From dreamy ceremonies on the Oregon coast to funky Portland soirees, Oregon can host a multitude of wedding styles all year. As a guest, this variety can be fantastic but leaves us scratching our heads as to what to wear.

Worry not! We’ve got you covered.

Consider these elements when dressing for your next wedding:

Weather

If you hadn’t noticed, it rains here. Even in summer months, a sunny day isn’t guaranteed! Have a backup plan and bring a small umbrella for outdoor ceremonies/receptions.

For coastal weddings, the weather is even more unpredictable and becomes chilly in the evening. Bring an extra layer. If the attire is ‘beach formal’, consider bringing a jacket or wrap to pair with dresses or linen sport coat to pair with a shirt and pants.

Venue

There are so many wonderful venues in Portland that each carries their own vibe. While the invite should ultimately dictate the style of dress, it’s good to consider the venue as well both in style and venue setting (indoor/outdoor).

For example, the Portland Art Museum and Treasury Ballroom are indoor, architecturally beautiful sites that pair well with glamorous looks. Outdoor venues like Barn Kestral and Lan Su Chinese Gardens may invite lighter color palettes and an extra pair of shoes! Not every venue is heel-friendly.

Requested Attire

When we think of Portland, we often think of its casual vibe but that doesn’t mean casual attire for every wedding. Keep the formality of the wedding in mind. Most invitations will indicate the desired guest attire. Reference the Wedding Style Guide below.

Buying different looks (especially formal) for every wedding can get expensive. We recommend utilizing a rental site such as Rent the Runway or The Black Tux to look sharp without spending a fortune.

And formal attire doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with your dress or suit. For example, if you need to dress formally for an Art Museum wedding but want something playful too, consider renting a rose colored or tartan suit.

Season

Consider fabrics appropriate for the season. Linen and chambray jackets are fantastic for warmer months while velvets and tweeds are perfect for the winter.

Still need some help? Portland has a Black Tux showroom where you can try on different styles before renting.

Happy Oregon wedding seasons!

 

Vibrant Table

Vibrant Table Catering and Events is a leader in event innovation, providing award-winning catering, venue management, floral and décor and event production. Our culinary style is inventive, diverse and event inspired.