How To Achieve The Perfect Breezy Look For A Spring Wedding

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The arrival of spring means blooming trees, birds that chirp a bit too early, and (of course) the beginning of wedding season. According to The Knot, 80% of couples get married between the months of May and October, making this six month span the peak time to officially exchange vows. As event planner Jove Meyer tells Brides, "Spring is when all the flowers begin coming up and to design a wedding that showed this growth would be so beautiful." Given the temperate weather and fresh flora, outdoor weddings are especially picturesque during this season, though they're still location-dependent. "For weddings in the Pacific Northwest — think Seattle and Portland — expect more rain than sun for much of spring," Here Comes The Guide creative director Jenna Miller explains to Martha Stewart. By contrast, April and May weddings in the South and Southwest are ideal for getting a head start on the summer heat. 

When planning your breezy spring wedding fits, it's important to keep weather and location in mind. Depending on the venue, you may find yourself encountering fresh mud or, if the sun acts according to plan, a generous helping of seasonal colors. Start wedding season off right with a wardrobe that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and (perhaps most importantly) ready to dance — just remember, no white!

Rent the Runway is one of the best clothing rental websites on the market. How does it work? Though the service allows you to experiment with one-time rentals — which allow you to keep your chosen items for up to 8 days — you can also sign up for monthly membership plans. All items arrive quickly, dry cleaned, or with back-up sizes in case something doesn't fit. For instance, borrow this Vince black satin gown for a one-time fee of just $70, a fraction of the original $425 price tag. If you're interested in trying out designer fashion but don't have a red carpet budget, this is the platform for you.

First and foremost, look to the RSVP to see just how much skin the venue warrants. According to Brides, it's usually best to steer clear of anything too revealing. While Byrdie recommends Abercrombie & Fitch's sleek satin keyhole dress, Cosmopolitan ranks this Nobody's Child black cutout midi as one of the best cutout dresses to buy in 2022. Alternatively, lace detail can be a beautiful, textured way to embellish peekaboo designs. Check out this elegant style from Asos or Meshki's lace and satin maxi for inspiration.

"No dress? No problem," fashion and beauty editor Shelley Brown tells The Knot. "A tailored jumpsuit is formal enough to work for even a black tie dress code, but comfortable enough to allow you to tear it up on the dance floor." For starters, check out this structured sleeveless suit from Boohoo. Or, if you're a "Fleabag" fanatic, Lulus sells a Phoebe Waller-Bridge-inspired jumpsuit for under $60. Pair with sparkling jewelry and heels for a formal effect or, if you anticipate grass or wood planked flooring, platform sandals.

Silk is adaptable, says The Knot. Depending on the cut of the dress, it can be styled up or down to fit the formality requirements. For instance, go bold with this floral midi from ASTR The Label. It's available in nine distinct shades from spring pastels to winter-worthy teal. Alternatively, pair this silk halter from Banana Republic with open-toed sandals for a breezy springtime look. Keep in mind, however — water and silk don't mix well. As SuitShop co-founder Jeanne Foley explains to Wedding Wire, "Maybe more important in spring than any other season, it's a great idea to keep monitoring the weather, especially considering most spring weddings include outdoor elements." With this in mind, incorporate a stylish cover up into your fit or (at the very least) hope for a covered tent.

Not everyone is a fan of dresses. As New Jersey wedding planner Alicia Mae tells Brides, "An essential tip is to know yourself as a guest. As the saying goes, 'If you look great, you feel great!'" If that means forgoing a skirt in favor of pants, go for it! For a little pizzazz, check out this floral suit set from Banana Republic. Add some height with heels or, alternatively, a formal pair of loafers. To achieve a simple, yet elegant aesthetic, opt for a tailored black blazer like this piece from J. Crew and matching black dress pants.

SuitShop co-founder Jeanne Foley explains to Wedding Wire that it's important to understand the dress code before choosing your fit. "One great way to determine the dress code — without asking the couple — is to check out the location of the wedding," she advises. If you're in a pinch before a black tie occasion, dress up a semi formal look with accessories; think jeweled handbags, high heels, and sparkling earrings. Lands' End notes that makeup like a red lip can also make a casual dress look more formal.

"With the weather warming up," Lovely Bride founder Lanie List tells Brides, "it's the perfect time to rock bright colors, modern cutouts, or unexpected details like a cowl neckline or an asymmetrical hem." Speaking of asymmetrical hems, shop this cowl neck midi from Urban Outfitters. Alternatively, admire the elegant asymmetry in this Lulus one-shoulder dress. As advised by celebrity hairstylist Julien Farel, balance the one-shoulder neckline with a side swept pony or sleek, off center bun (via Byrdie).