So, you just got invited to a ranch wedding…and now you’re spiraling. But what does that mean, exactly? Are you supposed to wear cowboy boots? Is a maxi dress too casual? Will there be actual horses involved?! Before you go into full outfit panic mode, let’s talk about what to wear to a ranch wedding—because with the right outfit, this might just be your most Instagrammable wedding guest moment yet.

First, What Is a Ranch Wedding?

Picture it: wide-open fields, dusty paths, vintage barns, horseshoes, string lights, and just the right amount of country glam. Ranch weddings are trending hard in 2025, thanks to the Westerncore aesthetic, outdoor everything, and couples wanting weddings that feel less ballroom, more Yellowstone-meets-Pinterest.

These celebrations are usually outdoors (read: hot), on uneven terrain (RIP stilettos), and full of personality. So your look should feel breezy, a little bit country, a little bit cool—and very you.

Summer Ranch Wedding Guest Outfits

So now that you know where you’re going, let’s talk about what you’re wearing.

For the ladies:

• The Flowy Floral Dress: Always a classic. A floral midi or maxi dress in an earthy tone gives you that effortless cottagecore vibe that feels right on the ranch. Then, add western boots or block-heel sandals to really sell the look.
• Western, But Make It Fashion: Eyelet details, tiered skirts, puff sleeves, prairie prints—yes please. This is where western meets coquette. Finish with a cute straw bag and layered jewelry.
• Elevated Jumpsuits: You can be the coolest guest in a wide-leg jumpsuit. Add a belt (the bigger the buckle the better!), some chunky earrings, and heels you can walk in. Extra points if it’s in a trending color like butter yellow or soft terracotta.

For the fellas:

• Linen Button-Downs + Cool Chinos: Easy, breathable, and casual enough that he doesn’t feel stifled (no boyfriends complaining all night long about their bow tie? Score!). Skip the suit unless the invite explicitly says formal, and go for a pastel or neutral shirt with well-fitting chinos. Bonus points for a rolled sleeve moment!
• Subtle Western Touches: Not full rodeo, but a well-placed bolo tie, leather belt, or cowboy boots can level up your ranch-core without going full cosplay.
• Optional: Lightweight Vest or Jacket: If it’s an evening wedding or there’s a breeze, toss on an unstructured vest or sport coat in linen or light cotton—Perry Ellis is his new BFF.

For everyone else:

• Tailored Two-Pieces: A matching set—think wide-leg pants and a cropped or boxy button-up—can hit the sweet spot between laid-back and elevated. Bonus points for linen or breathable cotton in earthy tones or soft pastels.
• Structured Overalls or Coveralls (Yes, Really): For a fashion-forward twist, try a chore-style jumpsuit or chic overalls in a luxe fabric. Pair with statement boots or sleek sneakers and layer with a silky bandana or bolo tie for ranch realness.
• Dresses, Blazers, and Everything in Between: Don’t be afraid to mix silhouettes that reflect your personal style. A midi slip dress under an oversized blazer? A vest over a fitted tee with pleated trousers? It’s giving fashion guest goals.

Accessory PSA

• Shoes Matter: Think block heels, boots, or wedges. Avoid anything that sinks into dirt or gravel (looking at you, stilettos).
• Sun Protection = Hot Girl Essential: Wide-brim hat, statement sunnies, and SPF. You want to glow, not roast.
• Layer Up: Summer days can lead to chilly ranch nights. Bring a denim jacket, lightweight shawl, or that oversized boyfriend blazer you love.

What Not to Wear

❌ All-white anything (obviously)

❌ Black tie—unless it’s spelled out on the invite

❌ Sky-high heels 

❌ City-core vibes that don’t match the setting—this isn’t a rooftop in SoHo

Wrapping It Up (Like Your Favorite Fringe Shawl)

When it comes to what to wear to a ranch wedding, the goal is simple: stay cool, stay cute, and don’t fall in the mud. With trending styles like romantic floral dresses, playful prairie pieces, fashion-forward sets, and western accessories, you’ve got all the options to show up in a look that’s true to your personal style.

Trust us: with the right outfit, this wedding WILL be your main character moment.

Looking for more tips? Check out Pearl by David’s for all the latest trends, advice, and more.