Do you find yourself planning a wedding or elopement with everything pretty much under control but left wondering what type of dress to wear or where to find it? Perhaps you’re not a *girl’s girl* and wearing a dress on your wedding or elopement day is kinda freaking you out. Maybe you’re more into jumpsuits? Or something not white but bright & colourful. Whether you fancy a big dreamy princess dress or something a little more casual boho chic – don’t worry, I got you covered! Here are my top tips on elopement wedding dresses – how to pick the one that’s perfect for you!
Let me just start off by saying this next bit first though, it’s pretty important! Whatever elopement wedding dress style you’ll end up wearing, one thing’s for sure: you’re going to look absolutely freaking amazing, so remember that!!
Top tips for picking your wedding elopement dress
Decide on your activities and location
If you’re planning a proper elopement adventure that involves some hiking, kayaking or rough terrains – pick a dress that is on the lightweight side and made from materials that move well. I would avoid corsets to be honest. They may look great but are pretty restrictive when it comes to breathing freely (which is kinda a must if you’d like to go hiking on your elopement day). Avoid carrying lots of accessories or heavy dresses as this can turn into a bit of a pain (literally and figuratively). So go for light materials such as chiffon instead. They also dry much quicker should the weather decide to turn.
Think about the weather
If you’re dreaming about how to elope in Wales, remember to plan for all weather eventualities. Things can go from sunny to wet’n windy in a matter of minutes!
Considering an elopement in the snow? Add wooly layers like a shawl or cape. They look great on pictures and keep you warm and cozy. Don’t forget – even warm locations can get pretty chilly during sunrise or sunset and these are the best times for taking awesome pictures. Having layers that you don’t mind seeing in your pictures is a must. And it’s also a great way to work some of your own personality into your wedding day outfits.
Wedding Elopement dresses you can hike in
If you’ve always dreamt of wearing a big princess dress or ballgown – now’s the time to go all out! Fairytale wedding dresses are absolutely perfect for the great outdoors! They look dreamy and can also add a little drama to your pictures. The fabric on these big dresses is usually pretty loose making it easy to move around. My top tip for one of these would be: if you’re worried about trashing an expensive dress, don’t miss out! Just opt for a more affordable option instead!
What to wear elopement wedding
Fishtail dresses are fitted and accentuate curves in all the right places. They are usually quite tight which can make it harder to adventure around in. But they do look absolutely sensational in the mountains! My top tip: pick one that starts flaring out above the knee rather than below it for less restrictive movement. Add accessories like a veil for added visual impact.
Casual Wedding Elopement Dresses
If you’re a *less is more* kinda girl and fancy a bit of understated elegance or if you just don’t want a massive big dress, a casual wedding and elopement dress could be the right choice for you. This is the type of dress you could wear again and again once your wedding is over. And I guarantee it will make you feel super relaxed on your wedding or elopement day! Perfect for capturing lush mountain portraits.
Colourful wedding elopement dresses
Whether you want to stay away from traditions or if you just love a pop of colour, colourful wedding and elopement dresses always bring a smile to my face! There’s something quite romantic and unique and *I totally know what I want* about them, right?! Think about what the scenery will look like in your chosen wedding or elopement setting and choose colours that contrast nicely or stick with a neutral colour palette.
Bridal Separates
I’m a massive fan of bridal separates!! Picking a high impact skirt made of soft tulle in super romantic nude colours dressed up with a simple or lace top is an absolute dream, right?! Pick a skirt with lots of movement and a short or long train for super romantic pictures. Perfect for those who hate fast fashion and intend to wear their separates again and again.
Boho Elopement Wedding dresses
Boho dresses are effortless and perfect for super relaxed brides who are bringing their outlook on life to the table with easy-to-wear fabrics, beautiful laces, organic beaded patterns, and simple & uncomplicated silhouettes. Look out for fabrics that are easy to move around in and reflect the elements of nature. Style it out with beautiful flower crowns or use them to accentuate your stunning body art.
Beach Wedding Elopement Dresses
Planning on getting married or eloping on a beach? You may want to look into an elegant boho dress made from a fabric that will flow beautifully with the wind and the waves of the sea. It’s very likely that your dress will get wet and sandy, so choose fabrics like silk, polyester, and chiffon as the sand won’t stick to it. Also prepare for finding sand in your dress, shoes, hair, ears for weeks to come…
Hiking boots for brides
To protect your feet and stay safe on the hills consider wearing comfortable hiking boots that have a good grip, keep your feet dry and are light enough so that you can walk easily. Hiking boots look pretty badass on pictures and are equally easily concealed with long dresses. If you have your heart set on heels – take them with you and quickly change in and out of them for a few pics on location.
Keep the right boots in mind for the guys, too. Smooth, slippy soles are a definite no-no for hiking elopements and safety is definitely top priority here.
Where to shop Elopement Wedding Dresses
Needle & Thread London – romantic designs for brides who want ultimate elegance and individuality. Embellished wedding dresses, embroidered bridal gowns, dotted bridal skirts and more.
The Vampire’s Wife – timeless & iconic dresses & accessories, as seen on Killing Eve.
BelleandKai on Etsy – Boho chic vintage inspired dresses
Monsoon – modern intricate details, beautifully-crafted pieces.
Dana Bolton – Boho, ethereal, romantic wedding dresses
Wilderly Bride – soft lacework alongside textural details and unique statement sleeves.
E & W Couture – sparkle, lace, simplicity & unicorns
Lucy Can’t Dance – quirky wedding dresses for non-traditional brides. Alternative, boho, vintage, festival, splashes of colour, beautiful lace, amazing backs, buttons and intricate details.
Rolling in Roses – sustainable wedding dresses for the fashion-forward bride looking for a cool, comfortable alternative to the norm.
Belle & Bunty – contemporary silhouettes, feminine details and luxurious fabrics to create dresses for the modern bride wanting something paired back, very elegant and just a bit cool.
Stillwhite.com – preloved dresses
Elopement wedding dresses – how to pick one that’s perfect for you
You’ll feel beautiful and confident when you’re comfortable and so choosing a dress that’ll help you have the best wedding day ever is super important.
So there we have it, my top tips on elopement wedding dresses – how to pick one that’s perfect for you. I would be happy as Larry to help you plan your perfect elopement day! Whether it’s finding your perfect dress, choosing an epic location, suggesting ways to involve your friends and family on the day, or documenting your beautiful wedding day in all its glory, I’m here to help – get in touch! Currently downsizing to a smaller wedding? Read 6 things you need to know about planning a small wedding.
You may also enjoy:
- Modern Wedding Photography at Hafod Farm
- Enchanting winter micro wedding at Penarth Fawr
- A twinkly autumn wedding at Treberfydd House
- How much does an elopement cost in the UK? Understanding the real cost of eloping in 2024.
- Spring elopement and a Rolling in Roses wedding dress on the Llyn Peninsula
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