What to Wear to a Country Wedding: Dos and Don'ts
Posted by Dimitra Designs on Oct 23rd 2024
If you have been invited to a country wedding, congratulations! You are about to take part in something that is rare, beautiful, and truly special. But since country weddings aren’t exactly run of the mill, we can understand if you’re stressed. And even more so specifically about what to wear as a country wedding guest.
The truth is, “country” can conjure a lot of different aesthetics in our mind’s eye. So, what is truly appropriate for a wedding out in the country? Our guide on what to wear to a country wedding has you covered.
Read on and you’ll know all the dos and don’ts for this hallowed occasion out in the countryside. And you’re sure to make the outdoor wedding something to truly remember.
Do: Remember Your Surroundings
A country wedding isn’t like sitting in a church or temple. While you will likely have a seat to sit in during the ceremony, you’ll be exposed to the elements during the event. This means your attire will need to be both stylish and functional.
Since you will likely be exposed to the sun, skincare protection is essential. Consider wide-brimmed hats, bandanas, or other stylish accessories that limit sun exposure. Similarly, protect yourself from insect bites with pants, socks, and shoes for men and plenty of bug spray on exposed legs for women.
It’s also a good idea to bring layers for your rustic wedding. This way, warmer moments can be peeled away while you’ll be prepared for comfortable fun after the sun goes down.
Don’t: Go Overboard with Formality
One of the best things about a country wedding is it offers the couple a chance to celebrate their love in an accessible fashion. Gone are the black-tie formalities that often come with traditional weddings. In its place is something akin to a wedding of yore. Specifically: a simple ceremony, a loving community, and a beautiful setting to match.
Because country weddings are a bit more casual, anyone who rolls up in formal evening wear is going to stick out like a sore thumb. Eschew black tuxedoes and formal gowns for more countryified looks.
Men can consider traditional or slim fitted suits, semi-formal wear, or even a simple pairing of slacks and a shirt.
Women can consider everything from sundresses to Boho chic attire. Maxi dress, Midi dress, and vintage dress features are all on the table.
Do: Match the Theme
Consider clothing that matches the wedding theme with smart-casual looks that offer rustic charm.
For men, chinos, button-downs, and blazers are completely appropriate. Even the classic shirt and vest combo work well. Finish the look with setting-appropriate accessories such as a hat, suspenders, or fine Oxfords.
For women, dress or skirt and blouse combos are totally on the table. Finish the look with style-appropriate sunglasses, a sunhat, or rustic-style jewelry.
Things get more complicated the further west you go, thematically speaking. What to wear to a country western wedding in a more literal sense might include:
- A pair of boots (cowboy, preferably),
- A cowboy hat,
- Leather wear to perfectly complement your attire,
- And more.
But ultimately, most country weddings are just subtly pastoral and not full-on costumed events. Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help guide your country-casual wedding attire:
- Colors to Consider: earth tones, deep hues, neutrals
- Colors to Avoid: white, black, pastels, neon
- Patterns to Consider: floral prints, plaids, checks
- Patterns to Avoid: animal prints, tropical patterns, geometric shapes
Don’t: Go Super Casual
We said a country wedding is going to be far more casual than a traditional wedding, right? Well, don’t take that to mean denim, sneakers, or graphic tees are appropriate. Unless that’s the theme of the wedding, that is.
Casual wedding guest attire can be insulting if the wedding party isn’t in on the joke. Even worse, if you don’t match your other wedding goers, you might be confused for an interloper. Not a good look, if you ask us.
Just remember, the theme supersedes all else. Anything less than the theme risks being construed as an insult to the happy couple. But an on-theme guest meets expectations and maintains a harmonious vibe.
Do: Be Prepared to Hike
Okay, not in the literal sense. But your country wedding is likely going to be in a field or on a farm, right? This means you’re going to have to walk through grass and dirt to get to the ceremony.
What we’re trying to say is to avoid heels and slippery tuxedo shoes at all costs! Instead, opt for flats or block heels for women and an elevated, stylish boot for men. Your ankles will thank us later.
Don’t: Forget the Season
When we say “country wedding,” what season are you picturing? Maybe summer or fall?
In truth, couples love to have country weddings all year long. If you’ve never been to a snow-dappled winter country wedding, let us tell you it’s truly something special.
But each season comes with its own challenges regarding everything we’ve mentioned above. The wedding theme, the appropriate colors, the walkability. Everything can be altered by just a simple tearing of the calendar page.
When planning to dress for a country wedding, always consider the typical weather and prepare for the margins. You’ll be both stylish and comfortable.
Do: Use a Trusted Tailor
Regardless of the kind of wedding you’re attending, it’s customary to look your best. This shows respect for the couple. Moreover, it lends an air of specialness to the photos that everyone can enjoy for generations to come.
Ultimately, what to wear for a country wedding comes down to you and your identity. But selecting your attire is only half the battle. The other half is working with a trusted tailor to ensure every inch fits like a dream.
At Dimitra Designs, we offer a wide selection of country wedding-appropriate looks. Our team of expert tailors and seamstresses is available to find the bespoke fit your body deserves.
Trust us to drape wedding guests like you in the very best country casual wedding attire available.