Finding Light and Elegant Summer Wedding Dresses

Brides are supposed to glow, not look like a red-faced, sweaty mess on their wedding day. So if you're planning a summer wedding, think about how to beat the heat and start browsing the latest styles in summer wedding dresses.

Heat truly is an important factor when it comes to bridal gowns. Many gowns have heavy fabrics, heavy decorations and heavy piles of underskirts to make the dress poof out where needed. These additions make most bridal gowns rather heavy garments that don't really breathe or allow much it terms of air flow.

Do yourself a huge favor and stick with bridal gowns that use lighter fabrics and airy styles. You can still have that poofy skirt, just choose an underskirt made of crinoline and wire instead of one crafted from 20 pounds of material.

It's easy to find an elegant bodice for your summer wedding dress. You'll want to skip long sleeves or a high neckline. A strapless sweetheart or portrait neckline always looks elegant and is fantastic for keeping cool.

Keep in mind that extra details, such as a lace overlay or beaded bodice will also make a dress warmer to wear. You don't have to give up the details, just use them wisely. A beaded neck and waistline will still give you that feeling of bling without feeling like you're walking on the sun.

Summer weddings are often held outdoors, so think about your location and how it will affect your dress needs. If you're having a beach wedding, look for something that won't be ruined by a little wind, sand and/or surf. If you're having a garden wedding, think about using a light-weight skirt so it doesn't end up pushing into the grass and staining.

As long as you keep some common sense rules in mind, it's easy to find an elegant wedding dress for a summer ceremony. Look for a sultry, silk, sheath gown if you want a modern twist. Try a flowing tulle gown with a ruffled skirt if you want something classy, but sweet. Play with a light, linen sundress if you want something casual but girly.