If you’re thinking of heading further afield for your big day, you’re not alone. More and more couples are choosing to marry abroad, tempted by the thought of better weather, stylish overseas venues and often a smaller guest list. Combine this with the amazing choice of stunning destination wedding dresses and we can see why!

Below, we’ve asked our experts to pick their favourite destination wedding dresses for every setting, as well as their tips and tricks for travelling in style. So, whether you’re marrying in a chic city venue, a Tuscan vineyard or on the beach at sunset, we can help…

Match your dress to your destination

Before choosing your dress, think about the look and feel of your setting. Will you be saying ‘I do’ in an elegant city hall, at a contemporary waterside restaurant or on a beautiful beach? A city venue might call for something timeless and classic, while a European beach wedding is great for a floaty bohemian style paired with bare feet and flowing hair. 

For a chic restaurant consider sleek Mikado with a contemporary oversized bow, or for a sunny beach in Bali or Thailand go for bold florals to match the tropical flowers. Although, that said, this is your day. So, the dress that makes you feel the most amazing, whatever the style, is always the perfect one for you!

The best fabrics for overseas weddings

Destination weddings often mean warm or humid weather, so find out what the average temperature is likely to be. Lightweight, breathable fabrics that won’t cling, such as chiffon, tulle or organza, are ideal for hot locations. Delicate lace is also a better choice than heavy embellishment.

However, a wedding abroad doesn’t always mean tropical warmth. If you’re eloping to Rome or marrying underneath the Eiffel Tower, you might want a thicker fabric like luxurious Mikado, paired with a faux fur wrap or long sleeve tulle bolero, to keep the chill off.

Key features for destination wedding dresses

Also, consider how practical the main features are. If you’re having a city ceremony or wandering round Central Park afterwards, you might not want a super long train trailing behind you. The same applies if you’ll be strolling along the beach or finishing the day by paddling in the sea. For humid weather, it’s also a good idea to avoid heavy beading or skirts with lots of layers. 

However, if you’ve always dreamt of having a train then you should have one, wherever you are in the world. Simply get a seamstress to add a bustle, so you can manage any setting with ease. Or, alternatively, treat yourself to a simpler second dress that’s perfect for a late night dip in the ocean!

How to travel with your wedding dress

Once you’ve found the perfect style you need to get it to your venue safely. When you buy your dress, remember to ask in store about our specialist travel boxes. They’ll keep your dress safe for the whole journey.

Also, make sure you take your dress on the plane as carry-on luggage, along with all your wedding essentials and accessories. That way, if your suitcase doesn’t make it all the way with you, you’ll still have everything you need for the big day. Then, when you arrive, unpack your dress as soon as you can. Check if your venue has a steamer or bring a travel steamer with you, so you can gently remove any creases. If not, hang your dress up in the bathroom and run the shower on hot to help smooth things out.

5 of the best destination wedding dresses

So, once you’ve got your location sorted and the venue’s booked, it’s time to go shopping. Here are five of our favourite destination wedding dresses, with locations to match, to get you started…

1. A modern classic

Destination: The Amalfi Coast, Italy

Dress: Florentina by Sofia Cruz

Italy is a popular choice for weddings, thanks to its gorgeous scenery, great weather and delicious food. If you’re heading to the stunning Amalfi Coast with its rugged coastline, terraced vineyards and pastel-coloured fishing villages then we think you should take beautiful Florentina with you. The rich brocade fabric and glamorous ballgown skirt give a nod to the classical romance of the region while the low back and modern square neckline bring the look bang up to date. 

2. Low-key luxury

Destination: New York, USA 

Dress: Lenni by Miavalenca

Striking Lenni is just made for the glamorous streets of New York, the ultimate city for an intimate ceremony for two (although Paris is another great choice). An easy-to-wear sheath, it has plenty of drama thanks to the plunging V-neck bodice, illusion lace and statement petal train, which is just the right length for exploring. If you’re planning an elopement, this dress has all the romance and wow factor you need.

3. Floaty and effortless

Destination: Santorini, Greece

Dress: Ocean by Heidi Hudson

The Greek island of Santorini ticks all the boxes when it comes to the ideal destination wedding location. It’s relatively easy for UK couples to marry here and with its sapphire waters, charming villages and picturesque blue and white buildings it really is like something from a fairytale. Heidi Hudson is the perfect designer for this gorgeous setting. Ocean, a relaxed slim A-line with softly draped straps, sets just the right tone for an informal waterside celebration. We can just picture the light chiffon and lace wafting prettily in the sea breeze as the sun sets behind you - heavenly!

4. Tropical boho

Destination: The Caribbean 

Dress: Cove by Heidi Hudson

Orchids and bougainvillea, white sand beaches and azure blue waters stretching for miles… what’s not to love about going to the Caribbean for your big day? Warm weather and beach ceremonies call for something stunning but lightweight like striking Cove, also by Heidi Hudson. The all-over knitted lace will keep you cool and move easily with you, while the low V-neck and cut-out keyhole back add plenty of sex appeal. The fitted skirt also flows into a delightful sheer lace train for the ultimate in boho beach vibes. 

5. Contemporary cool

Destination: The Dolomites, Italy 

Dress: Aldo by Sofia Cruz

Lastly, the Dolomites in northern Italy, with their rugged peaks, picturesque valleys and lush meadows, offer an unbeatable backdrop for a wedding in both summer and winter. Scenery this dramatic calls for an equally striking dress and effortlessly chic Aldo is our top pick. This luxury crepe sheath with contemporary cowl back and simple train is perfect for creating a breathtaking silhouette in front of this magnificent landscape.   

The world is your oyster

So, where will you go and which dress will you choose? Head to your nearest wed2b for even more gorgeous destination wedding dresses and to receive personalised advice from our bridal experts. Simply tell them all about your dream dress and where you’re travelling to and they can help you choose the perfect look. We guarantee we have something that will keep you cool, calm, collected and looking absolutely amazing anywhere in the world!

Click here to check out all our destination wedding dresses, then try on your favourites at your nearest wed2b store. Here’s what to expect when you visit, too. Lastly, for more inspiration, check out our Instagram, Facebook or TikTok accounts.