Our new rule for beach weddings? There are no rules. Welcome to the new and oh-so-stylish way to do island I do's.
For our June/July 2015 issue we dove in to all things beach wedding style — and had a blast shooting the story on Grand Cayman's famous Seven Mile Beach, which happens to be the site of hundreds of weddings each year. (The Cayman Islands are one of the easiest spots in the Caribbean where you can wed. It's even possible to get married the same day you arrive!) Lucky for us, our crew came back with a few tips for your destination nuptials:
1. Go local with your menu, because the just-caught seafood and jerk pork are amazing. (One of our go-to spots: Anchor & Den at the Grand Cayman Marriott.)
2. Hook guests up with an ecoadventure, like snorkeling with sea turtles at Eden Rock or feeding the gentle giants at Stingray City.
3. And before you leave, take one last dip in the crystal-clear waters of hidden Smith Cove with your husband. Wherever you go, tell them Brides sent you.
But the most important take away? There is no "must" style for a beach wedding dress. From blush tulle to crisp separates, these gowns are guaranteed to shine in the sand.
Above: This sheath from Elizabeth and James's new evening capsule collection is a no-brainer for the modern beach bride. Dress, $695, Elizabeth and James available at Shopbop; Hat, Babajaan; Necklace, Aurélie Bidermann; Ring, Eva Fehren
It doesn't get any cooler than a slip dress. Bonus: It's packable. (Just don't forget the steamer.) Silk-satin sheath, $1,920, Johanna Johnson; Earrings and bracelet, Aurélie Bidermann; Rings, Eva Fehren
The only way to rock a ball gown on the beach: Choose wispy layers that blow beautifully in the breeze. Silk-organza gown with Chantilly-lace appliqués, price upon request, Samuelle Couture
The side cutouts add a hint of skin to a simple covered-up sheath. Silk-organza dress, $7,300, Houghton; Bracelet, Aurélie Bidermann; Ring, Eva Fehren
A crop top gives a tropical twist to this ladylike look. Pair it with heels in bright, poppy colors and you're good to go. Silk top and skirt, $1,100, Lakum; Earrings, Dior; Ring, Eva Fehren; Shoes, Sophia Webster
What to wear to a pre-wedding beach bash? A white bikini, a matching tunic, and don't forget the sun-kissed glow. Tunic, Zimmerman; Swimsuit, Eres; Earrings and bracelet, Aurélie Bidermann; Ring, Eva Fehren; Bag, Samudra; Sunglasses, Westward Leaning
A glam caftan works double duty as a casual getting-ready dress and the chicest cover-up you've ever seen. Sequined silk-georgette caftan with beaded tassel, $6,025, Carol Hannah; Necklace, Dezso by Sara Beltrán; Ring, Eva Fehren; Sandals, Ancient Greek Sandals
__See more: How to Handle Long-Distance Wedding Planning __
This is how to do sparkle by the sea. Think subtle beading on an illusion bodice and layers of soft tulle: formal and effortless. Ball gown, $9,660, Inbal Dror; Earrings, Oscar de la Renta; Ring, Eva Fehren
Want more genius planning tips? For the best wedding dresses, advice, and big-day inspiration, pick up the BRIDES June/July 2015 issue, on newsstands now and available for download here!
