Summer weddings come with romantic sunsets, floral dresses, and plenty of Insta-worthy moments, but let’s be real, they also come with sweat. Whether you’re attending a barefoot beach ceremony in Los Angeles or a rooftop reception in Brooklyn, staying cool while looking good is a whole event in itself.
But don’t worry, you can still bring your A-game without melting by mid-afternoon with these six summer wedding survival tips.
1. Dress Smart, Not Hot
When the temperature climbs, what you wear matters. Light, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and chiffon regulate body heat. Avoid materials that cling to your skin and dark colors that absorb heat. Looser silhouettes feel better and look effortlessly chic.
For women, especially, there are several other tips for dressing for a hot outdoor wedding to follow. One such tip is to wear shorter dresses or skirts as they allow for better airflow than long gowns or pants.
2. Hydrate Like You Mean It
You might be dreaming about signature cocktails, but hydration starts way before the champagne toast. Drinking water before, during, and after the ceremony keeps your energy up and your body cool.
Make it a habit to grab water between rounds of mingling. It’s an underrated power move when temps soar past 85 degrees.
3. Know Your Beauty Limits
Heat and humidity are not your glam squad. Opt for powder-based or cream-to-powder formulations that are less likely to melt in the sun. Think glow, not shine.
For hair, opt for styles that hold up under pressure. Low buns, protective braids, or loose curls with a bit of frizz-control serum can carry you from golden hour to last dance without falling flat.
4. Choose the Right Shoes
Yes, your shoes can make or break your whole day. Wedges and block heels are ideal for women navigating lawns, sand, or uneven terrain. But don’t forget: feet sweat too. Look for sandals with cushioned soles or wear anti-slip pads to prevent slipping.
Guys, don’t sleep on this either. If you’re in socks and closed-toe shoes, go for breathable fabrics and moisture-wicking socks. No-show liners or foot powder can also help you avoid sweaty feet situations.
5. Don’t Skip the Shade
Your best accessory this season is a little cover. Seek shade during long ceremonies or cocktail hours, whether it’s from a parasol, a cute hat, or a strategically chosen seat.
L.A. venues often have built-in shade or coastal breezes, but in other locales, shade might be scarce. Scope out locations early and share the spot with others. Cooling off should be communal.
6. Have a Go Bag
Think of it as your personal survival kit. Toss in essentials like travel-size deodorant, blotting papers, mini sunscreen, and a portable fan. Add fashion tape, bobby pins, or mints, depending on your outfit.
This preparedness isn’t about being high maintenance; it’s about being high-functioning. If something melts, spills, or slips, you’ll be ready.
So don’t sweat it with these six summer wedding survival tips; show up, stay cool, and shine through the heat. Your body will be thankful!