I’d add that you’ll probably want to get a pedicure before the wedding, as you’ll likely be in bare feet for the beach part. Try a big hotel or almost any strip mall.
Well, I don’t think she meant that that is what is going to happen at the wedding (getting sand and saltwater on the dress). I took it as more of “that is the sort of image that you want to project with what you wear for ‘beach formal’.” Nice, floaty-ish, summery. I agree with vix on the overall style.
Here are general guidelines I’d offer:
- Lightweight fabric (linen, thin cotton, thin rayon, etc).
- Sleeveless or short sleeves
- Princess-seams or similar body-skimming style
- Knee-length or longer skirt
- Sandals
It’s probably a bit more float-y looking than you prefer, with your penchant for suits and similarly-tailored items, but it’s only one day. 