Photo: Sawyer Baird
Which comes first — the dress or the venue? If you’re the kind of bride who has no idea what she wants her gown to look like, then the venue may be your answer. If you’re dead set on a certain setting for your wedding, that place says something about your taste and style; let it serve as your muse when picking out a dress that flatters your body, personality, and wedding location. From a hotel ballroom to a garden soirée, these styles will best complement your venue.
Photo: Courtesy of Marchesa
Garden
This delicate outdoor venue is all breezy romance, much like your dress should be. Look for something light and airy and slightly whimsical — not only does it pair well with the venue in aesthetics, but keeps you cool in the heat. A strapless neckline, gently embroidered bodice, and flowing skirt make this Marchesa gown a fairy-like dream.
Photo: Courtesy of Jenny Packham
Museum
A museum is typically an alternate choice, so your dress shouldn’t fit the traditional wedding gown mold. Take a cue from the artsy vibes of this venue and opt for a dress with an Art Deco feel, made apparent by the intricate beading on this Jenny Packham gown.
Photo: Courtesy of Kenneth Winston
Vineyard
An A-line or trumpet dress with a sweetheart neckline is a romantic choice for an elegant vineyard wedding. Both silhouettes offer a range of styles to best fit your vineyard vibe. This Kenneth Winston confection of English net and embroidered cotton lace would look great trailing down rows of terrain.
Photo: Courtesy of Designer Loft NYC
Church
This traditional venue calls for a traditional dress — think a classic ballgown like this Rosa Clara number. Simple and chic, lace and a bow bring a bit of femininity to the dress.
Photo: Courtesy of Rivini
Hotel Ballroom
Hotel ballrooms are modern and sleek, bringing to mind uplighting and stylish tablescapes. A contemporary dress mirrors such an atmosphere. The cut-outs on this fitted Rivini gown are a subtle nod to such modernity while still maintaining the more traditional elements of a wedding dress.
See More: How to Match Your Flowers to Your Wedding Venue
Photo: Courtesy of Maggie Sottero
Barn
Rustic is the name of the game when it comes to a barn wedding, with a dress that should be equally country sweet. Nail the look with allover lace, a light train, and a jewel neckline, seen in this Maggie Sottero confection.
Photo: Courtesy of Dennis Basso for Kleinfeld
Grand Estate
An estate often has a lavish vibe, just as your dress should. Find a dress with opulent embroidery and beading or a little glitz and glam, like this Dennis Basso for Kleinfeld gown. The extra touch will take your wedding day look to the next level, much like your venue.
Photo: Courtesy of Jenny Packham
Woods or Mountains
Earthy and bohemian, this outdoor setting calls for a simple and carefree wedding look. What more could a free-spirited bride want? With billowing sleeves and a loose skirt, this relaxed Jenny Packham gown fits the bill.