Summer is wedding season, which is always so much fun! But the heat, the outdoors, the bugs… All of it can make for a less-than-cherished experience. I’ve been to several summer weddings over the years that have been mostly outside venues, so I have a bunch of tricks for how to keep it cute and fun all night long! Read on…
Prep with primer…
If you don’t use one already (I usually don’t!) a full face makeup primer is the best option to avoid makeup melt and creasing in hot weather. I’m personally a fan of this one by e.l.f. Makeup because it’s very budget friendly ($10 on Amazon!) and vegan/cruelty free! Plus it contains Niacinamide which helps hydrate the skin in case the heat tends to dry your skin out.
Deodorant isn’t just for underarms…
When the temps rise, I don’t just put deodorant underneath my arms… I spread the good-smelling love! I’ll swipe deodorant anywhere I tend to sweat, like the small of my back or under boobs. Obviously don’t put it anywhere *sensitive* if you know what I mean, but expanding past your armpits is a good idea to help avoid those awkward sweat marks on your formalwear! I’m a fan of natural deodorant brand Native Deodorant because their products are free of harmful ingredients and aluminum, are cruelty free, and actually work all day long! I haven’t found a ton of natural deodorants that work, so this brand is my go to!
Try breathable undies…
Nothing is worse than thigh chafing and a sweaty nether region, so forget about polyester panties and thongs. Pick a seamless pair of panties or shapewear in a breathable mesh or cotton fabric for just the right amount of freedom *down there* and no visible panty lines! I found these on Amazon and they’re affordable and sooo comfy!
Touch up your ‘do with dry shampoo…
If you’re in for an outdoor ceremony under the hot sun and you’re like me, your hair is probably going to get pretty sweaty and flat-looking after the I Do’s. You don’t have to live with lifeless hair all night long, though! Bring a dry shampoo along and do a few quick spritzes in the ladies’ room to revive your hair and absorb grease before you hit the reception! I’m personally a fan of the Olaplex No. 4D Clean Volume Detox Dry Shampoo because it really works without too much buildup!
Bring backup shoes…
This really applies to all weddings, not just summer weddings, but let’s just say the discomfort of high heels is a bit *heightened* in high temps… Sweaty feet that slip forward when you’re walking in heels is a recipe for blisters, so I’d reeeeally suggest bringing some backup shoes for dancing (& then you won’t have to relive that high school prom moment of going barefoot in a formal dress by the end of the night and stepping in things you wish you hadn’t…). I love these foldable flats from Amazon that can be easily tucked into a clutch purse, but I’m also a HUGE fan of these convertible heels-to-flats from Pashion Footwear! You basically just twist off the heel, add a heel cap, and go with cute flats that are still as cute and so comfy! Plus, you can customize your heels with their heel kits, which is great for adding a little more bling!
Avoid too much alcohol & hydrate!
Okay, it’s a wedding. Most weddings have open bars or alcoholic drinks galore, and it’s fun to have a few and let loose! But really though, when it’s over 80 degrees out, having more than a few drinks and not enough water can lead to major dehydration and less than glamorous moments… My usual rule of thumb is that for every alcoholic drink you have, follow it up with one full glass of water or more if it’s extra warm out to avoid hangovers. I also love Liquid IV hydration sticks (especially the Golden Cherry flavor!) whenever I’m in hot weather, and they’re perfect to stash in your purse & add to your glass of water during the reception! The electrolytes really make a difference in the way my body handles the heat, but still ensure that you’re taking care of yourself and not getting carried away! (PS- not eating enough food + too many alcoholic drinks + hot temps = feeling not so good, so chow down too!)
Accessorize with hats, fans, and sunglasses…
My last top tip for surviving summer weddings is to accessorize in your best interest! Most summer weddings that are held outdoors opt for a dress code that permits a tasteful sun hat and sunglasses, but double check with your host to make sure! And the general rule of thumb for weddings is to not wear anything that would take attention away from the couple you’re celebrating, so simple and neutral unless otherwise encouraged by the couple are best! An inconspicuous folding hand fan that can fit in your purse is great to quietly cool yourself during the ceremony, too! (I would avoid battery powered or electronic fans so it’s not distracting!)
PS- if you need some wedding guest outfit inspo, check out these outfits!





I hope these tips help you stay cool, comfortable, and celebrating this summer! Be sure to subscribe to my blog for more fashion and lifestyle tips!
Xx Tabi