summer wedding dresses

Brides do blossom in sunny weather and the trends for summer wedding dresses in 2011 are designed to keep you looking hot but feeling cool. The last thing any bride wants to worry about is feeling hot and stuffy on her big day. Keep these three things in mind as you shop and you'll be a stunning beauty in even the hottest temperatures.

Cut and Design

This summer's trends show very feminine designs, reminiscent of sleek, Hollywood movie stars. Mermaid style gowns with very fitting columns but flouncy bottoms are really popular. Many of these are backless or sleeveless and this is an important characteristic for a summer wedding dress. You should strive to find a style that flatters yet also helps you stay cool. Look for cuts that are lightweight on the bodice and top of the dress. If you want lots of body and fullness in your dress, save it for the bottom half. You'll be better equipped to stay comfortable outside for photos, your wedding, or any post-wedding celebration.

Fabric Choices

Fabric is the next factor that determines how well a bride can remain cool during a summer wedding. Some fabrics breathe better than others. Those that don't breathe well can make you think it's twice as hot outside as the number on the thermometer. Go for light, airy, breathable fabrics.

Natural fabrics breathe easier but don't make for the most gorgeous designs. Go for light and airy fabrics like chiffon which is often used for a rich finished look yet won't bog you down in heavy fabric. Overlays of tulle, chiffon and organza are big this year.

Location

The options for location are endless during this season - beaches, gardens, patios, the park, a lake. That's part of the romance. Flowers and water and carefree environments are the ideal launching point for a lifetime together. However, keep that venue in mind when you choose your dress. If your plan is to walk barefoot along the ocean sand on the way to meet your true love, don't get a summer wedding dress with a long train that will drag that sand right along with you. Walking will be more difficult and that sand will travel all over the place.

If you stick with summer wedding dresses with a lightweight cut, airy fabric, and fit your selected wedding location and venue, you'll sail through the day looking as good at the end as you did when you first slipped into your beautiful gown.