Written by Wesley Kang

I'm a fan of beach weddings because they combine the beauty of a traditional ceremony with a lush, tropical backdrop. I'm writing this article with first-hand experience, as my partner and I are getting married at a gorgeous beach about six months from now.

After getting my engagement ring, and with the clock ticking down, I knew it was just a matter of time before choosing the beach wedding suits for the big wedding day.

And while beach weddings tend to have a more relaxed dress code, as the groom I still want to make sure that I look sharp and presentable on one of the most important days of my life. So keep reading as we explore the world of beach wedding groom attire together.

Choosing the Right Suit: Fabrics and Colors for the Beach

When selecting beach wedding suits and finding the proper beach wedding groom attire, the groom should prioritize fabrics and colors that are stylish and practical for the outdoor environment.

Lightweight materials like linen, cotton, and seersucker are ideal choices, as they provide breathability and help keep the groom cool under the sun for a beach wedding.

Unlike traditional wool suits, these fabrics are less likely to trap heat, making them perfect for a summer wedding. The texture of these materials also gives a more relaxed and laid-back vibe to beach wedding suits, aligning with the casual yet elegant atmosphere of beach wedding attire.

Color plays a significant role in achieving the right balance between formality and beachy flair. Light-colored suits in shades like beige, light grey, teal, and even pastel hues are popular options.

Darker suits, such as navy or charcoal, may still work but are generally less preferred due to their heat retention and more formal appearance. Choose one of these best suit brands as a starting place.

Picking the Right Dress Shirt for a Beach Wedding

The groom's shirt is a key element of his wedding attire, providing a canvas for adding personality while staying comfortable.

Classic white dress shirts are always a safe bet, but light blues, soft pinks, and subtle patterns can also enhance the overall look without overwhelming the suit.

For grooms looking to add a touch of style without wearing a tie, open-collar shirts offer a chic yet casual wedding option. Linen and cotton shirts are particularly suited to semi-formal weddings, providing breathability and a relaxed drape.

Layering can add dimension to the groom’s outfit without making it feel too heavy. A light vest or suspenders can offer a stylish alternative to a full jacket, especially in hotter climates.

How to Style a Shirt for Beach Wedding Groom Attire

Styling the dress shirt appropriately ensures the groom’s outfit feels cohesive and beach-appropriate. Whether your beach wedding suit is paired with a full suit or just trousers, the way the shirt is worn can make all the difference:

Open Collar vs. Ties:

An open-collar shirt is a popular choice for beach weddings, lending a casual yet polished appearance. If a skinny tie or bow tie is preferred, choose one in a lightweight fabric like cotton or knit that complements the shirt’s texture and color without adding unnecessary formality. We love colors like this sage green tie and this silver gray tie to pair for a beach wedding.

Sleeve Options:

Long sleeves are the standard, but they can be rolled up for a more casual look that’s still refined.

Short-sleeve shirts are also acceptable, especially for very relaxed beach ceremonies, but should be well-fitted to avoid looking too informal.

Notes On Layering:

Consider adding light layers like a thin vest or unstructured blazer to elevate the look without adding too much warmth. These are our favorite blazers to choose from.

Avoid heavy, lined jackets or stiff blazers that clash with the airy feel of the shirt and overall beach setting.

These considerations ensure that the shirt not only looks great but also contributes to the overall comfort and style of the groom’s perfect summer wedding attire.

Selecting the Perfect Shirt: Comfort and Style Considerations

When selecting a shirt for perfect beach wedding attire, comfort and style are paramount. The right wedding dress shirt can complement the suit while also ensuring the groom feels cool and relaxed.

Here are some key considerations when choosing the perfect shirt:

Fabric Matters:

Opt for breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or lightweight blends. These materials wick moisture and allow air circulation, which is essential in a warm beach setting.

Avoid heavy or synthetic fabrics that can trap heat and make the groom uncomfortable.

Color and Pattern:

Light, solid colors such as white, light blue, or pastel shades work well for a classic, clean look. Subtle patterns, like pinstripes or small checks, can add personality without being overpowering.

Bold patterns or dark colors can feel too heavy or formal for the beach, so it’s best to keep the palette soft and breezy.

Fit and Style:

Choose a tailored fit that's not too tight, allowing for movement and comfort. Slim-fit and modern-fit shirts offer a sleek look without feeling restrictive.

For a more relaxed vibe, consider a button-down collar or a mandarin collar, which pairs well with an open jacket or no tie. These are our favorite extra slim dress shirts for a fitted beach wedding look.

Accessorizing the Beach Groom: Ties, Bow Ties, and Pocket Squares

Accessories can add a touch of individuality and elevate the groom’s beach wedding outfit. While ties and bow ties are traditional staples of groom attire, they are not always necessary for a beach setting.

If the groom chooses to wear one, lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen ties work best, and patterns like subtle stripes or small floral prints can tie in nicely with the beach theme.

For a more laid-back look, some grooms might skip the tie altogether and instead focus on a well-placed pocket square that adds a pop of color or pattern.

Pocket squares and boutonnieres are small details that can significantly impact the overall look. A pocket square in a complementary shade or with a fun, tropical pattern can add visual interest to the suit without overpowering it.

Boutonnieres made from small flowers, greenery, or even beach-inspired elements like seashells can provide a personal touch that connects the groom's attire to the wedding’s coastal setting.

These accessories should enhance the outfit subtly, adding flair without drawing too much attention away from the suit itself.

Footwear for Sand and Surf

Selecting the right footwear is crucial for a beach wedding, as the sand and uneven terrain present unique challenges.

Traditional dress shoes may be too formal and uncomfortable, so many grooms opt for more relaxed options like loafers, boat shoes, or even stylish leather sandals.

Loafers and boat shoes offer a smart-casual appearance that pairs well with lighter suits and are easy to slip on and off when transitioning between different areas of the beach.

For a more informal or bohemian vibe, some grooms may choose to go barefoot or wear barefoot sandals, especially if the ceremony takes place directly on the sand.

These options can be particularly appealing for an intimate, toes-in-the-sand moment.

If barefoot, the groom might add an ankle accessory like a leather band or subtle jewelry to keep the look intentional.

Comfort and practicality are the primary considerations, ensuring that the groom can walk confidently while maintaining his style.

Headwear and Sunglasses

Incorporating stylish headwear can be both functional and fashionable for a beach wedding. A straw hat, Panama hat, or fedora can protect the groom from the sun while adding a charming, coastal touch to his overall look. Here's a full list of hat types to consider.

Hats (and make sure to wear one that's properly sized) made from lightweight materials and in neutral shades work best, allowing the groom to stay cool while maintaining a cohesive and polished appearance.

Sunglasses are another practical accessory that can elevate the groom and groomsman's style while providing essential sun protection. Classic aviators, wayfarers, or round frames can all work well, depending on the groom’s personal style.

It’s important for the wedding groom to choose sunglasses that complement the outfit without looking overly casual or sporty. Together, these accessories add personality to the groom’s ensemble and keep him comfortable throughout the ceremony.

Balancing Formality and Comfort

One of the most challenging aspects of dressing for a beach wedding is balancing formality with the relaxed nature of the setting. Understanding the dress code—whether it’s "Beach Formal," "Tropical Semi-Formal," or "Casual Elegance"—is essential in guiding the groom's outfit choices.

For a "Beach Formal" wedding, a light suit with a white dress shirt and optional tie strikes the right note, offering enough formality for the occasion while acknowledging the laid-back environment.

In less formal settings, grooms can experiment with more casual elements like skipping the jacket or opting for a linen shirt paired with slacks. The goal is to look polished but not overdressed; a cohesive look that feels natural in a beach wedding is key.

Encouraging guests to dress similarly helps create a unified aesthetic that enhances the wedding atmosphere and ensures everyone feels comfortable and appropriately dressed.

Seasonal Considerations

Beach weddings can occur in a variety of seasons, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for the groom’s attire.

In warmer months, lightweight fabrics and minimal layers are key to staying cool. However, for evening or off-season weddings, the groom may need to adjust his look by adding a light jacket, blazer, or shawl collar cardigan to keep warm while still fitting the beach aesthetic.

Cool Weather Beach Wedding Attire

For cooler weather, consider fabrics like lightweight wool blends or layering with breathable undershirts that add warmth without bulk. Accessories like scarves or shawls can add style and provide comfort during breezy seaside ceremonies.

The goal is to create a versatile look that adapts to the environment while maintaining the groom’s signature style, ensuring he’s ready for any weather the beach might bring.

This guide ensures the groom can confidently select the perfect attire for the big day of his beach wedding, striking the right balance between elegance, comfort, and beach-ready style. As for me, I'm leaning towards a light blue suit jacket to match the beach vibe and a classic white dress shirt for a more formal look for my wedding day.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Beach Wedding Groom Attire

What does the groom wear at a beach wedding?

Groom beach wedding attire should balance style with comfort, considering the outdoor setting and potential heat. A light-colored suit, such as beige, light grey, or soft blue, made from breathable fabrics like linen or cotton, is a popular choice that exudes a relaxed yet refined vibe.

Many grooms opt for a more casual look by forgoing the traditional tie and instead pairing their suit with an open-collar shirt. If the wedding is particularly casual, some grooms might even choose a white dress shirt and trousers without a jacket.

Accessories should also complement the beach setting. Consider adding a pocket square in a tropical color or a boutonniere with coastal elements like seashells or small flowers. Light suspenders can also add a touch of personality without being too formal.

What do I wear to my son's beach wedding?

When attending your son’s beach wedding, it’s important to choose a beach wedding suit that balances elegance with comfort to suit the relaxed, outdoor atmosphere. For men, a lightweight suit in a light color like tan, light grey, or soft blue works well. Linen or cotton blends are ideal fabrics for suit jackets that provide breathability in warmer beach climates.

A dress shirt, possibly with a subtle pattern or pastel color, paired with a pocket square or tie can elevate the look. For a more casual feel, you might consider loafers or stylish boat shoes instead of traditional dress shoes.

For women, a flowy dress in a soft, breathable fabric like chiffon or cotton is a great choice. Opt for light, tropical colors or subtle floral patterns that complement the beach setting. Tea-length or maxi dresses work particularly well, and a shawl or light cardigan can provide coverage against the sea breeze.

What should the dress code be for a beach wedding?

The dress code for a beach destination wedding should reflect the casual and laid-back setting while still maintaining a sense of elegance appropriate for the occasion. Common dress codes include "Beach Formal," "Tropical Semi-Formal," or "Casual Elegance."

For a "Beach Formal" setting, men can wear light-colored suits or dress pants with a dress shirt, while women can opt for long dresses or elegant jumpsuits. For a "Tropical Semi-Formal" dress code, the attire can be slightly more relaxed, with men in linen shirts and trousers and women in sundresses or tea-length dresses.

A "Casual Elegance" dress code allows for the most freedom, where men might wear dress shirts and chinos, and women might wear flowy maxi dresses or stylish separates.

Footwear should be considered carefully as well; high heels may not be practical for walking on sand, so wedges, flat sandals, or even barefoot sandals can be a stylish choice for women. For men, loafers or boat shoes are often appropriate. Encourage guests to bring hats, sunglasses, and light layers in case of sun or wind.

What does a bride wear for a beach wedding?

A bride’s attire for a beach wedding typically emphasizes simplicity, comfort, and a touch of breezy elegance that suits the seaside setting.

Light, flowy fabrics like chiffon, organza, or lace are popular choices, offering a soft and romantic feel that moves beautifully in the ocean breeze. Brides often opt for less structured gowns with minimal embellishments, favoring sleek silhouettes such as A-line, sheath, or empire waist styles.

Shorter hemlines, like tea-length or high-low dresses, can also be stylish and practical options for navigating sandy shores.

Accessories should complement the relaxed setting—think delicate jewelry, floral crowns, or a simple veil that won’t be too cumbersome in the wind. For footwear, barefoot sandals, embellished flats, or low wedges work well, allowing for both style and ease when walking on the sand.