Barn weddings have become an increasingly popular wedding venue choice in recent years. The rustic charm and cozy atmosphere of a barn setting appeals to many couples looking to have a more casual, relaxed wedding celebration with their closest friends and family. However, the casual barn venue can also create some uncertainty around what to wear to a barn wedding.
Things to Consider When Deciding What to Wear
When trying to determine the most appropriate barn wedding guest attire, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Time of day – A daytime ceremony versus an evening reception will dictate vastly different dress codes
- Season/weather – Summer heat versus potential autumn or spring chilliness
- Rustic venue setting – The casual barn atmosphere should guide formality levels
- Couple’s style/preferences – Some barn weddings are more formal than others
- Dress code details – Any guidance from the couple on the invitations?
General Barn Wedding Attire Guidelines
While every barn wedding will be slightly different, the overarching dress code for these laid-back venues is casual elegance. You’ll want to steer clear of overly formal attire like ball gowns, tuxedos, or evening gowns that would look out of place. Aim for stylish casual outfits perfect for a relaxing country celebration. Some specific barn wedding guest attire guidelines include:
- Women: Sundresses, cocktail dresses/skirts, pantsuits, jumpsuits, coordinated separates
- Men: Khakis and button-downs, polos, sports coats, suits with no ties
- Footwear – Wedges/heels, leather sandals, cowboy boots, oxfords
- Accents – Lightweight shawls/wraps, hats for sun protection
Attire by Season
While the overall barn wedding dress code remains focused on casual elegance whatever the season, the specific clothing pieces you choose can shift depending on the weather and temperature at the time of year the celebration is taking place.
Spring/Summer Attire
The warmer months are prime seasons for barn bashes. For spring and summer barn weddings, lightweight, breathable fabrics are key. Some ideas include:
- Floral print sundress or romper
- Airy cocktail dress or skirt with a tucked-in blouse
- Linen or chino pants with a sleeveless blouse
- Polished shorts suit for gentlemen
- Cowboy boots or strappy leather sandals for footwear
- Straw sunhat accessory
Fall/Winter Style Considerations
Crisp autumn or winter weather means dressing for warmth at a barn wedding. To ensure comfort and style, opt for layers and seasonal fabrics like:
- Velvet or lace cocktail dress with tights
- Sweater dress or turtleneck dress
- Faux fur shawl/stole and leather booties
- Tweed blazer and sweater for men
- Textured wool slacks and sweater combo
- Heavy knit cardigan or jean jacket layering piece
What to Avoid Wearing to a Barn Bash
To preserve the laid-back vibe and rustic style of most barn weddings, there are some clothing options that should be avoided. Steer clear of:
- Floor-length gowns or anything highly formal
- Short mini dresses or skirts (longer midi is preferable)
- Sparkly/embellished cocktail attire
- Stiletto heels or delicate footwear unsuited to grounds
- Bold prints, neons or anything overly trendy
- Heavy makeup or over-the-top hairdos
The idea is to complement the relaxed country ambiance with your wedding guest look. Simple, modest and comfortable should guide your outfit selection.
Considerations for Wedding Party Attire
For those involved in the wedding party itself, there may be some specific dress code guidance from the couple getting married. The style they want to set for their big day should steer any outfit selections. Often though, barn wedding party attire follows a similar casual elegance approach. Some ideas that tend to work well:
- Bridesmaid dresses: Mismatched pastel gowns, floral prints
- Groomsmen: Navy suits with brown leather shoes, no ties
- Flower girl: Simple white eyelet dress with pastel sash
- Ring bearer: Khaki shorts and linen shirt with suspenders
Do clarify any dress code expectations with the engaged couple for a coordinated wedding party look.
Who Might Want to Dress Up Barn Wedding Style
While the standard barn wedding dress code is focused on a casual, rustic style, there are certain guests who may want to dress it up a bit more without going overboard on formality. Some instances where slightly dressier attire can work include:
- Older relatives used to more formal weddings
- Couples hoping for a more polished date night look
- Guests attending a post-ceremony evening reception
- Wedding party members or couples with a role in the ceremony
In these cases, a cocktail dress, dressy jumpsuit, sharp sports coat or chic wedge heels could offer a dressier barn wedding style without compromising the casual vibe.
Nailing Casual Elegance for the Barn Wedding
Finding that perfect balance between dressing up and dressing down can be tricky for barn wedding attire. You want to look stylish yet relaxed, rustic yet refined. Focus on fabrics like lace, linen, cotton and textures like tweed, denim, knits to complement the country wedding aesthetic. Bring in seasonal layers for practical comfort and warmth. And don’t forget those fun cowboy boots for country flair! Prioritize mobility, modesty and a natural look aligned with the barn ambiance and you’re sure to be the perfect barn bash guest.
