You may have read a post about what to wear to a spring/summer wedding, but I am here to be much more specific because a brunch wedding is an entirely different ball game. The vibe is just different which means your wardrobe choices should be as well. As brunch weddings continue to grow in popularity, it's important to know the do's and don'ts.
For Men: A suit isn't necessarily required, but there's a catch
I'm going to start with the fellas because they're easy. Menswear isn't complex unless you're very much so into fashion. I have a feeling your wedding date isn't. So, just pass this message on to him.
Brunch weddings are inherently less formal than those with evening receptions. While men don't need to wear a suit, they still should wear a sports coat and a collared shirt with khakis or slacks. Throw in a pocket square to really want to pull the look together.
If your date does wear a suit, go for a lighter blue or gray. He should stay away for dark navy and charcoal if he can.
In both cases (sports coat or full suit) - ties are optional. Though I never think it hurts to wear one! A tie can really complete a look.
PS - I personally find it easier to have a date just wear a suit rather than trying to figure out what looks good with a sports coat. If you ask me, save yourself the headache.
For Women: Balance is key
As previously mentioned, brunch weddings are far less formal than other wedding settings so finding a balance between between too casual or too formal is very important. You should still be wearing cocktail attire, but since all of the festivities will take place during the day you can have more fun with silhouettes, colors, and prints. Here are a few options of what to wear.
Lean into prints
It's the spring (almost summer)! There's no time like the present to fully embrace all the gorgeous prints available to us. Think florals, polka dots, and gingham. Prints that scream spring are your best friend! It is also a great way to distinguish between a daytime and nighttime wedding.
Go for a girly silhouette
Try ruffled, fit and flare, or flowy dresses. If you're a girly girl this is your time to shine. Wearing a sheath or a-line dress is a totally acceptable option, but brunch weddings are a great time to step out of your comfort zone.
Try a jumpsuit instead of a dress
Speaking of stepping outside of your comfort zone, why not wear a jumpsuit? It's such a fun alternative to wearing a dress. Especially if you're not the aforementioned girly girl. Jumpsuits are a super chic alternative.
Grab up a cute clutch or mini bag
I feel like I've touched on this more than once over the years, but I despise seeing women in cocktail, semiformal, or formal settings with large purses. The only things you need in your purse is your phone, keys, lipstick/gloss, compact, and a condensed version of your wallet (ID, cash, one debit or credit card for emergency). There may be a few other miscellaneous items you throw in depending on your situation (i.e. it's your time of the month), but as a whole you don't need to bring your entire life with you to a wedding.
With all of this being said, this the perfect opportunity to use that adorable clutch or mini bag you have (or to buy one).
Single sole heels go with every dress style
I love shoes, but when it comes to dressed up occasions I actually think that they are the least important factor. If you have a pair of black or nude single sole heels, you're set in the shoe department. They literally go with every silhouette mentioned including the jumpsuit. If you don't have a pair, they're very easy to find (and at an affordable price).
Don't be afraid to wear unique earrings
Try an eye grabbing pair of earrings to take your dress to the next level. This will especially make a look pop if you choose to wear a solid color. While statement necklaces may be downtrending, statement earrings are on the rise.
