When you’re planning an adventure elopement, your outfit should reflect your personality, your love story, and your sense of adventure. Whether you’re hiking to a mountaintop, exploring a forest, or exchanging vows by a waterfall, your elopement outfit should help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready for anything. This guide covers everything you need to know about choosing elopement dresses, suits, non-traditional outfits, and shoes—so you can focus on what matters most: your incredible day together.
Elopement Outfit Dresses
Elopement dresses come in all shapes, sizes, and styles. The most important thing is to choose a dress that feels like you and works for your adventure.
Style Tips
•Movement Matters: Look for lightweight, flowy fabrics that are easy to walk, climb, or dance in.
•Weather-Ready: Consider sleeves, layers, or wraps for chilly weather, or breathable fabrics for warm locations.
•Personal Touch: Don’t be afraid to choose color, patterns, or unique details that show off your style.
•Accessibility: Make sure you can move comfortably—test sitting, squatting, and walking on uneven ground.
•Convertible Dresses: These are perfect for adventure elopements! I personally found a beautiful
convertible dress on Amazon that was comfortable, affordable, and easy to style in multiple ways.
This brides dress is the Amazon convertible dress with a cape veil, both from my client closet. Check out this Moab Elopement blog to see more!
Where to Shop Elopement Dresses
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Azazie Clearance Section: I’ve found two gorgeous dresses here at a fraction of the original price—highly recommend for budget-friendly, quality options.
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Lulus: Affordable, boho styles perfect for adventure elopements. I’ve had brides also get their veils and accessories from Lulus.
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Reclamation: Handmade, bohemian lace dresses (great for renting, too).
•Etsy: Unique, custom, and vintage finds.
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Teuta Matoshi: For those dreaming of a truly magical, storybook look, Teuta Matoshi’s gowns are known for their whimsical details, hand-embellished florals, and romantic silhouettes. These dresses are perfect for couples who want to embrace a fairytale vibe in the great outdoors. If you’re considering a Teuta Matoshi dress, plan ahead—these gowns are often made to order and can take several weeks to arrive. Their dreamy designs look incredible in nature and are sure to make you feel like the main character in your own adventure story!
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Stillwhite: Pre-loved designer gowns at a discount.
•Local thrift and vintage shops: Sustainable, one-of-a-kind treasures.
Pro Tip: Thrifted Wedding Dress & Suit Magic
Thrifting for your wedding outfit is all about patience, open-mindedness, and a little bit of luck. I spent months searching for a vintage wedding dress, and then—on a total whim—walked into Goodwill and found the dress of my dreams! Sometimes, the perfect piece finds you when you least expect it. If you’re on the hunt, start early, visit local thrift stores regularly, and don’t be afraid to try on styles outside your usual comfort zone. Remember, thrifted dresses and suits are not only budget-friendly and eco-conscious, but often one-of-a-kind treasures with their own unique stories.
If you love the idea of a thrifted or unique look but haven’t found “the one” yet, ask about my client closet! I’ve collected a small but growing selection of dresses (including some thrifted finds) that my couples are welcome to borrow for their elopement day.
Elopement Outfit Suits
A great suit is all about comfort, fit, and expressing your personality. Suits are for everyone, regardless of gender identity.
Style Tips
•Fit First: A well-tailored suit will keep you comfortable and confident all day.
•Fabric: Lightweight wool, linen, or blends are perfect for movement and changing weather.
•Colors & Patterns: Don’t be afraid to go bold! Earth tones, jewel colors, or even floral prints can look amazing outdoors.
•Mix & Match: Pair jackets, vests, and pants for a unique look.
•Thrifted & Vintage Suits: Thrift shops and vintage stores often have timeless pieces with unique details and eco-friendly appeal.
Where to Shop Elopement Suits
•SuitShop: Affordable, inclusive sizing, and great for mix-and-match styles.
•Indochino: Custom suits with a wide range of fabrics and fits.
•Bindle & Keep: Gender-inclusive, made-to-measure suits.
•ASOS Suits: Trendy, affordable, and lots of sizing options.
•Goodwill or local thrift stores: For budget-friendly, unique finds.
Non-Traditional Elopement Outfits
Adventure elopements are all about breaking the rules and doing what feels right for you. Non-traditional outfits can include:
•Jumpsuits or rompers (Lulus Jumpsuits)
•Skirts with sweaters or jackets
•Colorful or patterned attire:
Teuta Matoshi dresses are the prettiest statement dresses I’ve seen and they have every color combination you can think of. Joyfolie has a line of “
impact dresses” that are non-traditional wedding gowns but worth a look if you are wanting a huge dramatic train but a non-traditional color. I have two myself and they make you feel incredible as a bonus they have a bustle for the giant trains! While the
Worth Collective dresses aren’t traditionally bridal, they are the flowy, soft, feminine cottage core dresses of my dreams. The photo below shows
this Worth Collective dress.•Vintage or thrifted finds
•Cultural or heritage garments
•Matching outdoor gear (think coordinated hiking boots or jackets!)
Pro Tip:
Choose an outfit that makes you feel amazing and fits the setting—there are no rules except your own.
Completing Your Elopement Outfit
Elopement Shoes
Your shoes should be ready for adventure and celebration. Comfort and safety come first, but style is definitely not optional!
A little personal insight: I do about 98% of my hiking in my Tevas, and honestly, they’re some of the most comfortable and versatile shoes I own. Many couples worry that athletic or practical shoes might ruin their look, but in adventurous settings, neutral-colored sneakers or hiking shoes usually blend right in—especially when paired with flowy dresses or when hidden by grass, rocks, or natural surroundings. So don’t stress about “perfect” shoes; focus on what keeps you comfortable and confident throughout your day.
Style Tips
•Hiking Boots: Perfect for trails, rocks, and rugged terrain. Popular options include
Merrell Moab 3 and Danner Mountain Light.
•Flats or Sandals: Great for beach or meadow ceremonies. Try Teva sandals or Rothy’s flats.
These Tevas are my current favorite since I prefer a slimmer soul while traversing over rocky surfaces for a more stable feeling.
•Dress Shoes: If you want something classic, bring them for the ceremony and swap to adventure shoes for exploring.
•Boots for All: White, tan, or colorful boots look fantastic with any outfit. Check out Blundstone or Dr. Martens.
Remember:
Break in your shoes before your elopement, and consider bringing a backup pair just in case.
Accessories & Helpful Items for Your Adventure Elopement Outfit
While purses and traditional accessories aren’t usually necessary for adventure elopements, the right accessories can elevate your look and add practical value to your day.
Long Veils in Nature
I absolutely love how long, flowing veils look in outdoor settings—the way they catch the wind and add a dreamy, ethereal vibe to your photos is truly magical. If you’re considering a veil, choose lightweight, durable fabrics that won’t get caught easily on branches or rocks. Plus, veils can be easily removed or tucked away when you’re hiking or exploring. This small shop has
handmaid, budget friendly veils.
Hiking Backpacks & Practical Gear
For short excursions or hikes to your ceremony spot,
a small, stylish hiking backpack can be a game-changer. I personally carry a compact
hydration backpack that fits essentials like water, snacks, and a light jacket—keeping your hands free and your outfit intact. Look for backpacks in neutral colors or sleek designs that complement your outfit without overpowering it.
Wet/Dry Bags
Wet/dry bags are incredibly helpful for keeping your essentials safe and dry—especially if you’re crossing streams, hiking in unpredictable weather, or want to protect vow books, phones, or extra clothes. Even a simple ziplock or small dry bag can keep muddy gear or wet layers from dirtying the rest of your pack. Many couples (and photographers!) swear by having at least one dry bag on hand for peace of mind.
Pro Tip: Use a dry bag for your vow books, rings, or anything you really don’t want to get wet. It’s a small investment that can save your most important items from unexpected rain or water crossings. They can also be very helpful for transporting your florals by wrapping the stems in a wet towel, putting into a wet/dry bag and then putting the stems into your pack. These are the bags I have.
Other Accessories to Consider
•Wraps or shawls: Perfect for chilly mountain air and add texture to your look. When you’re planning an elopement, know that anything can happen and weather is your biggest uninvited guest. I recently had the most fun opportunity to photographer in Moab during the summer and we had a crazy rain storm followed by a cold sunset where the Emilie was very thankful for her light sweater! I think these
scarf sweaters are so neat.
•Hats: Wide-brimmed hats or beanies can be both stylish and practical.
•Jewelry: Keep it simple and meaningful—think delicate pieces that won’t get tangled or lost on the trail.
Pro Tip
Pack your accessories thoughtfully—choose pieces that enhance your adventure without weighing you down or limiting your movement. And remember, sometimes less is more when you’re blending elegance with the wild outdoors! One thing I’ll always recommend is a light sweater!
Introducing My Client Closet
I understand that finding the perfect elopement outfit can sometimes feel overwhelming—especially when you want something beautiful, practical, and adventure-ready. That’s why I’ve curated a small client closet with a selection of dresses and suits available for my couples to borrow for their elopement day.
Why use the client closet?
•Save time and money shopping
•Have access to pieces designed for movement and comfort
•Perfect for those planning a spontaneous elopement!
If you’re interested in exploring the client closet or want help finding the perfect outfit, just reach out! I’m here to make your elopement experience as seamless and joyful as possible.
Celebrate Your Unique Style With Your Elopement Outfit
Your elopement outfit is a chance to express who you are, honor your journey, and feel incredible on your big day. Whether you choose a dress, suit, jumpsuit, thrifted treasure, or something totally unique, the most important thing is that it feels true to you.
If you’d like personalized advice, want to browse the client closet, or just want to chat about your elopement vision, I’m here to help! Reach out anytime for inclusive, supportive guidance as you plan your adventure.
