How to Choose the Best Summer Wedding Dress in 2023

Choosing the best summer wedding dress may seem like a daunting task. In fact, browsing wedding dress styles, fitting your dress, and purchasing it can be among the most stressful parts about planning your perfect summer wedding.

However, this does not have to be the case!

The following guide walks you through each step to select the ultimate summer wedding dress for your special day, with an emphasis on choosing a dress style that matches a rustic, country wedding theme.

While you will need to do some work and reflection if you want to find the summer wedding dress style to match you personality and wedding, with a little effort, you will find the perfect fit!

Reflect on Your Personality and Style

The first step to choosing your wedding dress is understanding your style and what you feel most comfortable in.

Consider the clothes you usually wear and what makes you feel confident. Are you minimalist or extravagant? Classic or bohemian?

Make sure to choose a wedding dress style that aligns with your personality and style.

Consider Your Wedding Theme

Next, consider the theme of your wedding. If you’re going for a country or rustic style wedding, think about what dress styles would best fit that atmosphere.

Is it a boho chic dress with an ethereal feel, or an A-line dress with lace overlays for a classic country charm?

The following are a few dress styles you can consider when selecting your perfect summer wedding dress:

Boho Chic Wedding Dress

If you’re free-spirited, love adventure, and have a penchant for unique styles, a boho chic wedding dress might be your perfect match. Characterized by flowing fabrics, delicate laces, and unique detailing, these dresses often include layers, fluttering sleeves, and open-back designs.

A-line Dress

The A-line dress is a versatile choice and one of the most flattering styles for all body types. It’s fitted at the top and flares out gently towards the bottom, mimicking the shape of the letter “A”. It’s an excellent choice for the classic, traditional bride who wants an elegant and timeless look.

The rustic country bride might opt for an A-line dress with delicate lace overlays, evoking the charm and grace of countryside living.

Mermaid Dress

For the confident, daring bride who wants to make a statement and isn’t afraid to be the center of attention, the mermaid style dress is a stunning option. This dress style is fitted on the body from the chest to the knee, then flares out close to the knee, mimicking a mermaid’s tail.

While the mermaid style might not be the first thing that comes to mind for a country wedding, it can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to a rustic setting.

Opt for a design with lace details and soft, flowing fabrics to maintain the rustic aesthetic.

Slip Dress

If you’re a minimalist bride who values simplicity and understated elegance, a slip dress could be your ideal fit. This style, characterized by its simple, sleek design, harkens back to 90s fashion but with a modern, sophisticated twist.

For a summer wedding, opt for light fabrics like silk or satin that flow beautifully and won’t weigh you down in the heat.

Two-piece Dress

Two-piece wedding dresses, or bridal separates, are a fantastic choice for the unconventional, fashion-forward bride. This style allows for plenty of customization options – you could pair a lace crop top with a voluminous tulle skirt or a fitted bodice with a sleek satin skirt.

The two-piece dress is perfect for a laid-back, country wedding and allows the bride to showcase her unique, individual style.  

Tea-length Dress

The tea-length dress has a hem that falls between the bottom of the knee and the bottom of the calf. This dress style is versatile, comfortable, and perfect for a hot summer day. Pair this with some vintage accents like lace gloves, pearl accessories, or a birdcage veil, and you’ve got a look that’s charmingly retro yet perfectly suited to a rustic country wedding.

Set Your Budget

Before you start trying on dresses, it’s important to determine your budget. Keep in mind that the cost of a wedding dress can significantly vary depending on the style, designer, and details.

Decide on a budget range that you’re comfortable with and stick to it.

Research Designers and Stores

Now that you know your style, theme, and budget, it’s time to do some research. Look for bridal shops and designers that carry the dress styles you’re interested in. Read reviews to ensure they’re reputable and offer good customer service.

Try on Dresses

Once you’ve identified potential stores or designers, schedule appointments to try on dresses. It’s a good idea to bring along someone whose opinion you trust.

Be open-minded and try on various styles – you might be surprised at what looks best on you!

Get Measured

When you’ve found the dress you love, the bridal shop will take your measurements. This is essential for ensuring the dress fits you perfectly. Wedding dress sizes often differ from regular clothing sizes, so don’t be surprised if the size seems different than what you’re used to.

Order Your Dress

Once you’ve chosen your dress and gotten your measurements, it’s time to place the order. Keep in mind that it can take several months for a wedding dress to be made and delivered, so it’s best to do this well in advance of your wedding day.

Schedule Alterations

Even with custom measurements, most wedding dresses will need some alterations for a perfect fit. Schedule your first fitting about two to three months before your wedding. If more adjustments are needed, there should still be enough time to complete them.

The Bottom Line

Throughout the process, remember that the most important thing is that you feel beautiful and comfortable in your wedding dress.

This is your special day, and your dress should make you feel like the best version of yourself.