Usually, when you are invited to a wedding, you know the routine. You dust off your suit, make sure that your dress shirt has all it’s buttons, and choose an appropriate tie. However, every once in a while, someone will throw you a curve ball. A beach wedding is undoubtedly one of those curveballs.
If you’re wondering exactly what you should do for mens beach wedding guest attire, read on! We’ve got all the tips you need to know right here.
Read the Invitation
The first thing you need to know about what to wear to any wedding, whether you’re wondering about mens beach wedding attire or something a little more mainstream, is what the invitation says.
Wedding invitations will almost always include a note on the dress code. This still applies to beach weddings because there are many possible versions of a beach wedding! The ideal outfit for a wedding on the actual sand is very different to what you would wear to a beach resort or on a yacht!
If there’s any doubt or you can’t find the dress code on the invitation, ask the bride and groom. They’ll be able to tell you exactly what they expect for mens beach wedding attire for their big day!
Linen Suits and Khakis
Usually, when someone is planning a beach wedding, they’re planning an event that is more relaxed and a lot less formal. Which means you can usually ditch the formal suit in favour of something lighter like linen.
If you choose to wear separates, light, comfortable pants like khakis are usually perfectly acceptable for most beach weddings, but again, consider the dress code and the venue.
Shorts?
Sometimes, particularly if you are going to a beach wedding in a very hot tropical location, it may even be acceptable to wear smart shorts. We’re talking tailored, belted shorts here though. Although there are some weddings that happen in bikinis and boardshorts, they’re not the norm!
So again, unless you’re specifically told to come as you are, choose something that might be office or work function appropriate.
Beach Wedding Shirts
The next thing you need to figure out is what mens beach wedding attire means in terms of shirts. Unless you’re going to a bikini and boardshorts event, you can cross t shirts and golf shirts off the list. They’re only really appropriate for the most casual events.
Usually, a crisp white cotton shirt is a safe bet, and if the event is less formal, you probably won’t need a tie. Pastel colours can also work for beach weddings, or you might choose something with a subtle pattern, like a fine pinstripe or similar.
Beach Wedding Shoes
Last on our list of things to choose for your beach wedding guest outfit is the type of shoes you will wear.
Of course, when you’re talking about linen suits, lightweight shirts and sand, formal dress shoes aren’t the right choice. A simple loafer is a good choice, or another smart casual shoe. Dressier slip on styles might work too, but again, check the dress code!
In general, beach weddings are relaxed, casual affairs. So, your clothes should match that mood – and if there’s ever any doubt that your choices are the right ones, never be afraid to ask the bride and groom for their opinion!