Summer Weddings – What is the Best Dress

A big question of many brides’ minds is what type of wedding dress should they choose for a summer wedding. Most traditional wedding dresses are made with heavy material, such as satin, and have multi-layered petticoats under them to poof up the skirt. Needless to say, this sort stiff, heavy dress isn’t well suited to most summer weather. The last thing a bride wants perspiration marks under their arm and down their backs. So, what type of wedding dress is best to help you stay cool?

Fortunately, traditional wedding dress colors – white or pale colors – are perfect for hot weather. These colors reflect the heat, rather than absorbing it like dark colors do. Try to keep this in mind when choosing bridesmaid dresses too!

Summer brides can wear white easily, but may want to choose a lighter fabric. Whatever your fabric choice, remember that a good lining in an absorbent material will help soak up any perspiration and will help keep marks from showing on your dress. Look for a dress with a natural fabric lining, if possible.

Fortunately, bride’s have a wide choice in dress styles. Popular styles include lightweight, flowing fabric that are perfect for hot weather. When you try on the dress, make sure to leave it on for a few minutes to see if you heat up right away or not.

Of course, if you are having a more informal summer wedding, you may choose to go with a nice sun dress or even a prom dress, rather than a formal wedding dress. Choosing a more informal dress may open up a larger range of styles, colors, and fabrics. It may also be easier to choose complimenting bridesmaid dresses that won’t give you attendants heat stroke!

Choosing an informal dress has another advantage over traditional wedding dresses in that it is usually less expensive, even if it is custom made. This will free up your wedding budget for other areas, perhaps flowers or the cake.

Summertime is also the perfect time for a beach wedding. Sand can wreak havoc on traditional length dresses, so a beach bride may want to opt for a slightly shorter dress. But keep in mind that beaches are also often windy- you don’t want to show that garter until the reception!

If you live in an area where the weather is sometimes hot and sometimes cold in the summer, you may want to look for a sleeveless wedding dress, but keep a shawl or wrap handy in case the weather turns.