Introduction
Beach weddings are becoming increasingly popular due to their relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery. But when it comes to dressing for a beach wedding, men often find themselves at a loss. On one hand, you don’t want to look too formal and out of place in such a relaxed setting. On the other hand, you don’t want to look too casual and underdressed. Striking the right balance between formal and casual attire can be tricky, but it’s the key to looking great at a beach wedding.
What to Wear for Men at a Beach Wedding: The Perfect Balance of Formal and Casual
The best way to dress for a beach wedding is to strike the right balance between formal and casual attire. You should aim to look polished and put-together, without being overly formal. Here are some tips for achieving that balance.
First, choose fabrics that are lightweight and breathable, such as cotton, linen, and silk. Avoid heavy fabrics like wool and tweed, which will only make you feel uncomfortable in hot weather. Opt for lighter colors, such as pastels, whites, and beiges, which will reflect heat instead of absorbing it.
Second, avoid wearing anything too tight or too loose. Aim for a tailored fit that flatters your body shape. If you’re not sure what looks good on you, consult a tailor or stylist.
Third, accessorize wisely. Stick to simple pieces like watches, cufflinks, and pocket squares that won’t overpower your look. Avoid bulky items like ties or hats, which could make you look overdressed.
Finally, keep your shoes simple. Opt for leather sandals or boat shoes, which are both comfortable and stylish. Avoid wearing sneakers or flip-flops, which are too casual for a beach wedding.
Styling the Groom: 5 Outfits for a Beach Wedding
Now that you know the basics of beach wedding attire for men, let’s take a look at five different outfits that you can wear to a beach wedding. Whether you’re the groom or a guest, these outfits will help you look your best.
Outfit 1: The Classic Summer Suit
A classic summer suit is the perfect choice for a beach wedding. Choose a lightweight fabric in a light color, such as cream or beige. Pair it with a white dress shirt and a light tie, and complete the look with brown leather shoes. This look is timeless and sophisticated, and it will ensure that you look polished and put-together.
Outfit 2: Lightweight Linen Blazer
For a more casual yet still dressy look, opt for a lightweight linen blazer. Choose a neutral color such as gray or navy, and pair it with a crisp white dress shirt. Add tan chinos and brown leather loafers, and you’ll be ready to go.
Outfit 3: A Smartly Tailored Short-Sleeve Shirt and Pants
If you’d prefer to skip the jacket, opt for a smartly tailored short-sleeve shirt and pants. Choose a light color such as pale blue or pink, and pair it with white or beige trousers. Complete the look with brown leather sandals and a straw hat for a cool and casual yet still dressy look.
Outfit 4: A Sporty Polo with Khakis
For a relaxed yet still stylish look, try pairing a sporty polo shirt with khakis. Choose a bright color such as red or yellow, and add white sneakers and a straw fedora for a fun and fashionable look.
Outfit 5: A Floral Shirt and Chino Shorts
A floral shirt and chino shorts is another great option for a beach wedding. Choose a brightly colored shirt with a bold pattern, and pair it with navy chino shorts. Complete the look with brown leather sandals and a Panama hat for a stylish yet relaxed look.
How to Look Polished and Put Together at a Beach Wedding
Now that you’ve chosen your outfit, it’s time to make sure you look your best. Here are some tips for keeping your clothing clean and wrinkle-free, as well as some suggestions for accessorizing your look.
First, if you’re wearing a suit or blazer, make sure it’s pressed and wrinkle-free. Ironing on-site may not be an option, so consider bringing a travel steamer or having your suit professionally pressed before the wedding.
Second, choose accessories that complement your outfit. Opt for classic pieces such as a watch, cufflinks, and a pocket square. Avoid flashy jewelry or statement pieces, which could look out of place at a beach wedding.
Finally, pack a few essentials just in case. Bring along a lint roller, stain remover, and deodorant to make sure you stay fresh throughout the day. Pack a spare shirt, socks, and underwear in case of any wardrobe malfunctions.
Beach Wedding Attire for Men: Dress Codes Explained
When selecting your outfit for a beach wedding, it’s important to consider the dress code. Here are the most common dress codes for beach weddings, and what they mean.
Black-tie optional
Black-tie optional means that tuxedos and evening gowns are encouraged, but not required. Men should wear a dark suit, a white dress shirt, and a tie. Women should wear a cocktail dress or evening gown.
Semi-formal
Semi-formal means that suits and dresses are encouraged, but not required. Men should wear a suit and a tie, or a dress shirt and dress pants. Women should wear a cocktail dress or a skirt and blouse.
Cocktail
Cocktail attire is the most casual of the three dress codes. Men should wear a dress shirt, dress pants, and a blazer. Women should wear a cocktail dress, skirt and blouse, or dressy separates.
Beach Wedding Style Tips for Men: What to Wear to Look Your Best
When choosing your outfit for a beach wedding, there are a few additional style tips to keep in mind. Here are some pointers to help you look your best.
First, consider the time of day. If the wedding is during the day, opt for a lighter color and fabric, such as a linen or cotton suit. For an evening wedding, choose a darker color and heavier fabric, such as a wool or tweed suit.
Second, choose fabrics that are lightweight and comfortable. Linen, cotton, and silk are all great choices, as they will keep you cool in hot weather. Avoid heavy fabrics like wool and tweed, which will only make you feel hotter.
Finally, don’t be afraid to add color and patterns. Bold prints and bright colors can add a bit of fun to your look. Just make sure to keep the rest of your outfit fairly neutral to avoid looking too over-the-top.
Conclusion
It can be difficult to know what to wear to a beach wedding, but with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be. By striking the right balance between formal and casual attire, you can look polished and put-together without feeling out of place. Remember to choose fabrics that are lightweight and breathable, and accessorize wisely. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different looks to find what works best for you. With these tips, you’ll be sure to look your best at any beach wedding.
