Top co*cktail Wedding Summer Dresses + Suits to Wear [2024] (2024)

It’s finally warmer weather outside! I couldn’t be more excited to enter peak wedding season! As couples are planning to tie the knot, you may be planning to attend a summer wedding – and wondering what to wear to it. In this blog post, we’ll show you exactly what to wear for a co*cktail wedding summer dress code along with suggestions for dresses for women, suits for men, and all the peoper accessories to pair with them. We’ll also tell you some helpful tips on fabrics, lengths, and cuts so you are the best-dressed guest.

Let’s get started!

Understanding the Dress Code

When a wedding dress code mentions co*cktail attire, it is important to know what it means and follow the dress code for the couple’s wishes. Most often, the dress code is listed on an enclosure card with the wedding invitation or on their wedding website.

Keep in mind that a co*cktail wedding is different than formal attire. Wedding co*cktail attire is a combination of formal and casual. Here’s what it entails.

► LENGTH: Rather than a long dress (like in a formal wedding), a midi, knee-length, or tea-length dress is appropriate. While you technically can wear flowy maxi dresses, look for more of a casual style (with airy fabrics and patterns). Avoid a long-length ballgown in this type of dress code.

► MATERIAL: For summer weddings, comfort is key! Select light and airy fabrics like organza, chiffon, or linen.

► STYLE: Select dress cuts that allow for airflow, like a v-neckline, sleeveless style, halter, or strappy neckline. No need for sleeves here, as you’ll likely be sweating in a summer wedding. :) But if you prefer sleeves to cover your arms, select a flutter sleeve or elbow-length that offers a sheer material for a sweat-proof style.

• ACCESSORIES: Accessorizing is part of the fun with a co*cktail wedding, especially in the summertime! Choose colorful earrings that coordinate with your dress, or carry a vibrant clutch bag. Wear a pair of dressy heels, flats, or these cute woven sandals, all suitable for the event.

When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with a pair of beige block heels: they go with everything! Here’s a pair you’ll love (on sale now, $23):

Dress Options for Women

Some popular trends for summer co*cktail wedding attire include floral prints, bright colors, off-the-shoulder or halter necklines, tiered skirts, and midi-length dresses.

Get inspired with these latest + greatest dress styles by Lulu’s. I can’t get over this first one: adding to the cart!

Tiered Floral Midi Length Dress with Tie Shoulder Straps

Green Floral Jacquard Mini

Black Off-the-Shoulder Midi

Pink Floral Satin Midi

Purple Floral High-Low Hem

How Pink Tiered Midi

Purple Sleeveless Tiered Midi

Ruffled Royal Blue Halter

Green Floral Halter Neck

3D Floral Applique Dress

Navy Blue Floral Tulip Hem

Mustard Yellow Tiered Satin V-Neck Dress

Halter 3D Floral Applique Mini Dress

Pink Floral Strapless Midi

Tie Strap Black Floral Print Midi

Red Floral Tulip Hem

► Gorgeous styles! You can see more suggestions here.

Now let’s talk about what men should wear as proper dress code attire to a co*cktail wedding.

Suiting Up for Men

Gentlemen, if you’re looking for what to wear, here are some helpful tips. The good news: it’s so easy to follow a co*cktail dress code for men. Simply wear a suit and tie, dress shoes, and a belt. Select a nice dress shirt, wear a suit in lighter summer colors (light grays or blues work best), and select a nice tie that goes with your whole ensemble.

Here are some looks to consider. You can rent these suits from The Black Tux, including your dress shoes, belt, tie, jacket – the whole nine yards. If you prefer, you can purchase the suit completely online, too.

Light Grey Suit

Blue Suit Jacket and Pants

Charcoal Grey

Grey Suit

How to Coordinate Your Outfit with the Venue

When you receive an invitation to a co*cktail wedding, you can sometimes use the venue to help you decide what to wear to it. For instance, a beach wedding may have a bit of a more casual flair, while a rooftop wedding calls for a modern, more chic style. A barn wedding may call for flowy midi skirts with floral patterns, and a garden wedding may resonate with tea-length dresses featuring tie-shoulder straps or tiers.

Conclusion

It’s important to dress according to the code listed on the wedding invitation (or on the couple’s wedding website) and choose an outfit that is suitable for the occasion. When in doubt, look towards matching with the venue. Put effort into your look and make it special! Although a co*cktail dress code isn’t overly formal, you can still have fun with your look and add a fun pair of earrings or a bangle bracelet, a nice necklace, or style your hair with accessories to add to your look. By understanding the dress code, checking out these example dress options for women and suits for men, and matching with the venue, you’ll be on your way to being the best-dressed guest.

Have fun!

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xo
Emma

Emma Arendoski

Emma is the CEO of Emmaline Bride, The Handmade Wedding Blog, published author, leading wedding expert, and wedding planner. Read her latest book: The Inspired Wedding. Wife, mother, coffee lover. Follow on Instagram and at Emmaline Baby for baby + kids inspiration.