Shopping for bridal gowns can be a challenge. It is one of the biggest decisions you will make about your wedding day, and there are so many possibilities that it can be hard to choose the best outfit.
To narrow down your options, you might be wondering whether you can coordinate your dress with the wedding venue. After all, you want the wedding photos to symbolize harmony in every aspect, including aesthetic.
That’s where we come in. Across a range of different venues, we will walk you through how to match bridal gowns to your wedding venue.
Consider the Formality of Your Venue
One of the first things to consider when it comes to bridal gowns is the formality. If your wedding is going to be held in a venue such as a grand ballroom, luxurious fabrics and dramatic trains may be the way to go. However, if the venue is more relaxed, perhaps in a forest or on the beach, choose softer silhouettes and fun accents for your wedding dress.
Practical Considerations for Bridal Gowns
While aesthetics matter, practical considerations are equally as important when it comes to your wedding venue. You don’t want to be walking long distances across uneven surfaces in a dress that envelops your legs.
The weather is also an important consideration. For outdoor venues, especially in colder areas, choose bridal gowns made of thicker, natural fabrics to keep your teeth from chattering whilst reading your vows.
Bridal Gowns by Venue
Whether you’re set on your venue yet or not, here are some examples of wedding venues and how to coordinate bridal gowns with the setting.
Religious Venues
Religious venues are the most traditional option for your wedding, and your dress should match that trend. Ball gowns and long veils complement the setting’s timeless atmosphere, alongside elegant lace details that will look striking against any historical architecture.
Don’t forget to check if the venue has any expectations regarding coverage. Some churches, for example, will ask for shoulders to be covered or hems to reach down to the ankles. Long sleeves and trains are great choices to ensure you meet the modesty standards.
In line with tradition, why not ask family members for their old wedding dresses? You will be able to carry your history with you down the aisle and into your new life, symbolizing values held for generations within your family.
Modern City Venues
Minimalist designs and clean lines will usually pair well with most contemporary city venues. Choose modern silhouettes such as mermaid or trumpet silhouettes for your bridal gown, and square or halter necklines. These will match well with the architecture and present a fashion-forward appearance.
Take a look at this year’s wedding dress trends, too. Modern venues will contain modern aesthetics, and you won’t want to feel out of place there in a 20th-century gown.
Outdoors
Outdoor venues feel particularly romantic, and many bridal gowns match this aesthetic. Sweetheart necklines, soft fabrics, and floral accents complement natural settings beautifully. Consider an A-line silhouette for a sweet, fairytale design, and feel just like Cinderella at the ball.
Beaches
Beach weddings can offer unique challenges when it comes to bridal gowns, from the warm weather and coastal breezes to sandy shores creating uneven surfaces. Many brides opt for shorter dresses or minimal trains to avoid the fabric dragging across the sand.
Lightweight fabrics are also an excellent idea, not only keeping you cool, but also matching the flowing feel of the ocean by your side. For extra aesthetic, choose sea-inspired details on your dress, such as cascading sequins or pearls.
Bridal Gowns for Your Venue
Your wedding dress should make you feel like you belong in the venue as well as in the arms of your lover. It’s important to consider the traditions of your venue when looking at bridal gowns and ensure you meet their expectations, particularly in religious venues.
The weather is also a vital consideration for outdoor weddings, and don’t forget to find out what surfaces and aisles you will have to walk across so that your dress remains practical.
Finally, take a look at the details of the architecture, and pick out any designs you could pair your wedding dress with using fabrics or accents. For more inspiration, you can shop designer bridal gowns and contemplate how their designs would match your particular wedding venue.
