Unique Elopement Outfit Ideas for LGBTQ+ Couples

Last updated on October 24th, 2025

When I think about elopements, I think about how free and honest they feel. No timelines to impress, no expectations to perform. It’s just the two of you, celebrating your love in the way that actually feels like you. As an LGBTQIA+ elopement photographer, I’ve had the honor of documenting couples who choose to break the traditional mold, and every single time, it’s magic.

And with so many incredible celebrations under my belt, I’ve learned that what you wear plays such a big role in the experience. Your elopement outfit should feel comfortable, expressive, and connected to your story—not just something you picked because it’s what you thought you were “supposed” to wear. Regardless of where you choose to elope (on top of a mountain, in the forest, in a cozy Airbnb, or on the beach, for example), your attire should help you show up as your most comfortable selves.

So, let’s talk elopement outfit ideas! From suits and jumpsuits to dresses and layered looks, this guide will help you choose what to wear, and more importantly, help you make a choice that makes you feel good, photographs beautifully, and aligns with the vibe of your day.

What to Wear to Elope

If you’ve ever searched, “what to wear for an elopement,” here’s the truth: You can wear literally whatever feels right for you. Eloping is all about choosing intention over expectation, and this includes your outfit!

There are zero rules here. You don’t have to wear a traditional wedding dress. You don’t have to wear a suit if that doesn’t feel like you. Your elopement attire can be bold, casual, vintage, sparkly, thrifted, flowy, structured, or just all-around unexpected. The only thing that matters is that it feels like you, and that you feel comfortable enough to be present, move, adventure, and fully enjoy your day.

What to Wear When Eloping: Questions to Help You Get Started

But wait! Before we get too deep into your elopement fits, take the time to ask yourself some key questions and reflect on some things to help you narrow down your scope:

• Where is your chosen location? Your surroundings can often inspire your elopement outfit choices.
• Will it be a warm summer day, a crisp autumn day, or a snowy winter? Spring, summer, fall, and winter elopement outfits can each carry a specific vibe while making sure you’re properly dressed for the elements.
• Are you planning an adventurous elopement that involves hiking, climbing, or any physical activity? Consider length, practicality, and overall mobility. 
• Are your outfits easily packable in case you need to change at the ceremony location?
• Do you have an overall theme, style, or aesthetic in mind? Does it express who you are?
• What is your budget? 

Expert Tips for Choosing What to Wear When Eloping

I’ve photographed a lot of elopements over the years (and I even eloped myself)! So, I like to think I have a few tips and tricks under my belt when it comes to finding what to wear to an elopement.

1. Get Inspired by the Scenery

Your elopement location is basically your stage, whether it’s mountain cliffs, deep green forests, deserts, or a cute lakeside cabin. Think about how your elopement can complement that backdrop. For example:

• Earthy tones look gorgeous in forest elopements.
• Deep, warm colors provide a great contrast in a desert landscape.
• Soft whites, neutrals, or ocean-inspired blues are *chef’s kiss* near any sort of water.
• Vibrant colors make you pop in urban settings.

One important thing I want to emphasize: We aren’t trying to match your surroundings. Instead, we want to harmonize your outfit and its energy with the environment you chose.

2. Be Yourself

This probably sounds obvious, but it’s easy to get swept into what you think you’re “supposed” to wear on the day you get married. Let’s just remove that pressure completely. If you feel most yourself in a flowy dress? Amazing. A tailored elopement suit? Heck yes. A jumpsuit and a cool jacket? Iconic.
I like to remind my couples: If you feel good, you’ll look good!

3. Keep Photos in Mind

I’m not saying you have to coordinate like engagement picture Pinterest boards, but it can help to make sure your outfits don’t blend into the surroundings. For example:

• If you’re eloping in a green forest, avoid wearing all green (though some hints of green can be very complementary!)
• If one of you is wearing something bold, maybe the other brings a grounding tone for balance (totally optional, but just something to consider if you want a bit of visual balance!).

4. Think Carefully About Your Fabrics

In many cases, elopements come with different experiences that sometimes involve hiking, wind, weather, and movement. Here are some things to keep in mind about your elopement outfit fabric:

• Linen, chiffon, and light cotton are great for warm outdoor elopements.
• Velvet, wool, silk, and thicker structured fabrics are cozy for fall and winter elopements.

You’ll want to feel good and be able to move comfortably, regardless of what activities you decide to plan for the day!

5. Change Once You Get There (If You Want!)

You don’t have to hike or travel to your elopement location in your full attire (although it would be memorable if you decided to!). You’re absolutely allowed to change once you arrive at your ceremony location to ensure your outfit stays fresh and comfortable.

6. Embrace the Outdoors

If your elopement includes outdoor activities, be prepared for your clothes to get a little dirty. As I said in the previous point, you can always change at your ceremony location, but if this isn’t your style, ensure you choose attire that can handle a bit of ruggedness.

Finding the Right Vendors and Shops

Searching for the right places to score your elopement outfit can be a fun but challenging journey. For some of us LGBTQIA+ folks, buying our fits from queer-friendly shops and vendors might be a non-negotiable in this experience. To help you find the most reputable and inclusive elopement/wedding outfit store or vendor:

• Ask for recommendations from other people in the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Read reviews with intention (look for specific mentions of inclusivity).
• Ask prospective vendors about their experience working with queer couples to gauge their stance.
• Check their website or social media for signs of diversity and inclusivity (a pride flag, an inclusivity policy statement, etc).
• Look specifically for vendors that specialize in genderqueer wedding attire, androgynous wedding attire, and LGBTQ+ wedding outfits.
• Ask your photographer! I have a running list of LGBTQ+ affirming elopement vendors and shops that I’m happy to share with you.

Here’s a short list of LGBTQIA+-friendly vendors to help you search for your dream outfits:

• Suit Shop
• Kirrin Finch
• KMK Designs
• Em & Shi
• Bindle & Keep
• Duchess Clothier
• Sharpe Suiting
• WILDFANG
• Peau De Loup

Trying on Elopement Outfits

When it’s time to try on your elopement outfit:

• Bring support! Whether it’s your partner, friend, or a close family member, an honest opinion can make all the difference.
• Move lots. If you’re hiking or plan to be on the move during your elopement, check how flexible and comfortable the outfit is by lifting your legs and arms to gauge your range of motion.
• Sit down and stand up—are both positions comfortable?
• Try to pay attention to how the fabric feels on your body. If it’s itchy or prickly, this might cause discomfort during your special day.
• If you do this part with your partner, consider standing side by side with both fits on. How do you look together? 

Body and Gender-Affirming Fit Tips

No outfit should make you feel like someone you’re not. Here are a few things I always tell my couples:

• Tailors can adjust garments to comfortably fit around chest binders or shapewear.
• Choose silhouettes that make you feel affirmed and seen (whatever that means for you).
• There are gorgeous, well-made options (custom or not) in all sizes and styles. The magic is in the fit and how it supports your movement.

Unique Elopement Outfit Ideas

Now we’re getting into the fun part—the elopement outfit inspiration. Before we jump in, there’s one thing I want to remind you of: You already know your style better than anyone else. So, think of these ideas as a starting point. Take what feels good, leave what doesn’t, and build a look that feels right for you.

1. Elopement Jumpsuit

If there’s one outfit that consistently surprises people (in the best way), it’s a jumpsuit. They’re comfortable, expressive, and just all-around cool. Jumpsuits are amazing for couples who want to hike, adventure, or just move through their day without worrying about tripping over a hem.

They come in:

• Sleek and tailored fits
• Wide-legged and flowy
• Deep-V or high-neck styles
• Minimalist (or fully embellished)

You can pair jumpsuits with any sort of shoe, like chunky boots, clean sneakers, or sandals!

2. Elopement Dress Ideas

If dresses are your thing, amazing! If they haven’t historically been your thing, but one finally feels right, that’s just as awesome. Especially in the wedding industry, dresses draw a lot of eyes and opinions, but what I want to emphasize here is that there’s no single “elopement dress” look. Here are just a few ideas:

• Two-piece sets (crop top and skirt, anyone?)
• Elopement dresses with sleeves (lace, bell sleeves, etc.)
• Dresses in color (champagne, sage, deep jewel tones, black, etc.)
• Short dresses for movement
• Capes, overlays, detachable trains, or flowy sleeves for cool motion photos

3. Elopement Suits

Suits are for literally anyone who wants to wear one. Full stop. To personalize your elopement suit:

• Get it tailored! Even inexpensive suits look high-end when fitted well.
• Choose expressive colors like forest green, tan, navy, burgundy, or even pastel colors.
• Play with patterns, like subtle plaid or textured fabric.
• Pair it with accessories.
• Play around with shirt and tie combinations.

4. Custom Elopement Outfits

Whether you have a specific vision in mind or want to incorporate unique elements into your attire, going for a custom design can really bring your dream elopement look to life. You can collaborate with a designer to decide on the style, fit, fabric, colors, embellishments, and more.

5. Cultural Elopement Outfits

Your elopement can honor where you come from, your family, your ancestors, or your heritage (in big ways or subtle ones). This could mean including traditional beading in your fit, adding embroidered symbols or meaningful colors, or wearing something passed down or handmade.

6. Seasonal Elopement Inspiration

What you wear will probably shift depending on the season and the vibe of your elopement location. Here’s some inspiration:

SPRING ELOPEMENT OUTFITS

Spring brings a ton of freshness and that in-the-middle weather that can be unpredictable but beautiful at the same time. To dress for a spring elopement, you may want to think about layers you can shed or add (including waterproof layers), airy fabrics, and pops of color that celebrate new beginnings. For example:

• Flowy dresses in pastel shades or floral prints
• Jumpsuits or tailored suits in breathable fabrics with spring-like colors like soft blues, blush, or mint
• Light jackets, waterproof layers, or wraps for chilly mornings or breezy afternoons
• Comfortable shoes that let you wander through different environments.

SUMMER ELOPEMENT OUTFITS

In the heat of the summer, elopements are all about staying comfortable and cool while still feeling good about yourself. Think breathable and lightweight fabrics that allow you to move, explore, and not melt halfway through your vows. Some ideas:

• Flowy dresses in linen, chiffon, or cotton that catch the sunlight.
• Tailored shorts and blazer combos or lightweight suits in linen blends.
• Elopement jumpsuits or romper-style outfits that feel easy.
• Minimal layers and accessories.

FALL ELOPEMENT OUTFITS

Fall brings such a romantic energy to the air. It’s a bit cooler and there are so many vibrant colors to get inspiration from! Here are some ideas for a fall elopement fit:

• Rich, earthy tones (rust sage, terracotta, deep berry).
• Boots or sturdy shoes that still look good in photos.
• Jackets or shawls that can easily be taken on/off for photos (but keep you warm when the weather shifts).
• Slightly heavier fabrics like crepe, suede, light wool blends, or cotton.
• Elopement dresses with sleeves to protect from chillier winds.

WINTER ELOPEMENT OUTFITS

Because of the cold, winter elopements sometimes get a bad reputation. But, take it from me, someone who has photographed many of them: They are truly stunning. Winter is such a unique time of year when you get snow-covered forests, icy waterfalls, icicles around you, snow on the ground, and crisp air. The key to winter elopements is staying warm. Here are some ideas for what to wear for a winter elopement:

• Velvet gowns, thick satin, or elopement dresses with sleeves for warmth and elegance.
• Wool, cashmere, or fleece-lined layers under dresses or suits (who’s going to know?).
• Winter elopement outfits like tailored suits with overcoats or chic faux-fur wraps.
• Thermal tights, insulated boots, and hand warmers.

7. Themed Outfits

Your elopement certainly doesn’t have to be serious and neutral. If the two of you have a playful energy, bring an element of fun and personal connection into your elopement by choosing themed outfits. The theme could be from your favorite era, TV show, book, shared hobby, or anything else under the sun!

8. Play With Patterns

Patterns are a gorgeous way to express personality. They can add depth, texture, and a whole lot of fun to your attire, making it perfect for you to bring out your creativity and style. For example, you might go for:

• Floral embroidery
• Patterned suit linings
• Textured lace
• Subtle plaid
• Bold, graphic prints

9. Embrace the Gay

Reflect on what defines queerness for you and how you can bring this into your outfit. It can be something as simple as pride colors or other meaningful symbolism to elevate your fit. This is the perfect opportunity for you to express your gender and other aspects of your identity in any way you want.

For many of us, the thought of being able to wear something different and unique feels like a distant dream—especially when we have all these messages everywhere telling us how we should and should not dress. So, if choosing an outfit is an emotional rollercoaster, I get it! This journey may be full of excitement, reflection, and maybe even some tears. Give yourself the time and space to feel it all! 

10. Accessories

Accessories can add a simple touch of personality to your entire look. For example, try:

• Statement jewelry
• Crowns, flower crowns, or headpieces
• Belts and ribbons
• Hats
• Cufflinks
• Meaningful accessories, like heirlooms
• Gloves
• Umbrellas
• Watches

11. Shoes

Footwear completes your look for your special day. Keep in mind that if you’re doing an outdoor elopement or have lots of activities planned, you want to account for your comfort. Here are some examples of comfortable options that can double as fun statements:

• Custom Converse
• Hiking boots
• Sandals or comfortable flats
• Cowboy boots
• Sneakers
• Vintage-inspired shoes
• Ankle boots
• Barefoot—for locations like the beach!

If you want two pairs (one for hiking, one for vows) do that. There are zero rules here.

What to Wear When Eloping FAQ

Your Outfit is Just the Beginning!

Your outfit sets the stage, but it’s only the start of your elopement story. Every laugh, every look, every unexpected moment is just as important and beautiful.

If you want an elopement photographer who gets both the outfit and broader elopement planning journey, I’d be honored to capture your day. I can’t wait to meet you, celebrate your story, and make sure every detail, from your crown to your shoes, feels seen, remembered, and loved.