Hey, Beachy Brides—We've Found Beautiful Outfits for Sandy Nuptials
Whether it’s on the coast of Cornwall or a tropical backdrop south of the equator, beach weddings are more popular than ever. Beautiful they may be, but there’s no denying that finding a wedding dress that's suitable for sandy nuptials is significantly harder than choosing one for an indoor service.
The last thing you need is the additional stress of working out what works and what doesn’t, so we’ve done the hard work for you. The temperature needs to be a consideration, as you don’t want to overheat in layers of tulle and satin. As is the practicality of your outfit (heels in the sand are a no-go, after all).
As such, our team has combined their style knowledge to bring you an edit of the best beach bridal outfits to say "I do” in. From airy dresses and cool co-ords to the perfect headpieces that’ll keep the sun out of your eyes whilst bestowing you with Riviera-worthy chic, keep scrolling to discover the most beautiful beach bridal outfits you’ll ever see.
Ankle-Length Dresses
Beach weddings are gorgeous, but depending on the sand, it can sometimes cling to the bottom of your dress and look mucky. If this is a concern, look for a style that sits elegantly on the ankle, like the gorgeous gowns below.
Related: 25 Bridesmaid Dresses Your Girls Will Actually Be Happy Wearing
Plunge Dresses
Often considered too risqué for traditional nuptials, beach weddings are less stuffy when it comes to showing some skin. Right now, plunging wedding dresses are having a moment, and these are a few of our favourites.
Sheer Dresses
If you want to up the boho vibe, then a sheer gown is the easiest way to do so. Keep your accessories sleek and your necklines high to offset the see-through fabric.
Chic Co-Ords
If you find yourself drawn to separates over dresses, why not try a breezy co-ord in a cotton or linen? The breathable textures will keep you cool even in tropical climes.
Ocean-Inspired Jewellery
We can’t think of a more beautiful way to pay homage to a coastal ceremony than with pearl or shell jewellery. More versatile than the likes of tiaras, these are mementoes of your big day that you’ll wear for years to come.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Vera Wang Wedding Dress
Sun Hats
Veils are still appropriate for beach weddings, but if a real standout statement is what you’d like to make, why not opt for an oversized, incredibly glamorous sun hat instead? They’ll look particularly excellent with a linen two-piece.
Flat Shoes
Sorry, ladies—heels are a no-go for walking down a sandy aisle. Fret not, though, for there are so many fancy flats on offer this season.
If you haven’t found the perfect beach bridal outfit here, see these beautiful boho dress options too…
Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.
Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.
Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.
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