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After a year and three months of lockdowns, it is possible that no one is more excited for #HotGirlsSummer than the brides of 2021 as outdoor weddings are pretty popular with millenials.

And while Jamaica’s vaccination programme continues, Prime Minister Andrew Holness has maintained national COVID-19 restrictions, but with a tripling of the number persons allowed to take part in wedding ceremonies to 50.  

With more people now allowed to attend nuptials, many might start to ask “what to wear to a Beach Wedding?”

Formal events often have their invitees scrambling, trying to find the perfect ensemble and, well, it gets even trickier thinking of a perfect beach-chic outfit.

Many women will want to dust off their sexy black, red or nude stilettoes, that they stowed away at the start of the pandemic, while others will be a blank canvas when it comes to how to put together a stylish look that doesn’t involve a lounge fit.

So, in preparation for a love-filled summer, Our Today lists for you a few styling tips recommended by Instyle Magazine.

Wear Something Colourful

According to fashion expert and tv personality Melissa Chataigne, “if quarantine has taught us anything, it’s that life is short, so show up and celebrate in COLOUR”.

Reportedly for this wedding season, she’s particularly fond of this fiery orange halter dress from online fashion outlet Ramy Brook, as the colour looks gorgeous against a variety of skin tones and the cut cinches at the waist to accentuate your curves.

 She continued: “This is a one-and-done look that can be folded and comes out wrinkle free with a quick steam in a shower for a stress-free wedding prep.”

Choose Elevated Sandals Over Traditional Heels

So, you might not be able to wear those sexy stilettoes, however, as for footwear, Chatiagne suggest wearing a strappy sandal.

Strappy sandals are convenient as you can go from the beach to the dance floor with ease and, well, you won’t be walking in sinking sand!

“I love the metallic accent on this London Rebel pair, that gives a bit of elegance,” Chatiagne says.

The London Rebel pair can be found at online fashion platform, Asos Women.

She continued: “No one will notice that they are flats with the tie up detail. So on point this season.”

Experiment with Fabrics and Cuts

According to Australian fashion stylist Caitlin Pope, the perfect beach wedding outfit channels a blend of cocktail and casual dress. 

For summer 2021, that will translate to modern feminine pieces for the stylist. 

“Ditch the paisley or the boho and opt for unexpected fabrics and interesting cut outs,” Pope advised. 

She continued: “Take this Gabriela Hearst maxi dress with a keyhole; an interesting leather bralette for example. I’d team it with a metallic flat sandal, clutch and bold gold jewelry to create a strong, confident and modern look.”

The Gabriela Hearst maxi dress can be found at fashion outlet Net- A- Porter.

Millennials, is this a yay or nay?

Keep Things Light & Breezy with A Maxi Dress

Emily Herren of Champagne and Channel fashion and lifestyle blog says that whenever she thinks of beach weddings, ‘a breezy maxi dress is the first thing that comes to mind’, especially ones with floral designs.

She said: “Maxi dresses are also very easy to dress up or down, depending on the dress code of the wedding. I would wear a simple sandal that won’t compete with the beautiful print of the dress.”

Be Mindful of Hem Length

Though maxi dresses are the better option, long dresses can also end up being surprisingly inconvenient when you’re trudging through sand. 

#TRIPTRIP

According to Joanna Angeles, head stylist at online fashion platform Tobi, recommends opting for a sleek cocktail dress, midi dress, or a tiered ruffle skirt that isn’t as lengthy instead.

Take Summer Weather Conditions into Consideration

“Whew! It is so hot outside, almost like quarantining is looking like the new thing.”

Angeles suggests wearing dresses with halter necks and backless cuts gives an ‘elevated and beat the heat’ look, as they’re ‘flattering and perfect for hot summer nights’.

The Tobi stylist also mentions that, when considering fabrics, satin is her go-to for warm weather seasons. 

She said: “It’s lightweight and it can elevate the style of a simple slip dress enough for any formal event.”

Muted Florals

A muted floral dress with back cut outs highlights femininity and a sexy look, plus it’s a versatile piece that can be worn to different events down the line. 

According to Champagne and Channel’s Emily Herren, the blue and white floral dress from Reformation is an excellent option as it’s made from quality, sustainable materials that will last for years, according to the product details and fit.

“For a beach wedding, I would pair this dress with the Daniella Heel by Sam Edelman,” Herren suggested. 

She continued: “This is my go-to shoe for weddings because they’re so comfortable and match with everything.”

Balance Is Key

In a report from Instyle Magazine, Chief Merchandising Officer Malissa Akay, from Express fashion outlet, said prints and bright colours are festive and don’t require too much accessorising.

She said: “Simple, strappy sandals and beautiful earrings complete the look, and you’re ready to celebrate.”

What’s your go to outfit?