What to Wear For Your Elopement

When it comes to eloping in the great outdoors, choosing the right attire is about balancing style, comfort, and practicality. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a mountaintop, by a waterfall, or at a beautiful Airbnb, here are our top tips after planning and photographing over 100 elopements across the Southeast, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Colorado too… to help you feel amazing while staying prepared for anything the day might bring.

And for a big picture view of what it takes to put together an intentional elopement, you’ll want to check out our complete guide How to Elope.

Shoes: Hiking Boots vs. Dress Shoes

Your choice of footwear is one of the most important decisions for an elopement in the mountains, especially if you’ll be walking on uneven trails or rocky terrain. There is a wide variety of what you’ll be walking on: wet trails, meadows, gravel, rocky outcroppings, and sometimes creek crossings too. 

• Hiking Boots: Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots are ideal for any elopement involving a hike. Look for boots with good ankle support and grip to keep you safe on rocky or slippery surfaces. Many of our couples bring hiking boots for the trek and switch to dress shoes for the ceremony. And definitely do not buy boots just before your elopement! If you need new shoes, give yourself a few months in advance to break them in and make sure the fit is right.
• Dress Shoes: If you’ll be staying in one location or walking on flat, well-maintained paths, dress shoes can work just fine. We always lean towards suggesting outdoor footwear but for an Airbnb elopement you can get away with dress footwear. Just keep in mind that trails and grassy areas can be damp, especially in the morning or after rain, so waterproof soles are a plus. When in doubt, bring both dress and hiking shoes!

A great elopement isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how everything works together.

Be Ready for Rain: Bring Rain Gear

In the mountains, the weather can change quickly, especially in the high elevation areas where many of the best views are! Showers and storms can show up from nowhere. Being prepared with rain gear can save the day if the skies open up unexpectedly:

• Umbrellas: Always bring clear umbrellas. Always. It makes the difference between gorgeous outdoor photos in a slow, misty (and dreamy) rain and getting wet. As long as it’s not windy, we have been out all day in a moody landscape with just these!
• Rain Jackets: If showers turn to rain, have a lightweight, packable rain jackets handy. Choose jackets in colors that won’t clash with your attire. Rain shells double as wind protection too — it can definitely get windy at elevation!
• Backup Plans: Don’t worry too much about a little rain though—it can actually create a beautiful, moody atmosphere to your photos! And if the weather turns to where it’s unsafe to be out (or you’re just done being out in the rain) we always have backup plans in place to keep your day running smoothly.

Packing & Changing at the Location

A question we often get is deciding between hiking in wedding attire or bringing it along. Generally speaking, if it’s a short and not strenuous hike, then we might opt for hiking in attire. It honestly depends on your tendency to sweat and comfort level in your attire. On the other hand, if your elopement involves hiking to a more remote location, we suggest packing your dress clothes in a backpack and changing once you arrive. This keeps your attire fresh and clean for photos while allowing you to hike comfortably. Then hiking back down (typically less strenuous) is often done in your wedding attire. (Sometimes, but not always, it depends!)

Here’s how we recommend planning on changing at location:

• Packing Your Attire: Gently roll your dress or suit and pack it in a garment bag or dry bag to keep it clean and dry during the hike. We’ll show you how to fold everything properly to prevent wrinkles!
• Changing on Site: Bring a pop-up changing tent for quick privacy or, if you prefer a more low-key solution, string a blanket or large scarf between two trees. We bring a lot of this stuff with us and have helped many couples set up makeshift changing areas—it’s not as awkward as you might think. Trust us, we know all the tricks to make it easy and comfortable!

Accessories: Final Touches

Don’t forget to bring accessories that complete your look while also being practical for the outdoors:

• Hair Accessories: Keep in mind that mountain locations can be quite windy, so secure your hair with pins, or clips; and while we’re on the topic, an up-do, or half up half down are what we generally recommend for hair!
• Bouquets & Boutonnieres: Wood or silk flowers are great for elopements in the mountains, as they won’t wilt or get damaged easily. While we love fresh flowers, they often aren’t allowed on public lands due to invasive species concerns so we always recommend other options.
• Backpacks: If you’ll be hiking, a stylish, functional backpack is a must for carrying essentials like water, snacks, your attire, and any personal items. Choose a color you love! 
• For the guys: Don’t forget accessories! Scarves, cufflinks, pocket squares, custom embroidery, pocket watches are just a few ways to personalize your outfit.

Dress for the Adventure You’ve Been Waiting for

Traditional weddings often set comfort aside for aesthetics; elopements are the opposite. Sure, you want to look good but you’ll want to enjoy your day too! That’s why choosing attire for comfort, flexibility, and practicality is important for your elopement.

The good news is that there are so many ways to combine the elegance of wedding attire with practical needs like range of motion & comfort.

Get Started Planning Your Elopement

We’re ready to help you bring your vision to life. Reach out to us to start planning the elopement of your dreams!