by Events • March 28, 2025 • Wedding Planning Guides
Getting an invite to a barn wedding brings excitement, anticipation and that inevitable question – what should I wear?
Because while all weddings beg the outfit question, barn weddings have their own distinctive feel and style, often combining countryside charm with traditional elegance to one extent or another.
Unlike more formal hotel weddings, barn weddings often lean towards bohemian, vintage, or rustic-chic styles.
Bohemian-inspired looks featuring flowing fabrics and nature-inspired accessories are always popular, while some couples might go for vintage or retro themes or even something completely contemporary.… and the challenge is you might not know exactly which style they’ve chosen.
So what do you wear to a barn wedding as a guest?
The first tip for any guest thinking about the best barn wedding attire is to look at your invitation.
Does it have a dress code? Does it say ‘black tie’ or ‘elegant ball’ or any other major giveaways like that?
Don’t assume that because the wedding is at a farm with stables, livestock and hay bales that it will be a casual affair. Barn weddings can be just as dressy and formal as any other.
You can also look at the style of the stationery and the theme for the wedding. If it’s a beach vibe theme, don’t turn up in a flowing gown or a morning suit. If it’s a rustic-themed wedding, then countryside chic is in.
Take a look at the venue’s website or Instagram too, as this will give you an idea of how guests dress for a barn wedding there.
Next, think about the time of year. The season (and the weather) is a key factor in your barn or farm wedding attire.
For spring barn weddings, women might opt for floral dresses with a light cardigan, shawl or pashmina, while men might choose a lightweight tweed or a smart blazer that can be removed if the day warms up.
In summer, aim for breathable fabrics – linen suits or waistcoats work brilliantly for men, while women might pick a flowing sundress in a lighter pastel colour.
If it’s an autumn barn wedding, think rich, warm colours that echo the changing countryside, perhaps with velvet touches and heavier fabrics and deeper tones work beautifully. Maybe a forest green or burnt orange dress, or a tweed suit?
Winter is all about layers. Long-sleeved dresses keep arms warm, or you could add a faux fur stole for both warmth and style. Full suits in heavier fabrics, perhaps with a waistcoat, are a good choice for men.
Bohemian vibes and barn weddings tend to go hand in hand, so if you’re still not sure on the style for your dress or suit, try out this look.
Think maxi dresses with floral prints or embroidered details, perhaps featuring bell sleeves or layered tiers that create movement. Pair it with natural accessories like wooden jewellery or items featuring semi-precious stones.
For the relaxed casual suit attire, linen shirts (perhaps with subtle embroidery or textured details) paired with chinos or tailored trousers give a smart yet bohemian look. Waistcoats without jackets are popular too.
The key to bohemian styling is to embrace natural textures and materials – cotton, linen, suede and natural fabrics that are right at home in a barn setting.
If the ‘boho’ style isn’t your thing, don’t worry, modern barn wedding attire often blends traditional elements with a contemporary look.
This might mean a midi-length dress with modern cuts or asymmetric hemlines in traditional floral prints, or jumpsuits that offer both comfort and style.
Men might consider tweed or herringbone details that nod to countryside tradition, but in more fitted, contemporary cuts. Think tailored waistcoats with contrasting back panels or modern slim-fit trousers paired with traditional materials.
Accessories make all the difference here – a modern version of classic pieces like pocket watches, brooches, or patterned pocket squares can elevate a simple outfit to perfectly fit a modern barn celebration.
Colour choice can be tricky for any wedding, so take your inspiration from both the season (see above) and the setting.
For a barn wedding, wear neutral tones like champagne, sage green, dusty blue, and soft beige that complement the natural countryside scene without competing with the venue (or the special couple!)
In spring and summer, lighter pastels and soft floral tones work beautifully, while autumn and winter call for deeper, richer hues like forest green, burgundy, navy and mustard.
That said, sometimes bright bold colours will go down beautifully, perfectly contrasting a blue sky and green hills.
Farm wedding attire doesn’t necessarily mean wellies. Although sometimes it might! It all depends on where the barn wedding takes place. Check that invite.
While Heaton House Farm has easy access for every guest throughout – including gorgeous patios and walkways around the venue – other barn wedding venues might feature more challenging terrain, like gravel paths, grassy areas or even muddy fields.
Think carefully about what’s on your feet. Block heels or wedges give you stability without sacrificing elegance, while sophisticated sandals with lower heels work well in summer. Ankle boots are great for cooler months – if they work with your dress, and flats are always a comfortable practical choice for any barn wedding.
Shoes are less of a challenge for men. Brogues or Oxfords work well all year, whatever the season, while smart loafers without socks are popular in summer.
If access to the venue is across muddy terrain… bring some wellies!
Hats and fascinators are a beloved tradition at British weddings, and barn celebrations are no different. Of course, you’ll want to make certain the style suits the surroundings (and the season).
Spring or summer barn weddings are perfect for wide-brimmed hats that offer both style and sun protection. Alternatively, smaller fascinators or decorated headbands provide a festive touch without overwhelming your outfit. In autumn and winter, felt hats in deeper tones complement seasonal outfits beautifully.
Flat caps or Panama hats are rising in popularity for men at barn weddings, but as they are a bit of a feature piece, they’re often the choice of the groom and his ushers. Take care not to outdress them!
For a foolproof approach to barn wedding attire, you can’t go wrong with smart-casual elegance that respects both the occasion and the setting.
Think timeless, elegant and in keeping with either a whimsical boho theme, a modern rustic vibe, or a traditional countryside celebration – midi or maxi dresses in flowing fabrics with floral or nature-inspired prints for women, and a lightweight suit (not too dark in colour) with an open collar shirt or waistcoat.
It’s formal and appropriate, yet relaxing and chic – the perfect outfit for a barn wedding.
Layering is absolutely essential when attending a barn wedding in England, regardless of season. There’s always the chance for rain, and many old barns can be draughty.
Even at beautifully converted barns like those at Heaton House Farm – with its luxurious underfloor heating – layers are a great idea if you want to step outside onto the patio in autumn or snuggle up by some hay bales in winter.
Think smart with your layering, by adding a stylish jacket, wrap or cardigan to your outfit. It’ll keep you comfortable from the ceremony areas through to evening dancing and make sure you’re always perfectly dressed for a barn wedding.
You might even find the wedding couple has provided blankets and shawls to keep guests warm, when they’re planning the perfect barn wedding.
Ultimately, when you’re wondering what to wear to a barn wedding, remember two things.
Firstly, it’s a wedding – don’t overthink it. A floral midi or maxi dress and an accessorising shawl will look great and fit with almost any theme. For the men, a lightweight suit – and/or waistcoat depending on the season, is spot on.
Secondly, as barn weddings tend to be less formal, more relaxed and more boho-chic – feel free to express yourself and wear what feels comfortable. As long as you’re not wearing white or red, you’ll fit right in with the stunning surroundings.
The relaxed style and atmosphere are just two of the reasons why barn weddings are so popular.
Planning your own? Alongside plans for your own attire, you’ll want to make sure you’ve found the perfect barn. Request a brochure today to see how Heaton House Farm can bring all your dreams to life.
