When planning the perfect adventure elopement, it's not all about the dress! Men and women picking suits to wear can have just as much fun.
Planning your adventure elopement is liberating, and there are no rules as to how it gets done. From the destination to attire – how you and your partner choose to elope reflects who you are as a couple. There are no rules when picking your elopement suit and stand out from the rest with the most comfortable, stylish attire.
Free from traditions - YAY!
You and your partner have decided to get hitched in the most unique way possible – adventure eloping! The desire to travel, save money, and have an intimate ceremony is some of the motivations you want to elope. Whatever the reasons for this exciting decision are, you want to make sure that you're dressed to impress for the occasion.
Adventure eloping breaks couples away from the traditions of big church weddings and formal receptions with all the responsibilities of speeches and orders. You might elope at a ski resort in Lake Tahoe or dance on a beach in Florida, as long as your suit is comfortable and chic.
In a traditional wedding, men and women don't need to consider color, fabric, and texture. They choose what they like and go for it. With elopement suits, you need to choose something more practical.
Here are some essential tips to choosing the best suit on your adventure elopement day:
I Like The Way You Move
When trying on suits for your elopement, ask yourself:
Can I bend down low and step up high onto a rock?
Can I lift my arms comfortably?
Will I be able to sit down?
Can I squat down to the ground?
More importantly, can I give my partner a twirl or lift? Make sure that you have maximum mobility for your comfort and safety when hiking or running. It would be best if you felt no limitations in your attire. Your clothing will need to suit (pun intended) the unique environment you’re planning on eloping in and accommodate the activities you want to do.
Fabric
The fabric you choose is dependent on the mobility it gives you and the season you are eloping in. If it is a hot summer's day, natural fibers like wool, linen, or cotton will absorb sweat. They are also breathable materials to help keep you cool. Some grooms opt-out of a jacket altogether and stick with a nice button-up shirt.
If you are going for a winter elopement, heavier fabrics like tweed, cashmere, or velvet have flexibility while keeping you warm. Let's not forget layering – size up on a shirt so that you can wear layers if you are having a fun day in the snow. Take those layers with to your fitting to ensure the perfect fit!
Stay clear of fabrics that wrinkle, such as silk. With too much movement like hiking or snowboarding, the last thing you need is trying to straighten out those lines.
Colors and Styles
In terms of patterns, simpler is better! Colorful designs can be distracting when you are already in a dynamic landscape.
Solid colors look great in photographs. Black, navy, and burgundy work well in many locations. For example, a black suit in Utah's red rocks will pop because of the color contrast. You will want to avoid a grey suit if you are in a sandy or rocky area, or you may blend into your environment. Consider the landscape you are eloping in when choosing a color for your suit. Be bold with your choices!
Accessories
Choosing accessories for your big day is also essential. It is dependent on the environment and weather of where you plan to elope. Here is a list of weather-based accessories:
Winter – Layers are so important when you are eloping in the winter. I recommend thermal tights, preferably one that matches your skin tone so that you won't see them in photographs. Consider bringing along a scarf, jackets, sweaters, and a blanket to keep warm.
Spring – Spring mornings can be chilly. Add layers to your attire so you can take them off in the afternoon when the day warms up.
Summer – Light, breathable materials such as cotton are perfect for warm summer days.
Fall – Like the spring, layer for those breezy fall mornings and remove clothing if the afternoons warm up.
Alternatives
Hiking boots – scratch those formal wedding shoes and get a comfy pair of hiking boots. After all, this is an ADVENTURE elopement – your feet will thank you later.
Kaki’s – Khakis are making a comeback in recent years. Some brides and grooms opt for a neat pair of khakis, suspenders, and a bow tie for their elopement day.
Golf T – Feel like a more casual vibe – try an awesome golf T-shirt with a suit jacket for a more informal look.
Jumpsuits – Who says women in dresses have more fun? This look is trending with LGBTQ+ brides. If you are not a dress person, or maybe you don't feel comfortable in a suit – try a cute jumpsuit for your wedding attire!
Whatever you choose to wear on your adventure elopement day, be sure to reflect who you and your partner are as a couple. There are no rules as to how you dress! My tips on materials will also apply to these alternatives: lightweight, breathable and flexible attire to allow mobility.
Interested in wearing a dress instead? Here's the ultimate guide to picking out the perfect adventure dress!
Accessories
The ties – Do you want a skinny tie, knitted, or patterned one – pick something that will make you smile! Make your tie or bowtie pop with jewel-toned styles when paired with a neutral-colored suit.
Boutonnière - Wear your boutonnière on the left side of your lapel and match it with your brides' bouquet for a splash of color and elegance.
Pocket squares – Pocket squares are a beautiful accent to a suit. You could go with smooth silk or something patterned – there is no wrong way to wear a pocket square.
You can accessorize your outfit with a watch, tie clip, or cufflinks. For cold weather, bring along a scarf, hat, or gloves. Choose your style and spice up the outfit with those extra details. You may even save them as keepsakes.
When to hike in your attire and when to change
Some adventure elopements require you to hike and walk long distances. If it's under 3 miles, walking in your suit would be easy. Anything more than that would make you uncomfortable and sweaty. Make the decision based on the mileage and terrain you are hiking in. After all, you want to look your best in your photographs.
Some brides and grooms want to hike in their elopement outfits. The bit of dirt on your attire can give it character.
Whether you decide to hike in your suit or get dressed at the destination – know that I will be there to help with anything you need!
Getting dirty
Getting dirty is normal and part of the elopement process. Hiking up a trail, climbing rocks, and lying down for some incredible photographs will get your suit dirty. Expect your suit to tell a story of your magical elopement day!
Final Thoughts
See your search for the perfect suit as an adventure and not as a stressful event. Take time and evaluate all aspects of the material and fit. Keep in mind that you will need to move freely, climb rocks and play around with your bride or groom. Accessorize your suit with a fedora, jewelry, or suspenders – whatever makes you feel like a king or queen.
While adventure eloping is exciting and spectacular, your journey with your partner has only just begun!
Interested in dresses instead? Check out this guide.
