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Updated Feb 09, 2026Shop Our Editor-Approved Backyard Wedding Outfits for Men and Women
An expert weighs in on backyard wedding guest attire.
Photo: Petal & Pup
Backyard weddings are becoming increasingly popular, thanks in part to soaring wedding venue expenses, sentimental value and pop culture (ahem, Father of the Bride). If you've been invited to a backyard wedding and have no clue what to wear, you've come to the right place. Choosing a backyard wedding outfit can be tricky, especially if you've never been to one before. No two backyard weddings are exactly the same, and the dress code, style of dress and vibe will differ depending on the couple. To make it easy for you, we spoke to Caitlin Elabassi, designer and product developer at Petal & Pup, for her expert insight on backyard wedding guest attire. Plus, we compiled 20 editor-approved wedding guest outfits for both men and women that are sure to make you look and feel your best.
In this article:
What to Wear to a Backyard Wedding
There are a few key points you'll want to keep in mind when deciding on your backyard wedding attire.
Follow the Dress Code
Photo: Logan Cole Weddings
While you may automatically assume a backyard wedding is going to be casual, that isn't necessarily always the case. It's important not to make assumptions and to always check the invitation or wedding website for a dress code. Make sure to do your research on dress codes, too—just because a wedding calls for casual wedding attire doesn't necessarily mean you can wear jeans to a wedding unless specified. When in doubt, you can always ask the couple if they have a dress code if you can't find that information anywhere. The dress code for guys for wedding attire is typically a little bit more straightforward than that for women. The most important part of the dress code is to know whether a suit or tuxedo is required. In less formal cases, a button-down and dress pants is a safe bet.
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"The golden rule should be to always follow the dress code listed on your invite," Elabassi advises. "Weddings are becoming increasingly more personalised, so it's always best to check your invite for any information to see what the happy couple is requesting of their guests on the day. If in doubt, though, it's always better to be overdressed than underdressed!"
Keep It Comfortable
Photo: Chamore Creations
As much as style is important, it's equally important to make sure your wedding guest dress is comfortable. Nothing can ruin a night quicker than a tight dress that you can't move in or a painful pair of heels. Choosing a comfortable wedding guest outfit will ensure you can focus on being fully present and enjoying your evening.
"Comfort is key, but that doesn't mean you have to compromise style," Elabassi tells us. "Depending on the season, I would opt for something loose and flowy or stretchy. A bold print or bright color can also make even the simplest dress into a showstopper!"
Keep Weather in Mind
Photo: Sposto Photography
The backyard wedding you're attending will likely be an outdoor wedding, so it's important to keep that in mind when choosing your attire. Depending on the time of year, you'll want to choose an outfit that will either keep you warm or cool you off. In addition to temperature, remember that a dress or pants that are too long may drag in the grass, so enlist the help of a trusted tailor if needed!
Pro tip: Make sure your shoes for walking on grass are comfortable if you suspect you may be on grass during the wedding. A block heel or sandal is a great choice if you want to err on the safe side. You could also opt for a set of heel protectors if you have your heart set on that sky-high stiletto.
Don't Forget to Accessorize
Photo: Sposto Photography
No wedding guest outfit is complete without the right accessories. "If you aren't a bold print person, you can always opt for a solid color and let your accessories shine, think bold statement earrings and bangles as well as thick heels or cool flats—nothing worse than having your heels sink into the grass," Elabassi says.
Backyard Wedding Outfit Ideas
Knowing where to shop for your wedding guest outfit can often be the hardest part. Whether you choose to shop online or in person, the endless options may seem daunting. Some of our favorite places to shop where you can begin your search include Petal & Pup, Abercrombie, Reformation, Bonobos and Nuuly, to name a few. Keep scrolling to shop our picks for backyard outfit ideas for men and women.
1. Lulus Sanya Light Yellow Button-Front Sleeveless Midi Dress
Photo: Lulus
This pretty yellow midi perfectly bridges the gap between casual and dressy. Lightweight and flowy, it will keep you cool in the summer heat. Dress it up with a pair of low heels, or dress it down with sandals for a more relaxed dress code.
Get 25% off first-time purchases in selected categories with The Knot's exclusive code, THEKNOT25.
2. Petal & Pup Hendrix Midi Dress
Photo: Petal & Pup
Here's a backyard wedding guest dress that's sure to become one of your wardrobe staples. With its pretty floral print, puff sleeves and sweetheart neckline, it's elegant without being too formal for a daytime event.
Get 15% off with The Knot's exclusive code PETALXKNOT.
3. Apt. 9 Premier Flex Slim-Fit Essential Sport Coat
Photo: Kohl's
The sports coat to a man is the LBD to a woman: a timeless wardrobe piece that can be worn time and time again. This one comes in ten colors, so there truly is something for everyone. Invest in a classic and you're sure to wear it for years to come.
4. Reclaimed Vintage Midi Tea Dress with Puff Sleeves and Cross Back in Brown Polka Dots
Photo: ASOS
A daytime wedding is the perfect time to rock some polka dots. This tea dress has an adorable vintage feel to it, though its open back adds a modern edge.
5. Banana Republic Italian Herringbone Suit
Photo: Banana Republic
When it comes to men's wedding guest attire, a blazer and dress pants combo is always a good idea if you're not sure what to wear. This brown herringbone set from Buck Mason isn't quite as formal as a traditional suit, making it the perfect choice for a more low-key backyard wedding. Pair it with a button-down shirt, or a long-sleeve polo for a more casual look.
6. Lulus Dayah Purple Floral Ruffled Tiered Midi Dress
Photo: Lulus
We adore this floral midi for a spring or summer backyard wedding. Made from floaty chiffon with a loose fit, it's as comfy as it is cute.
Get 25% off first-time purchases in selected categories with The Knot's exclusive code, THEKNOT25.
7. Reformation Eridania Dress in Bossanova
Photo: Reformation
Reformation knows how to make a good floral midi dress. This one is relaxed yet elegant with a dark floral print, straight neckline, and pleated skirt. It's perfect for a daytime wedding.
8. Hill House The Athena Nap Dress
Photo: Hill House
This navy babydoll version of Hill House's famous Nap Dress is the perfect casual wedding guest dress. Featuring elasticated smocking, adorable puff sleeves and wrinkle-resistant fabric, it's as comfy as it is cute.
9. SuitSupply Sand Herringbone Tailored Fit Havana Suit
Photo: SuitSupply
Dress to impress in this sophisticated linen suit from SuitSupply. It comes in four different colors, but this sand shade is ideal for a summer backyard event.
10. Reformation Aiko Dress in Orion Dot
Photo: Reformation
You're sure to be the best-dressed guest in this gorgeous polka-dot midi from Reformation. We love the pleated hem and the subtle ruffling at the sweetheart neckline. Even better, it comes in six equally lovely colors and patterns—the tricky part is picking just one.
11. Hyacinth House Black Seashell Dionis Midi Dress
Photo: Tuckernuck
A tiny gold seashell accent gives this timeless black midi a summer refresh. Pair it with gold shoes for the perfect chic yet effortless wedding guest look.
12. Petal & Pup Karie Midi Dress
Photo: Petal & Pup
Here's a backyard wedding guest dress you can wear again and again. With its pretty purple floral print, ruffle details and shoulder ties, it can be dressed up or down to suit events of all kinds.
Get 15% off with The Knot's exclusive code, PETALXKNOT.
13. Mare Mare Bree Puff-Sleeve V-Neck Satin Slip Midi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
We can't get enough butter yellow in our closets, and this silky midi is a must-have. Romantic puff sleeves and bow details accent this vintage-inspired silhouette. If yellow isn't your color, it also comes in a gorgeous shade of olive green.
14. Peixoto Clementine Smocked Tiered Maxi Dress in Tangerine
Photo: Anthropologie
This vibrant orange maxi is perfect for a summer backyard wedding. Pair it with wedges and chunky gold jewelry to complete the look.
15. UNTUCKit Wrinkle-Free Halstead Shirt
Photo: UNTUCKit
This blue gingham button-down fits the backyard wedding vibe perfectly. It's available in slim, relaxed and regular fits, as well as tall sizes, and is made of a wrinkle-resistant fabric. Pair it with chinos for a breezy wedding guest look.
16. More To Come Akari Mini Dress
Photo: Revolve
Looking for a mini dress for a backyard wedding? This More To Come number will fit that occasion and many others. With its adorable baby pink hue and classic silhouette, it's both elegant and daytime-appropriate.
17. Flint and Tinder Classic Oxford
Photo: Huckberry
When in doubt, you can't go wrong with a classic Oxford shirt. Whether you opt for simple white or a fun color, this timeless piece is the perfect base for your wedding guest outfit.
18. Banana Republic Standard-Fit Linen Short-Sleeve Shirt
Photo: Banana Republic
A short-sleeve linen button-down is perfect for a casual outdoor wedding. Pair it with slacks or even shorts if the dress code is casual enough.
19. Damson Madder Mia Midi Dress
Photo: Nuuly
Think of Nuuly as your secret weapon for always having a new wedding guest dress. With a seemingly endless supply of gorgeous dresses for rent, you'll always be the best-dressed guest at any occasion. Our top pick is this pink striped midi from Damson Madder that's perfect for a summer backyard wedding.
20. Reformation Everett Linen Dress in Cornflower
Photo: Reformation
We love this linen midi from Reformation. With its A-line silhouette, lightweight fabric and pastel hue, it will fit right in at a summer backyard wedding. It also comes in seven different colors and patterns, so you'll be spoiled for choice.
21. Banana Republic Standard-Fit Linen-Cotton Resort Shirt in Pink Stripe
Photo: Banana Republic
For a casual backyard wedding, you can't go wrong with this stylish yet relaxed button-down. Pair it with linen pants and boat shoes, and you're good to go.
Additional market work by Doireann Mangan.
