March 21, 2024
Inspiration, Planning Tips
Spring is upon us and we are rounding up the perfect spring wedding guest outfit ideas. As wedding planners, we’re obviously well versed in what’s in and what’s out, and what will fit in a wedding dress code. This post is going to be all things spring wedding guest outfit ideas, from specific dress options to general rules of thumb, so let’s dive right in!
1. Garden Party
This flowy, floral dress is perfect if you’re looking for a garden wedding guest dress. Since evenings can still be a bit cooler in the spring, this dress provides a little more coverage to keep you comfortable after the sun has gone down. Blues, oranges, and pinks really suit the garden party theme, and this dress pairs well with a nude heel, which speaks to its versatility. The asymmetrical skirt is fun and whimsical, too, just like a garden party should be!
2. Coastal Chic
When you’re looking for a spring wedding guest dress in the coastal chic theme, you’ll want attire that features nautical elements and laid-back, beachy vibes while still being classy. This vibe has a sense of effortless elegance, such as flowy dresses or linen shirts paired with tailored trousers. Think Nancy Meyers wedding aesthetic. This dress is a perfect option for coastal chic, especially since blues are a must!
3. Mountain Elegance
This wedding guest outfit theme is embracing the rustic and charming vibe of the countryside. It’s casual yet stylish, and perfect for outdoor or barn weddings. Think dressy casual, but comfortable. This strappy maxi dress is chic and comfy, with a neutral floral pattern that screams countryside. It’d go well with boots, which is something you want to keep in mind for a farm, barn, or mountain wedding. You may be walking on deep patches of dirt or rough terrain. Skip the heels in favor of stylish boots or comfortable flats you don’t mind getting dirty. Depending on the wedding, this theme could include cowboy boots and hats, so keep those in mind as well!
4. Tropical Formal
This theme is all about bright colors, floral prints, and lightweight basics. Men can don linen suits or even stylish shorts, while women can embrace flowy, summer dresses. This dress brings a fun, vibrant energy to the wedding. It’d be perfect for beach or destination weddings.
5. Barbiecore
Pink is having its moment. This theme was big in 2023 with the release of the Barbie movie, and I’d love to see it continue. It’s a fun, colorful celebration, and a very trendy and specific aesthetic. This jumpsuit is flawless for this type of wedding dress code. It’s the ultimate power move and super chic!
6. Dress to Impress
This is a relatively recent phenomenon (also known as a festive dress code) and it can be a lot of fun to dress for! Ultimately, the main rule is to have fun. In my opinion, anything goes when it comes to a dress to impress themed wedding guest outfit. You’ll still want to wear a suit or a simple dress, but you can play with the look by wearing fun accessories. This satin one shoulder dress brings the drama and is begging for some accessories to spice it up even more!
Now that we’ve touched on some specific spring wedding guest outfit ideas, there are some rules of thumb you should also keep in mind when planning your outfit:
Always consider the weather, location, and time of day. If you’re heading to an outdoor wedding in the chillier months, bring a shawl or light jacket. Beaches, farms, hotels, and other popular wedding venues all call for different attire, especially when it comes to footwear. Speaking of footwear, never forget about dancing! For example, go with a wedge heel for outdoor weddings and avoid the stilettos. Your feet will thank you at the end of the night!
Better overdressed than underdressed. It is always better to err on the side of caution and be slightly overdressed at weddings, especially if the dress code states those gray areas, such as casual, semi-formal, and formal.
Hit up Rent The Runway. There’s no reason you have to spend money and buy a dress you will never wear again, so make sure you’re checking the rental websites when searching for your perfect spring wedding guest dress.
Time to accessorize. For purses, a small, handheld clutch is a no-fail option. You don’t want to lug a huge purse around all day, so go small. If you’re attending a formal wedding, less is more when it comes to jewelry. Another less is more situation for jewelry is when your dress has a floral pattern. Let the dress do the talking!
If you’re the one planning a spring wedding and trying to decide on a dress code, consider going above and beyond the common wedding dress codes. This is a great opportunity to use your creativity. Involving your guests in your overall wedding design and aesthetic not only makes them feel more included in your day, but it looks amazing in photos! Tell your guests to go all out!
A unique dress code doesn’t have to mean wacky outfits or even a theme (though it could!). Even a slight turn of phrase can guide your guests. Remember, themes and styles are an integral part of wedding planning and design. It is important for guests to fit in with the look they are going for as well.
Hopefully these spring wedding guest outfit ideas will help you pick the perfect outfit for your occasion, whether it’s something you already own, or you snag one of the beautiful options above! Do you have another wedding theme or dress code you want some wedding guest outfit ideas for? Head on over to our instagram and let us know what other themes we should cover!
