A Guest’s Guide for What to Wear to a Destination Wedding in Mexico or the Caribbean
Choosing the perfect outfit for a destination wedding is both exciting and challenging—especially if you’ve never attended a wedding in Mexico or the Caribbean before! You might be thinking to yourself, “What do I even wear to a destination wedding?” To help you out, here are some tips to ensure you’re dressed appropriately and comfortably for the celebration. What to Wear to a Destination Wedding?
Choose Breezy & Breathable Fabrics
Warm temperatures and humidity are part of the tropical charm, but that means you need to dress in breathable fabrics. Opt for light, natural materials like cotton, linen, or chiffon that allow air to circulate and keep you cool.
Consider the Colors
Lighter colors are perfect for reflecting sunlight, but don’t forget to check the couple’s wedding colors on their invitation or website. Coordinating with their color palette shows thoughtful attention to detail.
Note the Venue
Is the wedding on the beach or a rooftop? For sandy ceremonies, ditch the heels in favor of dressy sandals or flats. For rooftop venues, keep in mind potential wind, and make sure your outfit is secure—consider layering or using strategic undergarments to avoid wardrobe mishaps!
Leave the Black Tie Behind
Unless the invitation specifically states otherwise, avoid black-tie attire. Instead, aim for “resort dressy,” which is a step or two down from formal but still polished. For men, linen pants and dress shirts work well. For women, consider beach cocktail dresses, sundresses, or even rompers or jumpsuits that aren’t too casual.
When in Doubt, Ask the Couple
If you’re unsure, reach out to the couple. They’ll appreciate your thoughtfulness and can guide you toward the dress code they envision for their big day.
Need Ideas on What Exactly to Wear to a Destination Wedding?
When it comes to choosing what to wear, comfort is key. Select an outfit that makes you feel confident and at ease. With that in mind, here’s some suggested attire that will have you looking great while feeling comfortable in the tropical surroundings.
For Gentlemen:
- Dress or linen pants
- Dress shirt, button-down, or formal short-sleeve shirt
- Dress shoes or loafers
- Suit jacket, blazer, or sport coat (optional)
- Dress shorts (if the couple allows)
For Ladies:
- Beach cocktail dress or sundress
- Formal romper or jumpsuit
- Heels, wedges, or dressy sandals
Final Thoughts for Choosing your Outfit as a Destination Wedding Guest
With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to enjoy the wedding in style and comfort while fitting in perfectly with the tropical surroundings. Dressing for a destination wedding doesn’t have to be stressful—just remember to balance the elegance of the event with the practicality of the climate and venue. And don’t forget: White and ivory are traditionally reserved for the bride. Steer clear of those shades to avoid any fashion faux pas.
