It’s exciting to receive a wedding invitation to beautiful Cabo. What a great time to combine a magical romantic celebration with an energizing vacation. The big question many travelers ask is, “What to wear to weddings in Cabo San Lucas?”
Since it’s one of Mexico’s most glamorous and popular wedding destinations, your outfit will matter. The weather is different from the Caribbean. Instead of tropical and humid, Cabo has a sun-soaked, dry, and breezy climate. Cabo is known as a chic, stylish area perfect for outdoor ceremonies, allowing you to blend comfort, style, and touches of your personality into your outfit.
This guide will help you pack the perfect wardrobe for your Cabo vacation.
Understanding Beach Wedding Dress Codes
Take a look at your invitation and see if there is a dress code. Destination weddings often feature attire expectations and list them as casual, semi-formal, and formal/black tie. This helps you blend style and practicality for the occasion. Let’s break it down:
Casual Beach Wedding Attire
Casual opens the door to wearing something relaxed, breathable, and stylish.
For Women: Flowy, lightweight sundresses, maxi dresses, jumpsuits, or stylish skirts and blouses work beautifully. Accessories elevate your look with sunhats, oversized sunglasses, colorful earrings, bracelets, and beaded necklaces. Wear comfortable shoes like flat sandals or flip-flops to complete your beach-inspired look.
For Men: Light colored cotton or linen short-sleeved shirts, khaki or cotton pants are ideal. Blazers with breathable fabrics are optional. There is usually no need for neckties or bow ties. Wear loafers or leather sandals and accessorize with sunglasses and a protective straw hat.
Semi-Formal Beach Wedding Attire
Semi-formal strikes a balance between relaxed and polished. This is a common request for sunset ceremonies or receptions at upscale resorts.
For Women: Chic cocktail dresses, dressy maxi dresses, jumpsuits, or an elegant two-piece set. Select breathable, lightweight fabrics that are comfortable. Wear heeled sandals, kitten heels, or wedges that are easy to walk on solid ground, stairways, and decks.
For Men: Dress pants, collared shirts, and lightweight blazers are ideal for semi-formal affairs. Linen or cotton suits in soft beige, gray, or light blue are perfect. Wear loafers with or without socks to complete your ensemble.
Formal or Black Tie Beach Wedding Attire
Yes, it’s true! You can dress in a black tie formal on the beautiful beach. Simply adjust the setting.
For Women: Long, elegant dresses in flowy fabrics like silk, satin, or chiffon. Wear softer colors or Boho glam prints. Solid colors are OK, too. Add beach-inspired accessories like statement earrings, large bracelets, and flowers in your hair. Bring a shawl or wrap for cooler outdoor evening events.
For Men: Go for a lightweight tux or tailored suit in a breathable fabric like cotton or linen. Leave the wool at home. Black shoes and a bow tie or colorful necktie elevate the look.
Dressing for Cabo’s Weather
Keep in mind that Cabo has a more desert climate that is different from Mexico’s more tropical areas. It’s dry, breezy, and has distinct seasonal shifts. When you know what weather to expect, you can pack the perfect wedding outfits for comfort and style.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Cabo is sunny and mild, with daytime temps ranging in the 70s. Expect cooler evenings.
Women: Pack a stylish wrap, light sweater, or blazer for nighttime events. Long dresses, skirts, elegant pant sets, and wide-legged slacks with blouses are comfortable and stylish. Men should consider long-sleeved shirts and dress pants with a lightweight sport coat or blazer.
Spring (March to May)
Cabo’s spring season is gorgeous. It’s warm but not too hot, usually between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Women should dress like they would in the summer with flowy, breathable fabrics, sleeveless or off-the-shoulder designs. Accessorize with sun-protective hats, sunglasses, and fashionable jewelry. Men should lean into short-sleeved dress shirts, linen dress pants, and a lightweight blazer. Accessorize with sunglasses and a designer watch.
Summer (June to September)
It’s hot, very hot, with temperatures ranging from 90 degrees and higher with high humidity. Most summer weddings are held indoors. Both men and women should wear lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk. Avoid dark colors because they absorb heat. Bring a refillable water bottle and a portable fan for relief when needed. Short sleeves and breathable shoes top the list during this time of the year.
Fall (Mid-October to November)
Fall in Cabo is warm and beautiful, with high temperatures in the 80s. Cooler nights are refreshing and romantic. Fall is a sweet spot for beach ceremonies. Women look wonderful in romantic dresses in autumnal tones or neutral colors. Men should pack light suits with an optional sport coat or vest for a polished look.
Choosing the Right Colors and Patterns for a Cabo Wedding
Cabo San Lucas is all about subtle color and sophisticated patterns. It’s a blend of coastal elegance and Boho chic. Go for earth tones and soft, feminine pastels. Terracotta, sage, ivory, dusty rose, and muted metallics are on point. Flowy textures, lace, subtle prints, and feminine adornments are perfect for a Cabo-sophisticated vibe. Leave your flashy-patterned, bright neon colors at home.
Footwear and Finishing Touches
Let’s start from the bottom up, because footwear can make or break your Cabo wedding experience. If you are attending a beach wedding, women should wear flat sandals, espadrilles, block-heeled shoes, or flip-flops. Men should wear stylish sandals, loafers, or flip-flops. Everyone can go barefoot if it is couple-approved. Take along the following suggested accessories or purchase them when you arrive to complete your Cabo look:
- Sunglasses
- Sun hats
- Light scarves or wraps
- Statement jewelry
- Travel-sized sunscreen
- A hand-held fan or mist spray
- A hankie or small tissue package
- Wristlet or small handbag
RELATED: The 5 Best Wedding Venues in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
8 Cabo Beach Wedding Tips for Guests
- Respect the dress code: It will help you blend in and be comfortable.
- Pack versatile outfits: Mix and match items for various events like welcome parties, rehearsal dinners, and the big day.
- Bring sun protection: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are your best friends.
- Choose breathable fabrics: Think lightweight cotton, linen, rayon, and chiffon.
- Bring the right footwear: Save your stilettos for another time.
- Consider the venue: Know if you’ll be on the beach, at a resort terrace, or in a chapel.
- If unsure about the dress code, ask: It’s okay to check in with the couple or wedding planner.
- Stick to the color palette: If the couple has shared one, use it as inspiration for your ensemble.
Bring Your Dream Cabo Wedding To Life!
It doesn’t matter if you are getting married or invited to a destination wedding, you’re going to Cabo! Packing and knowing what to wear to a wedding in Cabo San Lucas will set the tone for a stylish, comfortable experience. Gorgeous desert sunsets, sunny, breezy beaches, and elegant seaside ceremonies add up to a romantic destination for weddings and everyday celebrations.
Are you dreaming of your very own destination wedding in Cabo? Our Celebration Travel Certified Destination Wedding Specialists are ready to help you every step of the way. Say, “I do,” and simply complete the online wedding planning forms. Let’s create your perfect romantic celebration under the Cabo sun.