An invitation to a casual Hawaii civil wedding often feels like a mini vacation. That said, dressing for the occasion takes a bit more thought. Since you’ll be on an island, the Hawaii wedding outfit is usually more casual and breezier than the attire for traditional weddings. After all, it’s important to respect the special nature of the event.
Choosing light fabrics and outfits that fit the dress code is always recommended. They make guests look stylish and feel comfortable in the sun and sand. If you are still thinking about what to wear for a Hawaii wedding, this guide will help with different dress codes and give tips to dress perfectly for a casual civil wedding celebration.
What is the Hawaiian Wedding Vibe?
A casual Hawaii civil wedding is different from your typical mainland ceremony. Think of it like getting dressed for a nice dinner while you’re on vacation. After all, you want to look good, but you also want to feel relaxed.
The keyword here is “casual.” Now, this doesn’t mean you can roll up in beach flip-flops and a tank top. On the contrary, it means you have more freedom to embrace the island spirit while still showing respect for the special occasion.
Hawaii wedding outfits are often intertwined with cultural roots. For instance, the famous aloha shirt isn’t your typical tourist souvenir. Wedding-appropriate aloha shirts are made from quality fabrics like silk or polished cotton, often featuring traditional Hawaiian motifs like maile vines or native birds.
The Weather Factor
Hawaii’s climate should be the first thing that pops into mind. We’re talking warm temperatures, humidity, and the possibility of trade winds. Even in December, you’re still in the tropics.
Choose breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or rayon. These materials keep you cool and comfortable throughout the ceremony. Avoid heavy fabrics that might make you miserable in the heat.
Also, the weather in Hawaii can change in the blink of an eye. That picture-perfect sunny morning could turn into a brief afternoon shower. Consider bringing a light wrap just in case.
Attire for the Ladies
Let’s give the ladies some practical advice on what their Hawaii wedding attire should include.
Dress Options That Work
Maxi dresses are the perfect fit for your Hawaii wedding outfit. Look for flowing silhouettes that move with the breeze. What’s more, midi dresses work great too, especially with fun tropical prints or solid colors.
You can also go with a jumpsuit with floral prints, which can be a stylish alternative. Choose a lightweight fabric with a flattering cut. You can also go with one-shoulder or off-the-shoulder designs to add elegance while keeping things breezy.
And lastly, sundresses are perfect for daytime ceremonies. Halter tops or button-front styles give you that relaxed, beach vibe without looking too casual.
The Right Colors and Patterns
Don’t be afraid to go colorful with your Hawaii wedding outfit. Bright tropical hues, ocean blues, coral pinks, and sunny yellows all work beautifully. Floral prints are always appropriate, but avoid anything too busy.
Earth tones, such as sandy beige, warm browns, and soft greens, also look stunning against Hawaii’s natural backdrop.
Footwear That Makes Sense
If the Hawaii civil wedding is on the beach, high heels are a no-go. You don’t want to sink into the sand, do you? Instead, opt for wedge sandals, dressy flats, or even go barefoot if that’s what the couple suggests.
For ceremonies on grass or solid ground, block heels work well because they’re more stable than stilettos. Just make sure whatever you choose is comfortable for several hours.
Attire for the Gentlemen
We should not forget the gentlemen. After all, they should also look nice for that casual wedding.
Shirts With the Right Note
An aloha shirt is your go-to option for a casual Hawaii wedding outfit. Look for one made from quality fabric with a refined print. Short sleeves are perfectly acceptable for daytime ceremonies.
If you want something more traditional, a linen button-down shirt works beautifully. Choose light colors like white, cream, or pale blue.
Bottom Half
Khaki or chino pants are ideal for Hawaii civil weddings. They’re comfortable, breathable, and look polished without being too formal. Linen trousers are another excellent choice because they are lightweight and have that relaxed, tropical feel.
Skip the tie for a casual ceremony unless specifically requested. The open-collar look is more appropriate and much more comfortable in the heat.
The Shoes
Leather loafers or boat shoes are perfect for casual Hawaiian weddings. They look polished but aren’t too formal. If the ceremony is on the beach, you might even want to go barefoot – just make sure your feet are presentable!
Accessories That Add the Perfect Touch
In Hawaiian culture, lei represent love, honor, and friendship. Many couples provide lei for their guests, or you might want to get your own as a gesture of respect for the tradition. Fresh flower lei are traditional, but you’ll also find beautiful options made from shells, nuts, or ribbons.
Bring sunglasses, as you’ll likely need them for an outdoor ceremony. A light wrap can be useful if evening temperatures drop or if you’re in an air-conditioned space.
Items to Avoid
Skip all-black Hawaii wedding outfits unless it’s an evening ceremony. Dark colors absorb heat and can make you uncomfortably warm. You may want to avoid overly formal attire like cocktail dresses or suits unless the invitation specifically calls for them. Stay away from white or off-white outfits – that’s still the bride’s color, even in Hawaii.
Although it’s understandable, it still needs to be said. Heavy materials like wool will make you miserable in the Hawaiian heat. Stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics.
When in Doubt, Ask
Always choose an outfit that lets you move freely and feels good on your skin. Test out your complete outfit beforehand. Walk around, sit down, and make sure everything stays in place.
If you’re unsure about the dress code, don’t hesitate to ask the couple or someone in the wedding party. They’d rather answer your question than have you show up feeling uncomfortable.
Conclusion
The goal of your Hawaii wedding outfit is to look appropriate and feel great. The most important thing is that your attire reflects your respect for the couple and appreciation for this incredible setting.
Ready to plan your own Hawaiian wedding adventure? We’d love to help you create the perfect island ceremony! Fill out our contact page or browse our beautiful Locations and Wedding Packages to start planning your dream Hawaii civil wedding. For more tips and ideas, check out our blog!