If you’re unsure about what to wear to a Hawaiian wedding, here are some fitting outfit ideas for the bride, groom, and guests. We will also discuss the expected dress code in island weddings like those held in Hawaii.
Speaking of island weddings, are you planning on having a destination wedding? Perhaps you’re curious about what is considered a destination wedding, so feel free to check our discussion regarding this type of wedding.
What Do You Wear To A Hawaiian Wedding?
Bride and groom
Traditionally, the bride and groom at a Hawaiian wedding must wear white, and the style of their outfits fits a beach wedding. However, the couple must also match the formality of each other, so if the bride is wearing a more formal wedding gown, then the groom should also wear a formal suit or tuxedo.
Since it’s your wedding, you have the choice to be as formal or casual as you want. However, it’s best that you still wear something nice as it’s a wedding.
For Hawaii, grooms can opt for a vest over a buttoned shirt with rolled-up sleeves if they’re uncomfortable with suits. On the other hand, brides typically wear flowy white gowns or maxi dresses if the event is more casual.
Don’t forget to incorporate flowers in your overall attire, as it’s a Hawaiian wedding after all. The bride’s lei is composed of white flowers, or she can wear a halo of flowers that complement the groom’s lei or sash.
Guests
As a guest at a Hawaiian wedding, you must check the wedding invitation regarding the dress code. Even if it’s an afternoon beach wedding, some couples might still want formal wear for their guests.
In a formal Hawaiian wedding, male and female guests should opt for classy suits and evening dresses. On the other hand, semi-formal Hawaiian weddings will usually allow collared shirts with trousers, cocktail dresses, or even printed jumpsuits fit for a wedding by the shore.
You can also ask the couple themselves if sundresses, floral printed shirts, khakis, or colorful outfits are allowed. But, again, remember to keep modesty and subtlety in mind because the couple should stand out at their wedding.
For etiquette, read about what colors should you not wear to a wedding.
What shoes to wear at a Hawaiian wedding?
The footwear when attending a Hawaiian wedding depends on the location and formality of the event. For example, since it’s typical for couples to have a beach wedding in Hawaii, you don’t want to wear something that will slip or sink in the sand.
Ladies can wear strappy sandals over heels, while men can opt for espadrilles or boat shoes. Sometimes, guests can wear flip-flops or go barefoot in beach weddings for a more laidback and intimate event.
Here is also what to wear to a boat wedding if the couple selected such a location.
Modern vs traditional Hawaiian wedding attire
If you marry in Hawaii, you and your partner can consider traditional Hawaiian wedding attires. Think a flowy and long white dress with a flower crown for the bride, then a white shirt, and white slacks with waist sash and lei around the neck of the groom.
For a more modern approach to a Hawaiian wedding, the destination is the perfect backdrop for colorful prints on the bride and groom. Some brides even opt for sexier dresses, while grooms can wear a nicely fitted linen shirt and rolled-up pants similar to what you’ll see at a Boho wedding.
Speaking of which, read what to wear to a Boho wedding as some styles might also apply to a beach wedding in Hawaii.
Which Is The Formal Clothing Worn During Wedding In Hawaii?
Formal occasions such as Hawaiian weddings with a formal dress code can mean high-end aloha shirts, button-down shirts, or pullovers made from fabrics like silk. You can pair these tops with slacks or shorts, but never tuck them in.
As for women, you can consider a formal gown called the holoku, although this is usually more fitting to the bride. The guests can try another formal Hawaiian dress called the holomu, often worn for evening celebrations.
What Do You Wear To A Luau Wedding?
If you are attending a Luau wedding party after the ceremony, you can keep the festivity of Hawaii in mind. This means Hawaiian print shirts and floral dresses are acceptable, or you can adorn your outfit with flowers and shells if the fabric is not printed.
As for your shoes, a Luau party is open to flip-flops or even bare feet. You can bring sandals to change from the dress shoes you wore at the wedding ceremony.
However, note that you don’t need to wear many accessories. After all, you’ll usually receive a lei for the Luau party, and ladies can wear a flower on their right ear to signify that they’re single or left if they’re in a relationship.
Conclusion
And that’s it! To recap what to wear to a Hawaiian wedding, check the wedding invitation, although it’s common to have a semi-formal to casual outfit if it’s a beach wedding.
Prints and colors are welcomed compared to other weddings, and guests are adorned with flowers. You might even go barefoot to a Hawaiian wedding.
Nevertheless, always refer to your invitation to know the expected guest attire.