Weddings in Greece are known for their sun-kissed surroundings, breathtaking landscapes and fun-filled celebrations. Whether you’re the one tying the knot or you're off to witness the happy couple say “I do”, it’s important to know how to dress for a Greek wedding.
In this blog, we’ll delve into what to wear to a wedding in Greece. Whether you’re the bride, groom or a guest, you’ll learn how to dress appropriately for the occasion whilst still looking stylish.
Are you dreaming of a destination wedding full of Greek culture and cuisine? At The Wedding Travel Company, we have a range of weddings in Greece, from sunny Santorini affairs to city ceremonies in Athens.
As the bride, it’s a given that you want to look breathtaking on your big day. Choosing the right dress is one of the most important parts of a wedding, but it’s even more important when tying the knot in a hot country like Greece. Temperatures in Athens can reach highs of 33.5°C in the summer, meaning you’ll want to choose light, breathable fabrics for your dress to ensure you stay cool.
Opt for fabrics like silk or chiffon and choose a loose-fitting shape for your dress so you can feel the cooling Mediterranean breeze. A dress in a looser style will also make for elegant photographs during a beach wedding.
Greece is full of quaint cobblestone streets, which make for beautiful backdrops but are not ideal for high heels. If your ceremony is outdoors, we’d recommend a pair of sandals, wedges or block heels. You’ll still make an impact in a stunning outfit, but with a little more practicality for walking on uneven ground or sand.
If you’ve hired an indoor reception or church to say your vows, you can always wear a pair of proper heels inside and then switch to bridal-themed flip-flops or comfy slip-on shoes later in the day.
When hosting a Greek wedding, the style is more relaxed to suit the more rural, natural settings and hot weather. Off-the-shoulder dresses, A-line styles and draping fabrics that reference Greek goddesses are brilliant style options.
Avoid long sleeves, intricate lace and patterns alongside lengthy trains as these styles can prove impractical.
If you’re wondering what to wear to a wedding in Greece as the groom, you might find it harder to choose suitable clothing for hot weather. You’ll still most likely be expected to wear a suit (although it’s your wedding, so you can make the rules!). To stop yourself from overheating, opt for light colours and lightweight fabrics.
Grey, beige and light blue are great for keeping cool whilst also being complementary colours for the sandy shores of Greece. You’ll also want to avoid bulky fabrics like wool, as they retain heat and could cause you to overheat or sweat on your special day.
With the high temperatures, it’s normal to ditch the 3 piece suit and blazer, but the groom should still look sharp for their big day. Tailored chinos and boat shoes paired with a fitted white shirt are great for a sleek, more laid-back vibe.
If you’re wondering what to wear to a summer wedding in Greece, it’s always best to look for anything lightweight or linen.
For women, floral prints and pastel coloured dresses are always a simple way to stun without upstaging the bride. Flowy midi and maxi dresses will help to keep you cool whilst also looking formal, just be sure to avoid wearing white.
Destination weddings offer the opportunity for guests to enjoy a more informal style. Just like the happy couple, it’s usually advised to skip the heels and tux and embrace more comfortable attire.
If the dress code allows, sandals or small wedges are the best bet for practical footwear. Always avoid stilettos as you’ll have a tough time walking across grass, sand and cobblestones along the streets of Greece.
Top Tip: It’s always a good idea to bring sunglasses and a hat for an outdoor ceremony. This will help you stay cool and protected from the sun. You can always remove these before the ceremony begins and for pictures.
For men, if the dress code requires a suit, opt for linen in light colours and ditch the tie and blazer where possible. If the affair is more casual, you can wear a dress shirt and trousers or tailored shorts. A pair of loafers is great for dressing up and down and provides a little more comfort than standard dress shoes.
If you’re attending a family wedding with children, safety should always be the first priority with your little ones. Always ensure they are well protected when outdoors, wearing sunscreen and a hat at all times. You can dress them in sandals, light dresses or shorts, but avoid more formal wear like suits in younger children, as they can be prone to overheating.
If the wedding you’re attending is in a Greek Orthodox church, it’s likely that you’ll need to wear modest clothing. Women should have their shoulders covered and avoid short dresses. Men will need to wear long trousers and fitted collared shirts.
If you’re travelling to a destination wedding in Greece, you’ll need several outfits to see you through your stay. You should also bring:
Multiple formal outfits - some celebrations can last a few days
Swimwear - ideal for villa weddings with outdoor pools or beach access
A thin jacket or cover-up for cool evenings
Pyjamas
Lounging clothes
For a full list of everything you need to pack for your trip, take a look at our destination wedding checklist.
Whether it’s your day or you’re there to support a loved one, knowing what to wear to a wedding in Greece will help you feel confident and comfortable with whatever your trip brings.
Ready to start planning your gorgeous Greek wedding? At The Wedding Travel Company, we make the planning process simple and stress-free. We take care of all the tricky logistics, so the hardest thing you’ll have to do is decide what to wear! Get in touch with our team today and let us help you bring your wedding dreams to life.
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