Look hot but stay cool in gowns for warmer weather

Brides are often told they should look to their wedding venue for dress inspiration, but they should also consider the season and the weather before saying yes to a dress.

“The venue and location play a significant role in what the bride chooses to wear because of the weather,” said bridal and editorial stylist Corinne Pierre-Louis, who also founded the wedding fashion newsletter “forever & always.” “Practically speaking, it would feel out of place for a bride to wear a wool, long-sleeved gown to a summer beach wedding or a sleeveless lace number to a winter mountaintop celebration.”

When planning a wedding during the summer months, or a destination wedding to a warm-weather locale, choose gowns made from breathable fabrics and flowy silhouettes, said bridal stylist Julie Sabatino, author of “Dressed, Styled, and Down the Aisle: Becoming a Stylish Bride” (Greenleaf Book Group Press). “Materials like tulle, chiffon, organza and cotton blends are perfect choices.

“They’re lightweight, allow for airflow and are less likely to cling to the body in the heat.”

Natalya Kolosok, CEO and founder of Park Slope bridal salon, New York City Bride, added that brides should choose a dress that won’t leave you wilting in the heat.

“A sleek silk or crepe dress with a touch of lace detail is a timeless choice, and A-line dresses with less volume strike the perfect balance between elegance and comfort,” Kolosok said. “Strapless styles are another great choice — they’re effortlessly chic, and show off just the right amount of skin. For brides who want to make a statement, a dress with a slit adds drama and makes walking so much easier.”

Speaking of walking, make sure to consider the aisle structure before purchasing your shoes, advised Sabatino. “Flat sandals, wedges and low, wide block heels are excellent choices for navigating different terrains.”

Warm-weather weddings give an opportunity to wed in gardens and beaches, and with inspiration from these settings, brides can lean into the look and feel of the location.

“A floral dress can beautifully complement a garden setting without feeling cliché,” said Pierre-Louis. “It’s all about the details and keeping things subtle. Small, delicate floral appliqués, embroidery or lace accents can enhance the theme without overpowering the bride’s overall look. When in doubt, less is more.”

For a wedding in a garden, it’s about creating a romantic feel, said Sabatino. “However, if you’re not drawn to overly romantic or feminine styles, we suggest opting for modern floral details, like laser-cut designs, instead of traditional ones. You could also consider a colorful dress instead of an all-white gown.”

For a beach wedding, “many brides lean toward chiffon or crepe because they’re light and flow beautifully in the breeze,” said Kolosok.

Brides who are looking for a more formal wedding style can still choose a gown with beading and other embellishments, but keep in mind that heavy beading can weigh down a dress and trap heat, noted Pierre-Louis.

“The wedding’s formality sets the initial tone,” she said. “For instance, beach weddings often favor more minimal designs, so a formal beach wedding might call for lightweight fabrics paired with a more structured silhouette. However, designers are becoming more innovative and are now creating embellished garments that are lightweight — perfect for those who love a more-is-more aesthetic. Ultimately, comfort is key, and brides should prioritize lightweight designs which allow them to move.”

Summer brides can still have a fairy-tale ball gown, said Sabatino. “We recommend lightweight fabrics like tulle to keep it comfortable. Intricate lace, delicate beading or floral appliqué can elevate the gown without adding unnecessary weight.”

Couples planning a destination wedding at any time of the year will have to think about how the bride’s wedding dress will be getting there.

“Packing instructions for a wedding dress vary depending on its size and silhouette,” explains Shawne Jacobs, owner and creative director of Anne Barge. “To protect the dress, wrap it in clear plastic and hang the gown up as soon as you arrive at your hotel. Finally, arrange for a steamer to smooth out any wrinkles.”

She also cautioned that if you’re jetting off, and the gown has a particularly large silhouette, “it may be necessary to purchase an additional seat for it.”