All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
Picture the charm of the Father of the Bride wedding; the intimacy of a low-key reception (minus the swans) in a venue that has sentimental meaning. Backyard weddings are the ultimate way to celebrate love in a way that feels more personal, with an added bit of magic. For guests, however, the dress code can feel like a grey area. When in doubt, lean into effortless sophistication with flowing silhouettes, subtle prints like sweet florals, swishy fringe, and a bit of romance. (One key tip: Be prepared for the lawn, which can be tricky terrain to navigate, with a shoe that won’t sink into the ground.)
Vogue’s Guide to What to Wear to a Backyard Wedding
In the accessories department, a hand fan for balmy weather or a wrap scarf for dropping temperatures make for simple but practical finishing touches. Ahead, seven backyard wedding outfit ideas for your next guest appearance.
The Jewel-Toned Slip
A slip dress is a go-to silhouette for any occasion; and for a sun-soaked backyard wedding, nothing feels more right. This amethyst-hued Khaite dress, finished with an elongated scarf, makes an elegant statement. Ground the look with Emme Parsons wedge sandals (a smart choice that won’t sink into the lawn), then add a maroon clutch and gold earrings to complete your attire.
The Light and Bright
For a daytime wedding fête, opt for something bright. This Bernadette pink mini dress feels appropriate for the occasion and gets a fun spin when paired with animal print heels. These Aquazzura ones have a block heel for comfort when you’re ready to hit the dance floor.
Festive Fringe
For the minimalist at heart, fringe and tassel trimming add the right amount of drama to an otherwise basic piece. This Taller Marmo dress is the definition of subtle statement: simple, yet memorable. As the evening cools, drape a cashmere scarf over your shoulder for a refined cover-up.
The Matching Set
A matchy-matchy moment will always turn heads: It looks instantly put-together without trying too hard. Destree’s skirt set is ideal for cooler temperatures, paired with gold flat sandals and an elegant top-handle bag.
The Satin Floral Dress
For a garden wedding surrounded by lush blooms, lean into the romance with a floral satin dress that ties back to the setting. Style the look with a block heel—practical yet polished—then layer on pearl earrings and a snakeskin embossed clutch for a mix of softness and edge.
The Polka-Dot Dress
Playful, timeless, and always wedding-appropriate, you really can’t go wrong with a polka dot dress. Celebrate the bride and groom in this long-sleeve dress, topped off with espadrilles and a cream leather clutch to balance out the print.
The Little Black Dress
For a formal backyard wedding, opt for a little black dress. Your go-to LBD will be just as charming under backyard string lights as it is in the city. If you don’t already have one to zhuzh up, this J. Crew lace and chiffon number is endlessly versatile. Add a bit of softness (and layered texture) with a Markarian floral scarf.
