How to choose the best wedding dress for summer
Summer is one of the best seasons for weddings, as the hot weather and dreamy landscapes make the event better from most perspectives. Guests can easily travel to the location chosen, photographers get plenty of opportunities to create great photos, and you can decorate the most impressive wedding reception outside, in a backyard, or on a hotel patio.
However, the most challenging aspect of a summer wedding is selecting a dress in which you’ll feel comfortable. Considering past temperatures, summer is supposed to get quite scorching, so the material quality of the dress will play an important part in keeping you cool or making you feel like you're burning.
Low-quality materials can feel uncomfortable, even if they’re thin, but certain types of designs are also unfit for the hot climate. So, let’s see how to pick a dress suitable for your summer wedding dream!
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/woman-in-white-sleeveless-dress-holding-white-flower-bouquet-eSr3o170x8M
Focus on summer fabrics
Picking your wedding dress by fabric can make shopping easier, as you’ll narrow down options. Ideally, choose natural fibers that are more breathable than other materials, such as the following:
● Cotton has moisture-wicking properties ―look for cotton lawn fabric as it’s best for lightweight and breezy dresses;
● Linen is hypoallergenic and insulates the skin well ― choose linen chambray or stretch linen for your wedding dress;
● Silk has an amazing thermal regulation property and offers an elegant appearance to the dress;
You may also look for synthetic or semi-synthetic materials, like viscose, which gives an exceptional drape while feeling airy against the skin. However, make sure to avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, acrylic, and nylon as they tend to trap odors and also intensify the temperature you’ll feel.
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/a-person-in-a-white-dress-sitting-on-a-grassy-hill-with-trees-and-a-sunset-0usGG5I0Dgw
Consider certain designs
Besides picking suitable fabrics, some types of wedding dress designs for summer will also help deal with the hot temperatures. For example, strapless dresses are ideal for summer in terms of breathability and comfort of movement, but not everyone might feel confident wearing such a dress. For example, those with apple-shaped features might want to consider an A-line dress.
A-line silhouettes are the most flattering for anyone, and such dresses usually allow for airflow and movement due to the loose skirt. A high-low hemline is also recommended, especially for a more casual summer wedding.
Finally, an open-back dress is sure to keep you cool and elegant. A backless wedding dress will beautifully hug your features and elongate your body. You could add a back accessory for a dramatic effect to the dress.
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/a-man-and-woman-in-wedding-attire-CU8idphMUrI
Look for dresses early on
Beginning to shop early is ideal for a summer wedding. Not only might you benefit from discounts for certain dresses, but you can also take the pulse of the market and understand what’s available this season. Waiting until the wedding is always uninspired, as you’ll lose concentration and even panic by not finding what you want.
Ideally, you should start looking for the dress at least six months in advance. You’ll be able to try on many different dresses and find out what you like and what you don’t. It’s also important not to be too harsh on yourself if the dress of your dreams doesn’t seem to appear.
Establishing a budget for the dress is also a good idea. If you’re lucky and can get the dress at a lower price, you might be able to invest more in other departments. After all, in many cases, the bride wears the dress only once, so think this through by taking your time to choose it.
Wear the right shoes
There are plenty of summer footwear models online, but few are comfortable and good-looking. Given the high temperatures and time spent on your feet, unsupportive shoes might swell your feet or cause pain.
So, if you didn’t necessarily insist on wearing high-heeled shoes that squeeze your toes, you could try more suitable footwear:
● Block heels with a small heel keep you stable and offer a bit of height as well;
● Platform sandals are best for a beach wedding ceremony;
● The classic flats can look luxurious as well and are suitable if you’re prone to blisters;
● Ballerina shoes are feminine and romantic for a spring garden ceremony;
When picking a pair of shoes, consider the wedding venue and surroundings. You might need closed-toe heels for grass, sand, or uneven surfaces.
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Opt for light makeup
As the high temperatures intensify in the afternoon, you might want to avoid heavy makeup as it can melt down due to excessive sweating. At the same time, the products might clog your pores and lead to acne or other issues in the evening, so it’s best to ask for lighter makeup.
That doesn’t mean the makeup artist is not able to make you look amazing. Even with fewer products, you can look breathtaking, so that you can ask for a fresh-faced glow for a vibrant summer pop kind of makeup. Or, if you want to do it yourself, here are some important tips:
● Prep your skin with a light moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen;
● Use primer to protect the makeup from hot and humid weather;
● Consider cream-based blushes or eyeshadows to last longer;
● Look for waterproof formulas for eyeliner or mascara;
● Set the makeup with translucent powder and set it with setting spray;
Think about toning your body
If you’re not fully confident in your body and are afraid the striking heat will affect how you feel, you may want to consider losing some weight or toning your body through exercise. Getting fit for a summer wedding can be easier than at any other time of the year, as the temperatures will make you seek fresh foods and prefer staying outside.
You can start by setting a clear goal of what you want to achieve. It’s best to consider this a few months before the wedding so the body won’t go through a dramatic change, whether you want to lose weight or gain muscle.
Eating right is ideal, and this means staying hydrated and diversifying your meals. The quality of your meals will dictate how well your body recovers from exercise, whether it’s running or going to the gym.
Prepare for the wedding ceremony to stay cool
While summer weddings are fun, they can make you and your guests feel uncomfortable. It’s important to organize everything in accordance with the weather, such as having parasols around the venue for more shading. However, you may want to hold an evening ceremony instead of in the afternoon.
Make sure there are enough cool-down refreshments, from water to lemonade or cocktails. Frozen treats are also helpful, whether we talk about gelato or ice cream. A hydration station in the middle of the venue is a great idea. Finally, consider misting fans or programmable fans that are best for both outdoor and indoor venues.
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/groom-and-bride-near-trees-oSWtQarASfQ
Approach an all-white wedding
All-white wedding ceremonies are the latest craze in the industry. They allow all the guests to wear white (which is usually considered rude) and decorate the venue accordingly. An all-white dress code is also perfect for summer, as the tone will make it more bearable to stand in the sun all day. Moreover, wearing clothes made of natural materials that stick to their natural white tones is also a sustainable way to attend a wedding.
Some brides might fear they won’t stand out as much as if the wedding were a normal one. However, judging by the makeup and hairstyle, it’s always pretty clear who is the bride and who’s a guest. Brides put so much thought into their overall look that no other guest wearing white could outshine them.
Moreover, an all-white wedding is the best way to celebrate the event in a serene spot, such as at the beach or somewhere in the countryside. So, don’t be afraid of approaching this unique style.
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/a-wedding-ceremony-with-a-green-carpet-and-white-flowers-qG2yK_iNspE
What are some of the best venues for a summer wedding?
Besides the types presented above, choosing an appropriate summer venue will make the difference in the summer heat. For example, some ideal spots include the following:
● A botanical garden, where the lush greenery and vibrant floral displays are perfect for photography;
● Coastal venues are incredibly romantic and also offer plenty of amenities to make the wedding unforgettable;
● Countryside estates are great for more intimate weddings as the natural landscapes provide coverage from the city’s noise;
● Barn wedding venues have a distinct country atmosphere with a rustic feeling;
● Seaside wedding venues are magical and will make for the most incredible wedding photos ever;
Are you ready to say “I do”?
Summer weddings are best for gathering your friends and family, having fun, and celebrating until sunrise. However, the scorching heat might be an inconvenience, so choosing your dress in suitable materials and designs will help you keep cool. At the same time, comfortable shoes and light makeup will contribute to relaxation. Finally, choosing a venue in the middle of nature and keeping your guests refreshed will make for a successful wedding.
