What to Wear for Beach Wedding: The Ultimate Men’s Style Guide

There’s something magical about beach weddings, the gentle sound of the waves crashing, the salty breeze in your hair, and the soft sand beneath your feet. But when you’re invited to one, the question arises: what to wear for a beach wedding? From the formal beach wedding to the laid-back seaside ceremony, dressing for a coastal nuptial can be a little tricky. Do you go casual? Should you wear a suit jacket? And how do you balance style with comfort in the warm, ocean breeze while ensuring you choose appropriate attire for the occasion?

Well, we’ve got you covered! In this ultimate guide to men’s beach wedding attire, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of dressing for a waterfront wedding. Whether you’re a guest or part of the wedding party, we’ll help you nail that perfect look. Let’s dive in!

The Dress Code: Casual or Formal?

Before you even think about what to wear to a beach wedding, it’s crucial to understand the different dress codes. Every beach wedding is unique, and the level of formality can vary dramatically. Generally, beach weddings fall into one of three categories:

1. Casual Beach Wedding 

For a more relaxed, casual affair, the vibe is laid back. Think light fabrics, and comfortable fits. Linen pants or custom shorts paired with a button-down shirt are an excellent choice for this kind of wedding. The goal here is to stay cool and comfortable while still looking sharp. Don’t forget to incorporate fun accessories like sunglasses or a stylish straw hat to complete the look!

2. Semi-Formal Beach Wedding

If the wedding invitation specifies semi-formal attire, you’ll want to elevate your look without going overboard. A lightweight blazer or suit jacket in a breathable fabric like linen or cotton will do wonders. Pair it with a crisp button-down shirt, linen pants, or even well-fitted shorts if you want to stay on the casual side. Stick to neutral colors or light shades to match the beachy vibe.

3. Formal Beach Wedding

Now, when you’re attending a formal beach wedding, you need to be a little more polished. Formal beach wedding attire usually calls for a full suit or custom blazer. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, seersucker, or cotton to stay comfortable. Dark colors like navy or charcoal grey work well for this kind of event, especially for evening beach weddings. Pair with a dress shirt, tie, and dress shoes to bring it all together.

What Are The Key Pieces of Beach Wedding Attire?

Regardless of the formality, there are a few key elements you’ll want to keep in mind when selecting your beach wedding outfit. For a destination wedding, it's important to choose elegant yet lightweight clothing options that are easy to pack and suitable for warm outdoor settings. Let’s break them down:

Linen Pants or Custom Shorts

If the beach wedding is casual or semi-formal, you can get away with wearing linen pants or custom shorts. Alternatively, a bride's maxi dress can be paired with a groom's stylish and versatile bespoke t-shirt, offering comfort with its airy materials and elegance with various designs like floral prints. These are perfect for staying comfortable and stylish while keeping with the relaxed, beachy vibe. Just make sure they’re well-fitted and not too baggy, as that can give off a sloppy appearance.

Button-Down Shirt

A crisp button-down shirt is a versatile and stylish choice for any beach wedding. Wedding guest dresses are also excellent options, offering versatility and comfort in warm climates. Depending on the formality, you can go for a solid color or a fun pattern, like a subtle floral print. For a formal beach wedding, opt for a dressier shirt in a neutral tone, while for a more laid-back affair, feel free to go for something brighter and more playful.

Suit Jacket or Blazer

For semi-formal and formal beach weddings, a suit jacket or blazer is often expected. Opt for one in a lightweight fabric that can handle the heat without compromising on style. Neutral tones like navy, grey, or beige work well, but don’t be afraid to add a pop of color if the wedding theme calls for it. For an even more relaxed look, you can skip the full suit and go with a custom blazer over a button-down shirt.

Colors and Fabrics for Beach Wedding Attire

When it comes to choosing the perfect colors and fabrics for a beach wedding, there are several factors to consider. The key is to select attire that is not only stylish but also comfortable and suitable for the beach environment.

Light and Breathable Fabrics 

Light and breathable fabrics are essential for a beach wedding. Look for materials like cotton, linen, or chiffon that allow for airflow and won’t weigh you down in the heat. These fabrics are perfect for keeping you cool and comfortable while still looking stylish. Linen and cotton, in particular, are excellent choices as they are both lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for a day spent by the ocean.

Pastel Shades and Neutral Colors

Pastel shades and neutral colors are popular choices for beach weddings. Soft pink, baby blue, and mint green are all great options for a beach wedding outfit. These colors are light, airy, and evoke a sense of relaxation and calm. Neutral colors like beige, ivory, and champagne are also great choices as they complement the natural beauty of the beach surroundings. These pastel themes not only look great against the backdrop of the sea and sand but also help keep you cool under the sun.

Footwear: Comfort Meets Style

Let’s talk shoes, because when you’re on the sand, footwear can be tricky for wedding guests. Here’s how to choose appropriate footwear for a beach wedding:

1. Beach Wedding Guest Attire Footwear

If the wedding is on the sand, loafers are an excellent choice. Go for something breathable and comfortable, like espadrilles or boat shoes, which will give you that beachy vibe. Avoid anything too formal, like dress shoes with a heel, as you’ll be walking in the sand.

2. Formal Beach Wedding Footwear

For a formal beach wedding, you’ll want to wear dress shoes. A sleek pair of leather loafers or oxford shoes is an elegant choice. You can even go for dark-colored shoes to keep it sophisticated and classic. Just remember to keep it comfortable because, let’s face it, you’ll likely spend time on the dance floor!

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid in Beach Wedding Attire?

When it comes to dressing for a beach wedding, there are several common mistakes to avoid. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Overdressing or Underdressing

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when dressing for a beach wedding is overdressing or underdressing. Make sure to check the dress code and take into account the time of day, location, and formality of the event. You want to make a good impression, but you also want to be comfortable and able to enjoy the celebration.

Avoid wearing formal attire that’s too heavy or constricting, and opt for lighter, breathable fabrics instead. On the other hand, avoid underdressing by choosing attire that’s too casual or revealing. Aim for a balance between style and comfort, and you’ll be sure to make a great impression. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning beach wedding outfit that’s both stylish and comfortable.

Final Thoughts: Ready To Rock Your Beach Wedding Attire?

When it comes to choosing what to wear for a beach wedding, comfort and style go hand in hand. Whether you’re attending a casual seaside ceremony, a semi-formal waterfront wedding, or a more formal beach affair, keeping the event’s formality in mind will help you pick the right outfit. Lightweight fabrics, custom pants or shorts, and a stylish button-down shirt are all essential elements that will keep you feeling comfortable while still looking your best.

With the right outfit, you'll be ready to enjoy the ocean breeze and the wedding festivities, no matter what kind of celebration it turns out to be. So, next time you receive that wedding invitation with "beach wedding attire" on it, you’ll know exactly how to dress with confidence and style!

Make Your Wedding Day Unforgettable with Klein Epstein Parker

At Klein Epstein Parker, we create custom suits, shirts, and shoes that perfectly match your style on your big day. Our bespoke designs are crafted to ensure you not only look your best but feel amazing too.

Inspired by the visionaries behind icons like the Beatles and Rolling Stones, we use only the finest fabrics from top European mills for luxury and durability that lasts.

Be it in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, and Paris, our expert team is here to craft the perfect wedding attire just for you. Schedule your appointment today and experience the bespoke luxury that will make your wedding day one to remember.