How To Choose A Wedding Gown That Is Right For Your Venue

If your dreams of sailing down the aisle in an elaborate tulle ball gown sort of went to the wayside the minute you picked that relaxed garden locale as your celebration spot: don't worry. We're here to help with a little guide on just how to find your venue appropriate gown. From casual shindigs to modern penthouse parties, we promise you can still find "the one" that will wow your guests AND work well with your overall theme and look.

Wedding Photography: KT Merry

FORMAL CHURCH OR COUNTRY CLUB WEDDING A formal church or country club is the perfect spot to really channel your inner Grace Kelly or Princess Kate. Because the rules when it's formal? Keep it classic. Here's where you can seriously stun in a ball gown, a long train and layers of lace to show off your feminine side. We suggest looking for a gown that really plays with the details, no matter the shape, like the Tulle and Beaded Strapless Modern Day Ball Gown from Moonlight Couture - the crystals and rhinestones are perfect for a more traditional affair. Want a look that is more streamlined, but still screams princess? Check out the Tulle Mermaid Dress with Cap Sleeves and Detachable Train - the train is everything.

Wedding Photography: Ryan Ray

CASUAL GARDEN OR OUTDOOR CELEBRATION First things first - opting for a more laid-back affair doesn't mean you still can't be a little fancy - It just means you'll want to find a gown that will keep you comfortable, too. To beat the heat, we're all for keeping it light with spaghetti straps and flowing fabrics, like organza, charmeuse or chiffon - the key is ultra-feminine, but comfortable. This Full A-Line Lace Wedding Dress with Double Straps from Moonlight Couture hits all the right notes with corded lace appliques and a natural waistline perfect for avoiding any trip-ups while navigating the grass. And the Beige & Nude Net Lace Mermaid Vintage Wedding Dress was basically made for an outdoor wedding with beautiful lace appliques and a train that is an absolute stunner without being too traditional.

Photography: Jose Villa

MODERN PENTHOUSE OR LOFT PARTY Modern and contemporary weddings are all about the glamour - and that means taking some fashion risks. Whether that's opting for an all-white pant suit or wowing with a two-piece combo (yes, showing some skin is definitely okay), we say anything goes when you're celebrating on your very own downtown rooftop. This year, we're obsessed with anything and everything color, from gold hues to light blush to vibrant reds. One of our faves is this Red Off-the-Shoulder Lace Mermaid Wedding Dress, the perfect mix of elegant and sexy with on-trend 3/4 length sleeves. And for a feminine, yet completely sexy look, we love the Embroidered Lace V-Neck Mermaid Wedding Dress with its statement making back. So loft-worthy.

Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography

RUSTIC BARN OR AL FRESCO SOIREE Saying "I do" in a rustic setting means opting for something a little vintage or romantic... or both. Think birdcage veils and sweet lace numbers that are made for dancing the night away in a barn, but are still ultra-feminine to keep a good balance between the hay bales and your Big Day celebration. We really love the All-Over Alencon Lace and Beaded Mermaid Dress from Moonlight Couture, because it's the perfect mix between romance and elegance. And if you are looking for something with a modern twist, yet still vintage, we're all about the Tulle and Re-Embroidered Lace Jewel Neck Moonlight Dress with its illusion jewel neckline, show-stopping racer back style and figure-flattering mermaid silhouette. Whether you are tying the knot in your childhood church, saying "I do" in a sweet rose garden or celebrating atop a downtown rooftop, choosing a gown that fits the look of your party as a whole is key. To check out our faves from Moonlight (you'll love their new Moonlight Collection and Moonlight Couture Collection), click here to find a retailer near you.