How exciting! You’ve been invited to a barn wedding.
It’ll be a great chance to connect with nature and enjoy a unique and beautiful ceremony and reception.
And here you are, an extremely stylish and fashion-forward person trying to figure out what to wear.
We know you have your stylish reputation to uphold, so we’re here to help.
What sorts of wedding dress codes are there?
What are some barn wedding attire basics and general rules?
Keep reading for our ultimate guide for what to wear to a barn wedding
What to Wear to A Barn Wedding: Wedding Dress Code Rundown
Casual, semi-formal, black tie…what does that all even mean anyway?
Let’s start off with a quick rundown of all the different types of wedding dress codes.
This will hopefully give you a better idea of what to wear to a barn wedding, as well as the next time you’re invited to any other type of wedding.
“Come As You Are”
Let’s start off with the most lowkey of the dress codes.
“Come as you are” basically means that the couple has no preference on how you show up.
It could be better to have a lot of different choices, but with great power comes great responsibility!
Casual
A casual dress code normally means the affair will be more laid back, and usually outdoors.
That said, it’s still not “come as you are”, and it would be inappropriate to show up like you just came back from running errands.
Definitely still try to be a little dressier than normal.
Semi-Formal
With semi formal events, you get more flexibility with comfort and fabrics, but you still have to dress somewhat formally.
Dresses should go below-the-knee, though dressier skirts and jumpsuits are also appropriate.
Button-up shirts and slacks also do the trick.
Cocktail
When it comes to weddings, cocktail attire is one of the more popular options.
Dresses should be knee or tea length, and while you don’t have to bring out your tuxedo, at least go with a suit and tie.
Black Tie
If you’ve been itching to dress up, then we’re starting to get to the fancier dress codes.
When it comes to black tie, dresses should be floor length, or suits should be elegant.
And here, tuxedos are a must.
White Tie
A white tie event is the most formal dress code of all.
A floor-length dress must be worn with appropriate accessories.
A tuxedo must also have tails, a formal white shirt, vest, bowtie, and try to find some gloves and formal footwear.
What to Wear to A Barn Wedding: Some General Tips
Before we head into some more specific tips about what to wear to a barn wedding, we think it would be best to go over some more general suggestions.
How formal should you expect to go?
What will the atmosphere be like?
Keep reading for answers to these (very good) questions.
Check If There’s A Dress Code First
First things first: it’s important to respect the wishes of the couple getting married.
If you know that they want all their guests to go in a specific style or dress in a specific color, then you should definitely honor that request.
If you have absolutely no idea what you should wear, then it’s a good idea to first consult with a member of the wedding party.
Even if there isn’t a specific dress code, they’ll surely be happy to give you a few pointers.
A Barn Wedding Is (Usually) Not A Black Tie Event
While some barn weddings can certainly be very chic and upscale, they are not normally the venue where people choose to hold black tie events.
In other words, while you can expect to dress a little more formal than usual, you don’t have to worry about renting a tuxedo or finding a ballgown.
But still, plan on dressing up, it’s a wedding after all.
Of course, unless you were instructed to do so by the couple, maybe don’t go for jeans and a t-shirt.
Dress Appropriately for a Wedding – But Also for a Barn
This all brings us to our next point about dressing for the occasion.
While weddings usually call for fancier attire, you will also be spending the day at a barn where there is hay, mud, and maybe even animals.
(And you’ll likely also be outside dealing with a little bit of heat or a little bit of chill, depending on the season).
You may want to leave your finest jewels or most expensive fabrics at home.
Go With Fabrics That Are Right for the Season
Not every barn wedding is completely alike, the activities – and dress code – will certainly vary depending on the season.
If you’re attending a barn wedding during the colder months, first of all, don’t forget to take some Pinterest worth fall photos!
But also, accessorizing your outfit with wool will keep you warm and stylish.
If the barn wedding is happening during the warmer season, then we recommend you dress yourself in linen or cotton.
When In Doubt: Tone It Down
Most barns aren’t situated in the heart of a cosmopolitan city.
Often, farming communities tend to take on more traditional, toned down lifestyles.
We advise that you read the room and not wear your boldest, brashest garments to a barn wedding.
Besides, you probably won’t want to wear a miniskirt if you’re horseback riding.
Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative
Since barns are usually a more offbeat wedding venue, you can go ahead and let your personality shine through.
Maybe you own a pair of cowboy boots that you haven’t been able to show off yet.
Or you have an interesting accessory you’ve been saving for a special occasion.
Well, now is definitely your chance!
What to Wear to a Barn Wedding: Attire Ideas
Now let’s dig into some barn wedding looks.
Let’s get you dressed to impress!
Go With Bold, Floral Patterns
Since barn weddings normally take place outside and include nature as a big component, you can totally reflect that in your wardrobe choice.
For example, if you own a dress or a tie with a beautiful floral pattern, now would be the perfect time to bring it out.
Earthy Tones Are the Way to Go
If you’re not one for patterns but still want to wear something outside of the typical, formal color palette, then we highly suggest going with earthy tones.
Some examples would include mossy greens’ and terracotta reds’ and browns’.
Basically anything that would make you match with your surroundings.
Comfortable Shoes Are Your Best Friend
For a barn wedding, you’re likely going to be walking quite a bit,
Perhaps even through mud, hay, or any other surfaces you don’t really encounter on a daily basis.
That said, your highest heel or most narrow stiletto might not be the best idea.
(Though of course, if you have heels that you think you could run a marathon in, by all means!)
This might be the right opportunity to bring out your wedges, or even cowboy boots.
Keep Dresses Light and Flowy
Formal wedding attire usually means knee-length dresses with body hugging silhouettes.
For a barn wedding, we recommend switching it up and wearing a maxi dress with lighter materials.
It’s much more appropriate in terms of the vibe and weather of a barn wedding, and it’s a great opportunity to play around with your wedding wardrobe.
Our Final Thoughts
As you can see, we take style pretty seriously.
We hope you left this article knowing exactly what to wear to a barn wedding, and that you feel comfortable and confident in your outfit.
Because we’re sure you’ll look great in whatever you go with!
If you happen to be a couple looking for a barn wedding venue, at Round Barn, we’ll give you an unforgettable barn wedding.
With our gorgeous venue and friendly staff, you’ll be even more excited about figuring out what to wear!
