Exploring Wedding Dress Styles and the Top 5 Online Shops for Elopement Dresses

Choosing the perfect wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of planning your elopement. With so many styles to choose from, it’s essential to find one that reflects your personality. You also want to make sure it complements your vision, and makes you feel absolutely radiant. To help you navigate this journey, we’ll dive into popular wedding dress styles. Plus I wanted to share my top 5 online shops for elopement dresses.

Popular Wedding Dress Styles

1. A-Line Dresses
A-line dresses are universally flattering, thanks to their fitted bodice and gently flared skirt. This style works well for almost any elopement setting, from a beach ceremony to a mountain-top vow exchange. It’s a timeless choice that balances elegance and comfort.

2. Ball Gowns
Ball gowns bring a fairytale vibe to your wedding day with their voluminous skirts and dramatic appeal. While they may not be ideal for rugged outdoor settings, they are perfect for formal elopements in historic venues or luxurious gardens.

3. Sheath Dresses
Sheath dresses are sleek and modern, hugging the body’s natural shape. They’re an excellent choice for minimalist brides and are easy to pack for destination elopements. This style often features light fabrics like crepe or chiffon, making it a breezy option for intimate ceremonies.

4. Bohemian Dresses
Boho wedding dresses are all about flowing fabrics, lace details, and an effortless vibe. Perfect for outdoor elopements, these dresses pair beautifully with natural settings like forests, deserts, beaches, and mountain tops.

5. Mermaid and Fit-and-Flare Dresses
Mermaid and fit-and-flare styles are ideal for brides looking to showcase their curves. These dresses are fitted through the bodice and hips, flaring out around the knees. They’re a glamorous option for upscale elopements or urban settings.

6. Tea-Length Dresses
Tea-length dresses, which fall between the knee and ankle, are a playful yet chic choice. They’re ideal for courthouse elopements or casual celebrations and pair wonderfully with vintage-inspired themes.

5 Best Online Shops to Order an Elopement Dress

Finding the perfect elopement dress online is easier than ever, with countless shops offering beautiful designs. Here are five trusted online retailers that brides love:

1. BHLDN
BHLDN offers a curated collection of wedding dresses that range from modern minimalist to boho chic. Their designs are ideal for elopements, thanks to their lightweight fabrics and relaxed silhouettes. BHLDN also provides a variety of accessories to complete your look.

2. Lulus
Lulus is a go-to for brides on a budget who don’t want to compromise on style. Their wedding collection includes everything from romantic lace gowns to simple slip dresses, perfect for intimate ceremonies. Lulus is especially popular for brides planning casual or outdoor elopements.

3. ASOS Bridal
ASOS Bridal features trendy and affordable wedding dresses that are perfect for fashion-forward brides. They offer a variety of styles, from minimalist satin gowns to detailed lace dresses. With their inclusive sizing and budget-friendly options, ASOS is an excellent choice for elopement dresses.

4. Grace Loves Lace
Grace Loves Lace is a favorite among boho brides. Their handmade dresses are known for their intricate lace designs, comfortable fabrics, and dreamy silhouettes. Grace Loves Lace specializes in dresses that move effortlessly, making them perfect for adventurous elopements.

5. Reformation
Reformation is renowned for its sustainable and chic wedding dresses. Their collection includes modern, elegant designs with an eco-friendly touch. Reformation’s dresses are ideal for brides who value sustainability while wanting to look stunning on their special day.

Bonus Shop: Anthropologie
Anthropologie combines modern elegance with boho charm in their wedding collection. Their dresses feature unique designs, high-quality fabrics, and intricate details that make them stand out. Whether you’re planning a chic city elopement or a rustic outdoor ceremony, Anthropologie has options to suit your vision.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Elopement Dress

1. Consider Your Venue: The location of your elopement plays a big role in choosing your dress. For example, a lightweight boho dress is perfect for a beach ceremony, while a sleek sheath dress might be better suited for a city hall wedding. A dress with flowy layers create beautiful movement in outdoor locations, especially on top of a mountain with a breeze!
2. Prioritize Comfort: Since elopements often involve more movement and spontaneity than traditional weddings, prioritize a dress that’s easy to wear and allows you to move freely.
3. Think About the Weather: Take the season and weather into account when choosing your dress. Lightweight fabrics are great for summer elopements, while long sleeves or heavier materials may be better for winter settings. Don’t be afraid to get a thick shawl for the colder months!
4. Pack Wisely: If you’re traveling for your elopement, ensure your dress is easy to pack and transport. Many online shops provide packing tips or offer dresses made with travel in mind. If you’re flying with your wedding dress make sure you bring it on the plane as a carry on! You don’t want that piece of precious luggage lost if you check it.
5. Stay True to Your Style: Your wedding day is a celebration of your unique love story, so choose a dress that feels authentic to you. Doing this ensures that you’ll feel confident and comfortable while still glowing like the bride you are!

Online Shops for Elopement Dresses

Finding the perfect wedding dress for your elopement is an exciting part of the planning process. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of a sheath dress or the whimsy of a boho gown, there’s a style and online shop that suits your vision. With options from trusted retailers like BHLDN, Lulus, ASOS, Grace Loves Lace, and Reformation, you’re sure to find a dress that makes you feel beautiful and ready to say “I do.”

If you’re ready to start planning your dream elopement in the Adirondacks, anywhere in Florida, or even a beautiful destination like Iceland, send me a message! I’d love to help you plan your adventure elopement so your wedding day is fun and stress free!