As more and more couples elect to have destination weddings or wait until summertime to have their wedding on the beach, finding a dress to wear to the wedding is relatively easy to do regardless of the time of year. All it takes is a little imagination.
Step 1
Recognize that beach weddings are much more casual than weddings that take place in more formal surroundings. Because it is likely that at least part of the time will be spent on the sand, consideration should be given to the temperature, wind and your comfort. Whether you are the bride or a guest, you can wear a dress that is strapless, has thin straps or ties around the neck. If you want more coverage, you can choose a dress with sleeves. The fabric should be lightweight and appropriate for beach wear. That includes fabrics such as linen, gauze, silk chiffon or organza and the style of the dress should flatter your figure. The length of the dress doesn't really matter, as long as you can walk without tripping on the ends of your dress. When deciding on what length you want to the dress to be, also consider whether or not you wish to wear hose or go bare. A light sweater or wrap is handy in case of wind or cool evening breezes.
Step 2
If the bride chooses to wear a white dress, guests should choose a dress in another color. Light, summer prints and designs or a single bold color all make lovely choices. A pretty skirt and top in lightweight fabric and pretty colors also makes for pretty beach wedding attire.
Step 3
Quite possibly, you already own a summer dress that with the addition of some pretty accessories, will be perfect for a beach wedding. Department stores, beach shops and online are good places to do your research to decide what kind of look you want to achieve. You will also learn that shopping for a pretty beach dress is generally much less costly than shopping for other types of wedding dresses.
Step 4
Shoes to wear with your dress are an important consideration. This is not the time for those 4-inch spike heels. Instead, select a low-heeled or flat open-toed shoe or sandal. Strappy sandals, or those decorated with jewels or pretty flowers look attractive with a pretty, lightweight dress. Your bag should be a slim clutch, holding just the bare necessities. A large, heavy handbag will detract from the light and airy feel of beach attire.
Step 5
Choose pretty jewelry to accent your dress. Earrings and a pretty necklace can dress up even a simple beach dress. Bangles and bracelets can decorate an otherwise bare arm.
Tips
Because beach weddings are held outdoors, you may want to consider a pretty hat.
Be sure to apply sunscreen if you are going to be outdoors for any length of time.
Sunglasses may be desirable depending on where you are sitting or standing and the time of day.
Warning
A beach wedding, while casual, is not the time for jeans or shorts.