There is a certain freedom that comes with doing a destination wedding or elopement. The rules of proper wedding attire can go straight out the window if the couple wants. Plus, wearing a tuxedo and top of the line wedding dress would seem out of place at many of these weddings. That is why most couples allow their venue to dictate the manner of dress.
In order for a wedding to feel right, things need to coordinate. That is why it is suddenly plausible to wear a bikini and sarong to a beach wedding or snow boots for a wedding on a glacier. Whether you get married in a castle in Ireland or at your favorite baseball stadium, you will to look to your marriage destination for cues on what to wear.
Beach Weddings
Beach weddings have been popular for several years. Whether done on the hot sands of the Caribbean or on the shores of Lake Michigan, beach weddings are inherently simple affairs without room for frill dresses and high heels.
The heavy fabric of the traditional tux and many wedding gowns are simply too hot for many beach weddings. That is why simple dresses – even a white sundress - complete with flip flops are preferred for the bride. In tern, most beach grooms opt for lightweight suit or linen pants and a button-up shirt instead of a tux.
Some couples may opt to go ultra-casual with the bride in a bikini walking barefoot with a gorgeous anklet decorating the lower body. And, the groom is dressed equally as simple in a pair of shorts or swim trunks and a button-up linen shirt.
www.IslandImporter.com is a wonderful resource for Beach Wedding Attire. They specialize in destination wedding outfits in a variety of natural, light-weight fabrics. From semi-formal affairs to casual get-togethers there is something for everyone.
Glacier/Cold Climate Weddings
Weddings taking place in the cold winter months or in cool climates inevitable must reflect the cold weather. From long sleeve dresses to heavy tuxes, the brides and groom’s attire will need to take the temperature into consideration.
A gorgeous cloak and muffler set for the bride and a long white peacoat for the groom make for great accessories as the wedding party travels from the wedding location to the reception area. As an added bonus, the outwear looks great in any outdoor pictures the couple may choose to take.
For couples going to the extreme and doing a glacier-top wedding, they will need lots of warm outwear. Depending on the time of year, a wedding dress and formal wear will need to be forgotten due to the extreme climate. Instead, why not get matching snow suits? If the couple wants to get as close to traditional attire as possible, why not opt for white jackets, white snow pants and boots?
Castle/Medieval Weddings
Contrary to most destination weddings, those having a medieval-themed wedding or one taking place in a castle can actually go way over the top. Forget Vera Wang though. There are way too many unique, one of a kind dresses that are better suited for the occasion. Remember, white dresses are uncommon for medieval weddings so start thinking of another color.
For grooms, the manner of dress will also be over the top. A tunic over tights would be the most fitting, but feel free to experiment with other ideas. Contact local costume shops or visit a Renaissance fair for ideas.
Brides can find a handful of websites, like www.RivendellBridal.com, that specialize in this kind of wedding attire. Wedding dresses inspired by Lord of the Rings or Celtic weddings from the past and everything in between are available to order.
Exotic Weddings
The culture of wedding location can be a great guide to wedding attire. Why not adopt the local customs and have the groom wear a kilt if getting married in Scotland or the bride wear red in a Chinese wedding? Look up what is common in your wedding location and do what the locals do.
Traditional but less Formal Weddings
If you have your heart set on a traditional white wedding dress and formal wedding wear, do not worry. It is your wedding. You can do whatever you like. Get that white wedding dress, but pick something simple.
Bridal shops, like David’s Bridal, often offer a simple, yet elegant collection that would be perfect for a destination wedding or a small affair. Check out David’s Bridal’s Galina collection http://www.davidsbridal.com/bridal_gowns_return_galina.jsp for some great options.
For more options, consider shopping online. www.EDressMe.com also has a great collection of destination wedding dresses available at www.edressme.com/destination-wedding.html
Tips for Destination Wedding Attire
• Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. There are no real rules when it comes to destination wedding attire so feel free to explore many avenues. Can’t find the perfect wedding dress? Don’t be afraid to search through prom dresses at your favorite department store or the bride’s maid gowns at the bridal shops.
• Outdoor weddings are great but they force some restrictions. High heels sink in soft soil, trains get dirty, and veils blow easily in the wind.
• Never check your wedding clothes. If at all possible carry on the wedding party’s attire. Luggage has a way of getting lost from time to time. Don’t let your wedding day be ruined by a misplaced garment bag.
• Since your clothing will be packed at some point before the wedding, try to stick to wrinkle resistant fabrics or prepare to pay for pressing costs.
• Climate will dictate what fabrics work bests for your particular wedding. Be sure to know the average temperature and climate for your wedding destination in the month you will be wed.