When being invited to a beach wedding, many may feel like they are invited to a vacation. That’s when you’ll get the urge to throw on a Hawaiian shirt and flip-flops and head on to the ceremony! But wait. Although it is a casual affair, both the couple and guests need to follow the Hawaii wedding dress code. So, what should your Hawaii beach wedding outfits be?
We’ve officiated countless beach civil weddings in Hawaii, watching outfits make or break those beachside moments. And while civil ceremonies do keep things quick and legal, the island demands clothes that flow with the breeze, not fight it. Let’s be clear: there are to be no tuxes melting in the sun or gowns snagging on driftwood.
With that in mind, we’re here to help you come up with a fabulous Hawaii beach wedding outfit. Use the guidelines below, and you’ll be on the right track!
What To Wear To A Beach Wedding In Hawaii
Hawaii civil weddings on the beach blend simplicity with ocean romance. They can take place at Magic Island, Keehi Lagoon, or another gorgeous beach on the island. The invites often say “beach casual” or “tropical chic,” which is a Hawaii wedding dress code for light, layered, and sand-proof attire. The materials should be breathable, meaning heavy silks or wools are a big no because they turn torturous fast. In terms of colors, pastels and neutrals always beat black, which soaks up heat like a sponge.
A daytime beach wedding means being ultra-relaxed. How about 10 a.m. at Honolulu Ridge with shorts and sundresses? Then, there are the evenings at Foster Garden, which are semi-formal. Your Hawaii beach wedding outfits may include a blazer or a flowy skirt.
A word of advice – sun protection is non-negotiable, as well as hats and shades. You can forget about heels because sand swallows stilettos whole. The proper choice is flats or wedges that let you stride to the altar worry-free.
And it’s good to know that formality scales as does the guest count. For instance, elopements are perfect for going barefoot.
For more information on Hawaii wedding attire, take a peek at our Locations page for site-specific details, because some parks prefer covered shoulders.
Choosing the Bridal Gown
Brides, this is your chance to embrace the flow. Here is how to create the perfect Hawaii wedding outfit:
- Midi dresses in chiffon or rayon hug your curves, then flare out, dodging the sand piles at Keehi Lagoon.
- The ivory sheaths with spaghetti straps feel bridal yet beachy.
- Cheer in blush A-lines that twirl during first dances.
- Short hemlines suit active spots like Plaza Courtyard.
- Knee-grazers pair with ankle wraps.
- Florals in soft coral mimic hibiscus without clashing leis.
- Skip ballgowns and trains that trap grit.
- Barefoot vows may hit romantic peaks, but espadrilles will surely ease the walk back.
- Layer smart with sheer kimonos, slip on for clouds or modesty.
- What about the hair? Loose waves or flower crowns beat flyaway veils. You will want to test it in the wind, though.
- As for plus-size picks, the empire waists flatter in the breeze.
- How about maternity attire? We recommend stretchy maxis that accommodate bumps beautifully because everybody deserves that effortless aloha.
Groom’s Guide to Being Island Sharp
Grooms, linen is your go-to, so here is what you should consider for your Hawaii beach wedding outfits:
- Short-sleeve shirts in sky blue or cream, slim chinos.
- Roll those cuffs for a casual beach wedding and vest up for evening polish. There should be no tuxes as they wilt by noon.
- Chino shorts pass for daytime civil ceremonies, matched with aloha prints in subtle palms.
- Stick to open collars and ditch the ties because, you may not know this, but Hawaii hates chokeholds.
- Use boat shoes that grip the grass while the leather loafers shine on paths.
- Try to match your bride’s palette. Wear navy bottoms with her aqua gown.
- Use belts in woven leather because they add grip without bulk.
- As for socks, they are optional at best, but banned for barefoot vibes.
- For the bigger guys, use relaxed fits that breathe, while you, tall grooms, should go for crop pants that show ankles coolly. Simple wins every frame.
Women’s Guest Outfits
In terms of guests’ Hawaii beach wedding outfits, let’s have a look at the ladies first:
- Use wrap dresses in midi cuts.
- Those pastel jumpsuits with wide legs suit semi-formal beach weddings.
- One-shoulder rompers can be used to energize casual days.
- Floral maxis show off that tropical vibe without stealing the bridal thunder.
- Sundresses with button fronts can be used to mix sweet and sexy and are the perfect choice for park perches.
- You will want to avoid white unless otherwise specified. Let the bride take the lead.
- Those straw wedges and raffia clutches scream beach without the overkill.
- You can use lightweight shawls to cover yourself from the chills or the sun.
- How about those bold prints? Well, palm motifs or geometrics do play nicely.
- As for shoes, go with block heels, metallic flats, or braided wedges that conquer dunes.
Men’s Guest Outfits
Men, here are some suggestions for what to wear at a beach wedding in Hawaii:
- Button-downs always anchor it.
- Linen is always the best choice for both day and night.
- If shirts feel stuffy, then you should go for short-sleeve polos, but stick to solids or faint patterns only.
- Chinos in tan or gray allow your skin to breathe.
- Go for shorts for ultra-casual and hemmed above the knee.
- If you are a blazer guy, you surely know that neutrals fold easily in luggage.
- How about those Hawaiian shirts? Festive for receptions, tame for ceremonies.
- In terms of footwear, deck shoes or espadrilles, but avoid the socks because the sand hates them.
- As for accessories, watches keep it classy, but you will want to skip chunky chains.
Conclusion
Both the couple and the guests have to feel comfortable in their Hawaii beach wedding outfits. Stick to light materials that let your skin breathe and bright colors that do not attract the sun’s attention. Make sure you wear attire that allows you to move freely, which can be especially difficult in the sand. In general, simplicity is the best option for a beach wedding.
And there you have it. You have plenty of Hawaii beach wedding outfits that celebrate the surroundings and your civil promises. Fill out our contact page, check the Locations or Wedding Services pages, and let’s craft your dream day. For more inspiration and tips, browse through our blog!