Choosing your Beach Style Wedding Dress

Beach weddings have grown in popularity over the last few years, not only with those opting for a destination wedding on foreign shores, but also with those looking to hold their wedding al fresco.
Beach weddings give brides a greater freedom when it comes to their wedding dresses. You still have the option of course to wear a full traditional style gown but many brides now choose something less formal and more in keeping with a relaxed beach wedding.

The advantage of a beach wedding is that it will lend itself to a casual look whilst not drawing anything away from how special the occasion will be. The best advice is to steer clear of the heavier traditional gowns and instead opt for something lightweight and cooler for a beach environment. With this in mind your choice of wedding dresses increases from purpose designed wedding dresses to evening wear and even summer dresses.

As a beach wedding is usually a relaxed and casual affair then you should think along the same lines when it comes to your wedding dress. Stick to lightweight, summer styles and something that is simple in its design. Keep your accessories to a minimum too. Avoid veils - sea breezes will only give you no end of problems, choose sensible shoes as well, sandals or flip flop styles are far more practical than pumps or stilettos! There is also the option to go bare foot and keep a pair of shoes on stand-by should you venture off the beach. You may also want to purchase a wrap or lightweight shawl for when it gets cooler in the evening.

Of course beach weddings can lend themselves to attire that is completely off the wedding radar. How about a white bikini and sarong ala Pamela Anderson? Or maybe just a pretty summer dress and wide brimmed hat.

If you are not getting married actually on the beach but at a location overlooking it, then of course you can choose a more formal wedding dress and accessories. Still look for dresses with a relaxed feel though and which will look chic and elegant at the same time.

Many designers have realized that destination and beach weddings are growing in popularity and that there is a big demand for dresses that will suit the occasion. You will find ranges with most of the big names now, all of which have come up with beautiful simple dresses in lightweight fabrics and cool designs. Failing that, why not look at evening dresses as an alternative, a simple backless evening gown can look amazing in a beach setting and wonderfully elegant.

Coordinate all your accessories and your shoes with your dress to keep the causal look unified. You may also want to think about casual styles for your hair too. A casual wedding dress with a formal up-do rarely works. Choose simple hair pins, combs or a small tiara to add an extra bit of glamor.
When you begin your search keep these key things in mind:

. Lightweight and cool
. Comfortable
. Light in color
. Simple in style

A beach wedding should in no way compromise your ability to look glamorous and stylish, as well as being cool and comfortable.