8 Practical Wedding Attire Tips for Comfort
With all of the planning and preparation that goes into a wedding day, it’s easy to forget that what you’ll be wearing throughout the day ALSO requires some planning and prep.
For most marriers, there’s quite a bit of thought put into WHAT they’re going to wear on their wedding day. But, there is far more to consider when it comes to making sure you actually feel (relatively) comfortable.
In order to set yourself up as best as possible, here are my best tips from many years of experience.
Photo by True Fold Media
01. Before you purchase your attire, make sure to move around in it
Friends, there is not a lot of standing still on your wedding day. You’re walking, sitting, dancing, hugging, taking photos. While your attire is likely not going to be as easy to move in as your favorite pair of yoga pants (if only), it is important that you’re able to move around in it.
If the only way to walk around in your dress or outfit is by picking up the front of it, it might not be the best fit. When you’re walking down the aisle, or navigating your wedding space, lifting it up (as if you’re going up a set of stairs) won’t be an option.
So while you’re trying on outfits, trying to find the perfect look, please do a bit of all the things. Walk, sit, wiggle, throw your arms up. Will you look a little silly in the store? Maybe. (And who cares?) But it’ll be worth it when you’re able to enjoy yourself on your wedding day without feeling stuck in one spot.
Photo by Pat Robinson Photography
02. Plan your undergarments and bring them to your fitting
What you wear under your attire is very important. If you’re getting any alterations done, make sure to bring any and all undergarments to your fittings. That includes undies, bras, shape-wear, undershirts — anything that might show or peek out in a way you do NOT want it to.
Photo by Pat Robinson Photography
03. For colder days, don’t forget about outerwear
If you’re getting married on a cooler day, think about what you’d like to wear as an outer layer to stay warm for any moments you’re going to be outside. Whether it’s for your ceremony, just for photos, popping out of a limo, or the whole day — having a layer of warmth on a cold day is helpful and your future self will appreciate it.
Plus, it makes for some variety in your portrait photos.
Obviously, marriers in long sleeve jackets and suits aren’t going to need as much as the marriers in strapless gowns. But don’t forget to plan for that whatever you need to stay warm and stylish.
Photo by m2 Photography
04. Break in your shoes BEFORE the wedding day
Sometimes it seems like the more expensive a pair of shoes, the faster they’ll start to hurt someone’s feet. While I’m ALL for wearing the highest of heels or the whitest of sneakers, whatever you decide to stick on your feet, be sure to spend some time walking around in them BEFORE the wedding day.
Not just a quick try on and strut down a hallway. Walk in those babies. Spend some time in them. You don’t have to go miles, but throw them on and walk around the house for a few hours. It’ll give you a great idea of how they’ll feel on the wedding day and how long your feet will stay content.
PRO TIP: Several folks have recommended using a Spray Lidocaine on their feet to help with any soreness. I think this is an interesting thing to try and see if it works well for you. BUT, keep in mind that it’s only numbing the pain, not taking it away or saving you from blisters.
Photo by Sonderbird Photography
05. Have some spare backups
Want to wear those gorgeous shoes that hurt your feet? Go for it. But be sure to also pack a pair of comfy shoes that you can change into at some point throughout the day.
The same goes for other articles of clothing, like undergarments and socks. On a super hot day or if you’re just a person who tends to sweat, taking a moment to change into something fresh and dry will make you feel like a MILLION bucks.
My podcast co-host buddy, Daniel Moyer, often tells his marriers in suits to bring an extra white undershirt or spare dress shirt — especially on warm weather days. And I completely agree!
Photo by Hand and Arrow Photography
06. Consider doing an outfit change
If your attire is heavy or a little uncomfortable, but it still feels like the exact right look for you — consider having a second outfit to change into later in the day.
Some pieces, especially big wedding gowns, are EXTREMELY heavy and can be exhausting to wear all day long. Not only that, but some cause actual bruising on the body due to the weight and structure.
Once dinner is over and the dancing kicks, it’s a great time to sneak away for a change into something that’s more comfortable and you’re able to move in!
Just make sure you have a plan for transporting the first outfit that you take off AND don’t forget any undergarments and accessories for the second look.
Photo by Nina Lily Photography
07. If you’re planning on wearing a veil, think about something to go in your hair when it comes off
For those that opt to wear a veil, it’s often only worn for a short time throughout the day. Yet, a lot of the planning that goes into the desired hairstyle incorporates the veil.
For this, I highly recommend having something already placed or ready to add to your hair for when the veil is removed. It can be as simple as a clip or as extra as some fresh blooms created by your florist.
Photos by Kelly Prizel Photography
08. Be sure to plan what you’ll wear before you get dressed
For those that are going to be getting their hair and makeup done, this typically happens BEFORE getting dressed. And while you definitely want to be comfy during that time, it’s important to remember that you’re still likely getting photographed. Plus, whatever you wear needs to be easily removed without going over your head.
A few years back on the blog, I shared some ideas on what you can wear the morning of the wedding. But anything from robes, to pajamas, to zip hoodies, to button downs works great — just make sure to have a plan for it! (And for BONUS points, the rest of your group, too!)
Photos by Dearly Beloved Photography
As with all wedding planning adventures, there’s no one right or wrong here. It’s about doing what feels good to you and making sure you’re as comfortable as possible on such a big day in your life.
