What do I wear to a wedding in Greece?

Whether the wedding is on the Athenian Riviera or on one of the many amazing Greek islands, when it comes to planning what outfits to pack, the details are crucial. Attending a wedding in this Mediterranean paradise requires careful consideration of the climate, local customs, and the overall style of the event. Whether you’re a guest, a member of the bridal party, or the happy couple themselves, finding the perfect outfits that combine elegance and comfort is key. In this guide, we’ll explore the fashion do’s and don’ts of attending a wedding in Greece.

Dressing etiquette for the destination Greece wedding

There are no longer traditional requirements for what is acceptable as wedding attire.
However, it is essential to respect local customs when attending the traditional religious ceremony by not wearing something that might be a bit over-revealing.

Naturally, jeans, athletic wear, and most overly casual styles are faux pas in any wedding setting. Instead, choose something elegant and well-tailored that exudes sophistication and grace. Stylish separates and jumpsuits can be just as polished as dresses, offering much flexibility with styling and movements. Also, please ladies, do not wear all white unless you are the bride.

Keep it light and airy.

Choose light-weight breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or chiffon in vibrant colors to complement the Mediterranean aesthetic or pastels for boho beach ceremonies. For beach weddings, think of flowing silhouettes with bold accessories and sandals. Keep in mind, that on the Greek islands, there is usually a bit of a breeze called “Meltemi” that can pick up. If your dress or skirt is short and loose, you will have to mind the windy conditions that might reveal more than you would like. Opt for longer dresses and skirts to avoid any mishaps.
Consider carefree and romantic hairstyles as well. Casual, earthy tones are timeless when it comes to makeup, and the hues will resonate with the landscapes and your tanned skin!
If the wedding is in early spring or autumn consider a shawl or light cover in case of cooler temperatures and night breezes.

Caution with footwear!

Considering most destination weddings in the summer take place outdoors, if not directly on a beach, footwear is crucial. The charming cobblestone streets in villages can be quite the challenge in stilettos, and almost any paved sidewalk or road will most likely be an uneven surface. If you must wear thin heels, consider buying clear heel protectors or heel caps so you are not sinking in the grass or gravel. There are many designs on the market that you can match to your outfit as an accessory, or choose the clear protectors that will remain invisible. I think that eventually, these are going to become a necessity and a great gift for the bridesmaids. Loafers, sandals, chunky heels, and platforms are most likely your best choices in any situation.

Remember you are going on holiday to Greece.

Along with the experience of an amazing destination wedding, you will indulge in a relaxing holiday in flip-flops and swimwear. Here are some tips:

To save you some baggage space, ask your hotel accommodations if they offer beach towel service.

Do some research on the location to discover what activities or excursions you might be interested in. Samos Island for example, offers an extensive network of mountain trails and caves to explore that would require the proper footgear.

Be sure to consider any events before or following the wedding that you will attend that might require a specific dress code.

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