Here’s How to Choose Your Perfect Destination Wedding Dress
Planning a wedding away from home is probably among the most thrilling and memorable experiences in life.
But when it comes to finding the perfect dress for the occasion, it’s not just about finding something beautiful — it’s about finding something that suits the venue, climate, and overall vibe of your ideal destination.
From breezy, beachy weddings to romantic mountain getaways, what you wear should reflect your personal style while also matching the ambience of your wedding venue.
This guide will help you through every style of destination wedding dress there is.
Destination Wedding Dress Guide: What Not to Pack
Your wedding destination is the first thing to consider when shopping for the perfect dress. If you’re getting married on a tropical beach, you’ll need something lightweight and breathable.
If you’re exchanging “I do’s” inside a historic European castle, you may go for something extravagant and dramatic.
Keep in mind the weather, terrain, and cultural context of your location when deciding.
Consider practical factors too, such as how easy it is to transport since many destination wedding dresses must be delicately packed or carried on a plane.
When you buy your dress, share the specific needs of your destination with your stylist.
Guide them on whether you’ll be walking on sand, dancing in an open-air venue or posing for photos in windy conditions.
They’ll help you discover a dress as functional as it is gorgeous.
Dress Styles for a Beach Wedding
The most popular destination nuptials choice is beach weddings. Lightweight fabrics such as chiffon, tulle or organza are perfect for this style of venue.
If you want a relaxed yet elegant look, a flowy A-line dress with a halter neckline can be a good option for all brides.
For a more bohemian-influenced look but still retains finding a comfortable lace detailing this should pair beautifully against the natural beauty of the beach.
For a more minimalist option, go for a sheath-style dress that follows your shape without restricting movement.
Use shorter trains or avoid a train altogether to prevent sand from dragging behind you. For warm climates, a strapless or off-the-shoulder neckline is especially effective.
Mountain and Forest Wedding Dresses
For examples, if your destination wedding is in the mountains or a lush forest, then your dress should mirror the ethereal, fairytale-like atmosphere of where you’re getting married.
A ball gown made of wispy layers of tulle can create a dreamy mood in front of towering trees or snow-capped mountain peaks.
Or an A-line gown embroidered with florals can work seamlessly with the venue’s natural elements.
For chillier climates, opt for long-sleeve dresses or capes for a bit of drama and warmth.
Fabrics such as velvet or heavier satin can give your look a rich feel while keeping you comfortable.
A deep V-neckline or open-back design can offset the heavier fabrics, adding a more modern touch.
Romantic Dresses for Historic Venues
Many historic venues, such as castles, mansions or vineyards, evoke a dress that’s grand and romantic.
For this kind of setting, you will want to wear a full-skirted ball gown with lace detailing or beaded embellishments.
For those looking to channel old-world luxury, lace sleeves and a high neckline add a regal touch.
A sleek mermaid gown with a dramatic train adds sophistication while remaining timeless for brides who want to feel a little more modern.
Satin and silk are excellent fabric options for historic venues;they photograph nicely and give a sense of opulence. Don’t forget the vintage-inspired jewelry to tie it all together.
Dresses for Urban Weddings With Minimalist Flair
When it comes to urban destination weddings — think of New York, Paris or Tokyo as a backdrop — sleek, modern designs often take charge.
A fitted sheath with clean lines and little decoration is an elegant option for city venues.
Look for dresses with asymmetrical necklines, dramatic slits or statement bows for added drama.
If you’re looking for something chic and contemporary, a jumpsuit or two-piece bridal outfit could also do the trick.
These picks would be chic for pounding the bricks of the city, navigating sidewalks and venues.
Style your minimalist gown with statement accessories such as metallic balls or abstract earrings for a modern twist.
Bright Dresses for Warmer Getaways
If your destination wedding takes place in a bright tropical destination, don’t shy away from color and bold prints.
Pastel colors or floral patterns dresses give an adorable summer touch to your look.
For brides looking for something more traditional, yet still appropriate for the tropics, a gown featuring a plunging neckline or a high-low hemline will allow you to add your signature flair.
Lightweight fabrics are essential for tropical weddings, so look for dresses in breathable fabrics like cotton lace or organza.
Open-back styles, spaghetti straps or slit skirts can ensure you stay cool while looking glamorous.
Accessorize with florals crowns or statement earrings for a ready-to-be-hitched look that will wow the guests.
Dresses for Desert Weddings
Dresses with a bohemian vibe are a natural match for desert weddings. And flowing skirts, lace details, and earthy tones can all tie in perfectly with the warm, sandy hues of the landscape.
With a high-neck gown and tiered skirt, you can create an attention-grabbing silhouette against the desert.
Sheer fabrics and illusion lace details are a great way to bring some lightness to your dress without sacrificing the drama.
Team your gown with statement boots or embellished sandals for a boho-meets-sophisticated look.
TIPS ON HOW TO TRAVEL WITH YOUR DRESS
But coming with your destination wedding dress is careful planning. In fact, the majority of brides still carry their dress on board as hand luggage, as is the fear of losing a piece or damaging it during the journey.
Get a good quality garment bag to tuck away your gown during transportation!
If you have an especially voluminous dress, try calling your airline ahead of time to check whether they can hang it up in a closet.
When you reach your destination, have your dress steamed by a professional to pull out any wrinkles from travel.
It’s also helpful to bring along a small emergency kit with safety pins or fabric tape and a needle and thread to remedy anything that might go wrong at the last minute.
The Importance of Comfort
So often, aesthetic takes priority when it comes to your destination wedding dress, but comfort should never be neglected.
You will be wearing your dress for hours, so be sure that the garment can comfortably allow you to move, dance and sit.
If you’re wearing a very fitted dress or one with a heavy train, practice walking in it ahead of time so you know how it feels.
Think about your venue logistics as well.
For instance, if you’re getting married on a yacht or by the water, you’ll likely want to stay away from dresses with long trains or heavy embellishments that might get damaged.
What to Know when Personalizing Your Destination Wedding Dress
The best way to tonar your destination wedding dress one of a kind is by personalizing it.
That might mean a detachable train, elements from your cultural heritage, or embroidery on your gown that reflects your wedding’s theme.
You can also play up your look with one-of-a-kind accessories or accessories, such as a veil, cape, or belt, which can take your outfit to the next level.
Your dress should ultimately represent your personality and the love story you’re celebrating.
From classic and timeless to fresh and bold, it’s all about what makes you feel most like yourself on your big day.
A destination wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and the gown that comes with it can do wonders to bring your magical front conqueror to life.
By taking into account your venue, climate and individual style, you’ll be able to find a gown that is as breathtaking as it is ready for the journey in front of you.
> Next: 11 Breathtaking Destination Wedding Dresses for Every Style
