What to Wear: Destination Wedding

From a fairytale chateau in the Loire Valley to ocean views over the Amalfi coast, there’s something magical about a destination wedding. With 1 in 5 UK couples looking to tie the knot abroad, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea of sparkling waves and sandy beaches. But don’t forget, a destination wedding requires careful outfit prep to keep you cool and confident on the big day. Our guide will take you from ceremony chic to exploring the local culture in style so whether you’re a groom or a guest, you can enjoy the run-up to the wedding with as little stress as possible.

Dress for the Destination

First things first, you need to find out the dress code. If the invitation doesn’t include one, don’t be afraid to reach out to the bride and groom to check what their expectations are, and ask your friends what their thoughts are. Weddings abroad usually have a more relaxed dress code, but the more specific guidance you can get, the better. Check out the location too. A Spanish beach wedding is likely to have a more laidback dress code than a ceremony at a French Chateau. Whatever the setting, you’ll need to prepare for warmer weather and plan your packing list accordingly.

Our Favourite Styles

Here are the key fabrics and styles you’ll need to look and feel stylish, comfortable and in line with any dress code this summer.

Lightweight Linens

The linen suit is your go-to for occasions in the sun for a lightweight and airy outfit without bulk or heaviness. Sage is the colour of the season - earthy, calming and chic, but soft beige and pale blue tones work beautifully against a sun-drenched backdrop. If the ceremony calls for a relaxed dress code, skip the suit and wear a linen shirt and tailored trousers in a neutral shade like stone or beige

Neutral Shades

Ecru, beige and sand are our best-sellers this season. Whether you choose linen or a three-piece suit, a neutral suit shade is on-trend and the ideal destination shade. For the more lavish ceremonies, a beige tux with contrast black lapel and black bow tie makes a statement without being overbearing. Add a casual but stylish twist to the look with espadrilles.

Playful Pastels

Soft pastel suits are playful and sophisticated, perfect for a wedding in the sun. Soft pinks, sky blues, mint green or peach create a strong aesthetic for the photographer and can be worn with an unbuttoned white shirt. Shake-up the white shirt by going for a shirt in a lighter shade than your suit and pair with tan or brown loafers.

When in Italy…

There’s no better time to pay tribute to the Italian suit if you’re getting married in the country itself. A formal ceremony is better suited to a wool suit with more structure than linen, and an Italian suit is a luxurious investment piece you’ll wear for years to come after the wedding. 100% pure Italian wool isn’t quite as airy as linen or cotton, but is naturally breathable, soft and still available in the lighter neutral shades for a summery celebration.

Non-Iron Shirts

Our favourite holiday life hack. Investing in non-iron shirts will take the stress out of holiday dressing. They’re easy to pack in a suitcase and can be worn under a suit for the ceremony, will still look wrinkle-free at the end of a long day, and can be worn again for afternoon drinks or for a dinner date. Crafted from premium stretch cotton, our non-iron shirts are super-easy to wear thanks to their natural softness and breathability.

How to Dress For…

The Wedding

For the Groom

Your outfit needs to feel special but comfortable at the same time. If you’re the one getting married, a suit in a soft pastel shade is summery and striking, and breathable fabrics like linen or a linen-cotton blend will keep you cooler than heavier fabrics like tweed. If it’s hot but you still want the traditional wedding look, a light waistcoat over a white shirt is a good alternative, and can easily be taken off after the ceremony.

For the Groomsmen

A tailored look can still work with a smart-casual dress code. If a suit isn’t required, an open-collar shirt, relaxed blazer and smart trousers like chinos are the perfect combination for a beach wedding. If you want to dress it up or add a personal touch, add a floral pocket square and woven loafers.

Exploring the Local Area

Shaded cobbled streets, sangria by the sea, exploring local cafes and shops - exploring somewhere new is one of the most exciting parts of going abroad.

Match the laidback lifestyle of the locals but keep it sophisticated with tailored chino shorts and an airy linen shirt. Roll up the sleeves and leave the collar open, then pair with fresh trainers or leather sandals, and you’ve got yourself a comfortable outfit with minimum fuss. Getting ready for a sunset dinner by the sea? Swap the shorts for chinos and the trainers for loafers and have a light overshirt on hand for if the temperature drops.

Beach Day

A polo shirt or t-shirt is essential for when you’re not catching the rays or swimming in the sea. 100% cotton in a light shade is perfect for hot days as it will help to keep you cool with its breathable fibres and helps to reflect the sun when it’s at its highest. We can’t get enough of a linen shirt here. Perfect for throwing over a t-shirt or wearing alone with shorts for a breezy alternative to a cotton tee.

How to Pack Your Suit

The ideal way to travel with your suit is in a garment bag as it stays on a hanger and the suit is less likely to crease or fold. Choose a coat hanger with smooth, wide shoulders to help the suit retain its shape and if you have room, hang your suit up as soon as you check into your hotel.

One of the best ways to keep your suit looking crisp (if it isn't non-iron) is with a handheld steamer, but if you don’t have room in your luggage, double-check that your hotel room has an iron. Short on space? Learn how to fold your suit to fit in your suitcase.

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