Choosing The Perfect Beach Wedding Bridal Gowns

In a more traditional wedding a bride usually wears a gown that drags on the ground. A bride on the beach, however, needs to consider her outdoor "cathedral" and choose a dress accordingly. How can you select the perfect dress for your body shape and style, yet perfect for the beach ceremony as well?

1. Think about the length of your dress carefully. You will sink somewhat in the sand, so if you go for a full-length dress, have it hemmed just above your ankles, which is probably a little shorter than you would if you were saying "I do" indoors. Since beach weddings are generally more casual, consider a shorter cocktail or tea length dress, too, and then you won't worry at all about sand on your dress.

2. Beach wedding dresses with a silhouette shape generally look and feel better than poufy, multi-layered dresses. The last thing you want is for a gust of wind to catch your hemline and expose your derrière. By keeping the lines of the dress close to your body, you will feel more confident and comfortable, too.

3. Avoid heavy beading or multiple layers of heavy fabric. Beaches are generally warmer than indoors, and you want to be a radiant, beaming bride, not a sweaty, melting one! The fabric can still come alive with embroidery, sequins and/or crystals, and they won't weigh the dress down as much as beading.

4. Look for lightweight fabrics such as silk, organza, crepe, linen, and chiffon. Some polyester/lycra blends work well, too.

5. Most beach wedding dresses tend to show a bit more skin than a traditional wedding dress, because you're at the beach, after all! Spaghetti straps, halter tops, or strapless are all very common styles, and many dresses come with a wrap to add to the elegance and to ward off any beach breeze.

Everyone knows that beaches and wind go together; so many brides opt to decorate their hair without a veil. Rhinestone headbands or barrettes, flowers, or tiaras are all simple alternatives. If you do choose to wear a veil, keep it short so it will be manageable if the breeze picks up.

For similar reasons, many beach brides opt for a fancy up-do, but some prefer their hair down and flowing, which does often compliment a flowing dress. Make sure your hairstylist has at least seen a picture of your dress and communicate well how you want your hair to look, even bringing in a magazine picture if possible. If you are traveling away from your regular stylist for your wedding, have him or her teach a friend or relative who will be with you how to do it. If that isn't possible, know that many resorts and hotels have their own stylists on site that you can reserve time with. They may need to call in more stylists if your party is numerous, so include that in your checklist, if applicable.

Again, since this is a beach wedding, the bridesmaid's dresses should be a bit more casual than for traditional wedding ceremony. It is actually possible, therefore, that your bridesmaids could wear their dresses again! Many brides choose a shorter length dress, and tend to opt for a beach-themed palette including shades of blue, green, and peach. Another bonus; many of these types of dresses (including some of the casual bridal-type) are easily found in most department stores and don't have to be purchased through bridal boutiques, which saves money, yet again.

Many brides envision themselves barefoot in the sand on their wedding day, and that is totally appropriate. Just make sure, very sure, that the sand is clear of all debris. You want amazing memories of your day, not of a trip to the emergency room for stitches in your foot! There are all kinds of fun barefoot sandals, anklets, and toe rings to dress up your feet without the confines of shoes.

Flip flops are another popular choice, and they can be found in every hue and every decoration. Some have a bit of a heel, while others do not. Of course, you can always opt for a flat shoe, and bring along a heeled pair for the reception if you think your dress looks better with some height (or just if you prefer being uncomfortable).

Other Great Resources

• The Perfect Beach Wedding Bridal Gown
• Choosing The Perfect Beach Wedding Bridal Gown