Brides sometimes ask me if other couples have dress codes for their destination weddings for the guests. And for the bridal party should we wear heels, flats or go barefoot? My mother doesn’t know what to wear because she wants to be formal but dressed suitably for the hot climate. Should I change my dress for the reception? I want the boys to wear suits but is it too hot? So  here is a blog post to answer some of those questions.

DRESS CODE: Some common dress codes for Thailand are: beach glam, all white, semi-formal & stylish, colourful & tropical and often there are notes such as no t-shirts, flip flops (or jandals). Girls can’t go wrong with light flowing dresses that are strapless or with thin straps. Short dresses are great to beat the heat too. Add flowers to your hair to complete your destination wedding outfit!

SHOES: The idea of not wearing heels is hard to comprehend for some girls. But even the most skilled gal cannot really wear them on the beach as you will sink, wobble and get stuck (I’ve seen this attempted). You can get away with wedges. But flats and blingy sandals are the best. And if the reception is on the lawn or inside you can always bring out the heels at night time.

CHANGING OUTFITS: For the groom and members of the bridal party I recommend spare shirts to change into between ceremony and reception. It’s hot, you will sweat and you might be nervous and double sweating. You will be glad of that extra shirt. It’s not easy to Photo shop out big sweat marks either. Tell that tailor to make 2 or 3 of the same!

It’s lovely for the bride to change her dress for the reception. Why not? Something more casual, lighter, more sexy for the evening or easier to dance in. Glam it up and buy another dress!

BOYS & SUITS: For beach weddings I think suits are a bit much. But for shaded lawn weddings it’s not so hot and looks more natural. Usually the boys will just put their jackets on right before the ceremony and for formal photos and wear long pants in light fabrics such as linen and cotton with matching shirts at other times. Ties are optional.

And some photos of some favourite wedding outfits – gorgeous dresses and stylish summer suits.

Phuket Thailand

Phuket Thailand beach

Phuket Thailand beach

The Village Wedding 1_4156

beautiful wedding Phuket