11 Ideas for Beach Wedding Attire for Men (Updated for 2025)

Beach weddings are definitely here to stay. The destination wedding market is set to see some serious growth in the next few years. By 2029, it’s expected to hit $137.16 billion, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30.2%.

With so many couples opting for destination weddings, chances are you’ll find yourself on a sandy beach — whether you’re the groom, a groomsman, or just a guest. Finding the right outfit for a beach wedding that balances comfort and style can be a challenge. Whether you’re getting ready to tie the knot or just planning to celebrate, check out these tips for picking the best beach wedding attire.

1. Keep it Light

While most guests can skip the suit at a beach wedding, even the most casual grooms and groomsmen should stick with traditional attire. The key to surviving the heat involves choosing a lightweight, breathable material, like linen, cotton or seersucker. Avoid dense materials that will make you sweat, like wool, corduroy, and tweed. Linen blends are especially useful for reducing wrinkles while keeping the airy feel. 

2. Find a Good Fit

One mistake many men make with wedding beach attire is wearing tight clothing. While it’s nice to accentuate your body type, a beach wedding calls for roomier clothes that allow for maximum airflow. For guests, a breezy button-up shirt is an excellent option for staying relaxed while looking nice. For grooms and groomsmen, let your tailor know that you’ll be outdoors and would like a roomier fit to your suit. Prioritize movement — looser silhouettes offer better ventilation in beach conditions. 

3. Avoid Flip-Flops

If you’re wearing a suit, avoid flip-flops. They won’t match and are guaranteed to throw off your whole ensemble. Some alternative options for grooms are closed-toe loafers or boat shoes. Groomsmen and guests can get away with more casual options like fabric oxfords and men’s espadrilles. Consider soles with traction if you’ll be walking across sand or boardwalks. 

4. Make a Bold Statement

Beach weddings offer the perfect opportunity to showcase your style in a big and bold way. Choose a subtle print that accentuates the beach theme, like palm leaves or flamingos. Alternatively, you could opt for a statement pattern like woven fabric or pinstripes. You can easily mix the classic aspects of wedding attire with the fun and flair of the beach. Look for inspiration on social media — many grooms now use Pinterest boards to curate their look. 

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5. Add Some Accessories

If you’re opting out of neckwear or want to accentuate your style, add a couple of accessories to your ensemble. For the groom, consider a sophisticated pocket square or elegant boutonniere. For groomsmen, perhaps matching cufflinks with a wave design. And for the guests, celebrate in style with a pair of simple black sunglasses. Just remember to take sunglasses off during the ceremony — it’s a small gesture that shows respect. 

6. Formal Beach Attire for Men vs Casual Beach

Couples usually add dress codes on websites or invitations. For a first thought, you may want a more relaxed dress code for the beach. Yet, the style may change as every beach wedding is unique, just us couples.  If the invitation says “formal beach attire”, think linen suits, dress shoes and a button-down shirt — possibly with a tie. Casual beach wedding attire for men includes leaving the blazer at home and choosing a printed shirt with relaxed pants or tailored shorts. If you’re unsure, reach out to the couple or planner — most will appreciate your attention to detail.  

7. Lose the Tie

A tie can be restricting in the heat, making it hard to feel comfortable. So, when you prepare for a beach wedding, ditch the tie altogether. If you’re in the wedding party and neckwear is required, opt for a bow tie, which is smaller and less hassle. Or look for a tie made of knitted silk, as it’s more casual and lightweight. Some grooms now coordinate open collars with pocket squares for a polished but relaxed look. 

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8. Plan for Wind and Weather

Outdoor beach weddings can be unpredictable. Choose fabrics that hold up in the breeze and avoid lightweight materials that billow excessively. It’s also smart to bring a lightweight jacket in case of sudden weather changes. Sand-proof shoes, water-resistant accessories and wrinkle-resistant clothing can help you stay polished even if conditions shift. 

9. Match the Locations Vibe

The formality of your outfit should reflect the setting. A private beach resort might call for dressier attire, while a barefoot ceremony on the shore leaves room for casual comfort. Matching your outfit to the landscape shows style and thoughtfulness. When in doubt, muted earth tones and natural fabrics will blend well with ocean backdrops.

10. Choose Long Sleeves

While guests can get away with the right short-sleeved button-up, grooms and groomsmen should stick to long sleeves, especially when planning to wear a jacket or sports coat. If you find the right material and fit, a long-sleeved shirt won’t feel restricting during a day on the beach. Long sleeves also protect against sun exposure during longer ceremonies or photos. 

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11. Pick a Seasonal Color

You may think seasonal clothing only applies to women’s fashion, but all clothing — including men’s wedding attire — can fit within a category. It all comes down to which colors are best for the season. For a beach wedding, you want to stick with colors suited for spring and summer, typically light colors — which have positive connotations, as happens with saturation. Guests are best suited to pastels like blue and pink. Grooms and groomsmen can try something a little more daring, like green or purple. Natural tones like stone, sage and sand also blend well with beach scenery. 

The Best Attire for a Beach Wedding

Don’t make the mistake of dressing too casual for a beach wedding. There are plenty of ways you can look stylish and elegant while still maintaining your comfort and having a good time. Follow the tips above to choose your perfect beach wedding attire. Understanding the balance between formality, fabric and setting will help you create a polished look from ceremony to celebration. 

Originally Published 10/28/2019 – Updated 6/17/2025