Couples don’t choose seaside nuptials by accident. Some are drawn to the panoramic views, others love being near the water, and most want a celebration that feels more like a getaway than a formal affair. A beach wedding dress, then, should feel special enough for the occasion while still letting the scenery take the lead.
Vogue’s Favorite Beach Wedding Dresses:
A quick word of advice: Some silhouettes don’t belong on the beach. A dramatic ball gown may be tempting, but a rigid, voluminous skirt can make crossing sand unnecessarily difficult. Heavy fabrics will also leave you overheated before the vows (though you could make a case for embellishments, so long as they’re restrained), while ultra-delicate materials risk snagging on a stray shell—or being ruined by a splash of saltwater.
Though coastal bridal ensembles tend to be less formal, options still range from barely-there slips to full-length numbers—and the best of them share one quality: fabrics that move. Think silk, chiffon, crepe, and organza, all of which catch the wind and photograph beautifully against a shoreside backdrop.
