The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Attire for Adventurous Elopements
Real talk: Your wedding day isn’t a fashion show for someone else’s expectations. It’s your moment to shine in whatever wedding attire makes you feel confident and comfortable while totally in love with your look. It’s your moment to wear what feels right, looks incredible, and lets you live your best life, on a mountaintop or city rooftop, a forest path or desert dune. Whether you’re saying your vows in hiking boots or barefoot on the beach, this guide is here to help you find wedding attire that fits your vibe and your adventure.
Wedding Attire That Actually Feels Like You
Let’s get one thing straight: there are no rules! You don’t have to wear white. You don’t have to wear a tie. Your dress doesn’t need 16 layers of tulle unless you want 16 layers of tulle. And your suit? It doesn’t need to match top to bottom.
Start with how you want to feel. Comfortable. Beautiful. Like yourself, but maybe the extra-special version. Keep an open mind while shopping. We’ve had so many couples say they ended up loving something completely different than what they thought they wanted. Try it all. Move in it. Sit in it. Twirl in it. Does it move with you? Does it make you smile? That’s your yes!
If you’re eloping outdoors, especially somewhere remote, consider how your wedding attire will feel all day long. Can you hike in it? Will you sweat through it? Does it catch the wind like a dream or get tangled in every bush you pass? Practicality matters just as much as aesthetics.
Elopement Wedding Dress Tips That Make All The Difference
Let’s talk dresses, skirts, jumpsuits, two-pieces, whatever feels right! Color-wise, anything goes. White is classic, sure, but black, blue, burnt orange, champagne, or even a wild floral pattern can absolutely steal the show. Your dress is your canvas, and you get to paint the vibe.
Movement is huge when it comes to elopement wedding dresses! The wind is your best accessory in photos, so go for fabrics that flow and respond to movement. If you’re planning to hike or be on the move, skip the heavy stuff. Tulle, boning, corsets, and full ballgowns can slow you down or just make you uncomfortable. Lightweight is where it’s at, especially for my adventure Arizona elopements.
You’ve gotta test the dress. Can you sit down in it comfortably? Climb up on a rock? Raise your arms all the way? Dance like no one’s watching? If it passes all those, you’re golden. And don’t sleep on accessories, veils, capes, shawls, and even a killer jacket can add major drama and depth to your look (plus, layers help when the temps drop!).
When it comes to shopping, bring your hype crew, only people who genuinely support your vision. No negative energy allowed. And definitely plan ahead. Some shops take months to deliver and alter gowns, so give yourself breathing room to find the perfect one.
Seasonal Wedding Attire Tips for Elopements
Dressing for the vibe and the environment? Non-negotiable. If you’re saying “I do” under that blazing Arizona sun, you’ll want to skip anything that makes you feel like a sweaty baked potato. Go for light, breathable fabrics, chiffon, linen, cotton blends, the kinds of materials that feel like a cool breeze and just happen to look magical when they catch the wind in your photos. And if you’re heading into full sun territory, throw in a cute sun hat or a vintage parasol. adds character and keeps you shaded.
On the flip side, if you’re heading to the mountains or planning a winter elopement, embrace layering. Thermal base layers under suits or dresses can be lifesavers, and cozy outerwear like wool coats, faux fur shawls, or chunky knits can make your look even more photo-worthy. Velvet suits and heavier fabrics can be amazing for colder temps, offering both warmth and a luxe look.
No matter the season, test your wedding attire in similar weather conditions if possible. Can you move comfortably? Will it stay put in wind, rain, or snow? Planning ahead with the climate in mind ensures you’re not just looking good—you’re feeling good too.
Couple Styling Tips for Elopement Magic
Coordinating as a couple doesn’t mean matching head to toe. The best looks are the ones that feel like you, while still complementing each other in tone, texture, or vibe. Think of it like a visual love story; your outfits should flow together, not compete. And honestly, that’s what makes the photos feel like you two instead of just a cute Pinterest board.
Start with a shared color palette, even if your outfits are totally different in style. Maybe your dress has soft, earthy tones, and your partner’s suit brings in a bold rust or olive. Or maybe one of you wears something patterned while the other sticks to a coordinating solid. Play with layers, accessories, and fabrics that reflect your personalities while still feeling cohesive.
Textures matter too, like, a lot. I’m a sucker for a good contrast: think a delicate lace gown next to a moody velvet jacket, or a breezy linen dress paired with a cozy wool blazer. That kind of combo? It adds so much visual interest to your photos without trying too hard. And please don’t sleep on footwear. Whether you’re both rocking boots or mixing it up with sneakers and sandals, just make sure you can actually move. I’ve seen couples try to scale red rocks in high heels… and let’s just say, not a great combo.
This is your chance to tell your story through style, so make it one that looks great, feels even better, and photographs like a dream.
Favorite Wedding Dress & Accessory Shops For Your Dream Adventure Elopement
- BHLDN – Romantic and timeless styles
- Lulus – Trendy and budget-friendly
- Daci Gowns – Custom + rental options
- Rue De Seine – Boho bridal heaven
- Etsy – Unique, handmade, and everything in between
- Grace Loves Lace – Feels like yoga pants, looks like magic
- ASOS – Affordable style with options
- Dreamers and Lovers – Laid-back lace goddess vibes
- Daughters of Simone – Cool-girl chic with pantsuits too
- Sweet Caroline Styles – Mix and match magic
- MyWony – Whimsical and wildly romantic
Groom Wedding Attire That Goes Beyond the Basic
Now let’s talk suits, and not the stiff, black-tie ones unless you want that look. We’re all about finding pieces that feel fresh, fit your style, and let you move (literally and emotionally) through your day with ease.
You don’t need to match head to toe. In fact, mixing colors and materials can create a way more interesting and personalized look. Go for patterns, textures, or even unexpected pieces like a leather jacket, a cozy knit cardigan, or a printed button-up. You’re not here to blend in.
Comfort is key. You should be able to squat, sit, hike, stretch, and dance in your suit. Seriously, try it all on and put it to the test. And if your pants keep sliding or your shirt won’t stay tucked, suspenders or a good belt can save the day.
Accessories are the secret sauce. Think suspenders, bolo ties, floral neckties, hats, belt buckles, pocket watches, and cufflinks. These little details make your outfit pop and bring personality into your look. Also, if you’re eloping somewhere cold, leave enough room for layers underneath without bulking things up.
Just like with dresses, bring a couple of trusted people to fittings, friends who get your vision and will give honest, supportive feedback. This isn’t about fitting a mold. It’s about feeling like the coolest, most confident version of yourself in wedding attire that makes you feel amazing.
Favorite Suit & Accessory Brands
- ASOS – Stylish + budget-conscious
- Indochino – Custom suits from your couch
- Twisted Tailor – Patterns and edge galore
- Bonobos – Comfy + modern
- Suit Shop – Try-on at home, virtual help
- The Black Tux – Rent or buy, easy and sleek
- Soho FlexTech – Stretchy, made-to-move suits
- Express – Clean, classic staples
- Dazi – All the floral ties
- Tie Bar – Affordable and on-trend accessories
- Rocky Mountain Western – Bolo ties with attitude
Your wedding attire should make you feel unstoppable, unforgettable, and fully YOU. Whether you’re cliffside or courthouse-bound, dress like the main character, because that’s exactly who you are.
Ready to Meet Your Dream Arizona Elopement Photographer + Videographer?
No matter where your love takes you, into the desert, up a mountain, or somewhere wildly in between, we’re here to be your guide, your hype crew, and the ones who’ll capture the most important photos you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Inquire here, or take a peek at my Pinterest page for all kinds of wedding attire inspiration and dream elopement locations.
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