What is Mountain Chic Wedding Attire & How to Nail It

As a guest at a mountain wedding, you're in for a unique ceremony (with a stunning backdrop). Whether the nuptials are held on a luxury ski lodge or in a lush peak overlooking the valley, figuring out your mountain chic wedding attire can be a challenge. Thankfully, a mountain-specific wedding dress code is trending, so the options are endless.

A mountain chic wedding guest wardrobe is a combination of nature-inspired elements, comfortable silhouettes and a color palette in harmony with the beautiful outdoor surroundings. With this in mind, there are few factors to consider before you start shopping for mountain wedding attire. Start by vetting the location and weather, to ensure that your ensemble is appropriate for the climate. In addition, check out the dress code and the overall ambiance of the event. Is it meant to be an adventure, boho, snowy or rustic? Does the invite specify mountain casual, semi-formal or formal attire? Taking all these factors will save you a ton of time.

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To make your shopping journey easier, we've rounded up our favorite mountain chic wedding guest attire looks. There are options for each level of formality, and outfits across genders and clothing types (down to the shoes).

In this article…

• Mountain Chic Wedding Attire
• Mountain Cocktail Attire
• Mountain Formal Wedding Attire
• Mountain Casual Wedding Attire
• Where to Buy Mountain Wedding Attire

Mountain Chic Wedding Attire

A mountain chic attire wedding dress code is usually synonymous with semi-formal or dressy casual, so you should opt for a look that is an elevated take on mountain attire, without being over the top. When shopping, look for sophisticated romantic or flowy silhouettes, made in lightweight fabrics that mimic the movement of the wind. For your color palette, take a cue from your earthy surroundings and go for rich tones like deep greens, browns, burgundies and warm neutrals. This dress code is your moment to get creative and top off your outfit with unexpected, eye-catching add-ons, like vintage-style jewelry or a textured statement belt.

Ulla Johnson Remi Dress

Photo: Rent The Runway

Perfect for a mountain wedding, this striking dress feels down-to-earth, thanks to its breezy silhouette, boho pattern and earthy orange tones. To glam it up, we recommend pairing it with gold jewelry and some strappy platform sandals (or even a pair of cowboy boots if that's more your vibe).

Lovely Bird Montana Pearl Hat

Photo: Sundance

Outdoor weddings offer all new opportunities to accessorize... and yes, we're talking about hats. This wide-brimmed boater hat is an ultra-stylish way to keep the sun out of your eyes. It features unique details like pearl beading and a spotted feather.

Pendleton Men's Harrison Merino Shirt

Photo: Pendelton

Designed with comfort and breathability in mind, this plaid shirt, made from 100% merino wool, is a foolproof pick for your next mountain wedding. You can dress it up with a pair of chinos and suede boots, or dress it down with jeans and sneakers. Either way, you'll fit right in with the outdoor setting.

Old Gringo Dilettante Boots

Photo: Sundance

A conversation starter in themselves, these boots will have you well on your way to earning the title of 'best dressed guest'. Their forest green color and floral design will perfectly compliment any natural setting. Plus, their sturdy block heels will help you navigate the grass or dirt with ease.

Free People Tennessee Layered Necklace in Emerald Green

Photo: Free People

When choosing accessories to wear to a mountain wedding, look to your setting for inspiration. Gemstones and minerals, such as turquoise, play perfectly into the mountain chic theme. Plus, they make a serious statement, even when paired with a simple dress.

Angie Women's Border Print Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

Photo: Country Outfitter

This versatile maxi dress can seamlessly be dressed up or down for any event. Throw on some suede boots and a cowboy hat and you'll be ready to take on a mountain chic attire event in style.

Buck Mason Rambler Suede Trucker Jacket

Photo: Buck Mason

This stylish suede jacket offers a luxurious approach to informal layering. Its earthy tone and textured fabric will add dimension to any look, whether you choose to pair it with a sleek button down, or even a classic white tee. The best part is, you'll get plenty of use out of it even after the wedding is over.

Pendleton Women's Heritage Cotton Cardigan

Photo: Pendelton

It's not always easy to predict what the weather will be like atop a mountain, so our biggest piece of advice is to layer up. A woven cardigan, like this mustard yellow option, not only adds a whimsical touch, but it will also keep you cozy once the sun goes down.

Mountain Cocktail Attire

While 'cocktail attire' typically indicates a more elevated dress code, a mountain chic cocktail attire wedding is certainly not as strict as say, a black-tie or white-tie wedding. This means that there's still plenty of ways to embrace the theme and have fun with your outfit. As a rule of thumb, we'd say stick to suits and midi or floor-length dresses. In terms of materials, you can never go wrong with velvet. It offers an elevated look while also being warm enough to wear to an outdoor setting. Accessories like fur stoles can also help make your outfit a bit more formal. Plus, they'll come in handy on the chilly mountain top.

Atsu V-Neck Floral Tiered Maxi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

Available in standard, petite and plus sizing, this tiered maxi dress is a standout pick for your next cocktail attire event. Pair it with sandals or block heels for seamless strutting on the mountains (and on the dance floor).

Aerosoles Comfortable Women's Sandal in Cognac Genuine Suede

Photo: Aerosoles

Engineered for comfort, these platform sandals are an ideal option for weddings on more rugged terrains. Not to mention, it's easy to find exactly what you're looking for since they're available in both standard and wide sizes, plus 20 different color options.

Suitsupply Dark Green Tailored Fit Havana Suit

Photo: Suitsupply

When it comes to suiting, a mountain wedding offers the perfect opportunity to experiment with color. Our pick would have to be this forest green set. Its rich hue will have you ready to pose for pictures against the matching evergreen trees.

Marie Oliver Marisol Paradise Dress

Photo: Sundance

A unique dress code like 'mountain chic' calls for a dress that's anything-but-ordinary. Fortunately for you, we found one that fits the bill. This festive frock features a colorful botanical design alongside flutter sleeves, a deep V-neck and dramatic ruffle detailing throughout.

Ariat White Stitch Trim Belt

Photo: Ariat

Western-style accessories, like this embossed belt, are an easy way to add some rustic edge to a formal suit. This brown leather option features a silver buckle and bright white stitching. Talk about an eye-catching accessory.

Banana Republic Slim Coated Chambray Shirt in Moody Blue

Photo: Banana Republic Factory

Lean into the rustic vibe of the mountain setting by swapping your classic white button down with some color. This slim coated chambray shirt is an ideal option, since its navy blue color mimics denim. Top off your look with a brown blazer and you'll be all set for a cocktail attire event.

Tecovas The Cartwright Boots in Cafe

Photo: Tecovas

Both stylish and practical, these chocolate brown boots will help you keep your footing while navigating rocky terrain. Their sleek design, which features intricate hand-laid cording, makes them elevated enough for special occasions such as weddings, and classic enough for everyday wear afterwards.

Mountain Formal Wedding Attire

When you're heading to a formal affair, it's time to bust out the high-end pieces. If the invitation specifically indicates black-tie, the event calls for a tuxedo or floor-length gown. However, if it instructs black-tie optional, a nice suit or midi length cocktail dress is sufficient. Despite the level of formality, there are still some easy styling tricks to lean into the mountain motifs. First, choose pieces that fit into the rustic color palette while mixing romantic patterns, airy fabrics or rich, textured materials, like lace, velvet or tweed. Curate your accessories to blend seamlessly with your outfit, like vibrant gemstone jewelry.

Hutch Avani Gown

Photo: Rent The Runway

This whimsical wedding guest dress was practically made for running through fields of wildflowers. Some of its unique details include its floral printed bodice, and tiered pleated skirt. The best part is that you can rent it along with all your other wedding guest wardrobe essentials.

Lulus Always Posh Brown Faux Fur Stole

Photo: Lulus

Heading to a luxe ski resort wedding venue? Pair your wedding guest dress with this plush faux fur stole. Not only will it keep you cozy, but it will also elevate your look, which is ideal if you're headed to a wedding with a cocktail attire dress code.

Suitsupply Burgundy Tailored Fit Havana Suit

Photo: Suitsupply

Combat high temperatures and humidity in this light linen suit. It's available in a variety of classic colors, but we're personally loving the burgundy option for a mountain chic dress code. Opt for a monochromatic look by pairing it with the matching burgundy shirt, or add some contrast with a classic white button down underneath.

Nisolo Daytripper Chukka Boot

Photo: Nisolo

Equal parts fashionable and functional, these brown suede boots are sure to become your new go-to's throughout wedding season and beyond. They were designed with comfort in mind (and have got plenty of 5-star reviews to prove it). Plus, they'll match virtually any outfit, making them an ideal addition to your wedding guest wardrobe.

Petal + Pup Julip Sheer Long Sleeve Maxi Dress in Olive

Photo: Petal + Pup

With a high neckline and sheer long sleeves, this modest wedding guest dress checks off all our boxes. You can wear it to a religious wedding ceremony atop a mountain (or any venue for that matter). Its rich green color will look lovely against the setting.

Ulla Johnson Agathe Gown

Photo: Rent The Runway

This is not your typical wedding guest dress, and perhaps that's what we love most about it. It features ultra-unique details like a criss-crossed neckline, mosaic-inspired pattern and ruffle detailing throughout. Double down on the mountain chic theme by pairing it with a wide brimmed hat and western boots.

Margaux The Downtown Boot in Chocolate Suede

Photo: Margaux

Snow-capped mountains are much more enjoyable when you don't have frozen feet. So, if you're headed to higher altitudes for a wedding in the fall or winter, skip the stilettos in favor of these sleek suede booties. Their close-toed design makes them a much more practical (yet equally elegant) option.

Ralph Lauren Braided Leather Bolo Tie

Photo: Ralph Lauren

Sometimes, the smallest details can have the biggest impact on your look. Swapping your necktie with a bolo tie, for instance can instantly take you from classic to cowboy chic. We love this option from Ralph Lauren, which is made from braided leather and vintage silver.

Mountain Casual Wedding Attire

For a mountain casual dress code, aim to wear an outfit that leans into the setting and aligns with the carefree, rustic ambiance. Essentially, it's all about balance. Feel free to incorporate dressed-up everyday-yet-elevated pieces, like structured outwear, sleek sundresses and textured accessories. The key to avoid looking sloppy is to merge relaxed items (like chinos) with luxe-looking pieces made from high-end fabrics with bold details, like vibrant colors or prints. Use this same strategy for accessories, by selecting polished pieces that won't overpower your whole look.

Pendleton Men's LA Pine Wool Overshirt

Photo: Pendelton

This shirt has 'mountain wedding' written all over it. Its Native American-inspired pattern offers an outdoorsy vibe. Plus, it's made from wool jacquard fabric which will keep you warm throughout the event. You can wear it buttoned down with a pair of chinos, or layered on top of a tee shirt and jeans for a more casual look.

Red Wing Classic Moc

Photo: Red Wing Shoes

Perfect for muddy mountain wedding venues, this rugged boot's treaded outsole and storm welt provide water resistance and serious traction. To elevate the timeless shoe, wear them with dark leather laces.

Arula Claire Maxi Dress

Photo: Arula

Heading up to the mountains for a destination wedding weekend? Here's a look you'll want to add to your packing list. This versatile black midi dress would work for any event—from the rehearsal dinner, to the reception, and even the after party.

Sundance Angela Leather Jacket in Cognac

Photo: Sundance

How cute would this leather moto jacket look on top of a floral sundress? Not only will it level up your look, but it will also keep you warm after the sun sets over the mountains. Better yet? You can wear it long after the wedding is over thanks to its timeless design.

Pendleton Men's Camp Cotton Cardigan

Photo: Pendleton

If you're hoping to take a more literal approach to the mountain chic theme, your search for the perfect wedding guest outfit ends here. This cotton cardigan has mountains and trees woven right into it. Pair it with some chinos and suede boots and you'll be set for a casual outdoor event.

Bandera Wide Width & Calf Cut Out Western Boots

Photo: Arula

Finding the perfect pair of boots doesn't have to mean breaking the bank. This pair costs less than $100 and features a comfortable wide fit. We'd rock them with a floral mini dress or a linen romper for a casual mountain wedding.

Ulla Johnson Hayana Dress

Photo: Rent The Runway

The only thing better than finding a wedding guest dress that perfectly fits the theme is finding one you can re-wear all year round. This printed mini dress, for instance, can be paired with both sandals and boots to seamlessly transition between seasons.

Where to Buy Mountain Wedding Attire

Once you understand the dress code for your mountain destination wedding, it's time to start shopping! You are likely to find suitable options at most stores, but a few specialize in selling attire, accessories and footwear that suits the rustic and natural setting of a mountain wedding. We've rounded up a few options, for all genders, below.

Pendleton: As a heritage brand, Pendleton has been creating distinctive, rustic apparel and accessories since 1909. The company is most famous for its signature Native American-inspired pattern, which evokes earthy, outdoor-sy vibes. While they make clothing for both men and women for all seasons, their high-quality woolen fabrics are most popular for their warmth and craftsmanship. Their structured wool outerwear is the perfect coverup for a chilly mountain wedding.

Free People: The brand is known for their bohemian and carefree dress designs that can be described as "hippie chic". Their pieces are usually made with fluid, roomy fabrics that move with you for guaranteed comfort. They also carry high-end gowns that embody the boho aesthetic, while being appropriate for high-end events.

Tecovas: This brand specializes in premium Western-style boots and accessories. Their handmade, durable cowboy boots and leather goods have quickly made them one of the top-rated boot brands in the industry. In addition to cowboy style boots, they also offer roper, exotic leather and fashion boots in an array of toe shapes, heel heights and colors. Also, they sell leather accessories such as belts and wallets, womens' and mens' apparel and bags.

Reformation: As a sustainable, eco-conscious fashion brand, Reformation is committed to protecting the earth and reducing its environmental footprint. In addition to their ethical practices, the brand's flattering, fashionable designs are renowned for their feminine silhouettes, retro influences, attention to detail and extended sizing options. Their e-commerce platform has a specific section for wedding guests, so you'll find a look in record time.

Bonobos: While this online mens' retailer might not be on your immediate list, they have one of the best selections of affordable, modern suits and an incredible range of sizes. Their well-fitting suits and attire are versatile enough for every wedding vibe and aesthetic, including mountain ceremonies. This includes rich-colored blazers in interesting textures like tweed and wool. Their denim and trousers also span every color and fabric so you can easily dress them up or down. As a bonus, the site regularly offers discount codes.

*Jenn Barthole contributed to the reporting of this article.