Is there anything more romantic than being married by the sea? Several brides dream of beach weddings because they are unique, memorable, and breathtaking.

Beach weddings are also beloved for the laid-back vibe they create. When the ocean is your backdrop, you don’t have to do much decorating to have a beautiful ceremony. Plus, most beach weddings are destination weddings, which are even more fun and unforgettable.

However, when you get married outdoors, you have to consider the temperature, humidity, wind, and other elements. On the beach, you also have sand to think about. You want to make sure that your wedding dress suits the environment so that you are comfortable and enjoy yourself all night.

In this guide, we’re going to give you our best tips on choosing a wedding dress for your seaside nuptials. We’ll also show you our favorite Christina Wu beach wedding dresses. Let’s jump in.

Length

Beach weddings are ideal venues for short or mid-length wedding dresses. You don’t have to worry about getting sand or water on your dress, and shorter dresses match the relaxed beach atmosphere.

Asymmetrical wedding dresses are also perfect for the beach. Their fun flair matches the occasion while making a statement. Without the formality of a church or fancy wedding hall, you can wear what you really want for a beach wedding.

However, you should let a little sand scare you off from wearing the floor-length dress of your dreams. At the end of the day, you should choose the length that makes you happiest. Even if you do get a little sand on your dress, it will easily shake off. Plus, isn’t putting your toes in the sand one of the best parts of a beach wedding?

Along with the dress length, you should also think about the sleeve length. A long-sleeved dress may work for a beach wedding in the off-season when the temperatures are lower. However, if you’re having a summer wedding at the beach, go for spaghetti straps, sleeveless, off-the-shoulder, strapless, or a halter top to stay cool.

Fabric

If you’re throwing a summer beach wedding, you need to keep in mind that it will probably be hot. You want to make sure you choose a dress with breathable fabric so you can stay cool. Plus, lightweight fabrics are less formal, which is what most brides want for their beach nuptials.

If you’re traveling for a destination wedding, a lighter dress is also easier to transport. Chiffon, lace, and silk are all gorgeous lightweight fabric options.

Silhouette

You probably haven’t seen a bride in a ballgown at a beach wedding. Most brides gravitate towards flowy silhouettes that match the relaxed vibe at the beach. However, you can also opt for a figure-hugging shape, mermaid gown, or sheath dress.

The goal is to choose a breezy silhouette that doesn’t overwhelm you. You can also consider whether you want a dress at all. Some brides choose wedding jumpsuits or two-piece top and skirt combinations for beach weddings.

long beach bridal gown

Design

Have you dreamed of walking down the aisle in a gorgeous dress covered in beads, or are you a fan of lace? Some wedding dress designers will say that at the beach, less is more. However, we think that choice is up to you.

If you want to wear an intricately designed dress to your beach wedding, we think you should go for it. However, the beach backdrop provides plenty of beauty itself, so a modestly designed dress is also a great fit. It’s also important to note that beading adds more weight to a wedding dress, whereas the lace is light and breathable.

Train

If you choose a dress with a long train for a beach wedding, chances are you’ll be tracking sand in it all night. That doesn’t mean that you can’t choose a dress with a short train, but we would advise against cathedral trains for the beach.

Here are shorter train options, in order from shortest to longest:

  • Sweep
  • Court
  • Panel
  • Watteau
  • Chapel

You can also choose a dress without a train if you don’t want to worry about sand.

Veil

Just like a train, a long floor-length veil will attract sand. Plus, it can be a nuisance on a windy beach day. Most beach brides opt for a different headpiece instead of wearing a veil, especially if they want a more casual look.  Here at Madame Bridal, we offer a free complimentary headpiece with wedding dress, to complete the look for your big day.

simple bridal headpiece

You can still wear a veil if you want to, but choose a shorter option, and make sure it’s pinned on really well so it doesn’t blow away. Here are the best veil options for a beach wedding:

  • Blusher
  • Shoulder length
  • Elbow Length
  • Fingertip length
  • Walking veil

Chapel and cathedral veils would both drag on the sand.

Check Out Designer Beach Wedding Dress by Christina Wu

For beautiful and one-of-a-kind designer cheap beach wedding dresses, Christina Wu dresses at Madame Bridal are the perfect option for you. Whether you’re looking for a fun and flirty dress for your beach wedding, or you want something sophisticated and traditional, you can find it in our selection of designer gowns.

Madame Bridal can also outfit your wedding party in beautiful designer dresses for a great price.

bride wearing a long white dress on a beach

Choosing a Wedding Dress for a Beach Wedding

How do you choose the perfect wedding dress for a beach wedding? Just because you’re going for a laid-back beachy vibe doesn’t mean you shouldn’t feel gorgeous on your wedding day.

Hopefully, this guide has steered you in the right direction for choosing the perfect wedding dress for your beach wedding. At the end of the day, you should fall in love with your wedding dress. You can find a gorgeous dress that’s both relaxed and elegant and perfect for a wedding by the ocean.

For more wedding resources, check out our other blogs, and start shopping for simple beach wedding dresses today.