For more than 70 years, thousands of brides have traveled to Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City to find their wedding day looks. From the moment you walk through the doors, you’ll feel the magic of Kleinfeld. Not only does Kleinfeld have 30,000 square feet filled with the largest selection of wedding dresses in the world, it also has the greatest professional staff of over 200 employees who are dedicated to finding and perfecting your bridal look.
With peak wedding season and warmer weather approaching (Hello spring, summer, and fall!), we’re providing brides with the answer to one of our stylists’ most-asked questions: What wedding dress styles are best for outdoor weddings?
The short answer? Whatever speaks most to you!
Whether you’re hosting a romantic garden party, a rustic barn celebration, or a bohemian beach ceremony, we encourage you to say “yes!” to the dress that makes you feel like the most beautiful, confident, and elevated version of yourself. So, if you want to wear that ball gown with a cathedral-length train on the beach, then wear it! Simply put, there are no rules.
However, if you’re needing a little extra guidance or professional advice, we’ve got you covered! Choosing the right wedding dress for your outdoor nuptials will ensure you’re both comfortable and fashion-forward on the big day.
Consider this your “guide” rather than a “rule book.” Here are the best silhouettes, fabrics, and details for every type of outdoor wedding celebration. Plus, we’re providing you with options from Kleinfeld’s showroom. That way, you can book your own Kleinfeld bridal appointment to see for yourself!
Top Tips & Considerations for Choosing an Outdoor Wedding Dress
- Comfort
- Weather
- Venue
- Terrain
- Wedding Formality
- Individual Bridal Style
- Personal Preferences
Now, let’s dive into different types of outdoor wedding celebrations:
Romantic & Garden Party Weddings
For botanical garden or romantic outdoor ceremonies, opt for dreamy, ethereal dresses with soft layers. Consider elegant, light, and feminine materials such as chiffon, tulle, or lace.
Bridal Styles & Aesthetics:
- Feminine
- Ethereal
- Cottagecore
- Fairytale
Best Silhouettes:
- Ball Gown
- A-Line
- Fit-and-Flare
Best Fabrics:
- Silk Chiffon
- Tulle
- Silk Organza
- Delicate Lace
- Silk Mikado
Details:
- Floral Appliqués
- Illusion Sleeves
- Off-the-Shoulder Necklines
Bohemian & Beach Weddings
A bohemian beach wedding calls for effortless elegance. Slip dresses, relaxed silhouettes, and lightweight fabrics work beautifully with the sand and sea. Consider barefoot sandals or a flower crown for a free-spirited touch.
Bridal Styles & Aesthetics:
- Romantic
- Nautical
- Effortless
- Minimalist
Best Silhouettes:
- Soft A-line
- Sheath
- Slip Dresses
Best Fabrics:
- Crepe
- Silk Chiffon
- Lace
- Tulle
Details:
- Low Backs
- Fringe
- Delicate Beading
- Draping or Ruching
- Slits
Rustic & Cottagecore Weddings
For a rustic barn or cottagecore wedding, embrace vintage-inspired details such as puff sleeves, textured fabrics, and delicate embroidery. Tea-length or midi dresses are also practical for grassy or uneven terrain.
Bridal Styles & Aesthetics:
- Minimalist
- Bohemian
- Romantic
- Ethereal
- Vintage
Best Silhouettes:
- Soft A-Line
- Sheath
- Short or Tea-Length
Best Fabrics:
- Cotton
- Linen
- Tulle
- Embroidered Lace
- Silk
Details:
- Puff Sleeves
- Buttons
- Slits
Modern & Industrial Weddings
If your venue is an industrial loft or urban rooftop, a modern or minimalist dress with polished tailoring complements a sleek aesthetic. Avoid excessive embellishments or details. Less is more!
Bridal Styles & Aesthetics:
- Chic
- Modern
- Minimalist
- Edgy
Best Silhouettes:
- A-Line
- Fit-and-Flare
- Sheath
Best Fabrics:
- Satin
- Silk Mikado
- Crepe
- Silk
Details:
- Architectural Details
- Clean Lines and Seam Placement
- Geometric Cutouts
Glamorous & Maximalist Weddings
For luxe outdoor nuptials, such as a grand estate or expansive vineyard, a glamorous and well-structured gown is bound to make a statement. In this case, we recommend speaking with your venue’s coordinator to ensure there is a clear aisle and smooth pathways to help navigate a fuller skirt. Similarly, consider opting for a detachable overskirt that you can remove after the ceremony and photos are finished.
Bridal Styles & Aesthetics:
- Feminine
- Dramatic
- Romantic
- Fairytale
Best Silhouettes:
- Ball Gown
- Fit-and-Flare
- Mermaid
Best Fabrics:
- Satin
- Silk Mikado
- Tulle
Details:
- Beading
- Floral Appliqué
- Shimmer Tulle
- Cathedral-Length Train
Nautical & Coastal Weddings
A nautical-themed wedding by the shore calls for elegant yet effortless styles. We recommend avoiding heavy fabrics that are difficult to drag in the sand or grass. Consider coastal-inspired elements such as pearl embellishments or draping that mimics the movement of water.
Bridal Styles & Aesthetics:
- Classic
- Minimalist
- Chic
- Romantic
- Ethereal
Best Silhouettes:
- A-Line
- Fit-and-Flare
- Sheath
Best Fabrics:
- Silk Mikado
- Crepe
- Delicate Lace
- Tulle
- Silk
Details:
- Pearls
- Bows
- Low Backs
- Draping or Ruching
- Slits
Vintage & Regency-Inspired Weddings
For vintage garden parties or regency-inspired nuptials, dramatic silhouettes with basque waistlines, soft draping or ruching, and intricate beading evokes nostalgia and timeless romance.
Bridal Styles & Aesthetics:
- Romantic
- Art Deco
- Traditional
- Feminine
- Fairytale
Best Silhouettes:
- Ball Gown
- Sheath
Best Fabrics:
- Satin
- Silk Mikado
- Tulle
- Delicate Lace
Details:
- Puff Sleeves
- Basque Waists
- Delicate Beading
- Pearls
Alternative & Non-Traditional Weddings
If you’re breaking tradition, consider a wedding jumpsuit, a patterned gown, or even a black dress. Incorporating design elements with unique texture or asymmetry are also ideal for creating an unexpected entrance.
Bridal Styles & Aesthetics:
- Unique
- Chic
- Moody
- Dark
- Edgy
Best Silhouettes:
- Sheath
- Jumpsuits
- Bridal Separates or Two-Piece Sets
Best Fabrics:
- Silk Mikado
- Silk Organza
- Chiffon
- Crepe
Details:
- Color
- Bold Prints
- Asymmetry
- Architectural Elements
- Draping or Ruching
Seeking more guidance or advice? Explore more of our Bridal Guides here: