeve dress instead of the strapless one so you don’t appear too pale in comparison. Also, don’t forget to wear sunscreen for your shoulders and arms!
Wearing a strapless dress to an outdoor wedding can be a great choice to beat the heat and stay chic. Pair it with some strappy sandals and a statement necklace like the ones in these sexy work outfits for a look that is guaranteed to turn heads.
4. Maxi Dress

A maxi-printed dress is ideal for showcasing your legs while keeping you comfortable during outdoor weddings in the spring or fall. It is feminine, stylish, and delicate without being overly revealing or showing a lot of skin. If you don’t feel comfortable wearing a body-hugging dress, try a loose and flowing maxi dress.
5. Sundress

Couples that value an open-minded, relaxed aesthetic frequently choose to have their weddings on the beach. As a result, the party attire for this occasion is less formal than how parties are often put together. Say “no” to textiles that are thick or have an excessive number of layers. Put on a lovely sundress made of a light material, like cotton or linen. A chiffon dress is an ideal option if you’ve been asked to a more formal beach wedding because it’s both comfy and stylish.
Pair your sundress with the perfect shoes that complement the look. Check out these 35 types of shoes to wear with a maxi dress to pull off an effortless yet stunning ensemble. From sandals and espadrilles to wedges and sneakers, these shoe options can give you versatility in styling your sundress for an outdoor wedding.
6. Lace Dress

Lace dresses are made from a special fabric with gaps in different patterns. These unique blanks are made by braiding, looping, twisting, or punching holes in existing material. It is this difference that makes them easy to remember compared to many other fabrics. With the flow of time, lace fabrics are increasingly diverse in color, design, and composition. For a spring or fall outdoor wedding, a lace gown is ideal. You should wear a lace dress like this with flat shoes, so it doesn’t look too prom-like but still accentuates your legs, shoulders, and arms.
7. Bright Colored Dress

Bright-colored dresses look good no matter the season of the wedding. If you’re attending an outdoor wedding in the summer, a bright-colored dress is a great way to show off your fun and flirty side. You can also wear it to an outdoor fall wedding, add some tights or black leggings underneath it, and layer with a leather jacket, cardigan, or wrap if it’s chilly out.
To add a pop of color to your outdoor wedding look, you could consider wearing a bright-colored dress. Wondering what shoe color to wear with that? Check out these 31 color shoe ideas to wear with a green dress in 2022. You’re sure to find a shoe color that complements your dress and completes your outfit perfectly.
8. Long Sleeve Dress

A long sleeve dress is an excellent choice for an outdoor wedding in spring or fall. If you’re attending an outdoor wedding in the summer, this dress will keep you cool and covered up at the same time. Wear leggings or tights underneath this dress for winter weddings that may have chilly weather to ward off frostbite if it’s cold out.
9. Wrap Dress

Whether Spring-Summer or Autumn-Winter, the beauty of wrap dresses is constant and provides endless inspiration for creators, a wrap dress is perfect for outdoor weddings. It will show off your curves and make you feel like a princess without revealing it. Pair it with flats or flip-flops, but if it’s going to be cold out, you may want to wear tights underneath as well as a cardigan or wrap to guard against the cold.
Pairing your wrap dress with some stylish accessories like hats, bags, and jewelry is always a great idea to add extra charm and elegance to your outfit. Check out these 40 summer outfit ideas for women in 2023 here to get more inspiration and ideas for how to style your wrap dress.
10. Linen Jumpsuit

The jumpsuit is quite easy to wear and hardly fussy about shape. In the summer, this type of outfit is “promoted” to the fullest because of its dynamic appearance. Linen jumpsuits not only give you a pleasant feeling and a simple appearance but also contribute to making the wardrobe more “green.” You can wear a linen jumpsuit when going to work, going out or traveling, or even at an outdoor wedding. In addition to rustic colors like creamy white and green, you should also try other bright and eye-catching linen colors like orange or saffron.
11. Boho Dress

The trend of organizing a bohemian-style wedding is increasingly popular because of its charm, liberality, and freedom, which is very true to the spirit of the young generation. Boho dresses are beautiful and feminine, especially if you’re attending an outdoor wedding. When wearing a boho dress, make sure that it isn’t too short so that you don’t show off too much skin. You’ll also want to wear flats or a pair of sandals so that you don’t get blisters from walking on the grass!
Complete your bohemian look with some cowboy boots for women, which goes well with a boho dress. Enjoy the festival vibe by mixing patterns and textures and accessorizing with statement jewelry and sunglasses. You can even add a floppy hat or a flower crown for an extra dose of bohemian flair.
12. Sequin Dress

Optimism in any situation is the message that creates this year’s fashion trends. Therefore, sequin dresses – the symbol of the 70s disco floors have become the perfect material to evoke the positive spirit and vibrant atmosphere of parties, including outdoor weddings. For them, the use of sequins not only creates outstanding fashion creations but also is a means to plant hopes for a bright and positive future.
13. Striking Pattern Dress

Held in an open space and full of sunshine, outdoor or beach weddings do not have too many regulations on dress colors. You can choose any color you like, from pale tones like pink or pastel blue to vibrant colors like red, orange, lemon yellow, or pistachio green. Besides, don’t hesitate to choose big floral, brocade, or printed dresses with tropical style.
14. Tulle Skirt, Simple Black Top

The fluffy and soft tulle skirt was officially applied to life after the “Black swan” wave in 2011. Inspired by the seductive beauty of ballet dancers, the artists and designers have created new style tulle dresses that can be used every day and made a craze in the fashion world. With different ways of mixing tulle skirts, the flying skirt not only helps women show various styles but also can hold all eyes in all four seasons of spring, summer, autumn, and winter in any outdoor wedding party.
For a chic and romantic outdoor wedding outfit, a tulle skirt paired with a simple black top is a great choice. You can complete the look with a pair of strappy sandals or pumps. Don’t forget to accessorize with statement earrings or a delicate necklace. Get more outfit ideas for special occasions at hoodmwr.com.
15. Leather Pencil skirt & Snakeskin Print Blouse

Applied to everyday fashion, leather pencil skirts do not lose their sweet and flexible beauty. On the contrary, this is also an outfit that helps girls attract all eyes on the street and in the office. For an outdoor wedding, a pencil skirt is best. This dress will keep you cool, but you’ll still be able to feel the sunshine on your legs while wearing it in summer. Pair it with a fun color top and a pair of heels or wedges, depending on the weather.
16. Blazer, Slip Dress, And Belt

The great thing about a blazer and a slip dress is that you can pair them with any shoes. There are many kinds of blazers that every lady should own. You can wear flats, heels, or even flip-flops to make sure you’re comfortable while still looking stylish. Of course, you’ll want to wear this cute outfit in the summer when it’s hot outside so you can show off your legs without overheating, but in the fall, you can add tights underneath the skirt and pair it with ankle boots or flats instead of heels.
17. Casual Dress

Casual is the most popular dress code at beach weddings. You are free to choose the right outfit for your style, just meet two factors: comfort and expressing the free and playful spirit of the party. Beach weddings with casual dress codes are usually held during the day, so you can wear low-heeled shoes and raw sandals for easy movement.
Wearing a comfortable and stylish clothing for a casual wedding is necessary. You can find inspiration from our casual outfit ideas for women article. This article will give you ideas about how to combine comfortable yet stylish outfits for your perfect casual wedding look.
18. Ivory Silk Evening Dress

Ivory silk evening dress is simple to match with a variety of styles, from elegant and glamorous to unusual and lively, whether it is a monochrome or patterned silk dress. Weddings that require semi-formal attire are usually held in the evening, and there will be a reception. At this time, you should choose a more formal wedding dress. Dresses made of chiffon, silk, or organza are comfortable but still make you look stylish and classy.
19. Little Black Dress

Modern weddings today are not too strict about the dress. You are free to choose your favorite style, but you also need to ensure the polite factor, especially when the venue is a particularly luxurious place. Luxury weddings are often held at night, so it is often required to wear black and white outfits. A little black dress with high heels is a simple but suitable combination for a modern wedding. To create accents for the outfit, you can add gold accessories.
20. Long-sleeved Midi Dress And Belt

Many couples choose a temple or a church to hold their wedding ceremony. Wedding fashion when attending this event will be a little different. Closed dresses are a good choice. If you feel that the outfit is not formal enough, the scarf will be the savior to help you look more classy and luxurious. A discreet, natural organic high-collar long-sleeved midi dress is an outfit suggestion for an outdoor wedding ceremony at the church.
For an elegant yet trendy look, consider styling your long-sleeved midi dress with a belt. The belt not only accentuates your waist but also adds a stylish touch to your outfit. You can complete your look by pairing your dress with 31 types of shoes to wear with a midi dress for a perfect ensemble.
21. Wool Bodycon Dress

Weddings that are not formal or organized freely, breaking the way according to the bride’s and groom’s preferences, are a popular concept among young couples. Outdoor weddings, on the beach, in the savannah, at a coffee shop for the first time, etc., without cumbersome rituals that focus on the gathering and fun of close relatives. For such weddings, comfort is paramount, so you can wear whatever you want, like this bodycon dress.
22. Off Shoulder Black Mini Flared Dress

The flared dress is a wise choice for girls who want to show a youthful and fresh style at an outdoor wedding party. Flared skirts do not need to use too many accessories to coordinate, and easy-to-move designs will be suitable for ladies whose body is not as expected when attending the wedding party. Black mini flared dress effectively conceals body flaws. You should limit dresses to ruffled, cumbersome designs instead of luxurious stone details that will help girls with oversized bodies to hide their shortcomings.
23. Deep Green Suit With Turtleneck

Autumn has cool breezes and mild sunny weather; at this time, maxis, suits, long-sleeved dresses, etc., are certain items you must “keep an eye on” to help perfect the luxurious and smooth style when going to an outdoor wedding. For an autumn wedding, wearing a suit is a great suggestion. You can choose elegant plain colors or elegant floral prints to match the outdoor party atmosphere. Or try your hand at wearing strikingly colored suits with feather details and carrying a metallic clutch bag.
Pair your deep green suit with a sleek black turtleneck for a sophisticated and stylish look. Need more outfit inspiration? Check out these 35 outfit ideas for clubbing in 2023 to elevate your party attire. These outfits will give you the confidence to turn heads and make a bold statement on the dancefloor.
24. Sheer Dress

The most prominent must mention the costumes of a haughty lady: Long sleeves and knee-length skirts, the material is all thin sheer fabric. In a nutshell, controversial sheer dresses are dresses that are cropped to show off all the curves of the body. Sheer dresses are also one of the most popular items that ladies often wear when going to weddings because they both enhance their figure and bring a subtle charm.
25. White Off Shoulder Puff Sleeves Dress

Off-shoulder dresses, over time, developed with a variety of designs. In general, they show nobility and power. These types of dresses also help to conceal imperfections effectively. In addition, it also helps the girls feel more confident when attending an outdoor wedding party. This is one of the outfits that never go out of fashion in outdoor weddings that many girls choose.
Pair your white off-shoulder puff sleeves dress with strappy sandals and statement earrings for a chic and glamorous look. Check out these rich girl outfits for more styling inspiration to look like a million dollars without breaking the bank.
26. Linen Suit

Linen suit is the perfect fabric to help you go from your home ceremony to your wedding venue without any fuss and always feel comfortable and at ease. For those who are not adventurous, the navy is the safest choice. From a distance, no one will be able to identify the difference between it and a typical suit if you wear it with a white shirt and black monk strap buckle shoes. If you want to try something different, beige or sand is a classic with linen.
27. Separates Style

A contrasting combination of light and dark with style separates a surefire choice for the whole year. During the hotter months, consider a lighter color for your pants (stone gray, white, beige) and a darker color for your jacket. On cold days, do the opposite. There are no rules when choosing shoes to go with this style. But in general, most traditional smart shoe styles will fit well.
Pairing separates is a great way to carry off the stylish and comfortable look for an outdoor wedding. Consider pairing a flowy maxi skirt with a fitted crop top for an elegant yet playful look. Check out our Farm Girl Clothing Ideas article to explore various other separates styles that will make you look chic and comfortable at the same time.
28. Two-piece Suit

Your choice of the shirt depends on your wedding dress code, but a white or light blue Oxford shirt is a safe choice for almost anything with a black tie. Keeping accessories simple, remember not to tie and pocket square the same color, but feel free to let a little personality shine. As for shoes, choose smart and classic. Try a pair of double monk straps or Derby shoes to keep things subtle but not too formal – you don’t have to go to meetings with clients at work.
29. Blazer and T-shirt

At the present time, the dress to attend wedding parties is somewhat more comfortable if the bride and groom are your close friends or relatives. Blazers and t-shirts are always the perfect matches to keep you elegant yet comfortable. On the other hand, a short-sleeve t-shirt will be cooler for you than a long-sleeve shirt. You can choose a pair of pants in colors such as white and pastel to create a sunny and windy summer atmosphere. Pair it with a light polo shirt and a dark blazer for a more harmonious overall look.
30. Shirt And Jeans

One of the simplest outfits is a shirt with simple jeans. However, you should choose a Cuban collar shirt with linen or cotton to keep yourself fresh at the wedding party. On the other hand, the color of the shirt should be a bit bright. You can choose a dark shirt with light pants to highlight your personality. Besides trousers, you can choose elegant box pocket pants that also create an interesting outfit.