by Chelsea Frank for Brides

Destination weddings are all the rage, and for good reason. They’re part wedding, part vacation, and a chance to see the world with all your friends and family. Sign us up!

But with all the extra events surrounding the wedding day, you may be overwhelmed deciding what to pack. “The top considerations for dressing for a destination wedding are the location, the weather and venue of the event, time of day, and season,” says Tiffany Moss, resort wedding manager at Atlantis Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas.

And “given the rapid-fire sequence of parties, activities and outings, every event requires a different look — each smashing (no pressure),” adds fashion stylist Elizabeth Kosich.

So how do you find room in your suitcase for all your outfits? It’s all about packing the right clothes for the climate, dress code, and weather. To help you travel in style, we found the best wedding guest looks to wear for every breezy, beautiful destination wedding event.

1. Best Versatile
   Marcella Robin Dress

2. Best Two Piece
   Reformation Linen Two Piece

3. Best Jumpsuit
   Retrofete Graciane Jumpsuit

4. Best LBD
   Reformation Silk Dress

5. Best Colorful
   Farm Rio Colorful Leaves Midi Dress

6. Best for Beach Nuptials
   Rococo Sand Long Dress

7. Best Strapless
   Lulus Make a Move Black Satin Floral Jacquard Strapless Midi Dress

8. Best Animal Print
   Majorelle Midi Dress

9. Best Empire Waist
   BHLDN A-Line Midi Dress

10. Best Slip
    VICI Slip Midi Dress

What to look for in Destination Wedding Guest Attire

1. Dress Code
   The wedding couple should indicate the dress code on the invitation. If they’re having a tropical island destination wedding, you can usually get away with a nice dress you’d wear to a resort dinner. “Island dress codes mean bright colors, fun patterns and exotic prints,” says Kosich. “From florals to botanicals to jungle motifs, the more decorative the better. Also consider animal exotics like a python, or an ombré that simulates a sunset.”

2. Climate
   While many associate destination weddings with beachy, tropical climates, a destination wedding can be anywhere! From Cancun to Italy to Bali to Morocco, what you choose to wear should reflect the local climate and aesthetic. Do some research on the temperature and humidity levels for the location you’re traveling to (paying attention to the time of year, as well!) to help you decide on which dress to pick. “Warmer climates can be challenging to dress for because the days are very hot and can be humid, while evenings can be cooler and you will need a light coverup,” says Moss. When in doubt, bring a light jacket or shawl.

3. Fabric
   For hot and humid climates, “pack breathable, natural fibers that work well for day — linen, cotton, gauze — and lightweight fibers with drape for night — rayon, silk, chiffon,” says Kosich. “Avoid clingy fabrics without airflow and layered looks that add bulk.” You also want to prepare for the wrinkles that are inevitably going to come from traveling with your outfit. “Humidity will help smooth out some wrinkles but not all, so budget time for a quick, light iron or enlist housekeeping services to keep your head-to-toe look fresh, sharp and polished,” says Kosich. We also suggest packing a handy portable steamer; they’re the perfect solution for ensuring you can smooth out wrinkles easily and on the go. You can also try to stick to wrinkle-resistant fabrics like polyester and knits.

FAQ

1. How many outfits do I need for a destination wedding?
   That depends on a few factors. “Request the itinerary as early as possible and be realistic about the variety of outfits you’ll need beyond wedding guest attire — breakfast and lunch looks, swim and resort wear, touristy outings, workout clothes, sailing, golf and/or activity gear,” advises Kosich.

   If there’s no itinerary slated, you can err on the safe side by planning for around four events, says Kosich. “Wedding commitments typically include up to four organized events (welcome party, rehearsal dinner, wedding, post-wedding brunch), not including any planned group activities or smaller bridal party gatherings,” she says. “Spend time curating looks from your closet, then fill any gaps with new purchases that are sure to be worn again.”

2. Can I get more creative with my outfit at a destination wedding?
   Yes! It’s fun to incorporate the destination and local cultural influences into your guest attire, as long as you are respecting the wedding couple and their dress code.

   For some creative inspiration, Kosich suggests trying a “fun, flirty romper for any event leading up to the wedding, then a jumpsuit on the big day.” If you’re looking to save packing space, you can even try “convertible garments that are multi-purpose and make packing easier — a swimsuit that doubles as a bodysuit paired with a statement skirt or a convertible dress worn as a frock by night and skirt by day.”

   You can also experiment with accessories to add a dash of something special. “Consider statement headwear for an extra pop and splash of style — a Panama hat, fedora or a fascinator suitable for a formal tropical affair,” Kosich says.

3. What shoes are best for a destination wedding?
   Stylish meets sensible, says Kosich. “Many destination weddings have beach ceremonies with 5-star resort receptions, so pick a stable shoe that can effortlessly transition between a myriad of settings — cork wedge, platform espadrille, raffia block heel,” says Kosich. “Or, consider a shoe change from ceremony to gala if your evening bag can accommodate."

   Meet the expert
   Elizabeth Kosich is a certified image stylist offering head-to-toe wardrobe consulting to men and women, and commercial styling to brands. She holds credentials from FIT and AICI, and founded Elizabeth Kosich Styling in 2019.

See published article on Brides.com here.