The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Elopement Dress

Eloping is one of the most intimate and romantic ways to say “I do.” Whether you’re exchanging vows on a windswept mountaintop, standing barefoot on a secluded beach, or whispering promises in a quiet forest glade, your wedding dress should be just as magical as the moment itself.

But let’s be real—elopements come with their own set of challenges. Unlike a traditional wedding where you can glide down an aisle in a voluminous ball gown with a train fit for royalty, elopements often involve hiking, unpredictable weather, and the great outdoors. That means your dress needs to strike the perfect balance between beauty, practicality, and comfort.

So, how do you find the one? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about elopement dresses—styles, lengths, fabrics, and a few things you might not have considered.

1. Finding the Right Length: Long, Short, or Somewhere In Between?

The length of your dress plays a huge role in how easy it will be to move around during your elopement. Your dream location should influence your decision—will you be trekking up a mountainside or strolling along a cobblestone street?

Floor-Length Elegance

A long, flowing gown can be breathtaking in elopement photos, especially when caught in the wind or trailing behind you on a forest path. However, if you plan to hike to your elopement location, consider a dress with a flowy, lightweight skirt that won’t trip you up. High slits or layers of airy fabric can also help with mobility.

Tea-Length & Midi Dresses: The Best of Both Worlds

Tea-length or midi dresses (falling between the knee and ankle) are a great in-between option. They offer a bridal feel while allowing for more movement, making them ideal for elopements that require a bit of walking. Plus, they give you the perfect opportunity to show off some fabulous shoes!

Short & Playful

A short wedding dress can be a fun and flirty choice, especially for a beach, city, or desert elopement. If you want to dance around without worrying about your hem catching on rocks, tree roots, or sand, a shorter dress might be the way to go. Bonus: No need for a bustling service!

2. The Right Fabric for the Adventure

While traditional wedding dresses often feature heavy satins and thick layers of tulle, elopements require something a little more forgiving. You want a fabric that moves beautifully in the wind, won’t weigh you down, and won’t leave you feeling overheated or restricted.

Lightweight & Flowy Fabrics

• Chiffon: Airy and ethereal, chiffon moves beautifully in the breeze and won’t weigh you down.
• Tulle: While traditional wedding tulle can be stiff, lightweight tulle layers can add a whimsical touch without being overwhelming.
• Organza: Slightly stiffer than chiffon but still lightweight, organza is a good option for brides who want some structure without the bulk.

Beware of Snag-Prone Lace

Lace is undeniably romantic and timeless, but if you’re hiking through brush or scrambling over rocks, it can snag easily. If your heart is set on lace, consider a dress with lace detailing on the bodice rather than an all-over lace design.

Avoid Heavy Fabrics

• Satin & Silk: While gorgeous, these fabrics can be heavy and clingy—especially in humid or hot weather.
• Velvet: A winter elopement exception, but generally too warm for an active outdoor ceremony.
• Beaded & Embellished Dresses: Stunning in a ballroom, but carrying extra weight while hiking is not ideal.List of online stores to check out for elopement dresses:
  1. Azazie
  2. Lulus 
  3. Amazon
  4. Baltic Born
  5. Etsy

3. The Color Palette: White, Bold, or Something Unique?

Elopement dresses don’t have to be traditional white! Many modern brides are opting for colors that complement their surroundings or reflect their personal style.

Classic White & Ivory

White remains a timeless choice, and it contrasts beautifully against rugged landscapes. If you love the idea of a traditional bridal look but want something softer, consider an ivory or champagne shade.

Blush & Pastel Tones

Soft blush, dusty blue, lavender, and pale sage green can give your dress an ethereal, romantic feel while blending harmoniously with nature.

Bold & Unexpected Colors

If you want to make a statement, deep jewel tones like emerald, burgundy, or sapphire can be stunning against mountain or desert backdrops. Black wedding dresses are also rising in popularity for brides who want a moody, dramatic look.

4. Necklines & Comfort: A Little Reality Check

We know that ultra-low cuts and backless designs are trending right now, and they are undeniably stunning. But when it comes to elopements, practicality matters.

If your dress requires constant adjusting, you might find yourself more focused on keeping everything in place than on the person you’re marrying. There’s nothing wrong with a plunging neckline or a backless dress—just make sure it’s secure and comfortable enough for movement. Consider:

• Supportive straps or built-in structure to keep things in place.
• Hollywood fashion tape as a backup for any slipping fabric.
• A happy medium—a dress with a beautiful neckline that doesn’t require an engineering degree to keep in place.

Your wedding day should be about love, adventure, and laughter—not wardrobe malfunctions!

5. Footwear & Accessories: The Finishing Touches

Shoes: Choose Wisely

If you’re hiking, opt for stylish but sturdy footwear—hiking boots, embellished sandals, or even white sneakers can look adorable and keep you safe.

Veil or No Veil?

A long veil can create breathtaking photos, but it can also be a challenge in the wind. If you want that ethereal look, consider a short veil or a delicate cape.

Jackets & Wraps

For colder climates, a faux fur wrap, cozy knit shawl, or leather jacket can add warmth and personality to your look.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Adventure!

Your elopement dress should make you feel beautiful, confident, and free to embrace the adventure ahead. Whether you opt for a flowing gown, a modern short dress, or a colorful statement piece, the most important thing is that it reflects you.

At the end of the day, eloping is about celebrating love in a way that feels right for you and your partner. So find a dress that makes you feel like the best version of yourself, grab your person, and go create a love story for the ages.

FAQs About Elopement Dresses

 

1. Can I hike in my elopement dress?

Absolutely! Just choose a lightweight, flowy fabric and a length that won’t trip you up. A slit can also help with mobility.

2. What color should I wear for an elopement?

Anything you love! White is classic, but blush, sage, blue, and bold jewel tones can be stunning.

3. Should I wear a veil?

If you love the look, go for it! Just keep in mind that long veils can be tricky in windy or outdoor locations.

4. What fabrics should I avoid?

Heavy satin, velvet (unless it’s a winter elopement), and lace that snags easily.

5. What shoes should I wear?

Choose shoes that suit your terrain—hiking boots for rocky trails, flats for city elopements, or sandals for the beach.

6. Can I wear a ballgown for an elopement?

You can, but if you’re hiking, you might regret the extra weight and bulk!

7. Is black an appropriate elopement dress color?

Yes! Black dresses can be elegant, dramatic, and incredibly chic.

8. How do I keep my dress clean while eloping?

Embrace the adventure! Our brides wear dirt on their dress like a badge of honor. They also dry clean beautifully after your big day!

9. Should I wear shapewear under my dress?

Only if it makes you comfortable! The most important thing is to feel free and confident.

10. Can I wear a short dress for an elopement?

Of course! Short dresses are perfect for beach, desert, and city elopements.

We would absolutely LOVE to help you find your dream dress and plan your dream elopement! Reach out to us to chat about our Photo and Video packages here!