How to pick the perfect elopement dress | In The Alpenglow
Elopements are such a beautiful departure from a more traditional wedding — a choice to embrace spontaneity and the great outdoors. They give you the opportunity to craft a day that is uniquely YOU, and what better way to honor that by finding the perfect, one-of-a-kind dress? When thinking about a potential elopement dress, you’re not just choosing a gown; you’re picking an outfit to withstand the elements, provide comfort through any adventure, and reflect your unique style. And unlike a typical wedding dress, an elopement calls for a dress with lightweight fabric, ease of movement, and durability—especially if your plans include hiking or exploring more rugged terrains! Read on for my guide on how to say “yes” to the elopement dress of your dreams.
What to consider when picking your elopement dress:
+ Fabric
+ Color
+ Style
+ Weather
+ Activities
+ Brands
Fabric
The fabric you choose is so so important! It’s crucial to think through the weight, breathability, and how it drapes when ya move. Here are my recommendations:
- Chiffon: This lightweight, wrinkle-friendly fabric is breathable and allows for beautiful movement—perfect for capturing those dreamy, wind-blown moments. However, it can be fragile, so tread lightly on less-maintained trails.
- Tulle: This is also a great material if you’re wanting something lightweight and with minimal wrinkles. Tulle adds such a fun touch, especially when spinning or dancing among the beauty of nature! You will need to be a bit careful though if you’re in a place with branches or rough surfaces — it tends to snag!
- Satin: Oooh this is my fave. It has such a luxurious look and photographs beautifully — adding so much elegance to an elopement day. But keep in mind that it can wrinkle easily, so be prepared for some careful handling.
- Lace: Lace brings a really lovely texture to a dress — and I love the way it adds a more feminine look against a wild backdrop. It’s relatively wrinkle-resistant but is more delicate, so you’ll need to watch for snags!
- Polyester: If durability is your top priority, polyester is your fabric. It’s more wrinkle-friendly and can handle a bit of rough and tumble, but it CAN feel heavier than other options!
Color
A white dress is classic and elegant, but an elopement can lend itself to more creative options! An option with some color can beautifully reflect the landscape you’re exploring and reflect your unique personality! Here are a few of my favorite ways to incorporate color based on the location:
Desert Landscapes: Consider warm orange and pink hues that complement the sandy terrain.
Mountain and Forest Settings: Floral embroidered dresses are making a comeback (YAY) and resonate beautifully with the lush greenery.
Glacial Environments: Shades of blue can mirror the icy tones of your surroundings, creating stunning contrasts.
Style
Elegance is important, but comfort and mobility are definitely the priority for elopements. Tight-fitted gowns can be restrictive, so opt for styles that allow for free movement! A-line dresses are a versatile and flattering choice, offering both grace and comfort.
Weather
The climate at your elopement site can (and should) have a major impact on the dress fabric you choose. For colder environments, thicker fabrics will give you some warmth — think polyester or satin. And lighter fabrics are ideal for warmer climates, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable throughout the day — chiffon, tulle, or lace are great options!
Activities
It’s important to not just consider where you’ll exchange vows, but any other activities you’re planning for the day! If you’re hoping to do lots of hiking or climbing, the more lightweight, non-wrinkling fabrics are your best bet. And if you’re looking at a low-key day on easy trails, you have more flexibility in your choice.
Brands
Once you have an idea of fabric and color, next up is finding your dream brand! I love pointing people toward brands that value the outdoors and reflect the beauty of natural spaces. Here are a few of my faves:
Nordeen: One of my favorite designers! This brand emphasizes sustainability, creating dresses designed for wild spaces. It’s perfect if you’re an eco-conscious bride looking to tread lightly on the planet — and look gorgeous while doing it. 🙂
Watters: Known for its elegance, Watters has some of the most beautifully crafted dresses that balance style with comfort, making them a great choice for an elopement.
BHLDN: If you’re looking for some gorgeous but more affordable options, BHLDN is perfect! It provides a wide range of budget-friendly dresses without sacrificing style or quality.
Rue De Seine: If you’re wanting to make more of a statement on your elopement day, Rue De Seine has some bold, unique dresses that are delightfully free-spirited and FUN. Love this brand so much and think it is such a perfect match for an elopement adventure.
Choosing the perfect elopement dress is an adventure all its own — blending personal style, comfort, and practicality. By considering fabrics, colors, styles, weather, activities, and brands, you can find a dress that not only looks stunning but also allows you to embrace every moment of your day. Your elopement is about celebrating love in the places that inspire you, so make sure your dress is ready to join you on the journey! 🙂 And if you’re looking for a photographer to walk alongside you, head to the link below:
