Selecting the perfect wedding gown from Winsome Brides is an essential stage of preparation. As soon as the location is confirmed, start shopping and make appointments with stores to ensure a smooth transaction.
Choosing the right gown can emphasize your venue’s stunning location and atmosphere think about breathable fabrics for warm outdoor venues, and consider layers or long sleeves for colder indoor locations.
Beach Weddings
Beach weddings are a tried and true summer favorite. Whether you’re saying your vows in Hawaii, returning to the site of a past vacation or choosing a destination that holds special significance for your family, beach locations offer a dreamy setting for your big day.
Depending on your location, you may want to look for a dress that plays into the environment, such as one with delicate floral lace patterns or a gown that references the indigenous flowers of your destination locale. For this bride’s Mexico destination wedding, the lace floral appliques on her Lela Rose gown referenced the indigenous lotus blossoms that lined their beach-front ceremony site.
Since beach weddings often take place in warm weather, consider a lightweight lace or linen gown like Reformation’s Baela Linen Dress. You may also want to choose a style that allows you to show a little skin, such as a strapless or off-shoulder neckline. Alternatively, you can add drama with a detachable train that offers both a longer length for your beach vows and a shorter option for the reception.
Barn and Farm Weddings
Whether they’re full of country charm or go full-on boho, barn and farm weddings have their own unique feel. Guests aren’t usually looking for lots of glitz, so think about a softer look with lace or chiffon. A lace gown could weave romantic tales through its delicate threads, while a flowing chiffon dress embodies the ethereal and feminine allure that barn venues are known for.
If the venue has wood, pebble or even dirt floors, consider providing flip-flops for your female guests so they don’t ruin their heels. And if your wedding is outdoors, keep bugs at bay by offering citronella candles and placing small baskets of bug spray throughout the venue.
You can also add a touch of rustic flair to your reception by framing the barn entrance with an illustrated sign or using it to display escort cards (like this couple did). Add an oversized menu, as well, for guests to get their first glimpse at all the goodies that are ahead!
City Weddings
While many brides think they can’t get a fancy gown for a city wedding, you should be open to whatever dress makes you feel confident and beautiful. There are plenty of gorgeous options that will work, from a flowy a-line gown to a fitted trumpet style. A flowing silhouette is perfect for walking up and down the grand staircase of San Francisco City Hall, while a crepe fit shows off your shape.
When you’re shopping, bring in pictures of your dream dress and any accessories that you may be planning to wear. It’s also a good idea to get second and third opinions from family members and close friends who know your style. But be careful not to get overwhelmed by too many opinions! You want to be able to make a clear decision. If you need help with the process, consider hiring a professional stylist at our Whittier or Hayward, California bridal stores. They’ll be able to offer helpful suggestions based on their experience with other brides and what looks best at your venue.
Garden Weddings
The lush greenery, blooming flowers, and warm weather that define garden weddings call for a dress with a similarly feminine feel. Consider floral lace accents, 3d flower motifs, and delicate bridal capes that add a touch of magic to your gown.
Lighter fabrics like chiffon work well if your ceremony and reception will be held outdoors, especially in the summer or spring. A form-fitting crepe bodice and flowing lace skirt will help flatter your figure, while thin spaghetti straps, a romantic v-cut back, and a long chapel-style train complete the picture-perfect bridal look.
Many bridal boutiques will be familiar with your venue and may have a good idea of what will work best for your particular setting. If they don’t, don’t be afraid to ask, but don’t set expectations that you can’t meet; remember that it’s your day and the dress should reflect that. Having a budget or price range for your dress is also important.