Once upon a time, it might have seemed unusual for couples to ditch church or a banquet hall and host their wedding in an extremely rustic setting — I speak of the woods — it doesn't get more rustic than that. But times have certainly changed. As we continue to explore creative options for the most special and romantic day of our lives, our dress desires will reflect that. By all means, you should choose a dress that makes you happy, no matter where you marry, and if you equate pure joy with a beaded princess ball gown, go for it. But, if you're looking for a dress option that suits the laid-back, charming, wood nymph feel of a wedding in the woods, look no further than these eight gowns.
1. Melissa Sweet Wedding Dress With Flutter Sleeves
This dress by Melissa Sweet (available at David's Bridal for $1,200) is all about the Boho lace flutter sleeves and hemline, which give it vintage appeal. The length is ideal for traipsing along grassy paths and the cream hue is an earthier tone to opt for over shocking alabaster.
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2. Daria Dress by Amsale
There's nothing quite like a bridal gown that gives you something interesting and beautiful to gaze at from both the front and the back. The Daria gown by Amsale looks deceptively simple from the front, with little more than a single ruffle on the bust and a sheer neckline. But, my goodness, the back — with its shimmery floral and leaf pattern and layers of floaty fabric — will make you look like a goddess in the woods.
3. Trudy by Pronovias
Here's a totally different take on woodsy bridal fashion: Why not take a cue from Aurora (aka Sleeping Beauty), who knew a thing or two about how to look beautiful in a forest? Picture this Trudy by Pronovias gown, sans veil, and you've more or less got a white, lacy, bateau neck-lined version of something a Disney princess would wear in the woods. The cool pocket detail lends it a degree of casual cool.
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4. J. Crew Harper Beaded Mermaid Gown
Just because you're getting married outside doesn't mean you can't shake things up with a so-not-great-outdoors sequin mermaid gown — as long as you keep the silhouette and embellishments subtle and modern. This J. Crew Harper Beaded Mermaid Gown works because the hand-sewn sequins and seed beads add the right amount of shimmer (perfect for a sunset wedding) without overpowering the dress. And, because this gown isn't skintight, the slight mermaid kick is more casual and outdoor friendly.
5. Alfred Angelo Lace Column Gown With Sleeveless Net Jacket
This allover lace column gown with a simple scooped neckline and cute sweep train by Alfred Angelo is lovely on its own, but a detachable net jacket with a belted waist and chapel-length train is the perfect cover-up and veil alternative for brides who prefer to leave their hair unadorned. If white isn't your thing or you'd prefer to tone things down, it also comes in ivory and ivory/gray.
6. Maggie Sottero Kalisti Wedding Dress
A romantic tulle sheath dress with Swarovski crystals and a detachable Watteau train, the Maggie Sottero Kalisti dress might as well be named the Khaleesi dress. Slip it on and you'll feel like you're about to enter an enchanted forest — even more so if you opt for the light gold/gold accent color option (but it's also available in ivory/gold accent and just plain ivory).
7. BHLDN Fable Gown
Perfect name for the perfect woods wedding dress: BHLDN's Fable Gown is gold, features a peekaboo bodice, and a vintage-inspired cascading pink floral appliqué that blends in beautifully with a natural setting. It's pretty much a given that not one of your guests has ever seen a gown quite like this one.
8. BHLDN Tulley Top & Amora Skirt
There's something so whimsical, sweet and unexpected about this sequin floral crop top paired with layers of pale blush tulle (it also comes in ivory and gray). This look is casual enough for a wedding in the forest, but also memorable. Add a crown of flowers and you've instantly created a fresh and modern bridal look.