What to Wear to a Barn Wedding
If you’re invited to or planning a barn wedding, you can be sure to expect stripped wood, abundant greenery, mason jars, and bulb lights. Barn weddings are popular for their picturesque backdrops and boundless flexibility; however, the latter is sometimes a cause for confusion. A barn wedding can be casual or classic, quaint or dramatic, and even whimsical or elegant. The bride must decide between heels or cowgirl boots; a guest can easily get stuck between a blazer and a button down.
What to Wear to a Barn Wedding
Know what kind of barn wedding you’re attending or planning before you decide on what you wear. A modern barn wedding may involve the ankle-length gowns and dark suits expected of a formal occasion, while a rustic wedding can mean a more casual wardrobe, including a nice pair of jeans and a sun dress. Semi-formal attire is a safe bet if you’re unsure about the dress code but check in with the bride and groom if you’re unsure!
The Barn Wedding Wardrobe for Brides
Lace, floral cut-outs, an open back, and a layered silhouette are all traditional elements of a barn wedding dress. These features complement rolling hills and wildflowers, the quintessential backdrop to a barn wedding; however, carefully consider the length of your dress. Long royal trains are formal and elegant, but they’re likely to be stepped on or even snagged, especially if your ceremony is outdoors. Shorter trains and angle-length dresses are just as glamorous and graceful but have a lower chance of being dragged in the grass. As for footwear, boots are a rustic barn wedding staple and come with the advantage that the thicker heel won’t sink in the ground. Nevertheless, conventional bridal shoes like ivory wedges or embellished sandals are always stylishly suitable.
The Barn Wedding Wardrobe for Grooms
A black tux may feel out of place depending on the barn, so keep it simple with suits and vests in neutral or Earth-tones. Bowties and neckties are an opportunity for more color, and suspenders are popular for a charming look. A classic pair of blue jeans can clean up nicely with a blazer and a Stetson as well.
The Barn Wedding Wardrobe for the Wedding Party
Muted neutrals and Earth-tones like shades of beige, green, and gold are always classy bridesmaid dress colors for a barn wedding. Just remember, even if you don’t love the bride’s color choice, it’s her wedding day, and it’s her day to shine. Dresses or pantsuits can be uniform across the bridal party, though barn wedding bridesmaid dresses are often merely similar—sometimes only sharing the same length or color. There are rarely differences in wardrobe among the groomsmen; they almost always match the groom.
The Barn Wedding Wardrobe for Guests
Because of the surrounding natural scenery, guests can be creative with what they wear.
For women, this is the chance to pull out floral dresses and flowy jumpsuits. Comfort is a key consideration: you may be celebrating outside, and while grassy fields and rolling hills are stunning backdrops for photos, there’s no guarantee the ground will be even. Be mindful of the wedding’s location: if it is outside, there is a good chance your footwear will see dust, grass, or dirt. Pass on the stilettos and opt for sturdy, stable shoes like sandals and boots; wedges or flats are sensible choices for more formal farm weddings.
For men, dress pants with a jacket and tie are always appropriate. If there is a casual dress code, a button-down can be tastefully paired with chinos or your best pair of jeans. Oxfords and dress boots are acceptable for every wedding style. No matter the dress code, avoid work boots and t-shirts at all costs.
Final Considerations
Other factors like the event’s time of day or season can help you determine what to wear to a barn wedding. A barn wedding in the summer might see linen suits and midi dresses; a nice coat and a shawl are warm and more appropriate for cooler fall and winter celebrations.
All in all, the adaptability of a barn wedding extends to its wardrobe. No matter if it’s a square dance in heels or slow dance in boots, keep in mind the point of the day—to celebrate!
Contact Us
The Barn at Belle Hills is a modern barn wedding venue set in the hills of rural Crittenden, Kentucky. We are proud to share in the celebrations of those in Grant County, Owen County, Harrison County, Falmouth County, Gallatin County, Pendleton County, Boone County, Kenton County, Bracken County, Campbell County, and Scott County, KY. Call or contact us today for a private tour. We look forward to celebrating with you!
