What to wear to a summer wedding abroad

More often than not, there’s a slight sense of informality that befits a wedding abroad. An outdoor ceremony combined with the ‘out of office’ outlook of the congregation means that everything – and everyone – is more relaxed. But that doesn’t make whittling down what to wear any easier. Here, three fashion editors share their tips for sartorial success when it comes to dressing for a summer wedding abroad. 

Spiky heels and sand? If you’re off to a beach wedding, you’ll have to reconsider your tried-and-tested approach to occasionwear. ‘I think it’s important not to look too “done” in this setting,’ advises fashion editor and stylist, Lucy Walker. ‘Anyone opting for a beach wedding wants a laid-back feel on their special day, so bear that in mind.’

A simple slip dress is top of Lucy’s packing recommendations. ‘It’s elegant and timeless and a great multitasker for the rest of your stay. Wear with chic flat sandals and a clutch.’ 

But if a slinky slip feels too revealing, then Lucy suggests channelling bohemian glamour. ‘Think Ibiza cool. A pretty printed dress with metallic flats will do the job.’ Look to Somerset by Alice Temperley’s new midi styles, which are elevated with flecks of jacquard, or Yumi’s printed styles, which can be dressed down for sunny days back home.

When it comes to accessories, flat sandals certainly won’t be frowned upon – just make sure to have fun with them. Playful touches like fringing, pom-poms or metallic straps all nod to the occasion. Statement earrings are also a winning flourish, as is a headband or headscarf. 

Lush green fields and stone barns make for pretty photos, but remote locations in an unfamiliar country can be hard to visualise when it comes to getting dressed. If your invitation doesn’t specify a dress code, direct any queries to a member of the bridal party. Kitty McGee, Executive Fashion Director at Stylist, was frequently asked about her wedding’s format when she wed in the south of France last year. ‘Everything was in the same venue – there wouldn’t be any walking, but there would be lots of grass to navigate and dancing on a hard stone floor in the barn. We had agreed no hats, so that set the tone a little.’ Find out what the logistics of the wedding will be and set yourself apart from the colour theme of the bridal party by asking what shade the bridesmaids' dresses are.

A floral midi dress will answer every dilemma in this scenario. If you feel the cold, then a style with sleeves offers practicality while still looking chic. A jumpsuit is also a smart alternative: printed, wide-leg styles look good with flats, while plain versions can be accessorised with chunky jewellery. Wedge sandals, such as Castaner’s canvas espadrilles, or block heels provide all-day comfort while looking the part. 

Of her big day, Kitty remembers: ‘Looking out onto the crowds and seeing a sea of colour, pastels, floral prints and floaty silhouettes. I was really impressed with the effort everyone had made and how comfortable and chic they looked in their outfits.’

Jetting off to a historic town provides the perfect opportunity to indulge in a spot of statement dressing. Hannah Almassi, Editor-in-Chief of Who What Wear, says: ‘Going to a wedding abroad allows you a little room to experiment with a theme and wear something that would seem rather outrageous or over-the-top on your home turf.’

She should know. When she tied the knot in Spain, not only did she sport a designer dress with a distinctly flamenco feel, she noticed that the country’s heritage influenced the attire of the female guests, too. ‘Many wore bright, fruit-print dresses, vibrant colours like red (which matched my flower choice perfectly!) or ruffled pieces.’ So, do a little research and have some fun with the dress code. If you’re invited to the Amalfi coast, why not consider vibrant shades of lemon or orange? If you’re off to Greece, an embroidered maxi dress will chime with the surroundings.  

When there’s no hint of a refreshing sea breeze, fabric choice is a key consideration. Keep cool in natural materials, such as pure cotton, silk or lightweight georgette. And think practically about footwear. ‘As a guest you never know what a venue will be like,’ cautions Hannah. ‘Opt for block-heel sandals rather than stilettos.’