What to Wear to an Outdoor Wedding as a Guest
Outdoor weddings are beautiful. There’s something special about watching two people say “I do” under the open sky, whether it’s on a beach, in a garden, near the lake or at a rustic vineyard. But if you’ve ever stood sweating in the sun or wobbling across a lawn in stilettos, you know that dressing for an outdoor wedding takes a little planning.
If you’re in your 40s, you also want to find a look that feels stylish and appropriate. Not too young, not too matronly, and definitely not boring. This guide is here to help you figure out exactly what to wear to an outdoor wedding as a guest.
Consider the Setting First
Before you decide what to wear, think about where the wedding is being held. “Outdoor” can mean many things, and each one comes with its own wardrobe considerations. I was recently at my nephew’s wedding. He was married in a beautiful wooded conservation area ( it was like a park), and we had the reception inside a rustic countryside barn.
It was one of the most personal and beautiful weddings I have ever been to! Taking that setting into consideration I treated it like a garden wedding and wore a flowy long gown much like this one above. It was the perfect type of dress and fit right in with the romantic, natural setting.
Here’s more about what to wear to a garden wedding and other types of outdoor weddings.
Garden Wedding
Think floral prints, midi or maxi dresses, and feminine details like flutter sleeves or a cinched waist. Since you might be walking across grass, skip heels and go for block sandals or wedges.
I’ve attended a few garden parties myself. If you’d like to see what I wore and get even more ideas for what to wear to a garden wedding, take a look at this post.
Beach Wedding
Here, comfort is key. Lightweight fabrics like linen, chiffon, or cotton are your friends. A flowy sundress, pretty sandals, and a sunhat can all be part of the look. Just don’t wear stilettos because your feet will sink right into the sand
Looking for more tips on what to wear to a beach wedding? Check out these posts:
- What To Wear To a Beach Wedding as a Guest: A Complete Guide
- Beach Wedding Wear for Mothers: Timeless Styles for the Big Day
Vineyard Wedding
This setting calls for relaxed elegance. Think wrap dresses or midi styles in soft prints or rich tones. Espadrilles or stacked heels work beautifully, and a lightweight jacket or shawl is smart for cooler evenings. If you have a vineyard wedding on your calendar this year, head here for more wedding guest outfit ideas.
Rustic or Barn Wedding
These tend to be more casual and outdoorsy. A cotton midi dress or tiered maxi works well here. Pair it with stylish sandals or even low-heeled boots if the terrain is rough. Add some fun earrings and a simple bag, and you’re good to go.
Backyard Wedding
This can be casual or semi-formal, depending on the couple. If it’s more relaxed, you can get away with a midi dress or jumpsuit and simple accessories. If it’s dressier, follow the same rules as a garden or vineyard wedding.
Follow the Dress Code (Even if It’s Not Clear)
Outdoor weddings sometimes have loose dress codes, which can be frustrating. If your invite doesn’t give you much to go on, here’s a general guide:
- Casual: A pretty sundress, maxi, or even a dressy jumpsuit. Sandals are fine, but make sure they look polished.
- Semi-Formal or Cocktail: Aim for a midi or knee-length dress with some structure. Think lace, chiffon, or satin. A dressy jumpsuit can also work here.
- Formal: Go for a long dress or elegant midi with upscale accessories. Bring a wrap or light layer if the event goes into the evening.
When in doubt, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. Especially at a wedding.
What Not to Wear to an Outdoor Wedding
Even if the vibe feels relaxed, there are still a few things you should avoid:
- White or ivory: Leave that to the bride.
- Anything too revealing: If you’re tugging at it all night, it’s not the right choice.
- Overly casual pieces: T-shirts, denim, flip-flops, or sneakers are never appropriate, even outdoors.
- Heavy fabrics: Velvet, wool, or thick polyester will make you uncomfortable and look out of place in the sun.
- Sky-high stilettos: Save them for indoor events. Your ankles will thank you.
Outdoor Wedding Guest Outfits to Shop Now
Here are a few stylish, flattering options that would work beautifully for most outdoor weddings. These are all choices I’d wear myself or recommend to a friend in her 40s:
Elegant without being over the top, this embroidered midi is a great choice for a garden or semi-formal wedding. The illusion neckline and detailed embroidery add just enough drama, while the midi length keeps it classic and flattering.
Perfect for a formal outdoor wedding, this one-shoulder gown is both striking and sophisticated. The oversized bow detail gives it a modern, fashion-forward feel, and the asymmetrical neckline draws attention upward in a flattering way.
Lightweight, colorful, and easy to wear, this dress would be wonderful for a casual garden, backyard, or beach wedding. The floral pattern and ruffle details give it a playful, boho feel, while the crew neckline keeps things modest and flattering.
If you’ve RSVP’d yes for a travel wedding, you’ll want to check out this midi dress! It’s both wrinkle-resistant and incredibly flattering. The draped lines skim the body without clinging, and the stretch fabric moves with you—ideal for dancing the night away.
This jacquard gown is perfect for a more formal setting, like a vineyard or an evening garden wedding. I love the subtle floral pattern, and the stretch fabric keeps it comfortable while still looking polished and elegant.
This maxi is the kind of wedding guest dress you’ll actually want to wear again. It comes in lots of great color combinations and is just right for casual weddings. The sleeveless design and soft floral print keep it fresh and feminine, while the maxi length adds a touch of romance.
Timeless and flattering, this fit-and-flare midi is perfect for women who want something structured but not stiff. The boat neckline is elegant and elongating, and the shape gives you a beautiful waistline without being tight.
If you prefer sleek and simple, this belted cap-sleeve dress is a smart pick for a semi-formal outdoor event. It’s polished and tailored, with a flattering silhouette that works well for day-to-night weddings.
This dress does a little shaping work for you. The ruched bodice helps define your waist, and the embellishments add a subtle touch of sparkle without being too much. Great for a more traditional or evening wedding outdoors.
Shop More Outdoor Wedding Guest Outfits:
Are you attending any outdoor weddings this year? What will you be wearing?
