What to Wear to a Wedding in Mexico

Put on your best dancing shoes because it’s time to dance the money dance! Not all Mexican weddings are traditional ceremonies, but they are all fun, happy, lively events. But to ensure you’ll have a good time, you must dress your best while taking stock of the traditions and customs that will be in play.

Many Mexicans who want to get married choose to do so in a Catholic ceremony. Knowing the various components of a Catholic Mexican wedding and the subsequent reception is useful. Most of these weddings have themes, but it also doesn’t hurt to push the envelope a bit as long as you aren’t stealing the show from the main parties. Here are some outfits you might want to consider depending on your role at the wedding.

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The Bride

As a bride, you can wear the traditional decorated huipil dress. The dress not only ties you to the native people of Mexico but also gives you a touch of class. You can have your dress made by hand with colorful beading and shades inspired by ancient Mexican attire. Although the huipil is usually considered a piece of clothing worn daily, the more artful and ornate versions are usually saved for ceremonies.

Ensure the dress goes with the general theme. Since Mexico is a fantastic place for casual weddings, you are free to look around for venues that match the vibe you want. If you have to have your wedding on the beach, you can wear a simple, comfortable Mexican coastal bridal gown. If you want to try something new, a halter, sleeveless, or strapless neckline looks great. A-line and sheath shapes work well for more casual themes and give you a bridal look.

You could also try gowns with an elevated hemline. Classical wedding gowns are best for weddings in historical places. The ornate but understated accessories will look in these grand venues, and the veil adds a simple but elegant touch to your look.

Some classic Mexican wedding dresses also show the influence of Spain. There are dresses in the styles of flamenco or salsa and dresses with layered lace that look great with a bolero and a mantilla veil for a lavish wedding. Accessories are also crucial, so don’t forget them. You can wear gemstones and beadwork that are just as vibrant as your dress and draw attention to yourself.

The Bridegroom

A groom has a lot of choices for a Mexican wedding day. In the past, a white shirt with embroidery and black linen pants were a classy choice. But you might fancy a more modern look. In that case, a good choice is a black suit or tuxedo. The most common choice, the guayabera, has been around for 200 years.

The guayabera is made of white linen and has at least three linear panels with cultural design features. A guayabera is different from other linen shirts because it has four front pockets and two pleats or embroidery that run down the middle. A black bolero and cowboy boots are also common for a groom. This outfit is particularly great for grooms who want to add some flair to their wedding, as it’s a fitting companion to a dazzling dress.

But grooms can also get away with wearing a classic black suit. However, it can get hot in Mexico, so choosing a light, airy fabric is best. With such fabric, you’ll be fine during the ceremony, even in sweltering temperatures.

Also, you may want to think about lighter colors. Many grooms wear white chinos or another light-colored suit to their wedding. This attire looks fantastic on the beach, against the ocean, and great on camera. You want your event to be as memorable as possible, so choose what to wear while considering your personal preferences and your wedding’s theme.

The Guests

If there was ever a place to dress up, it’s at a Mexican wedding. Mexicans, in general, are quite open with fashion, so being a guest at a Mexican wedding allows you to show off your style. Unless there is a specific dress code, you can be yourself.

However, since most Mexican weddings occur in churches, you must wear outfits suitable for the Christian community. If you’re in a dress, make sure it covers your shoulders. You can bring a wrap dress, silk scarf, or overcoat to lace it up.

Most of the time, for men, a suit or khaki pants with a necked tie and shirt is a safe choice. If you’re not sure what to wear, check the invitation; there will always be instructions on what to wear. The reception at a Mexican wedding is usually less formal. So, you don’t have to be as attired for the party after the ceremony. Some people may wear guayaberas, but others may dress more casually.

You can choose the simplistic huipil styles of soft fabric and beautiful floral designs. Huipil designs can also have pictures of saints, gods, and animals that have a lot of meaning in Mexican mythology. With this outfit, you will not only stand out, but you will also stay true to the culture of Mexico. You can also choose a symbolic version of Zinacantán, which stays in line with the pre-Hispanic featherwork by stitching colorful chicken feathers into the design.

Final Thoughts

Mexican weddings are amazing, steeped in tradition and joy. Even though the clothes you can wear to a wedding have much to do with culture, modesty still comes first. Traditional and old clothes with Spanish influences are often worn at Mexican weddings. But you can look right at home with a modern look that has a touch of style and elegance. 

Since Mexican weddings often occur in churches, guests should dress formally and modestly. Always check the dress code and theme, just like you would for any other wedding, to make it easier to choose what to wear.