Eloping is an intimate, adventurous way to celebrate your love, and your photos should capture every stunning detail. One of the most important aspects of elopement photography is choosing the right outfits. Whether you’re saying “I do” on a mountaintop, a beach, or in a bustling city, your wardrobe should reflect your personality while complementing the natural beauty of your surroundings.
To help you plan the perfect look, here are the best fashion tips for couples to ensure you look and feel amazing in your elopement photos.
1. Consider Your Elopement Location
Your choice of outfit should complement your elopement destination. The terrain, weather, and scenery all play a role in how your photos will look.
For Mountain or Forest Elopements:
- Flowy dresses that catch the wind beautifully.
- Layers (shawls, jackets, or cozy wraps) for warmth.
- Sturdy boots or stylish flats for walking on uneven ground.
For Beach Elopements:
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics like chiffon or linen.
- Barefoot or strappy sandals for a relaxed feel.
- Light, natural colors like whites, pastels, or soft blues.
For Urban Elopements:
- Sleek, modern outfits like a fitted suit or chic dress.
- Statement accessories like a bold lip color, stylish hat, or tailored blazer.
- Comfortable yet stylish footwear for walking around the city.
2. Prioritize Comfort and Movement
Your elopement photos will capture a mix of candid and posed shots, so your outfit should allow for natural movement.
Best Choices for Movement-Friendly Attire:
- Dresses with flowing skirts or slits to add drama to movement shots.
- Pantsuits or jumpsuits for an elegant yet practical option.
- Flexible fabrics that allow you to run, twirl, or dance naturally.
Pro Tip: Try sitting, walking, and twirling in your outfit before your elopement to ensure it looks good from all angles!
3. Coordinate Without Being Too Matchy
Your outfits should complement each other rather than look identical. Stick to a cohesive color palette while allowing each partner to showcase their unique style.
Color Palette Ideas for Couples:
- Earthy & Neutral: Beige, rust, olive green, soft brown (great for desert, forest, or fall elopements).
- Romantic & Pastel: Blush pink, dusty blue, soft lavender (perfect for beach or garden elopements).
- Classic & Elegant: Black, navy, deep red, or white (ideal for city or evening elopements).
Example of a Coordinated Look:
- One partner in a flowing white gown, the other in a tan or navy suit.
- A bohemian-style dress paired with a relaxed linen suit in complementary colors.
- A modern black jumpsuit with a partner in a sleek, dark-colored suit.
4. Play with Layers and Textures
Adding layers and textures can make your elopement photos visually interesting and add depth to your outfits.
Ways to Elevate Your Look:
- A lace or embroidered dress for a subtle texture.
- A wool coat or faux fur wrap for cozy elegance.
- Suspenders, scarves, or leather jackets for an edgy or vintage vibe.
Layers also help you adapt to changing weather without compromising style!
5. Keep the Weather in Mind
Your elopement day might bring surprises, so dressing appropriately for the weather is key.
Warm Weather Tips:
- Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton, silk, or linen.
- Wear light colors to reflect the sun.
- Keep accessories minimal to avoid overheating.
Cold Weather Tips:
- Layer up with tights, shawls, or stylish jackets.
- Choose wool blends or heavier fabrics to stay warm.
- Don’t be afraid to embrace cozy accessories like gloves or scarves.
If you’re eloping somewhere unpredictable (like a mountain summit), bring an extra layer just in case!
6. Choose Accessories That Enhance Your Look
Accessories can elevate your style while adding personality to your photos. However, less is often more—stick to pieces that feel natural and won’t overpower your outfit.
Accessory Ideas for Elopement Photography:
- A delicate headpiece or floral crown for a whimsical look.
- Minimalist jewelry, like dainty necklaces or pearl earrings.
- Hats or sunglasses for a trendy, editorial feel.
- Statement shoes that pop in photos (but are still comfortable!).
Pro Tip: If wearing a veil, choose one that flows beautifully in the wind for dramatic shots!
7. Think About Hair and Makeup
Your hair and makeup should enhance your natural beauty while lasting throughout the day.
Makeup Tips:
- Opt for long-wear, waterproof makeup to withstand weather and happy tears.
- Stick to natural, glowing skin with soft blush and neutral lips.
- If going for a bold lip or eye look, keep the rest of your makeup minimal.
Hair Tips:
- Loose waves, braids, or buns work well for outdoor elopements.
- Consider a style that embraces the elements rather than fights them (e.g., wind-swept curls instead of a perfectly sleek look).
Bonus Tip: Bring a small touch-up kit with powder, lip color, and a hairbrush for quick fixes!
8. Wear Something That Feels Like YOU
At the end of the day, your elopement is about celebrating your love in the way that feels most authentic to you. Choose outfits that make you feel confident, comfortable, and like yourselves.
If you love casual vibes, a simple dress and sneakers can be just as stunning as a ball gown.
If you adore bold fashion, go for a daring outfit with striking details.
If minimalism is your style, a sleek, well-tailored look will shine effortlessly.
Your elopement photos should reflect your personality and love story, so wear what makes you happy
Make Your Elopement Look Unforgettable
Choosing what to wear for your elopement doesn’t have to be stressful—by considering the location, comfort, colors, and accessories, you’ll create a look that is both stunning and true to you.
Looking for an experienced elopement photographer who can bring your vision to life? Contact us today to book your session and ensure every detail of your love story is beautifully captured!
This post was written by a professional at Ra Weddings Photography. Ra Weddings Photography, nestled in the heart of Tampa Bay, captures timeless moments with artistry. Specializing in wedding photos, engagement pictures, and tampa elopement photographer, they bring a distinctive blend of creativity and professionalism to every shoot.
