For a barn wedding, wear something comfortable and weather-appropriate, like a sundress and boots. Barn weddings have become an increasingly popular trend, offering a unique and rustic atmosphere for celebrating your special day.
However, deciding what to wear to a barn wedding can be a bit tricky. Since barns are often located in rural areas, weather can be unpredictable, and the venue may not have heat or air conditioning. Luckily, there are some tips to help you dress appropriately for the occasion.
First, choose comfortable and practical footwear, like boots or wedges, since heels and sandals may sink in the grass or dirt. As for the dress, go for a flowy sundress or maxi dress that fits the casual and laid-back aesthetic of a barn wedding. And lastly, consider layering with a denim or leather jacket to add a stylish touch and stay warm during evening festivities.
Credit: blog.jimsformalwear.com
Understanding The Rustic-Chic Concept
Defining Rustic-Chic Attire
Attending a barn wedding might seem tricky for first-timers, especially when it comes to choosing the right outfit. The dress code “rustic-chic” is quite popular for this type of wedding, but what does it mean? Here are some of the key points to keep in mind when defining rustic-chic attire:
- Rustic-chic is a fashion style that blends modern and vintage elements, achieved by combining relaxed fabrics and modern cuts with earthy and natural textures.
- Rustic-chic attire for a barn wedding is usually a mix of formal and relaxed, with outfits that are both elegant and comfortable.
- For women, dresses in floral designs, flowing fabrics, or lace details are perfect for rustic-chic attire. However, make sure they’re not too revealing or flashy. For men, a suit jacket with chinos or dress pants and a button-up shirt is the go-to choice.
The Origins Of Rustic-Chic Fashion
The rustic-chic trend is not something new, and it has a rich history that led to its popularity today. Here are some of the key points about the origins of rustic-chic fashion:
- Rustic-chic fashion style is often associated with the countryside or farm life where people typically wore practical and functional clothing.
- In recent years, rustic chic has gained popularity as people have sought comfort naturally and timelessly during the pandemic.
- Rustic-chic fashion also originated from the growing trend of eco-friendliness, with designers using natural fabrics and elements that are both sustainable and stylish.
The Allure Of Rustic-Chic Attire
Rustic-chic attire always exudes charm and elegance, and it’s no wonder why it’s the perfect dress code for an outdoor wedding like a barn wedding. Here are some of the reasons why rustic-chic attire is so alluring:
- Rustic-chic attire is versatile, which means you can dress up or down depending on the occasion.
- It’s a fitting choice for a barn wedding because it matches the rustic and whimsical atmosphere.
- Rustic-chic clothing is also comfortable and practical, which allows you to enjoy the whole day without worrying about your outfit.
Whether you’re a wedding guest, bride, or groom, understanding the rustic-chic concept helps you dress accordingly for a barn wedding. Remember, it’s all about blending modern and vintage elements in a way that feels comfortable and stylish, and most importantly, embracing the natural and earthy surroundings.
Practical Tips For Rustic-Chic Attire
Barn weddings are beautiful and unique, but what do you wear to one? It’s all about practicality with that rustic-chic touch. Here are a few tips to guide you.
Dress Length And Fabric Choice
In terms of dress length and fabric, go for something that is both comfortable and stylish. Opt for dresses with a mid-length hemline and made of airy fabric such as cotton, linen, or lace. Avoid wearing cocktail dresses or gowns, which appear overly formal.
- Choose breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to keep you cool.
- A midi dress is a perfect length for an outdoor wedding.
Color Choices For Rustic-Chic Attire
Color choices should be earthy and relaxed, with subdued and muted tones to fit into the natural setting. Soft pastels, warm browns, and dusty pinks are excellent choices for a rustic-chic theme.
- Earthy colors like sage green, peach, or lavender are great choices.
- Avoid bright and flashy colors or prints.
Footwear Options
When it comes to footwear, your comfort is key. Opt for wedges, block heels, or chunky heels. Make sure that your shoes are stable and can withstand walking on uneven terrain.
- Choose comfortable shoes that won’t sink into the grass.
- Avoid stilettos or flats that can quickly slip off in the mud.
Accessorizing With Rbreak ustic-Chic Elements
Accessorizing can make any outfit, particularly for a barn wedding. Here are some tips to help you accessorize your rustic-chic attire adequately:
- Use textured shawls or wraps to keep you warm during colder times.
- Consider a wooden or leather clutch.
- Add a statement piece of jewelry with a nature-inspired design, like feather earrings or a bracelet.
- Opt for a bandana or a floral headband to add a whimsical touch to your outfit.
Remember that a rustic-chic wedding requires you to blend in with the environment, so keep your outfit simple and elegant. Combine practicality and style, and you’ll have the perfect attire to attend a barn wedding.
Specific Recommendations For Women’s Attire
Maxi Dresses And Skirts
Maxi dresses and skirts are ideal for a barn wedding, providing comfort and style. Here are some key points to consider when choosing your maxi dress or skirt:
- Stick to light, flowy fabrics such as chiffon or cotton to stay cool in the heat.
- Choose colors and prints that fit the rustic vibe, such as earthy tones, floral prints, or gingham.
- You can either opt for a dress or mix and match a skirt with a sleeveless blouse for a bohemian look.
- Strappy sandals or wedges pair well to complete the look.
Rompers And Jumpsuits
If you want a more playful and practical outfit, you can’t go wrong with a jumpsuit or romper. Here are some tips to make the most out of the outfit:
- For comfort and practicality, choose breathable fabrics such as cotton or rayon.
- Stick to colors that match the wedding theme. You don’t want to be too bold or flashy.
- Choose a well-fitting outfit. It should not be too tight or too loose. You don’t want your jumpsuit falling off halfway through the ceremony.
Appropriate Necklines And Sleeve Lengths
Picking a suitable neckline and sleeve length is crucial for dressing appropriately at a barn wedding. Here’s what you should keep in mind when selecting necklines and sleeve lengths:
- Avoid overly-revealing necklines such as deep-vs or spaghetti straps. Instead, go for more conservative options such as sweetheart, scoop, or boat necks.
- Long-sleeved outfits can be suffocating in the heat of the summer. So, pick short-sleeved or sleeveless outfits instead.
- If you choose to wear a strapless dress, make sure it is fitted to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions during the festivities.
Layering And Jackets
As with any wedding, the weather can be unpredictable. Keeping a shawl or jacket tucked away is wise. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- A denim jacket can complement the dress while providing an extra layer and warmth during the cooler nighttime temperatures.
- A cardigan or scarf is a great way to cover bare shoulders while still keeping cool and looking stylish.
- Avoid bringing bulky jackets; instead, go for lightweight fabrics and shorter styles.
By following these recommendations, you can ensure a comfortable and stylish outfit for attending a barn wedding. Keep in mind the rustic theme and dress appropriately to enjoy the festivities without any wardrobe worries.
Specific Recommendations For Men’S Attire
Blazers Or Sport Coats With Jeans
When considering what to wear to a barn wedding, a blazer or sport coat combined with jeans is a perfect go-to option for men. It looks polished yet casual, and it simply radiates sophistication. Here are a few things to consider when picking out the perfect blazer or sport coat to wear with jeans:
- Opt for solid or subtly patterned blazers or sports coats. These can be worn with jeans of any wash, ranging from light to dark.
- If you prefer to wear a patterned blazer or sport coat, a pair of dark-wash jeans might be the best option. They will complement the sport coat while not competing for attention.
- A linen blazer or sport coat paired with light-wash jeans will give off an effortless vibe. However, note that linen wrinkles easily, so it won’t be the most long-lasting look.
Button-Up Shirts With Denim Or Khakis
Button-up shirts provide an endless array of styling options for a barn wedding. They look great paired with both denim and khakis. Here are some ideas for incorporating button-up shirts into your barn wedding outfit:
- For a more formal look, choose a crisp white button-up shirt along with a navy blue blazer or sport coat. Depending on the wedding’s theme, one could even opt for a jacket with a subtle pattern.
- Button-up shirts with a checked or gingham pattern add an extra charm to any outfit. Choosing a patterned shirt with colors that complement the wedding’s color scheme can also be a fun way to tie your look together.
- Chambray shirts are a trendy, casual option to rock a barn wedding. They look perfect with both denim and khakis and can be dressed up or down.
Accessorizing With Ties And Pocket Squares
Adding a tie and a pocket square can completely change the vibe of any look. So, when dressing up for a barn wedding, here’s what you need to know about accessorizing with ties and pocket squares:
- The key to successfully pairing a pocket square with a tie is to ensure that the patterns complement each other. For instance, if the tie has a larger pattern, it’s best to keep the pocket square simple.
- A tie in a bold color can amp up a neutral outfit. Meanwhile, a toned-down tie could be used to balance out a dramatic ensemble.
- For an added pop of interest, choose a tie and pocket square with similar colors but contrasting patterns. This pattern-mixing trick will help add dimension to any outfit.
Footwear Choices
Picking out the perfect shoes for a barn wedding can tie an entire outfit together. Here are some choices you could go for:
- A pair of loafers look smart and can be dressed up or down. However, make sure you break them in before the big day.
- Dress boots, preferably those made of leather, are perfect for the colder months. But for a summertime barn wedding, boots with lighter fabric or suede would work well.
- White sneakers can add a fresh, clean look to your overall style. However, steer clear of athletic-looking sneakers. Opting for low-top sneakers with minimal branding is a perfect way to create a clean, effortless look.
Dos And Don’Ts Of Rustic-Chic Attire
What to wear to a barn wedding: dos and don’ts of rustic-chic attire
Attending a wedding is an exciting time. The anticipation of witnessing two people sharing their love with family and friends is a joyous occasion. However, attending a barn wedding may leave you wondering what to wear. Whether it’s a formal or casual event, below are some dos and don’ts of rustic-chic attire to help you dress to impress.
Proper Fit And Dress Code Etiquette
- Consider the dress code on the invitation. If it’s specified, follow it accordingly.
- Dress appropriately for the time of day and the season. If the event is during the day, consider wearing lighter colors, while darker colors are more appropriate for evening events.
- Choose clothes that fit properly. Avoid clothes that are too big or too small, as they can look unflattering and uncomfortable.
- Comfort is key, but avoid wearing athletic wear or sneakers. Dress shoes or boots are appropriate for a rustic-chic affair.
- Accessorize appropriately, wearing jewelry that’s not too flashy or over-the-top. Choose accessories that complement your outfit and keep it simple.
Avoiding Overly Casual Or Rugged Attire
- While it’s essential to dress comfortably, avoid wearing overly casual or rugged attire, such as jeans, t-shirts, or shorts, which can be inappropriate for a wedding.
- Opt for a dress or skirt with a blouse or slacks with a dress shirt for men. Consider the dress code while selecting your attire.
- Avoid wearing anything too tight or revealing, revealing too much skin may not be appropriate at a wedding.
Steer Clear Of Traditional Tuxedos And Ball Gowns
- A barn setting is usually less formal than a ballroom, so it’s important to adjust your outfit accordingly. Steer clear of traditional tuxedos or ball gowns, which can be too formal for a country wedding. Instead, opt for more relaxed attire, such as a linen or cotton suit for men and a flowy maxi dress for women.
- Stick to fabrics that match the rustic theme of the barn wedding, like tweed, wool, or denim.
- Men can opt for a vest and dress shirt with dress pants for a rustic look, and women can add a belt or scarf to their outfits for a more relaxed and stylish look.
- Don’t forget to consider the weather, wearing a light jacket that complements your outfit can always come in handy.
Dressing appropriately is important when attending a wedding, especially a barn one. Consider the dress code, choose the right fabric and accessories, and avoid outfits that are too casual or too formal. With these dos and don’ts of rustic-chic attire, you can enjoy a stylish and stress-free wedding experience.
FAQ On What To Wear To A Barn Wedding
What Is A Barn Wedding?
A barn wedding is a rustic-themed wedding venue that takes place in a barn or farm setting. The venue features elements such as hay bales, wooden beams, and beautiful countryside views.
What Should A Guest Wear To A Barn Wedding?
A guest should opt for country-style clothing, such as a sundress or a skirt with a blouse. For shoes, boots or flat sandals are perfect. Consider bringing a lightweight shawl or a wrap in case it gets chilly.
Can I Wear Jeans To A Barn Wedding?
Jeans can be acceptable for a barn wedding, depending on how you style them. Pair them with a nice blouse, boots, and statement jewelry to dress them up. But avoid overly casual styles like ripped or distressed jeans.
Is It Appropriate To Wear A Hat To A Barn Wedding?
A floppy wide-brimmed hat or a headpiece can look charming and stylish for a barn wedding, but it all depends on the style of the hat and how you plan to accessorize it. Remember to consider the weather and type of venue before choosing a hat.
Should I Wear Heels To A Barn Wedding?
Heels can be challenging to walk in on uneven surfaces, so it’s best to avoid them at a barn wedding. Opt for worn-in flats, sandals, or boots instead. If you need more height, try a low or mid-heeled boot or a comfortable wedge.
Can I Wear Black To A Barn Wedding?
While black can be suitable for most wedding scenarios, it may not be the best choice for a barn wedding. Choose lighter colors and styles that are more appropriate for the rustic atmosphere.
Conclusion
Attending a barn wedding is a unique and exciting experience. You get to witness the beauty of nature in the backdrop while celebrating the couple’s love story. However, choosing an outfit can be tricky. You want to strike a balance between comfort and style while adhering to the dress code.
The key is to avoid overly formal or casual outfits and to choose comfortable footwear. Accessorizing with a hat or statement jewelry can make your outfit more interesting. Ultimately, you want to feel confident and comfortable, so make sure you choose an outfit that feels like you. With these tips, you’re sure to dress to impress at any barn wedding you attend.
