Whether you’re planning your own beach wedding or been invited to one as a guest, it’s essential to wear the right outfit.

Choose the wrong type of beach wedding suit and you’re in for a sweaty, uncomfortable day. Get it right and you’ll be cool, relaxed and incredibly stylish throughout the big occasion.

Luckily, we’re here to explain the all-important dos and don’ts when it comes to beach wedding suits.

What are the Best Beach Wedding Suits?

When we talk about beach wedding suits, we’re referring to classic summer suits made of airy, lightweight materials that keep you cool all day. This excludes tweed wedding suits that are typically made from heavier materials that lock in heat in warm conditions.

Ultimately, beach weddings are generally more relaxed than traditional weddings. The dress code may not be as strict as it is for other celebrations, with shorts and breezy shirts coming into play.

If you’re jetting off to the sun to tie the knot or going as a special guest, we’ll cover the top beach wedding suit ideas that balance style and elegance with comfort and practicality. Once you’ve learnt the basics, you’ll be beach wedding-ready.

Whether you’re the groom, guest or the father of the bride, read our comprehensive guide to men’s beach wedding attire.

1. Go for Linen Beach Wedding Suits and Lightweight Fabrics

Assuming your beach wedding is taking place under the hot sun, you’ll need a summer wedding suit that’s going to keep you cool and comfortable but still look amazing. That means a light, breathable fabric like linen or cotton. We recommend ditching the waistcoat and sticking with a two-piece suit to let your skin breath better in warm climates.

Linen is the classic choice for beach and destination weddings. It gives off relaxed vibes while retaining a polished appearance that perfectly complements the coastal setting and beautiful surroundings.

2. Choose Pastels and Lighter Suit Shades

Colour choices are hugely important for beach weddings. While it’s always good to check with the wedding party first, lighter shades and soft pastels are undoubtedly your best options as they give off laid-back tones that are particularly good at blending in with an ocean backdrop.

Think of beach wedding suits in gentle hues that keep you fresh under the blazing sun. For instance, beige wedding suits provide the ideal neutral tone and offer a relaxed yet sophisticated look. Similarly, blue wedding suits in pastel shades of light blue or sky blue equally work well.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you could make a statement in a mauve summer suit with its subtle pink tones and classic tailoring. Whatever you choose, try to avoid darker suit colours which absorb the heat and make you feel even hotter than it actually is.

3. Stick to Relaxed Suit Styling

Formalities aside, most beach weddings have a relaxed, breezy atmosphere. That means your beach wedding suit should match the vibe both in style and fit.

We recommend choosing a suit with no padding, a more breathable feel and a less structured fit. You could even swap a formal shirt for a smart t-shirt underneath if the occasion demands it.

As far as tailoring goes, consider a slim-fitting suit for a sharp, modern look. Just be sure to choose a lightweight material to prevent you from overheating. Finally, feel free to ditch the tie (and possible even the jacket) for a truly relaxed feel. If the dress code calls for a necktie, then go for a lighter fabric in a complementary colour.

4. Rock a Pair of Tailored Shorts

Where the mood is ultra casual and there’s no particular dress code, tailored shorts are a safe option for tropical beach weddings. They’re guaranteed to match the atmosphere and can be switched up as part of a refined summer wedding look.

Shorts can give off casual vibes, so check that this doesn’t clash with the happy couple’s theme for their special day. To smarten things up, consider pairing shorts with a lightweight blazer, ideally constructed from lightweight fabrics like breathable linen and cotton. If you opt for shorts for a wedding, slip a pair of loafers or even smart leather sandals on your feet and feel cool, stylish and laid-back all at the same time.

5. Pay Close Attention to Footwear

Beach wedding footwear should be as practical as it is stylish, with a strong focus on comfort and breathability. After all, a pair of formal leather lace-ups aren’t really built for strolling along beaches and across sandy terrain.

Men’s casual loafers are far more suitable for beach celebrations, offering a sleek yet relaxed alternative to traditional wedding shoes. They’re easily slipped on or off so that your feet stay cool and fresh, and you can dip your toes in the ocean. Or how about wearing espadrilles made from lightweight canvas that ensure breathable comfort on the warmest of days.

Where a beach wedding is all about the party and not so much the formalities, you may even get away with going barefoot – just make sure you bring a pair of shoes for the reception and late-night celebrations.

6. Choose Simple Accessories with Your Beach Wedding Suit

Selecting the right wedding accessories to go with your beach wedding suit is important when adding a personal touch on the big day. Try and keep things as simple as possible to enhance your look and avoid overpowering it with fancy features.

For example, brightly-coloured ties add pops of colour to your outfit and reflect the beach setting. Slip a pocket square into your suit jacket for a touch of timeless elegance, or add a small boutonniere made of tropical flowers for a strong natural element.

You’ll probably want to keep the sun out of your eyes for weddings on the beach, so a pair of sunglasses is probably essential, just not at night time or on a cloudy day. Feel free to wear your favourite watch as long as it’s not too big and doesn’t clash with the rest of your outfit. Jewellery should be kept simple and sophisticated, so a wedding band and cufflinks will do just fine.

Finally, wear a belt and shoes that complement the colour of your beach wedding suit and complete your look on the day.

Do You Need Some Beach Wedding Suit Inspiration?

At House of Cavani, our comprehensive summer wedding suit collection feature a range of outfits in different styles, shades, and materials that are ideal for beach weddings. Check out our summer suits now or contact us today.