Elopements are really all about embracing love in its most genuine forms. As a queer elopement photographer, I’ve seen so many couples break free from traditional wedding norms and express their unique love stories in jaw-dropping, intimate settings (cool, right?).

Every aspect of an elopement is a blank canvas for self-expression, and your outfit plays a huge role in painting the portrait of your love. In this article, we’ll explore elopement outfit ideas that capture your personalities and essence as a couple. Whether you want to elope on a mountaintop, beachfront, out in the woods, or anywhere in between, these attire ideas have you covered!

What to Wear When You Elope

So, what do you actually wear when you elope? The short answer? Anything you want. Eloping is all about embracing freedom—and you bet this extends to your attire! There are no strict rules or traditions to adhere to. This means you have the creative license to wear whatever truly resonates with you.

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 outfit choices.
• Will it be a warm summer day, a crisp autumn evening, or a snowy winter wonderland? Dressing appropriately for the season ensures you’re comfortable.
• 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 Your Fits

1. Consider Coordinating with the Scenery

Your elopement location is your backdrop, so consider how your outfits will harmonize with it. Earthy tones for nature settings, vibrant colors for urban scenes, or whites, blues, and pops of color for beachside elopements can create stunning visual aesthetics.

2. Be Yourself

Your attire should reflect your personal style and make you feel beautiful. Remember, this day is about celebrating your love, so it only makes sense that you love what you wear!

3. Consider Vibes for Photography

If possible, try not to blend in with your surroundings. You can also try coordinating with each other—while this is not necessary, it’ll make your elopement photos more aesthetically pleasing!

4. Think Carefully About Your Fabrics

Think about the weather and climate of your chosen location. Heavier fabrics like wool and velvet can keep you warm in cooler seasons, while lightweight materials like chiffon and linen are perfect for warmer elopements.

5. You Can Change at the Destination

You don’t have to hike or travel to your elopement location in your wedding 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 attire 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 spots:

• Ask for recommendations from other people in the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Read reviews.
• 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.
• Ask your photographer! I have a running list of queer-friendly vendors that I’m happy to share with you.

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

• Suit Shop
• Kirrin Finch
• KMK Designs
• Em & Shi

Additionally, here are some helpful articles that touch on some other queer-friendly companies across the country:

• 6 Places You Can Get Tomboy and Genderqueer Wedding Attire
• Androgynous Wedding Attire: A Gender-Neutral Style Guide for 2023

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 pokey, 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? 

Unique Elopement Outfit Ideas

Now we’re getting into the fun part—the elopement outfit ideas. Keep in mind that at the end of the day, you know your style the best. You can use these as inspiration or build on them with your own personalized touch!

1. Elopement Jumpsuit

We’re starting this off with a classic. For the adventurous and fashion-forward, jumpsuits offer a blend of comfort and style, making them perfect for the outdoors. They come in various styles and details and can pair well with any type of footwear.

2. Elopement Dress Ideas

Another classic in the world of elopements. Consider a unique twist on traditional white wedding dresses by opting for some color or different styles like two-pieces, long-sleeved gowns, or even a dress and cape combination.

3. Suits

Suits are incredibly versatile for any human and can show off your unique style. To make it your own:

• Tailor it
• Mix it up with expressive colors
• Pair it with accessories
• Play around with shirt and tie combinations

4. Custom 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, fabric, colors, embellishments, and more!

5. Cultural Outfits

Are you hoping to bring some tradition into your special day? Consider wearing cultural attire that reflects your background. You can sprinkle your culture into your entire outfit or simply through small accessories.

6. Winter Vibes

Embrace the enchanting beauty of winter by going for bold attire that makes a statement while keeping you warm. 

7. Themed Outfits

Bring an element of fun and personal connection into your elopement by choosing themed outfits. These could be from your favorite era, TV show, book, shared hobby, or anything else under the sun!

8. Play With Patterns

Elevate your elopement outfit with a playful and visually engaging twist by incorporating unique patterns. This can add depth, texture, and personality to your attire, making it perfect for you to bring out your creativity and style.

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. Consider:

• Statement jewelry
• Crowns
• Belts and sashes
• Hats
• Cufflinks
• Meaningful accessories
• 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!

Your Outfit is Just the Beginning!

Choosing your outfits can be one of the most exciting aspects of your elopement journey. If you’re looking for a photographer to capture these masterpieces alongside your love, reach out to me! I can’t wait to connect with you beautiful humans, and celebrate your stories with you.