18 Summer Wedding Dresses Perfect For A Beachfront Ceremony
If you are a laid-back kinda gal, a beach wedding is a perfect choice. From getting to be barefoot to using the surf and sand as your background, it is a relaxing and carefree style of wedding that you and your guests will love. Since you are out in the beachy elements, finding a perfect dress is key. Whether you like drama or want to keep it simple, here are some dresses perfect for your beachy nuptials.
1. Sparkly Sleeves
If you’re looking to add some drama, try a dress with sleeves. Sheer material will keep you cool while still getting to have extra sparkle. With so many shiny options, you can get a dress with shimmery material or with rhinestones, glitter or tiny mirrors (see below!) to catch the light!
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2. Halter Mermaid
Of course, any type of mermaid dress will look perfect on the beach, since what is more beachy than mermaids? Keep the fabric on the lighter side and add a cute halter that screams summer! Whether it is a true halter top or an illusion neckline, you can’t go wrong with this style.
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3. Low Back and Fitted
Show off your tan (and your rockin’ bod) with a fitted dress with a showstopping back. Look for a dress that is fitted through the thighs then flows out to hug your curves. The open or low cut back will add drama and look stunning in photographs.
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4. Short Details
If you are doing a casual beach gathering, a short dress with stunning details is the way to go! Aim to find a dress that is knee-length to tea-length to keep it wedding appropriate and to prevent any wind mishaps. Try lace for a sweet touch and pair with bare feet!
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5. Sparkly and Sheer
If you want to catch all the sunlight and attention, opt for a sheer dress featuring all the sparkles! The sheer will be perfect for the beach and the sparkles will dazzle your guests and look incredible catching the sunset glow.
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6. Lacy Mermaid
Another mermaid dress because you truly can’t go wrong with a mermaid style! Try an amped-up lace with nude lining for a sultry look that will look amazing next to the sand and ocean.
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7. Classic Boat Neck
If your style is reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn or your wedding is on the Cape, a classic boat neck dress is the best choice. Simple and elegant, it looks incredible on a beach and is so effortless.
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8. Showstopping Sleeves
Another sleeved look but this time, it’s simply about the drama. Sleeved dresses are so in and you have a ton of choices. The best part about sleeved dresses is you can keep the rest of your dress simple and let the sleeves do the wowing!
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9. High Slit
Surf, and and slits! With a beach wedding, it’s okay to show a little (tan) skin. A high slit dress will give you the chance to show off your gams and your perfectly manicured feet!
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10. Off the Shoulder
Off the shoulder dresses are perfect for beach weddings because they show off your tan decolletage and can be as casual or fancy as you want. Look for a loose sheath type dress for a boho beachy vibe or for a more formal wedding, a fitted off the shoulder look is perfection.
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11. Simple Sheath
With a chill and chic beach wedding, you can’t go wrong with a simple sheath dress. This effortless style looks great on so many body types and will look beautiful flowing in the wind.
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12. Cute Crochet
If you love boho style or are having a super relaxed ceremony and reception, consider a dress with crocheted details. Crocheted tops look great on the beach normally so of course, they translate well to beach weddings! Dresses with crocheted tops and flowy skirts will add to the relaxed vibe of your event.
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13. Romantic Ruffles
If you are looking for more of a statement dress, reach for the ruffles. No matter what material you choose, ruffles are reminiscent of the ocean’s waves and look great for a seaside ceremony.
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14. 2 Piece
If you can’t find one dress that has everything you want, check out shops that sell bridal separates. Pick out the top with the neckline and details you want and a skirt that is just right. You’ll have a custom dress that perfectly matches the location, vibe and style of your wedding.
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15. Short and Sweet
Keep your dress light and easy with a short dress with a skirt with movement in it. Lace details are beautiful for beach events and a short dress gives you the chance to go barefoot and keep the whole look casual and cute.
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16. Blush
If white isn’t your thing, go pink! Colored dresses look amazing for beach weddings and a blush dress will complement the surf and sand perfectly. Add a little sparkle and you have the perfect beach wedding dress!
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17. Lace Halter
Halter tops are quintessential for summertime and pairing it with soft lace and a flowing skirt is ideal for a laid back beach wedding. Keep it pure white for a more traditional dress or try an off white or cream for a more boho look.
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18. Blue Ombre
Finally, it’s your wedding day so have some fun! If you’re looking for a unique wedding dress, why not try bringing in the colors of the ocean with a blue ombre dress! First seen on custom dress shops on Etsy, designers have jumped on the trend and you can find water-inspired dresses everywhere!
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Are you planning a beach wedding? Which dress would you choose? Let us know in the comments below!
Emily Bell is a graduate of Central Michigan University with a degree in Journalism with a Public Relations concentration. She currently lives with her husband and dog on the coast in Florida.