What to Wear to an Arizona Wedding: A Guest’s Guide by Season and Venue

Getting dressed for an Arizona wedding takes a little more thought than usual. The temperature can swing 30 degrees between the afternoon ceremony and the end of the reception, many ceremonies are outdoors, and the ground might be grass, gravel or desert sand.

Start with the dress code

Check the invitation or wedding website for a dress code: black tie, formal, cocktail, semi-formal or casual. Then adjust the fabric and layers for the season and location. Many Arizona weddings use terms like desert formal or dressy casual, which usually means formal looks in lighter, breathable fabrics.

By season

• Fall and spring (low desert): warm afternoons and cool evenings. A dress or suit in a medium-weight fabric with a light wrap or jacket for after sunset works well.
• Winter (low desert): days in the 60s and nights that can dip into the 40s. Bring a coat, shawl or warm layer, especially for outdoor receptions.
• Summer (low desert): very hot even after dark. Choose linen, cotton, chiffon or other light fabrics, light colors, and skip heavy layers. Expect the reception to be indoors.
• High country (Flagstaff, White Mountains, Prescott): cooler year-round. Summer evenings can be chilly and winter can bring snow. Pack a warm layer no matter the month.

Shoes for desert venues

Stiletto heels sink into lawns and wobble on gravel and desert paths. Block heels, wedges, dressy flats or heel protectors are safer and more comfortable. Watch for uneven ground and cactus near paths, and consider bringing a second pair for dancing.

Sun and heat essentials

• Apply sunscreen before an outdoor ceremony, even in winter.
• Sunglasses are fine during an outdoor ceremony if the sun is in your eyes.
• A hat or parasol helps at daytime ceremonies; just keep it from blocking anyone’s view.
• Drink water throughout the day, especially if you are drinking alcohol.
• Carry blotting papers or a small fan.

For men

• Lighter colors such as tan, light gray and blue are common for warm-weather Arizona weddings.
• Linen or tropical wool suits breathe better than heavy wool.
• Follow the couple’s lead on jackets and ties. Many summer weddings say jackets are optional.

What not to wear

• White, ivory or anything that could look bridal, unless the couple asks for it.
• Very heavy fabrics in warm months.
• Brand-new shoes you have never walked in.

Traveling in for the wedding?

Arizona does not observe daylight saving time (except on the Navajo Nation), so the local time may differ from home by a different amount depending on the season. Double-check the ceremony time in local time. For more travel tips, see our guide to Arizona destination wedding travel, and for timing by season, see the best time to get married in Arizona.