What to wear at a beach wedding?

Dear Aunt Dandelion,

We are going to an island beach wedding. What is the proper attire for men, because of the heat, and the grandmother of the bride, since it will so humid and hot? The bride is formal, with no veil or train, and the wedding party is in the typical wedding attire with the men in suits.
-- Grandmother of the Bride.

 Aunt Dandelion replies:

The choice of a beach venue suggests that the couple desires an informal wedding -- otherwise, why choose a hot, sandy beach? Guests should be encouraged to wear outfits that are both weather- and occasion-appropriate.

• For men, a light-colored linen suit, or cotton or linen slacks and shirt (with or without a tie), are fitting. Leather sandals may be worn, to navigate through the sand.
• For women, a lightweight dress or sun dress (with an optional jacket, shawl, or wrap to prevent sunburn) is appropriate. Shoes or sandals with low heels are a wise fashion choice.  

For you, Grandmother of the Bride, Aunt Dandelion suggests the type of outfit that would be a smash at a garden party. Choose a lightweight suit or dress, either light-colored or in a tasteful pattern that borrows from nature (such as flowers or leaves); a hat that won't blow away in the wind; and strappy, low-heeled sandals, which will enable you to walk steadily on the sand.

Beach weddings can be color-coordinated, but Aunt Dandelion thinks it would be fun to see a riot of island colors in the guests' attire.

As long as no shorts, t-shirts, tube tops, sneakers, or flip flops show up, it should be a beautiful and carefree event.

Hats off!

Gentlemen, do you wear a hat wherever you go? Aunt Dandelion reminds you that the coolest fashion statement on the street is a faux pas (that’s French for “false step,” or mistake) indoors. In restaurants, homes, theaters, offices, and places of worship, all hats must be removed.

This goes for every type of common head wear* from ball caps to top hats. Especially ball caps — some wearers of these casual caps seem glued to them. But they must be removed as soon as you step through the door. If you are worried about hat hair, just step into the men’s room and use a comb to fluff up your hairstyle.

Where to hang your hat

Use a hat rack or check your hat with the coats, if possible. If you must carry your hat to the table in a restaurant, never, ever place it on the table! This is unsanitary and unsightly. You may place it on an empty seat if one is available. Otherwise, it will have to go on the floor. Place it upside-down in order to keep the inside of your hat clean. Don’t forget to take it with you when you leave.

* Exceptions are made for religious headwear. Consult your place of worship for appropriate guidelines.