If a bride is going to elope, what should her dream dress look like? Should it differ from the traditional dress that would have been worn at a formal wedding?
In the past, elopements used to bring to mind spur-of-the-moment romances and couples running off to get married in secret. Eloping is far more common nowadays, particularly because of the COVID pandemic over the last few years. Couples are choosing to save money and avoid stress by opting for a more casual approach instead of throwing a large wedding. But getting rid of an extravagant affair doesn’t mean that you can’t wear your fantasy wedding outfit for your elopement dress. If you’re pondering something different from the traditional wedding dress, have a peek at our suggestions below so that you can choose the perfect look for your courthouse ceremony or private destination wedding.
There’s a Difference Between a Traditional Wedding Dress and an Elopement Wedding Dress?
Yes, there is! But it’s really up to you and there really doesn’t have to be a difference. Typically though, shorter hemlines, mid- and tea-length dresses as well as fitted silhouettes and slip-on styles are perfect for great choices for the more intimate elopement weddings as they’re easy to put on and don’t require additional help.
Generally, elopement dresses are simpler and have less intricate decorations; fabrics are also lighter for easier movement. Given that it’s a simpler and less fussy ceremony, you can also choose something unconventional like a brightly colored jumpsuit or a cute mini-dress.
Things to Consider When Choosing an Elopement Wedding Dress
When searching for the perfect elopement dress, consider how you want to feel on your wedding day first and foremost. Remember to keep practicalities in mind as well so that shopping for your outfit is enjoyable and simplified for your special day.
Where You’re Getting Married
When choosing your wedding outfit, the rule is that it should complement your venue. Even if you are eloping, the location should still be taken into account – a couple exchanging vows on a beach at sunset looks different than one getting married in an urban city hall. If you’re going to be married indoors, stick with A-line, Fit and Flares, mermaid or trumpet styles. If you’re going to be married at an outdoor venue, then pick something a bit more flowy or a shorter length gown with less fabric as you’ll need to be comfortable when you’re moving around.
Pick A Style and Fabric That Will Travel and Hold Up Well
Are you travelling to your elopement destination, even if it’s just for a few hours? If you’ll be traveling for any length of time, you’ll need to take this into consideration as your dress will need to be properly packed into a suitcase or a garment bag. Big poufy ball gowns with crinoline or long, cathedral trains will not fit or travel well, whereas slip dress and sheath gowns will be easier to pack.
When eloping, even the material of your wedding dress makes a difference. Climate and temperature aside, you likely won’t have the luxury of sending your gown to a seamstress or tailor to have it professional pressed before your wedding. To keep things as stress free as possible, pick easy care fabrics such as chiffon, organza or silk that’s easier to steam. Steer away from heavy fabrics such as satin and silk; they’re also less breathable and won’t be very wearable if you’re going to be married in a tropical location.
Also consider whether you’ll need to pack your dress and then change into it once you reach your elopement destination; this might be necessary if you’ll be married on a mountain top or deep in the forest. If that’s the case, you’ll need to choose the most packable dress that you can simply fold and fit into your backpack and then shake it out once you’re ready to change for the ceremony.
Regardless of where you’ll be getting married, choose something you’re comfortable in that makes you feel like you!
Getting Prepped and Dressed for the Ceremony
If you are eloping and will not be accompanied by a team of bridesmaids, make sure you choose a dress that is easy to put on without help; you’ll likely be dressing yourself. Solo dressing means keeping your dress simple – avoid corsets, buttons, long zippers and bustles so that you can dress yourself with ease.