What to wear to a wedding abroad

There are few feelings sweeter than switching on your ‘out of office’ to jet off for a sun-soaked wedding abroad. As long as you’ve managed to whittle down your outfit choices to suit the luggage allowance, the climate and the dress code, that is.

For an outdoor ceremony and reception – which may also mean waiting around while the photos happen – it’s vital to select a look that’s heatwave appropriate. Try John Lewis’ new range, Editions, for a more relaxed yet refined take on occasionwear. And, crucially, don't forget to pack your SPF. 

Here are our tips for sartorial success when it comes to finding wedding guest outfits for a summer wedding abroad.

Unless your invite says otherwise, anyone opting for a beach wedding wants their special day to have a laid-back feel – this should apply to your outfit choice, too. Avoid anything that looks too ‘done’, opting instead for more relaxed fits and carefree styles.

A simple slip dress is timelessly elegant, and also makes a great multitasker for the rest of your stay. If a slinky slip isn’t your style, try channelling Ibizan bohemian glamour with a pretty printed dress and eye-catching jewellery. 

Spiky heels and sand? No way. If you’re off to a beach wedding, you may have to reconsider your tried-and-tested approach to occasionwear and look at chic flat sandals. For bonus boho points opt for espadrilles or, if you still want some height, try a wedge.

When it comes to accessories, this is your chance to have some fun. Playful touches such as fringing on bags, bright shoes, a pretty headband or statement earrings are a winning flourish.

Lush green fields and stone barns make for pretty photos, but remote locations in an unfamiliar country can make it hard to know what to wear. If your invitation doesn’t specify a dress code, ask a member of the host party and find out about the logistics of the wedding.

A floral midi or maxi dress is a great solution to any rural wedding dilemma. Check the forecast – if evening temperatures look a little cooler, choose a style with sleeves for chic practicality.

As a wedding guest, jumpsuits are also a smart option: printed, wide-leg styles look great with flats and mean there’s little chance of you turning up looking like an extra bridesmaid. The bonus of this choice is that it’s a multitasker; you can dress it down for sunny days spent sightseeing after the ceremony simply by switching smart shoes or sandals for trainers.

If you’ll be navigating cobbled paths, wedge sandals or block heels provide all-day comfort while still looking the part.

Jetting off to warmer climes provides the perfect opportunity to indulge in a spot of statement dressing, enabling you to wear something that might seem over-the-top on your home turf. Think vibrant shades, fruit-print dresses or ruffled pieces.

A colour-pop blazer-and-shorts combination is a great contemporary look for an urban event. Alternatively, you could take style notes from the country you’re heading to: for instance, if you’re invited to the Amalfi coast, consider shades of lemon or orange or, if you’re off to Greece, chime with the surroundings with an embroidered maxi dress.  

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, linen or lightweight georgette. Overly tight-fitting clothes tend to be less forgiving in hot weather, so choose styles that allow air to circulate and skin to breathe. 

Think practically about footwear; as you never know what a city venue will be like, opt for block-heeled or flat sandals.

Some accessories, such as sunglasses, are essential for hot-weather nuptials. At any wedding there’s a certain amount of time spent outdoors, so it’s worth packing a wide-brimmed sun hat to stay cool and protected. Natural woven styles go with everything and lend an air of off-duty A-list glamour. But the ultimate in enviable accessories? The hand-held fan. This one is available in fantastic colours – pick the one that best complements your look.

Complete your outfit – and make a real impact – with statement earrings. These bold and beautiful designs instantly transform your look from everyday to big day.

Wondering how to do your hair and makeup for a destination wedding? Book a free consultation with a John Lewis beauty expert to find the best products for a fresh, sun-kissed look that lasts.