Looking for a summer wedding guest dress but the invitation says “casual dress code” leaving you unsure of what to wear? We get you.
A simple dress can feel underwhelming, but fear not! This guide explores the art of ‘dressing down’ your outfit while ‘jeweling up’ with statement pieces to create a wedding guest look that’s both stylish and effortless, without robbing you of the perfect season to show off more skin.
Decoding “Casual” Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Let’s be honest, a casual summer wedding guest dress isn’t a uniform; it’s a mood board! Imagine a garden party awash in soft pastels, a vineyard soirée where elegance meets rustic charm or a beachside bash where nautical designs and breezy linens take centre stage. The location and time of day often set the tone for your outfit. Afternoon weddings tend to be lighter and airier, while evening affairs might require a little more polish.
And while each look calls for a slightly different ensemble approach, don’t stress, because within this spectrum lies the perfect building blocks for your outfit. We’re talking flowy dresses that twirl with every step, chic jumpsuits that scream confidence or the ever-versatile mix-and-match separates that let you personalize your look.
Dress it up with one (or more) of the jewellery tips mentioned below and we guarantee that you’ll be the best-dressed guest in attendance.
Summer Wedding Guest Dress: The Art of Jeweling Up
Tip #1: Statement Earrings Are Your Best Friend
When it comes to jewellery, a pair of statement earrings is your ultimate wingman (or wing woman). This includes everything from oversized hoops that shimmer in the sunlight to cascading chandelier earrings that add a touch of drama to your minimalistic OOTD.
In addition to elevating your outfit from simple to head-turning, these earrings beautifully frame your face and highlight your gorgeous summer glow. What could be better?
Style Tip: When opting for statement pieces, keep the rest of your jewellery minimal to avoid overwhelming your look. A sleek bracelet or delicate necklace will complement your statement earrings perfectly.
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Tip #2: Necklaces for Every Neckline
Want to know a little secret? The right necklace can take your casual outfit from ‘cute’ to ‘wedding-worthy’ in a snap. That said, not everyone knows what necklace to wear with what neckline and if you’re one of them, consider these pairings your ultimate guide.
If you plan on rocking a plunging V-neck wedding guest dress, opt for a statement pendant necklace. It will accentuate your décolletage without overwhelming your ensemble which makes it a total winner in our books.
That said, if you want to go with a layered look, you can always flaunt our JCK Jewellers’ Choice Awards finalist, the sapphire halo layered necklace. Not only will it add an air of sophistication to your casual outfit, but it will also emphasize your deep dress’s deep neckline in a way that’s guaranteed to make people stop and stare.
Of course, if a strapless yet classy summer wedding guest dress is more your style, then you can’t go wrong with a choker. By drawing attention to the base of your neck and upper body, this type of necklace strikes the right balance between highlighting your bare shoulders and adding some much-needed glamor to your look.
Pro Tip: Flaunting summer gemstones like peridots and citrines are a fabulous way to enhance the summery vibe of your ensemble and ensure you stay on theme.
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Tip #3: Embrace the Power of Bracelets and Rings
NGL, layered jewellery and more specifically the art of layering rings and bracelets, have been trending for ages. And in our opinion, there’s no better way to flaunt this fun and flirty look than with your best summer wedding guest dress.
Wondering how to layer your bracelets? A quick tip is to play with different metals and textures for added visual interest.
That said, if stacking isn’t exactly your style, you can always amp up your look and draw attention to your fingers with a statement ring. Featuring oversized gemstones and intricate designs, it’s just what you need to snag attention.
Style Tip: Pair a coloured gemstone cocktail ring with your favourite summer dress for a wedding guest look that’s equal parts classy and chic.
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Tip #4: Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches!
Remember, while fashion jewellery is always a great conversation starter, the finishing touches are what actually pulls the whole look together.
Let your dress and jewellery guide your clutch, hair accessory and belt choices. For example, emeralds pair beautifully with a mint green clutch, while a statement gold necklace really pops when teamed with a gold hair accessory.
Pulling It All Together: Outfit Inspiration
1. Colourful And Classy
Want to emphasize the golden yellow hue of your outfit with a dash of sparkle? Citrine jewellery is guaranteed to get the job done, summer style!
2. Elegant Chic
Nothing says ‘sophistication’ quite like a summery yellow dress and diamond jewellery combo.
3. Subtle Glam
Trust our blue sapphire pieces to add a luxurious spin to your casual summer wedding guest dress.
Feeling inspired? We want to see your amazing summer wedding guest looks! Share your photos with us on Instagram @angarajewellery
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What should guests wear to a summer wedding?
You can pair your maxi dress or silk slip dress with pastel or brightly coloured gemstone jewellery. Also, try layering 2 to 3 pieces together for an on-point summer wedding guest look.
Q2. What is the best colour for a summer wedding?
For celebrations alfresco, a colour palette of green, yellow or pink would look great. For a beachy affair, try white and blue, and for evening parties, the hottest colour to wear right now is red.
Q3. Can you wear gold to a summer wedding?
Yes, not only is yellow gold a very summery metal colour but it can also add a touch of luxury and glamour to your wedding guest dress.
