The beach is the dream venue for many brides due to its peaceful and romantic allure. As you say your vows, gentle waves will crash at the shore, creating a subtle ambience. At sunset, the setting becomes even more beautiful as the sun sits low on the horizon and beams dance on the waves.
A beautiful venue calls for a stunning gown, one that not only complements the natural beauty of the water but also reflects every bride’s unique style and personality. After all, the perfect dress is the centerpiece of a day filled with unforgettable memories. Here are some tips for choosing the perfect wedding dress for your seaside ceremony.
GET SOME INSPIRATION
The hunt for a wedding gown typically begins with thorough preparation. Think about which styles you like, if you want to accentuate areas of your body, and what would feel right at a beach. Consider getting your initial inspiration from social media platforms like Pinterest or Instagram, then start browsing bridal designers to find specific gowns you want to try on.
You can also get inspiration from galleries of real-life beach weddings as you look for a venue. Photos of actual ceremonies provide valuable insights into how different dress types handle natural elements like wind and sunlight. You’ll see how varying fabric choices and silhouettes come to life when paired with a coastline backdrop.
BRIDAL TIP
Bring any pictures of your venue to your bridal dress appointments. Your consultant can help you find gowns that complement the scene.
INSPECT FABRIC TYPES
Fabric impacts the way your dress looks and feels. Lightweight and airy materials, such as chiffon and organza, are highly recommended, as they move beautifully in the ocean breeze and keep you comfortable in warm climates. Other fabrics to consider include:
LACE
Romantic and practical, offering detailing that feels delicate yet sophisticated
TULLE
Soft and dreamy, making it perfect for creating a whimsical, floaty effect
CREPE
Smooth, lightweight, and has a subtle stretch, making it easy to move.
GEORGETTE
Slightly textured, lightweight fabric that’s flowy and slightly sheer
Unless you get married on a beach that’s in a northern region or during a colder season, heavy materials, such as velvet, taffeta, and brocade, aren’t recommended, as you may overheat.
COMPARE DRESS SILHOUETTES
Every bride has her taste when it comes to silhouettes, but for beach weddings, certain styles stand out for their practicality and elegance. Some of the best silhouettes for seaside ceremonies include:
SHEATH
This style is made to fit closely against the body and then fall straight down from the hips. It’s simple and elegant, making it a great choice for beach weddings. Many brides love it for beach weddings because it’s lightweight and doesn’t require multiple layers of fabric.
A-LINE
Similar to the sheath dress, an A-line silhouette has a fitted bodice that flares out slightly at the waist to create an “A” shape. This allows for easy movement while maintaining a flattering shape.
Bridal Tip: An A-line dress is ideal if you want something similar to a ballgown without all the body. Plus, you can add a petticoat if you want some poof and volume at the reception.
TEA-LENGTH
A tea-length dress is perfect for a bride who wants a gown that’s formal with a touch of fun and flirty energy. On a tea-length dress, the skirt falls between the knee and ankle, making it a versatile option for both petite and taller brides.
MERMAID
The mermaid silhouette is another perfect option for seaside weddings, and not just because of the nautical name! This type of dress hugs your curves in all the right places and flares at the bottom, resembling a mermaid’s tail.
LOOK AT THE SMALL DETAILS
When it comes to choosing the perfect wedding dress for your seaside ceremony, you should also consider the minor details. After all, it’s often the little things that ensure your gown perfectly fits your sense of style. Consider areas such as the train and sleeve style to decide what you like best on your body.
TRAIN LENGTHS
The length of the train doesn’t significantly impact the fit, but it does add a touch of elegance to your look. Decide whether you want a sweep, chapel or cathedral train. A cathedral train is the longest and most formal, while a sweep train ends at ankle length, making it easier to move around in. Most brides with beach venues opt for shorter trains, such as a sweep or chapel, since they’re more practical for a sandy, outdoor setting. The last thing you want is your train dragging through the sand and getting dirty.
SLEEVE STYLES
Sleeves can add an element of grace and modesty to your dress. Consider if you prefer cap sleeves, long sleeves, straps, or nothing at all. If you get married at a beach that’s usually breezy, you may want a gown with bell sleeves for a bit of coverage. Alternatively, flutter sleeves can provide a soft, romantic look while remaining lightweight and airy, making them perfect for a beach wedding.
CONSIDER THE SEASON
When we think of the beach, most of us associate it with warm weather, but this isn’t always the case. In the summer, beaches in southern states often feel too warm, as temperatures can exceed 90 degrees. On the other hand, beaches near lakes, such as those by Lake Michigan, may be chilly in the spring or fall.
Knowing the season you’ll get married in and how it affects your chosen beach impacts the fabric you’ll want and whether you want a dress with sleeves. For example, if you tie the knot during spring on Mackinac Island, Michigan, you might want a dress with three-quarter-length sleeves to keep the chill away. On the other hand, you may want a sleeveless chiffon dress for a beach wedding during the summer in Key West, Florida.
EVALUATE PRACTICALITY
Your dress should allow for smooth movement across the sand and ensure comfort as you stand, dance, and celebrate. Dresses with stiff corsets or heavy layers can restrict movement and diminish your overall enjoyment. For windy conditions, prioritize gowns designed to minimize excessive lifting or oversized layers that can be difficult to manage.
TALK TO YOUR BRIDAL CONSULTANT
When you go to your dress fitting, talk to the bridal consultant about what you want in a dress and the venue. As an industry expert, they can guide you towards the best dress options that fit your wedding vision. They may also suggest style tweaks or accessories that can help make the dress more comfortable and suitable for outdoor weddings.
START DRESS SHOPPING
Your seaside wedding is a chance to celebrate love amidst the beauty of nature, and your dress should reflect that effortless charm. Justin Alexander’s collection of Lillian West wedding gowns is perfect for your coastal wedding! Each gown embodies a spirit of romance and freedom, making it ideal for your dream seaside wedding. Explore the collection and find the dress that’s as unforgettable as your love story.
