What to Wear to a Beach Wedding as a Guest: Dresses, Shoes and Dress Codes
A beach wedding is one of the most romantic settings imaginable — salt air, golden light, bare feet in the sand. But as a guest, the setting also presents real style challenges: heels that sink, fabrics that cling, and the ever-present risk of overdressing or underdressing. This complete guide to beach wedding guest dresses covers every situation, from casual seaside ceremonies to formal oceanfront galas.
What Should a Guest Wear to a Beach Wedding?
The best beach wedding guest dress feels polished enough for the ceremony and practical enough for sand, sun and ocean breeze. For most women, that means a flowy midi dress, maxi dress, sundress, jumpsuit or dressy two-piece in a lightweight fabric such as chiffon, linen blend, cotton, georgette or soft crepe.
If the invitation says beach formal, choose an elevated maxi, high-low dress, dressy jumpsuit or refined midi. If it says beach cocktail or semi-formal, a midi dress, polished sundress or soft satin/chiffon style works beautifully. For beach casual, keep the look relaxed but still wedding-ready: think a pretty sundress, flowy skirt set or easy maxi, not denim shorts, T-shirts or rubber flip-flops.
Start With the Beach Wedding Dress Codes
Beach weddings can look very different. A sunset resort ceremony may call for a more elevated look, while a daytime barefoot ceremony on the sand may feel more relaxed. Before choosing your outfit, check the invitation, wedding website and venue.
Beach Formal Wedding Guest Dresses
Beach formal does not usually mean a heavy evening gown. It means elegant, refined and comfortable in a coastal setting.
Good options include:
- A chiffon or crepe maxi dress
- A high-low dress that will not drag in the sand
- A formal midi dress with a clean neckline
- A dressy jumpsuit or pantsuit
- A soft satin dress if the event is in the evening
Best colors for beach formal guest dresses include sea blue, sage green, coral, champagne, navy, soft pink, lavender and warm metallics. Avoid anything too bridal, especially white, ivory or pale cream unless the couple specifically requests it.
Beach Cocktail or Semi-Formal Guest Attire
For cocktail beach wedding guest attire, choose a dress that feels festive without being fussy. Midi dresses, wrap dresses, pleated styles, halter necklines, one-shoulder dresses and elegant floral prints all work well.
This is also a good dress code for:
- Beach formal wedding guest dresses in lighter fabrics
- Flowy dresses for beach wedding guests
- Midi wedding guest dresses
- Wedding guest dresses with sleeves
- Dressy sandals, wedges or block heels
If the reception continues after sunset, bring a light wrap or shawl.
Beach Casual Guest Outfits
Beach casual still means you are attending a wedding. A sundress for a beach wedding guest is usually perfect, especially for a daytime ceremony. Choose breathable fabrics, cheerful colors and silhouettes that move easily.
Try:
- A floral sundress
- A breezy maxi dress
- A cotton or linen-blend midi
- A relaxed halter dress
- A skirt-and-top set
- A polished romper or jumpsuit, if the couple's dress code allows it
Skip rubber flip-flops, swimsuit cover-ups, denim cutoffs and anything that looks like regular beachwear.
If you are the bride’s mother, your beach wedding outfit may need to feel more polished than regular guest attire. Read our guide to mother of the bride beach wedding dresses for elegant dress, jumpsuit, shoes, and accessory ideas.
Best Beach Wedding Guest Dresses by Style
Picking the right silhouette for your beach wedding outfit for the guests is as important as the fabric. Here are the most popular and practical styles, and when each works best.
Flowy Maxi Dress
The maxi dress for a beach wedding guest is arguably the most iconic choice. A floor-length, flowy silhouette in chiffon or georgette is effortlessly elegant, keeps you cool, and photographs beautifully in ocean-breeze settings. Look for styles with an empire waist, wrap bodice, or adjustable straps for an easy, flattering fit.
Sundress for Beach Wedding Guest
A sundress for a beach wedding guest is perfectly appropriate for casual or beach-casual events. The key is elevation — choose a sundress in a sophisticated fabric (chiffon, silk-blend, lace) rather than plain cotton, and accessorize with statement earrings and a delicate clutch to make it feel occasion-appropriate.
Midi Wrap Dress
A wrap midi dress is the workhorse of beach wedding guest style. The adjustable waist is universally flattering, the length is appropriate without being overdressed, and the wrap silhouette flows beautifully in the ocean breeze. Midi beach wedding guest dresses hit at or below the knee, making them versatile across most dress codes.
Formal Beach Wedding Guest Dresses
For formal beach wedding guest dresses, think floor-length gowns in draped chiffon, silk charmeuse, or lace overlay. A-line and column gowns work well, as do high-low hemlines. These elevate the occasion without being as stiff as traditional ballgowns — the fabrics allow movement and breeze in a way that formal indoor gowns don't.
Boho Beach Wedding Guest Dress
Bohemian styles — crochet details, tiered skirts, off-shoulder silhouettes, floral embroidery — are a natural fit for casual and semi-formal beach ceremonies. A boho beach wedding guest dress in cream, dusty rose, or terracotta feels romantic without being bridal.
Beach Wedding Guest Pantsuits and Jumpsuits
A dress is not the only option for a beach wedding guest. Dressy pantsuits and jumpsuits can look elegant, modern, and practical, especially for guests who prefer more coverage or want an outfit that is easy to move in.
For beach cocktail or semi-formal weddings, choose a wide-leg jumpsuit, chiffon overlay pantsuit, soft crepe pantsuit, or halter jumpsuit in a coastal color. For beach formal weddings, look for refined details such as a draped bodice, lace overlay, cape sleeves, subtle beading, or a matching jacket.
Color Rule
Never wear white, ivory, cream, or champagne to a beach wedding. These colors are reserved for the bride. If you're drawn to light, airy tones, opt for pale blue, blush pink, sage green, or lavender instead.
Recommended Beach Wedding Guest Dresses
Below are Mondressy picks that fit the Beach Weddings. These styles cover beach formal, cocktail, semi-formal, sleeved, floral, maxi, tea-length, and resort-ready guest outfits. Prices may change, so confirm details on each product page before publishing.
1. MON8040541 Mondressy Sheath/Column Halter Lace Embroidery Floor-Length Evening Dress
- Price range: Approx. $159.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: Sheath/column silhouette; halter neckline; sleeveless design; lace embroidery; floral detail; floor-length hem.
- Editorial note: This works well as a formal beach wedding guest dress because the halter neckline and floral embroidery feel polished without needing heavy accessories. The floor-length silhouette gives it evening-ready elegance, while the sleeveless cut keeps it lighter for a coastal setting.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy floral halter beach wedding guest dress
2. MON2312178 Mondressy A-Line V-Neck Printed Floral Dress with Ruffles & 3D Flower
- Price range: Approx. $169.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: A-line/princess silhouette; V-neckline; printed floral design; pleated detail; ruffles; 3D flower accent.
- Editorial note: This is a strong choice for a beach wedding guest dress because the floral print naturally fits a seaside or garden-by-the-sea ceremony. The A-line shape and V-neckline make it flattering, while the 3D flower detail gives the outfit a special occasion feel.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy floral A-line beach wedding guest dress
3. MON2311909 Mondressy A-Line V-Neck 3/4 Sleeves Asymmetrical Dress with Ruffle
- Price range: Approx. $132.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: A-line/princess silhouette; V-neckline; 3/4 sleeves; asymmetrical hem; ruffle detail.
- Editorial note: This is a practical option for beach wedding guest dresses with sleeves because the 3/4 sleeves add coverage without feeling too heavy. The asymmetrical hem is especially useful for beach venues because it gives movement while keeping the look easier to walk in than a full train.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy 3/4-sleeve asymmetrical beach wedding guest dress
4. MON2311512 Mondressy Sheath/Column V-Neck Sleeveless Floor-Length Dress with Ruffles
- Price range: Approx. $149.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: Sheath/column silhouette; V-neckline; sleeveless design; floor-length hem; ruffle detail.
- Editorial note: This dress works well for a beach formal wedding guest outfit because it feels sleek and elevated without the volume of a ball gown. The V-neckline and ruffle detail soften the column shape, making it polished enough for an evening oceanfront reception.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy V-neck floor-length beach wedding guest dress
5. MON141340 Mondressy A-Line Long Sleeve V-Neck Charmeuse Wedding Guest Dress
- Price range: Approx. $139.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: A-line silhouette; V-neckline; long sleeves; floor-length hem; charmeuse fabric; ruched detail; tie accent.
- Editorial note: This is a good choice for sunset beach weddings, cooler waterfront receptions, or guests who prefer more coverage. The charmeuse fabric adds a dressy sheen, while the ruched detail helps the gown feel flattering rather than plain.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy long-sleeve beach wedding guest dress
6. MON8040527W Mondressy A-Line Halter Ankle-Length Wedding Guest Dress with 3D Flowers & Sequins
- Price range: Approx. $169.99
- Available size range: S-XL
- Key fabric and silhouette details: A-line/princess silhouette; halter neckline; sleeveless design; ankle-length hem; 3D flower and sequin details.
- Editorial note: This is a lovely beach cocktail wedding guest dress because the ankle length feels dressy but practical for outdoor venues. The 3D flowers and sequins add celebration-ready texture without making the look too heavy for a coastal setting.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy ankle-length halter beach wedding guest dress
7. MON2311682 Mondressy A-Line V-Neck Short Sleeve Ankle-Length Wedding Guest Dress
- Price range: Approx. $159.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: A-line silhouette; V-neckline; short sleeves; ankle-length hem; cascading ruffles.
- Editorial note: This is an easy beach wedding guest dress for women who want sleeves, movement, and a hem that will not drag through sand. The cascading ruffles give the dress a soft, romantic feel that works well for daytime or semi-formal beach ceremonies.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy short-sleeve ankle-length beach wedding guest dress
8. MON8040325 Mondressy Trumpet/Mermaid V-Neck Chiffon Tea-Length Cocktail Dress
- Price range: Approx. $139.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: Trumpet/mermaid silhouette; V-neckline; chiffon fabric; asymmetrical tea-length hem; cocktail dress style.
- Editorial note: This is a strong pick for beach cocktail or semi-formal guest attire because the tea-length hem is practical for sand, decks, and resort lawns. The chiffon fabric keeps the mermaid shape softer and more breathable than a structured cocktail dress.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy chiffon tea-length beach wedding guest cocktail dress
9. MON141591 Mondressy Sheath/Column One-Shoulder Floor-Length Wedding Guest Dress with Bow & Slit
- Price range: Approx. $119.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: Sheath/column silhouette; one-shoulder neckline; floor-length hem; bow detail; slit.
- Editorial note: This is a modern option for formal beach wedding guest dresses, especially for sunset ceremonies or resort receptions. The one-shoulder neckline feels elegant, while the slit gives movement and makes the floor-length style easier to wear outdoors.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy one-shoulder beach wedding guest dress with slit
10. MON141588 Mondressy A-Line Halter Sleeveless Wedding Guest Dress with Open Back & Ruffles
- Price range: Approx. $159.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: A-line/princess silhouette; halter neckline; sleeveless design; open back; ruffle detail.
- Editorial note: This dress is a good fit for destination beach weddings because the halter neckline and open back feel fresh, breezy, and resort-ready. The A-line shape keeps the look graceful and easy to move in for ceremonies, photos, and dancing.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy halter beach wedding guest dress with ruffles
11. MON2312186 Mondressy A-Line V-Neck Short Sleeves Printed Floral Dress with Ruffles
- Price range: Approx. $179.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: A-line/princess silhouette; V-neckline; short sleeves; printed floral design; ruffle detail.
- Editorial note: This is a polished floral beach wedding guest dress for daytime ceremonies, garden-by-the-sea venues, and semi-formal celebrations. The short sleeves add light coverage, while the floral print keeps the outfit cheerful and appropriate for a coastal wedding.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy floral short-sleeve beach wedding guest dress
12. MON141592 Mondressy Sheath/Column Criss-Cross Halter Floral Wedding Guest Dress
- Price range: Approx. $129.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: Sheath/column silhouette; criss-cross halter neckline; ruched detail; floor-length hem; printed floral design; self-tie bow.
- Editorial note: This is a stylish beach wedding guest dress for guests who want a more fitted, modern silhouette. The floral print and halter neckline make it feel right for a destination or resort wedding, while the ruching adds a flattering finish.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy floral halter beach wedding guest dress with ruched detail
13. MON8040307 Mondressy A-Line Chiffon Halter Floor-Length Wedding Guest Dress
- Price range: Approx. $149.99
- Available size range: 2-28W
- Key fabric and silhouette details: A-line/princess silhouette; chiffon fabric; halter neckline; sleeveless design; floor-length hem.
- Editorial note: This is one of the most classic beach wedding guest dress options because chiffon is lightweight, breezy, and naturally elegant. The halter neckline and A-line skirt make it versatile for beach formal, semi-formal, and resort wedding dress codes.
- Buy: Shop this Mondressy chiffon halter beach wedding guest dress
Best Fabrics for a Beach Wedding
Fabric is the single most important factor in beach wedding comfort. The wrong material can leave you sweaty, clingy, and miserable. The right one keeps you cool and polished from ceremony to reception.
| Fabric | Why It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Chiffon | Lightweight, sheer layers move beautifully in wind; breathable | Flowy maxi dresses, overlay gowns, semi-formal looks |
| Linen | Natural, breathable, effortlessly relaxed texture | Casual beach weddings; resort-style midi dresses |
| Georgette | Similar to chiffon but slightly heavier; drapes beautifully | Wrap dresses, draped gowns, formal looks |
| Satin (light) | Luxurious sheen; best in lightweight versions for beach settings | Formal beach weddings; evening events |
| Jersey / Stretch | Comfortable, forgiving fit; doesn't wrinkle in transit | Travel-friendly maxi dresses, plus-size styles |
| Lace | Romantic and elegant; best as an overlay over lining | Formal or semi-formal beach ceremonies |
Fabrics to avoid: Heavy velvet, thick brocade, unlined linen (too sheer), and polyester blends that trap heat. Chiffon beach wedding guest dresses and linen beach wedding guest dresses consistently top the "best fabrics" list for a reason — they breathe, move, and look effortless in coastal settings.
Best Dress Lengths for a Beach Wedding Guest
The right length depends on the dress code and whether the ceremony is directly on the sand.
Maxi Dresses
A maxi dress for a beach wedding guest is a classic choice because it feels romantic and photographs beautifully. Look for a hem that floats near the ankle or just above the floor so it does not collect sand.
Midi Dresses
Midi dresses are one of the easiest choices for beach weddings. They feel polished, keep the hem out of the sand and work for casual, cocktail and semi-formal dress codes.
High-Low Dresses
High-low dresses are especially useful for beach settings. They give the movement of a longer dress while keeping the front hem practical for walking.
Short Dresses
Short beach wedding guest dresses can work for casual daytime weddings, but choose a polished silhouette. A structured mini, skater dress or fluttery hem can be pretty; anything too tight, too short or too club-like may feel out of place.
Beach Wedding Guest Dresses with Sleeves
Not everyone wants a strapless or spaghetti-strap look. Beach wedding guest dresses with sleeves are a smart choice if you want more coverage, sun protection or a little extra polish. Beach wedding guest dresses with sleeves do not need to feel heavy.
Best Sleeve Styles for Beach Weddings
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Flutter sleeves: Soft, airy, and flattering for upper-arm coverage. They move beautifully in a beach breeze and work well on chiffon maxi, midi, and A-line dresses.
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Sheer chiffon sleeves: A graceful option if you want coverage without warmth. Sheer sleeves are especially good for semi-formal or beach formal wedding guest dresses.
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Short puff sleeves: Feminine and polished, but still light enough for daytime ceremonies. Choose soft puff sleeves rather than stiff, oversized ones for a more mature look.
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Cap sleeves: Simple, classic, and easy to wear. Cap sleeves work well for guests who want just a little shoulder coverage without changing the feel of the dress.
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Lightweight long sleeves: Best for sunset ceremonies, cooler waterfront receptions, or air-conditioned venues. Look for chiffon, lace, mesh, or georgette sleeves instead of heavy lined fabric.
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Off-the-shoulder sleeves: A pretty choice for beach cocktail or semi-formal weddings. They add softness around the neckline while still giving the dress a dressy, romantic feel.
Avoid thick knit or structured sleeves — these trap heat and look out of place at a beach event. A chiffon maxi dress with flutter sleeves is one of the most elegant and practical options available for beach wedding guest dresses with sleeves.
Beach Wedding Guest Dresses Over 50
The best beach wedding guest dresses over 50 balance elegance, comfort and ease. You do not need to dress older; you need a dress that feels confident and appropriate for the setting.
Most Flattering Styles for Guests Over 50
Wrap dresses and midi lengths are consistently flattering across body types, creating a defined waist without clinging. Empire-waist maxi dresses are a wonderful alternative — they skim gracefully over the midsection while remaining effortlessly elegant.
For those who prefer more coverage, chiffon or lace overlay dresses offer beautiful arm and shoulder coverage in a lightweight, breathable way. Midi beach wedding guest dresses over 50 with flutter sleeves or 3/4 chiffon sleeves are among the most popular choices in this category.
Color and Print Guidance for Women Over 50
Soft, sophisticated tones work especially well: dusty blue, sage green, champagne (as long as it reads clearly as non-bridal), soft lavender, deep coral, and warm blush. Small-scale florals and abstract prints look fresh and appropriate without veering too casual.
For petite beach wedding guest dresses over 50, look for vertical print details, V-necklines, and avoiding heavy horizontal patterns — these elongate the silhouette beautifully in coastal settings and photographs.
Shoe Recommendations for Women Over 50
Comfort is non-negotiable. Low wedge sandals with good arch support are ideal — they provide stability on sand and look polished without compromising comfort across a multi-hour event. Block-heeled sandals with a 2-inch heel are another excellent option, offering both stability and elegance.
Looking for more age-specific styling advice? Our guide to beach wedding guest dresses over 50 covers flattering midi, maxi, sleeved, and comfortable shoe options for mature guests.
Plus Size Beach Wedding Guest Dresses
Plus size beach wedding guest dresses should move comfortably, breathe well and offer support where you want it. Wrap dresses, empire waists, A-line dresses, ruched bodices, flutter sleeves and wide-leg jumpsuits are all strong choices.
For beach formal, try a chiffon maxi or one-shoulder gown. For cocktail, a midi dress with a defined waist is easy and elegant. For beach casual, a floral sundress or breezy maxi can look effortless without feeling underdressed.
What Shoes Should You Wear to a Beach Wedding?
Shoes are where beach weddings get tricky. Standard heels sink into sand and become a hazard. The best shoes for a beach wedding guest offer style and practicality in equal measure.
Best Shoe Styles for Beach Weddings
| Shoe Type | Why It Works | Dress Code Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Wedge Sandals | Stable on sand; adds height without sinking; looks polished | Casual → Formal |
| Block-Heel Sandals | Wide base for stability; comfortable for long wear | Semi-formal → Formal |
| Strappy Flat Sandals | Elegant and practical; perfect for sand ceremony | Casual → Semi-formal |
| Embellished Slides | Easy on/off; comfortable; can dress up or down | Casual |
| Espadrilles | Woven sole grips uneven surfaces; resort-chic aesthetic | Casual → Beach Cocktail |
If the reception moves indoors (restaurant, terrace, or pavilion), pack a pair of heeled sandals in your bag. Wear flats for the ceremony on sand, swap to heels for dinner and dancing on a stable surface.
Beach wedding sandals for guests with ankle straps are especially secure — they won't slide off as you navigate uneven terrain. For women attending formal beach weddings, look for beach wedding shoes for female guests with embellishments like rhinestones, metallic leather, or beaded straps that elevate the overall look.
Colors & Prints: What Works Beachside
Coastal lighting is uniquely flattering — bright and warm — which means your color choices will photograph differently than they do indoors. Here's a quick guide to color selection for beach wedding guest attire:
| Color | Verdict | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dusty Blue / Navy | Excellent | Timeless, flattering in ocean settings; blue beach wedding guest dress is always a hit |
| Sage Green | Excellent | Earthy, elegant; green beach wedding guest dress photographs beautifully against sand |
| Blush / Dusty Rose | Excellent | Feminine and soft; works at any formality level |
| Coral / Terracotta | Great | Warm tones complement tan skin and tropical settings beautifully |
| Floral Prints | Great | Classic beach wedding choice; opt for medium-scale prints rather than very large |
| White / Ivory / Cream | Avoid | Reserved for the bride — never appropriate as a guest |
| All Black | Use Caution | Can feel heavy in a beach setting; if wearing black, add colorful accessories |
| Neon | Avoid | Too distracting; draws attention away from the couple |
Beach Wedding Guest Do's and Don'ts
Do
- Wear breathable, lightweight fabrics (chiffon, linen, georgette)
- Choose wedge heels or flat sandals for stability on sand
- Opt for midi or maxi length for elegance and sun coverage
- Select colors that complement the coastal setting
- Bring a light wrap or pashmina for evening ocean breezes
- Wear sunscreen — even under clothing, exposed areas need protection
- Pack a pair of shoes for the reception if it moves indoors
- Check the dress code on the invitation and dress accordingly
Don't
- Wear stiletto heels (they sink into sand)
- Choose white, ivory, or champagne (bridal territory)
- Wear heavy fabrics like velvet or thick brocade
- Overdress significantly beyond the stated dress code
- Wear brand-new shoes that haven't been broken in
- Forget that beach wind is real — avoid overly loose/flyaway items
- Wear a hat that's so large it blocks others' view of the ceremony
- Show up in a sundress to a black-tie beach event
Beach Wedding Guest Outfit Checklist
Before you decide, ask:
- Does the outfit match the invitation dress code?
- Can I walk comfortably on sand or uneven ground?
- Is the fabric breathable enough for heat and humidity?
- Will the dress move well in wind?
- Is the color clearly not bridal?
- Can I sit, stand and dance comfortably?
- Do my shoes work for both ceremony and reception?
Final Styling Tips
For a beach wedding, the best outfit is intentional but not overworked. Let the setting guide you: breathable fabric, movement, color and comfortable shoes will do more for your look than heavy embellishment.
If you are unsure, choose a midi or maxi dress in a lightweight fabric, add stable sandals, keep jewelry polished and bring a small clutch or woven bag. You will look wedding-ready, feel comfortable and be able to enjoy the celebration from ceremony to last dance.
FAQ
What should a guest wear to a beach wedding?
Guests at a beach wedding should wear a flowy midi or maxi dress in a breathable fabric like chiffon, linen, or georgette. Opt for light, summery colors or floral prints. Avoid white, ivory, and heavy fabrics. Pair with wedge sandals or block-heeled shoes for stability on sand or grass. The exact formality depends on the dress code listed on the invitation.
Can I wear a sundress to a beach wedding?
Yes, a sundress is appropriate for many beach weddings, especially daytime or beach casual ceremonies. Choose a dressy fabric or elevated print so it feels wedding-ready.
Can I wear black to a beach wedding?
Black can work, especially for evening or cocktail beach weddings. Choose a lighter fabric and beach-friendly accessories so the outfit does not feel too heavy.
Are maxi dresses good for beach wedding guests?
Yes. Maxi dresses are one of the most popular choices for beach wedding guests. Choose a hem that will not drag through sand.
What should female guests avoid wearing to a beach wedding?
Avoid white, ivory, denim shorts, rubber flip-flops, swimsuits, overly revealing styles and heavy fabrics that feel uncomfortable in heat.
What shoes should guests wear to a beach wedding?
Wedges, block heels, espadrilles, dressy flats and polished sandals are best. Avoid thin stilettos if the ceremony is on sand.
