Whether you're dreaming of a breezy beach ceremony, a romantic garden party, or a breathtaking mountain view, getting married outdoors is a beautiful way to say "I do." We're so glad you're here, and we're thrilled to help you find the perfect dress for your special day.
Choosing your wedding dress is one of the most magical parts of wedding planning. When your venue is the great outdoors, there are a few extra things to consider to make sure you feel comfortable, confident, and absolutely stunning. This outdoor wedding dress guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the best fabrics to the most practical styles, so you can find the dress that’s truly meant for you. Let's make this a fun and stress-free experience!
Understanding Your Outdoor Venue
The first step in our outdoor wedding dress guide is thinking about your venue. Each type of outdoor setting has its own unique charm and challenges. Understanding these will help you narrow down your dress options and make a choice you’ll love.
Beach Weddings
A beach wedding is all about that relaxed, romantic vibe. The sound of the waves, the sand between your toes—it's pure magic.
- Challenges: Sand, wind, and heat can be tricky. A heavy ball gown might feel too hot, and sand can get caught in delicate fabrics.
- Opportunities: This setting is perfect for lightweight, flowy dresses that move beautifully in the ocean breeze. Think casual elegance and effortless style.
Garden Weddings
Gardens offer a lush, romantic backdrop with vibrant flowers and greenery. It feels like a real-life fairytale!
- Challenges: You might be walking on grass, so a super long train could pick up dirt and twigs. Depending on the time of year, bugs could also be a factor.
- Opportunities: A garden setting is incredibly versatile. You can go for something classic and romantic or a bit more whimsical and bohemian. Floral lace and delicate details look stunning against a natural backdrop.
Mountain Weddings
Getting married in the mountains means epic views and a sense of adventure. It's a breathtaking choice for couples who love the outdoors.
- Challenges: The weather can be unpredictable, and temperatures can change quickly. The terrain might also be uneven or rocky.
- Opportunities: This dramatic setting calls for a dress that makes a statement but is still practical. You have the chance to play with layers, like a beautiful cape or a cozy bolero.
Choosing the Best Fabrics and Materials
The fabric of your dress is so important for an outdoor wedding. You want something that not only looks amazing but also feels comfortable in your chosen setting. Here are some of our favorite fabrics for outdoor weddings:
- Chiffon: This fabric is light, airy, and drapes beautifully. It’s perfect for a beach or summer garden wedding because it moves with the wind and won't make you feel overheated.
- Organza: Light and crisp, organza adds structure without being heavy. It’s a great choice if you want a bit of volume in your skirt but still need to stay cool. It has a lovely ethereal quality that’s perfect for a garden setting.
- Lace: A timeless classic, lace comes in many different styles. For an outdoor wedding, look for lighter versions like Chantilly or Alençon lace. Floral or vine-patterned lace can beautifully echo the natural surroundings of a garden or forest wedding.
- Tulle: Soft and delicate, tulle is wonderful for creating a romantic, dreamy look. It's incredibly lightweight, making it easy to move in, which is ideal for any outdoor venue.
We recommend avoiding heavy fabrics like satin or velvet unless you're planning a winter mountain wedding. These materials can be too warm and restrictive for most outdoor settings.
Flattering Silhouettes and Styles
Now for the fun part—exploring different dress styles! For an outdoor wedding, you’ll want a silhouette that allows you to move freely and comfortably.
A-Line
This is a universally flattering style that’s fitted at the bodice and flares out from the waist, forming an "A" shape. It’s a fantastic choice because it’s elegant but not restrictive. You can easily walk, dance, and mingle with your guests without feeling weighed down. An A-line dress works beautifully in any outdoor setting, from a garden to a mountain top.
Empire Waist
An empire waist dress has a high waistline that sits just below the bust, with a skirt that flows loosely from there. This style is incredibly comfortable and has a romantic, bohemian feel. It’s perfect for a beach wedding, as the flowy skirt will catch the breeze beautifully. Plus, it’s a great option if you’re concerned about staying cool.
Sheath
A sheath dress follows your body’s natural shape without being too tight. It’s a sleek and modern option that’s very easy to move in. This style is wonderful for a more casual outdoor wedding, like a simple beach ceremony or a chic backyard gathering. It’s understated elegance at its best.
Practical Things to Consider
When you're caught up in the magic of finding "the one," it's easy to forget about the practical details. But for an outdoor wedding, these little things can make a big difference in your comfort and enjoyment.
- Train Length: A long, dramatic train can be stunning, but it might not be the most practical choice for an outdoor venue. It can easily get dirty or snag on uneven ground. Consider a shorter sweep train or a dress with a bustle so you can lift the train up for the reception.
- Ease of Movement: You’ll be walking, dancing, and hugging your loved ones all day. Make sure your dress allows you to move with ease. When you’re trying on dresses, practice walking, sitting, and even doing a little twirl to see how it feels.
- Weather: Think about the typical weather for your wedding location and season. If it might be chilly, consider a dress with long sleeves or plan to have a stylish cover-up, like a chic jacket, a cozy shawl, or a romantic cape.
Accessorizing for the Outdoors
Accessories are the perfect way to complete your bridal look and add a personal touch. For an outdoor wedding, choose accessories that are both beautiful and practical.
- Footwear: Heels can sink into grass or sand, so think about alternatives. Wedges, block heels, or elegant flat sandals are all great options. You could even go barefoot for a beach ceremony and slip on some pretty foot jewelry!
- Headpieces: A long, flowing veil can be tricky in the wind. A shorter veil, a floral crown, a jeweled headband, or elegant hairpins are all wonderful alternatives that will stay in place and complement an outdoor setting.
- Jewelry: Keep your jewelry in theme with your dress and venue. For a beach wedding, you might choose pieces with pearls or subtle nautical touches. For a garden wedding, delicate floral-inspired jewelry would be perfect.
Find Your Dream Dress With Us
Choosing a dress for your outdoor wedding is an exciting journey, and we hope this outdoor wedding dress guide has made it feel a little less overwhelming. By considering your venue, choosing the right fabric and silhouette, and thinking about the practical details, you can find a dress that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
Remember, the most important thing is that you feel beautiful and comfortable on your big day. This is your moment, and your dress should reflect your unique style and personality.
Ready to find the dress of your dreams? At Belle Amour Bridal, we’re so excited to help you every step of the way! Our collection of gorgeous wedding dresses is perfect for any outdoor setting, and our expert stylists can't wait to make your experience magical. Book your appointment today and let’s find "the one" together.