It’s been a few years since I went to a wedding but that doesn’t mean there aren’t weddings going on. In fact there’s plenty and I know this because of all the messages you send me asking for advice on what to wear to a wedding.
Did you know that the first wedding I ever attended was my own?! Even though it was a small affair (only 40 guests) I was paralysed on arrival, so much attention on one bride makes a girl nervous…same for you?
Another piece of trivia about my wedding, I was married outside under blue skies by the ocean. Fitting really because the ocean is my happy place. Well, it seems ocean side weddings are super popular with lots of loved up couples heading overseas to island destinations like Bali, Hawaii and Thailand for some pretty fancy exchanging of vows.
The question I’m asked weekly is ‘what to wear to a beach wedding’?
WEDDING READY IN A KAFTAN
Well, over the weekend I grabbed the huz, frocked up in a silk kaftan from The Swank Store and headed to the beach to grab some photos. Mother Nature laughed and laughed at me, even though the sun shining brightly she was whipping up winds by the ocean that left me looking shabby and windswept (and not in a Beyonce in a kinda way), so we headed to a popular wedding venue grounds instead. Kinda perfect really 🙂
Personally I don’t think you can go wrong with a silk kaftan or a beautiful maxi dress for a beach wedding. Wear it long and billowy or wear it tied or tucked for a more relaxed feel.
Outside celebrations are fun and often have a relaxed vibe, wear a kaftan with colour and bling and you’ll fit right in.
This *‘Russian Story’ box silk kaftan is majestic and brimming with beautiful colours. I’ve chosen to flash some skin and have tucked the front a little. This is one of the easiest (and most popular) ways to style a long kaftan and perfect for a beach wedding.
I styled it with light and dark shoes and swapped out the clutch too just to show you the impact of coloured accessories.
SHOES
If you’re comfortable in a wedge heel then you really can’t go past them for their leg lengthening magic and stability. If heels aren’t for you then team your kaftan with some pretty blingy sandals.
Whatever shoes you choose make sure you can slip them off easily (if needed) once you enter the sand. Oh, and because your feet will be exposed treat yourself and have a pedicure because polished and neat toes are a must.
ACCESSORIES
A kaftan is a statement piece and often requires only minimal accessorising, so if you want to keep it simple choose some statement earrings and an oversized or statement clutch. A clutch is easier to carry than a handbag with a strap, you don’t want a heavy strap tugging on delicate silk.
Of course if your style personality is a ‘more is a must’ type then go all out with accessories, layer an armful of bangles, add a statement ring or maybe even some bling in your hair. Have fun!
MAKEUP
Beach weddings can be hot….and very bloody humid! Makeup and humidity don’t mix , so don’t fight it.
Keep your makeup light and use bronzers, highlighters, a few coats of mascara and colourful lip gloss. If you have some time and dollars then it might pay to have a session at the beauty salon for a spray tan, lash extensions and brow grooming.
HAIR
Just like your makeup, keep it simple. Long hair can be tied loosely to one side, braided or put up in a simple ‘up do’. Short hair will shine with a flower crown, a slide comb embellished with fresh flowers or a silk head tie.
The beauty of a silk kaftan is it will look perfectly stunning for a wedding or any other event and also looks equally at home in a resort on holidays…cheers to that!
Ladies if you fall in love with a piece from The Swank Store then don’t forget your discount code, as an ambassador I can bring you 20% off your purchase when you enter the code curvykaftan20 at the checkout 🙂
Have you ever been to a beach wedding?
Where were you married?…tell me all the details 🙂
Til next time,
Jen x
*Item sent to me for my editorial consideration accordance with my disclosure policy.
That looks absolutely stunning love love love it!
Thanks Veronica, this is one that comes alive on my body. The print placement and colour is just gorgeous x
Looks awesome absolutely love these kaftans.
How do you tuck them in I have never worn them like that before
Thanks Janelle, I just tuck into my knickers 🙂
There’s lots of different ways you can tuck to create different looks and get more wear from your kaftan, loads of tutorials available on Utube.
I’m not going to a wedding any time soon. BUT I ordered the Seashore kaftan today, thank you very much for the discount code, because I have always wanted a silk kaftan, and we are going to Bali in November and I’m picturing myself swanning around in it! So bloody excited on both counts! Got a text message tonight to say it’s on it’s way and I should receive it on Monday! Winning! You look gorgeous Jen, love the shot from behind with the kaftan billowing behind you. If I had your legs I would wear it tucked into my undies too 🙂
I love that shot too Kathryn? Enjoy your trip to Bali. If you get a chance book dinner at ‘Sardine’ restaurant (and wear your new kaftan) xx
I will be booking a table there for sure, your meals looked amazing x
You will love it Kathryn
Hi my daughter is getting married between Christmas and new years the ceremony and reception are both being held at a winery. Being the mother of the bride I want to wear a kaftan and be cool and comfortable do u think I could get away with it or is it not a “mother of the bride ” look !
Alison I attended a wedding 18 months ago in the Barossa and the mother of the groom wore a kaftan, she looked splendid
You want to feel comfortable so if a kaftan does that then wear it I say. Congratulations to your daughter…exciting times ahead xx
Thanks for the discount code beautiful. My friend Lauren just told me about these clothes. OMG just placed my first order, so gorgeous!!!! Hope I’m brave enough to wear it! Must catch up one day soon! xo
Oh yay Kate! That’s awesome, and a big yes to a catchup.