Among the more traditional British wedding venues, the manicured, topiary-lined lawns of a stately home often inspire the most formal dress codes of the season. Here, it’s safest to stick with maxi- and midi-length dresses – not only are they elegant, but they’ll be your most comfortable option on a warm summer’s day. Feminine prints from florals to polka dots will always look at home in a blooming garden, but if you prefer something simpler, you can draw from your surroundings in bright block colours or gentle pastel hues. Remember: a formal countryside wedding may also call for fabulous headwear, so be sure to think about matching millinery when choosing your dress. As for the shoes? Avoid anything too spindly as you’re likely to be outdoors – look to lawn-proof block heels to avoid a sinkage situation.

Brands to know: Zimmermann, Alessandra Rich, Emilia Wickstead, Erdem, Giambattista Valli, Mary Katrantzou, Roksanda

If you’re lucky enough to be jetting off for a ceremony on sandy shores, think comfort first. Lightweight, breathable fabrics – silks, cotton voiles, linens and even swimwear textures – will all fare well under scorching sun, while breezy maxi silhouettes and loose-fitting kaftans will offer a layer of protection both before and after sundown. If you see yourself venturing onto the sand, be sure to stick to flat sandals under foot, elevated with glittering embellishments and metallic finishes, or opt for a beach-proof espadrille wedge if you want some height. For the finishing touches, a little sparkle via your clutch bag or jewellery will elevate your ensemble for the occasion – and come into their own at golden hour.

Brands to know: Delos, Maygel Coronel, Pucci, Sir., Missoni

The most grand and glamorous of wedding dress codes, black tie usually denotes floor-length evening gowns, though cocktail dresses on the more formal side and elevated tailoring may also be appropriate. Accessorise to your heart’s content – evening shoes like high heels or formal flats, compact clutch bags and oodles of jewellery, from cocktail rings to chandelier earrings. When it comes to what not to wear for this opulent dress code, it can be tricky to know where to draw the line. It’s dress to impress, but you’re not there to upstage the happy couple, so steer clear of anything you feel might put you too much at the centre of attention – think overly embellished pieces, statement cut-outs or ball-gown silhouettes.

Brands to know: Maria Lucia Hohan, E.Stott, Huishan Zhang, Costarellos