Women’s Style Guide: The Summer Wedding Edition

Summer is upon us. Late-night bbqs, weekend getaways, lots of sunscreen…and weddings. If those invites in your mailbox brought more overwhelming feelings than excitement as far as wardrobe is concerned, fear not. We’ve put together occasion-appropriate looks for three different kinds of weddings. RSVP with a “yes” and get dressed with these key pieces. (Psst…guys, find your style guide here.)

Occasion: Semi-formal

What to wear: Go classic, but put a twist on your look with unconventional details. The LBD is almost a no-brainer, but why not mix it up? A ruffle fit-and-flare dress is ready for cocktails, toasting the happy couple and breaking it down on the dance floor. Put a French-girl spin on it with a blazer. Our Long and Lean-Fit Washable Wool-Blend Blazer in black is structured without being too heavy—perfect for throwing over your shoulders when the sun goes down. Plus, it’s washable (go ahead, dance with a drink in hand). Dress things up with easy black heels, and punctuate the look with a bold clutch (with a strap that’ll keep your hands free). The final step: Elevate your look with gold and white accessories.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to go up a size with the blazer. It’ll look stylishly oversized—then pair with feminine accessories to maintain a fresh balance.

Get the look: Blazer, dress, shoes, bag, ring, earrings

Occasion: Beach

What to wear: Beach weddings sound easy, breezy and simple. But considering sand and wind…you’ll definitely want to do a little thinking ahead. Start from the bottom up: Sand = No heels. Gladiator sandals are your best friend when navigating coastal terrain. A printed maxi dress with bold polka dots gives off nautical vibes, but keeps the taste level high. Make sure your maxi fits just right—every one of our stores offers basic alterations to help you get that perfect fit. Opt for a straw clutch (perfect for packing a pair of sunnies) to keep it beachy.

Tip: Your goal is to look dressed up, not overdressed. Mix formal and casual accessories and shoes together for an effortlessly cool look.

Get the look: Dress, earrings, sunglasses, clutch, sandals

Occasion: Backyard

What to wear: A backyard garden wedding calls for a dressed-up look that’s somewhere in between beach and semi-formal. Lean into the theme with a tiered floral maxi dress in a buttery yellow. Play with contrasting textures with a snakeskin clutch in a pastel shade. The final touch? Gold accessories to top off your look. You’ll want something glimmery to shine along those string lights and whimsical settings.

Tip: Anything is possible during a backyard wedding—mud, uneven terrain, you name it. Opt for a pair of wedges that give you comfort and stability.

Get the look: Dress, necklace, earrings, clutch, shoes

Ready to RSVP? Head to our summer wedding shop for more nuptial-worthy styles, and don’t forget to show us how you’re getting ready for wedding season on social by tagging @bananarepublic and #ItsBanana.