Getting ready for those pre-wedding beach photos? The right outfit can make these special moments even more magical. Your beach engagement or pre-wedding shoot deserves clothing that not only looks amazing but also feels comfortable in the sand and surf.
Choosing the perfect beach outfit for your pre-wedding photoshoot can capture the romance of your relationship while complementing the natural beauty of the shoreline. You’ll want options that move beautifully in the breeze and coordinate with your partner’s look. From flowy dresses to casual linen ensembles, there are countless ways to express your personal style while creating unforgettable memories by the water.
1) Flowy Maxi Dress
A flowy maxi dress is perfect for your pre-wedding beach photoshoot. The long, flowing fabric creates beautiful movement when caught by the ocean breeze. This makes for stunning photos that capture both romance and the natural beach setting.
Choose light fabrics like chiffon or silk that will dance in the wind. Soft colors like blush, light blue, or ivory complement the beach backdrop wonderfully. You might also consider sunset-inspired hues that match the golden hour lighting.
For a more dramatic look, select a dress with a high slit. This allows you to show a bit of leg while still maintaining elegance. The slit also prevents the dress from becoming too cumbersome when walking along the sand.
Consider the neckline that flatters your figure best. Halter styles showcase your shoulders, while off-shoulder designs add a romantic touch. V-necks elongate your silhouette and work beautifully in photos.
Pair your maxi dress with minimal jewelry to keep the focus on the flowing fabric and natural setting. Delicate earrings or a simple bracelet is all you need to complete this effortlessly chic beach look.
A couple great dress options:
2) Bohemian Lace Gown
A bohemian lace gown brings a relaxed yet elegant vibe to your pre-wedding beach photoshoot. The lightweight fabric flows beautifully in the ocean breeze, creating stunning movement in your photos.
Choose a gown with delicate lace details that capture the free-spirited bohemian style. Look for designs with open backs, bell sleeves, or crochet elements that add visual interest without feeling too formal.
Ivory, cream, or soft white are traditional choices that photograph beautifully against the sand. But don’t be afraid to explore muted pastels or even a blush tone for a unique touch.
Pair your lace gown with minimal accessories like a simple flower crown or dainty anklet. The natural setting of the beach complements the organic feel of bohemian style.
For footwear, consider going barefoot for authentic beach vibes or opt for simple sandals. Your comfort matters, especially when walking on sand.
The bohemian lace gown photographs beautifully at golden hour when the sun casts a warm glow on the delicate fabric patterns.
3) Tropical Print Sundress
A tropical print sundress is a perfect choice for your pre-wedding beach photos. These dresses feature vibrant patterns of palm leaves, hibiscus flowers, or exotic fruits that capture the beach vibe beautifully.
Look for flowing fabrics like cotton or rayon that move with the ocean breeze. These materials are light and comfortable, ideal for warm beach weather.
You can pair your tropical sundress with simple sandals or go barefoot for those shoreline shots. Add a sun hat for extra style points and practical sun protection during your photo session.
For accessories, consider delicate gold jewelry that complements the bright colors of your dress. A simple bracelet or small earrings won’t compete with the print but will add a touch of elegance.
Most tropical sundresses have adjustable straps or stretchy fabric, making them comfortable for moving around during your photoshoot. You’ll want to feel at ease while posing on the sand or walking along the water’s edge.
4) Linen Wide-Leg Pants
Linen wide-leg pants are a beach wedding outfit essential that combines comfort and style. They flow beautifully in ocean breezes and keep you cool during warm celebrations. The natural fabric is perfect for beach settings and photographs wonderfully against sand and sea.
You can pair linen pants with a matching cropped top for a coordinated look. Or try them with a fitted silk camisole to create an elegant contrast between structured and flowing elements.
For a more casual pre-wedding event, wear your linen pants with a simple tank top and statement jewelry. The pants work in many colors, but neutrals like cream, beige, and white complement beach settings perfectly.
Don’t forget that linen naturally wrinkles, giving your outfit that authentic beach-casual vibe. Embrace this natural texture rather than fighting it. You can find linen pants with drawstring waists for maximum comfort during long celebration days.
Accessorize with simple sandals and minimal jewelry to keep the focus on the pants’ beautiful drape and movement. A wide-brimmed hat completes the look and provides practical sun protection during daytime events.
5) Seaside Sarong Wrap
Sarongs are a beach essential that can transform your pre-wedding photoshoot look in seconds. These versatile wraps come in countless patterns and fabrics, making them perfect for your seaside celebration.
You can style a sarong in multiple ways for different photo opportunities. Tie it as a skirt over your swimsuit for a casual beach walk. Or wrap it as a dress for elegant sunset photos with your partner.
Choose colors that complement your wedding palette for a cohesive look. Bold tropical prints create a fun, vacation vibe, while solid colors offer a more sophisticated feel.
Sarongs pack easily and take up little space in your beach bag. You can even coordinate with your partner by choosing complementary colors or matching patterns.
For added elegance, select sarongs with metallic threads or beaded edges. These details catch the light beautifully in photos, especially during golden hour.
Remember to practice tying your sarong before the photoshoot. This ensures you’ll create picture-perfect looks without struggling with the fabric on your special day.
6) Straw Hat with Ribbon
A straw hat with a ribbon is a perfect beach accessory for your pre-wedding photoshoot. It not only protects you from the sun but also adds a touch of elegance to your beach outfit.
Choose a wide-brimmed straw hat with a colorful ribbon that matches your outfit. Light colors like cream or beige work well against the beach backdrop and complement most outfits.
You can pair your straw hat with a flowy dress or a swimsuit and cover-up. The ribbon detail makes it special enough for your pre-wedding photos while still looking casual and beachy.
For couples photos, consider coordinating your hat ribbon with your partner’s outfit accessories. This creates a subtle connection between your looks without being too matchy.
The hat also serves as a playful prop during your photoshoot. You can hold it, tilt it over your eyes, or even have your partner place it on your head for romantic shots.
Remember to secure your hat with bobby pins if it’s a windy day at the beach. Nothing ruins a perfect photo moment like chasing after a runaway hat!
Three chic hat options (the third one is a favorite):
7) Beaded Sandals
Beaded sandals add a touch of sparkle and elegance to your beach wedding outfit. These fancy flip-flops are perfect for walking on sand while still looking dressy enough for your special day.
You can find beaded sandals in many colors to match your wedding theme. White and silver are popular choices that go with any outfit. Gold beaded sandals look stunning against sun-kissed skin.
The tiny beads catch the sunlight as you walk, creating a magical effect in your wedding photos. Some styles feature pearls, shells, or crystals that enhance the beach vibe.
Comfort is key for beach events, and beaded sandals offer both style and ease. You can dance the night away without worrying about sinking heels or uncomfortable shoes.
For a coordinated look, you might consider matching your beaded sandals with other accessories. A beaded clutch or hairpiece can tie your whole outfit together beautifully.
Many brides keep a pair of beaded sandals as a keepsake after their wedding day. They make practical souvenirs that you can wear on anniversaries or beach vacations for years to come.
8) Chiffon Kimono Cover-Up
A chiffon kimono cover-up is a light, flowy piece that adds elegance to your pre-wedding beach photos. Its semi-transparent nature creates a dreamy effect when caught by the sea breeze.
You can find these cover-ups in various colors to match your wedding theme. White or ivory creates a bridal feel, while bright colors pop against the beach backdrop.
Pair your kimono with a simple swimsuit underneath for versatility during your photo shoot. This allows you to easily transition between covered and uncovered looks.
The flowing sleeves of a kimono create beautiful movement in photos. Ask your photographer to capture moments with the fabric billowing around you for romantic, ethereal images.
For a coordinated look, consider matching kimonos for you and your bridesmaids. This creates a cohesive appearance while still letting individual personalities shine through.
Embellished options with lace details or embroidery add an extra touch of sophistication. These small details catch the light beautifully in beach settings.
9) Shell Anklet
A shell anklet adds a perfect touch of beachy charm to your pre-wedding photoshoot outfit. You can choose one with small seashells, pearls, or starfish charms that jingle softly as you walk along the shore.
These delicate accessories look amazing with any beach outfit. They draw attention to your feet, especially if you’re planning barefoot photos in the sand.
For a more bohemian vibe, pick an anklet with colorful shells and beads. If you prefer something more elegant, go for a thin gold or silver chain with just a few dainty shell accents.
You can even DIY your own shell anklet as a fun pre-wedding activity. Collect shells during a beach walk with your partner and create a meaningful piece that tells your love story.
Pair your shell anklet with a flowing dress or shorts to make sure it’s visible in photos. This small detail can really enhance your beach wedding aesthetic.
Cutest anklet option:
10) Crochet Bikini Top
Crochet bikini tops add a bohemian vibe to your pre-wedding beach photos. These handcrafted pieces come in various colors and designs to match your style. You can choose from delicate floral patterns or bold geometric shapes.
Pair your crochet top with matching bottoms or mix it with a solid color for a fun contrast. White crochet looks stunning for bridal vibes, while colorful options add personality to your beach photos.
For extra coverage, layer your crochet bikini top under a sheer cover-up. This gives you multiple looks in one photoshoot. You can also accessorize with layered necklaces and bangles for a complete boho look.
Remember that crochet tops often need special care when washing. Bring a backup outfit just in case you get wet during your beach session. Many brides choose to have their crochet top customized with special details that match their wedding theme.
When selecting your crochet top, make sure it provides enough support for comfortable movement during your photoshoot. You’ll want to feel confident and relaxed while posing by the water.
Choosing the Right Colors
Colors set the mood for your pre-wedding beach photos and help create a cohesive look with your surroundings. The right palette can enhance your natural glow and complement the ocean backdrop beautifully.
Importance of Color Psychology
Colors affect our emotions and how people perceive us in photos. Soft pastels like blush pink and seafoam green create a romantic, dreamy feel perfect for beach settings. These gentle tones reflect the serene nature of the ocean and sky.
Bold colors like coral or turquoise can make you stand out against sandy backgrounds. They add energy and vibrancy to your photos, creating eye-catching images that pop.
Neutral tones like ivory, cream, and beige blend naturally with the sand, creating a timeless, elegant look. These colors are flattering on most skin tones and won’t distract from your connection as a couple.
Tip: Consider how your colors will look at different times of day. Morning light brings out blues and silvers, while sunset enhances warm tones.
Best Colors for Beach Weddings
Ocean-inspired palette:
- Aqua and seafoam green (match the water)
- Soft blues (reflect the sky)
- Sandy beige (blend with natural surroundings)
White and cream outfits create a classic, clean look against colorful beach backdrops. They symbolize purity and new beginnings, perfect for wedding themes.
Coral, peach, and soft yellow capture sunset vibes and add warmth to your photos. These colors complement most skin tones and photograph beautifully in natural light.
Avoid very dark colors like black or navy that absorb heat and can look heavy in beach settings. Instead, try lighter versions like slate blue or charcoal gray if you prefer deeper tones.
Match or complement your partner’s outfit without being too matchy-matchy. Coordinating colors create harmony while allowing your individual styles to shine through.
Fabric Selection for Comfort
Choosing the right fabric for your pre-wedding beach photoshoot can make all the difference between feeling comfortable and looking stiff in your photos. The perfect materials will move with you while keeping you cool under the sun.
Breathable Fabrics
Cotton is your best friend for beach settings. It’s lightweight, absorbs moisture, and allows air to flow through, keeping you cool even on hot days. Look for 100% cotton items or cotton blends for the most comfort.
Linen offers exceptional breathability and gets softer with each wear. Though it wrinkles easily, this actually adds to the casual beach vibe in photos! A linen shirt or loose pants can look effortlessly stylish.
Rayon and viscose drape beautifully over your body and feel silky against your skin. These fabrics are excellent choices for flowy dresses or tops that will catch the breeze in photos.
Avoid synthetics like polyester and nylon when possible. They trap heat and moisture, potentially leaving you sweaty and uncomfortable during your shoot.
Weather Considerations
Morning shoots may require light layers you can remove as temperatures rise. A cotton cardigan or linen overshirt works perfectly for this purpose.
Afternoon sessions call for the lightest fabrics possible. Opt for thin cotton, gauze, or sheer materials that won’t make you overheat in direct sunlight.
For windy beaches, choose fabrics with some weight to them. Light linen pants may be preferable to flimsy skirts that might fly up at inconvenient moments!
Evening photoshoots might get chilly. Bring a lightweight wrap or jacket that complements your outfit but can be easily removed for variety in your photos.
Color selection matters too! Lighter colors reflect heat while darker ones absorb it. For hot days, stick to whites, creams, and pastels for maximum comfort.
