Choosing the Right Wedding Dress for an Outdoor Wedding

When planning your dream wedding, there are some details that can make or break your big day. The location of the ceremony is one of the most important aspects, next to your dream wedding dress. Having an outdoor venue changes the wedding planning process, as you have to take into account the time of year for the weather as well as the terrain when you walk down the aisle. 

Picking out a wedding dress for an outdoor wedding looks different from selecting a gown for an indoor venue, as you have more factors to consider. Below is a breakdown of key aspects to think about as you begin the process of choosing your dream outdoor wedding dress. 

Location can play a big part as you begin picking out your dream wedding dress. Your beautiful setting may contain different types of terrain or a rocky surface, making walking down the aisle in a longer gown with a cathedral-length train slightly more difficult. Below are some of the most popular outdoor venues, with a brief overview of which designs best suit each one.

A garden setting can allow you more freedom when selecting your wedding dress for the outdoors. Depending on the type of garden you choose, you may walk down a well-structured path surrounded by trimmed bushes and gorgeous flowers overhead. Lightweight, airy skirts can capture a romantic look as you glide towards the altar. To match the breathtaking atmosphere, consider picking out a lace wedding dress with floral motifs reminiscent of the natural setting surrounding you.  

Slip on a gown with a corset, with intricate detailing and a boning structure that gently contrasts with the plain white skirt. Or, for brides wanting to capture a fairytale-like feel, decide on a tulle garden wedding dress with lace lining the bodice, the hips, and the edge of the skirt. Accessorize with a dramatic floral headpiece to create an unforgettable look and perfect photo opportunity.

Mountainous venues can provide a stunning backdrop, as the large rocky formation beautifully frames your wedding ceremony. Though the setting ensures a memorable event, some mountain weddings may consist of more rugged terrain or forest paths with scattered pine trees. A simple wedding dress for outdoor weddings in elegant silk or in a heavier material ensures optimal comfort and a luxurious look when celebrating. 

Opt for a voluminous nature wedding dress in a ball gown style that stands out from the looming giants as you exchange vows. For more adventurous brides hoping for a remote mountain ceremony, slip on a sheath design with a pair of more comfortable yet elegant shoes that allow you to walk down the aisle with graceful ease.  

Celebrate your special day in an elegant beach wedding dress in an airy fabric that gently blows in the breeze for a stunning effect. Slip on a mermaid wedding dress in tulle for a sensual design that showcases your feminine curves while remaining lightweight. For a Bohemian feel, pick out an A-line designer beach wedding dress with an empire waist and long sleeves with lace detailing. 

For those hoping to celebrate in a remote, private setting next to an ocean, accessorize your destination wedding dress with luxurious, minimalist jewelry. Opt for more comfortable shoes for your ceremony, or embrace the laid-back atmosphere of the seaside setting by walking barefoot down the sandy aisle. 

The weather at your outdoor wedding ceremony will also affect how you pick out your dress or accessorize it. If you’re planning summer celebrations, there’s a chance of high temperatures and peak sun in most locations, whereas winter risks snowy storms. Though you don’t necessarily need to sacrifice your dream bridal gown to ensure luxurious yet fitting attire, there may be some extra accessories needed or minor adjustments for enhanced comfort throughout your special day.

A floor-length gown with refined cap sleeves as a spring outdoor wedding dress exudes timeless elegance. The cut of the sleeves ensure slightly more coverage and pairs well with long satin gloves, striking the perfect balance for mid-season temperatures. Slip them on after exchanging vows if your ceremony is midday, and consider adding a lightweight bridal cape as the sun goes down.  

June is one of the best months to get married and the beginning of the warmer season as the spring showers subside. Summer outdoor wedding dresses should be lightweight to ensure optimal breathability and minimal discomfort. Pick out a dreamy strapless gown or a premium silk design with spaghetti straps to capture a graceful look. Planning on an outdoor sunset ceremony? Add a jeweled collar that gently reflects the colorful light for an ethereal effect.

Depending on the month, fall ceremonies in nature can also bring slightly chillier temperatures for some settings. If you want to exchange your vows in a mountain backdrop with stunning fall colors, choose a fall outdoor wedding dress with three-quarter-inch sleeves for slightly more coverage and a refined, elegant look. Incorporate accessories that match the rich hues of the season, adding in drop earrings to coordinate with the burgundy bridesmaid dresses of your bridal party.  

Unless you’re planning a tropical destination wedding, natural venues during winter will most likely bring the coldest temperatures. Embrace the snowy, wonderland feel by selecting on a winter outdoor wedding dress with long sleeves and a higher neckline. Complement your gown’s sophisticated profile with white furs or a luxuriously detailed bridal cape.

Planning an outdoor wedding ceremony can be exciting as you browse the different locations. Whether your vision is to exchange your vows on a sandy beach or surrounded by snowy giants, choosing a wedding dress for outdoor weddings can require more consideration. 

Though you don’t have to change your bridal gown completely to suit your celebrations, making minor adjustments or accessorizing according to the landscape and the season can ensure your luxurious wedding attire guarantees the utmost comfort. With our comprehensive guide in mind, you can begin the hunt for the best outdoor wedding dress for your stunning ceremony, assured you’ll find the perfect gown for your special day.