What colors are best for bridesmaid dresses for a beach wedding?

Your wedding, your rules! “Whether it's shades of blues and greens inspired by seaglass, or bright pops of pink, orange, and yellow inspired by tropical flowers, most colors can work for a beach wedding,” says Hurwitz. Use nature as your guide, think about the shades you love, and of course make sure to consider the season when making your choice.

Should bridesmaid dresses be shorter if you are having a beach wedding?

They can be, but not necessarily! “Your bridesmaids dresses don’t have to be shorter just because you’re getting married at the beach,” says Hartman. “A long flowy dress is perfect for the occasion.” Hurwitz agrees, but cautions, “The only thing to consider is footwear so that you're comfortable on both the sand and whatever hard surface the reception will be on.” Block heels and wedges fare better on the sand than thin stilettos.

Should bridesmaids pick their own dresses?

Both experts typically recommend letting bridesmaids pick their own dresses, but giving them solid guidelines to make sure their choice works with your aesthetic . “I'm a big proponent of giving guidance and direction but ultimately letting the bridesmaid choose whichever silhouette is most comfortable for them,” says Hurwitz. “I think it's the kind thing to do to let your bridesmaids pick a dress that celebrates what they love about themselves.” For instance, you can pick a specific shade, length, and/or material for the guidelines. Many wedding brands offer free swatches and a range of styles in the same exact shade to help you out with the process, as well.

The 19 Best Beach Bridesmaid Dresses

Best Bridesmaid Dresses for Beach Weddings — Brides / Kristin Kempa

The beach is one of the dreamiest settings for a wedding, regardless of the season. To fit with the more laid-back aesthetic of a beach wedding, you’ll need bridesmaid dresses that beautifully reflect the setting—think flowy silhouettes and breezy, lightweight materials.

It’s wise to put in more thought when picking a beach bridesmaid dress, as more of the elements will be out of your control. It can be really windy and chilly—not to mention the fact that sand can get everywhere. That’s why it's important to pick dresses that aren't too long or too short (and make sure to include a shawl or other accessory if the weather turns).

To help you find the best styles to compliment the natural setting, we spoke to bridal stylists for their advice and scoured the internet for a range of different styles. We looked for dresses in light, yet high quality fabrics, beachy colorways, wide size ranges, and convenient shipping rates and returns. From streamlined chiffon gowns to dramatic ruffled numbers, there’s a bridesmaid dress to suit every beach wedding aesthetic.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Jenny Yoo Renee Dress at Jennyyoo.com (See Price)

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Best Size-Inclusive:

Kennedy Blue Luca Dress at Kennedyblue.com (See Price)

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Best Convertible:

Birdy Grey August Convertible Dress at Birdygrey.com ($99)

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Best With Sleeves:

Revelry Cora Chiffon Dress at Shoprevelry.com (See Price)

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Best Strapless:

Shona Joy La Lune Strapless Knot Maxi Dress at Revolve (See Price)

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Best Off the Shoulder:

Show Me Your Mumu Caitlin Ruffle Dress at Showmeyourmumu.com (See Price)

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Best One-Shoulder:

Fame and Partners Lea Dress at Fameandpartners.com (See Price)

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Best Asymmetrical:

Windsor Tiffany Sleeveless High Slit Formal Dress at Windsorstore.com (See Price)

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Best Halter:

Show Me Your Mumu Jasmine Halter Maxi Dress at Showmeyourmumu.com ($178)

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Best V-Neck:

Lulus Heavenly Hues Maxi Dress at Lulus ($112)

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In This Article

Our Picks
What To Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Brides

Jenny Yoo

View On Jennyyoo.com

Bridal stylist Gabrielle Hurwitz loves this streamlined gown and so do we, thanks to its simple spaghetti straps, straight neckline, and flowy chiffon skirt. We think the Bluebell, Sea Glass and Chartreuse shades would look especially beautiful for a beach wedding, but this design comes in an impressive 42 colors total to suit any aesthetic. Jenny Yoo is a wonderfully size-inclusive brand, as well, with sizes starting at 00 and going up to 32.

Size Range: 00-32 | Colors: 42 | Material: Chiffon | Length: Full

Kennedy Blue

View On Kennedyblue.com

Whether you’re envisioning blues, pinks, or neutrals for your beach bridesmaid dresses, Kennedy Blue has got you covered. Its full chiffon skirt will blow beautifully in the seaside breeze, and its sleeves will help protect your bridesmaids’ shoulders from the bright sun. We’re so impressed with the size range Kennedy Blue offers, which means everyone in your bridal party will be able to find a perfect fit. Your bridesmaids can also order a sample ahead of time to see if they like the fit.

Size Range: 00-32 | Colors: 56 | Material: Flat Chiffon | Length: Full

Birdy Grey

View On Birdygrey.com $99

A convertible dress can make a bride’s life so much easier, meaning your bridesmaids can wear the exact same dress, yet still have some say in their wedding-day outfits. This one can be worn three ways: strapless, with thin straps, or with detachable off-the-shoulder sleeves. The fabric is lightweight enough for the beach, and it comes in a range of seaside-friendly colorways. The leg slit adds a little intrigue, too.

Size Range: XS-3X | Colors: 11 | Material: Polyester | Length: Full

Revelry

View On Shoprevelry.com

Revelry is another bridesmaid shop with an inclusive size range, which will always score points in our book—not to mention this dress comes in three lengths, for those who are petite or tall. We’ve fallen for this delicate chiffon style, with its ruffled sleeves, double waistband, and low leg slit. The mesh panel also comes in three different colors to match your skin tone. We’re particularly eyeing up the Desert Rose and Latte shades for a beach wedding.

Size Range: 0-32 | Colors: 48 | Material: Polyester Chiffon | Length: Full

Shona Joy

View On Revolve View On Shonajoy.com

Hurwitz recommends this glamorous pick from Shona Joy, which will have your bridesmaids looking like total goddesses. The strapless bodice comes together in a pretty knot, but the rest of the design is quite simple, letting the five metallic shades speak for themselves. This dress would look absolutely stunning for a sunset beach wedding, glimmering at golden hour.

Size Range: 2-14 | Colors: 5 | Material: 58% LENZING™ ECOVERO™, 42% Viscose | Length: Full

Show Me Your Mumu

View On Showmeyourmumu.com

With its flowy bodice, this dress is made for the beach. Thanks to the thin straps, you don’t have to worry about the strapless design falling down. Every shade is on theme, and the collection even includes three pretty floral prints.

Size Range: XXS-3X | Colors: 23 | Material: Polyester | Length: Full

Fame and Partners

View On Fameandpartners.com

With its cutout design, this one-shoulder dress feels right at home in a seaside setting. Constructed from light georgette crêpe fabric, it’s breezy enough for a warm day. We love how you can customize dresses from Fame & Partners by inputting your height and heels to ensure you get the right length on the first pass.

Size Range: 0-22 | Colors: 41 | Material: Polyester | Length: Full

Tiffany Sleeveless High Slit Formal Dress

Windsor

View On Windsorstore.com

The high slit on this dress allows your bridesmaids to have more freedom of movement, which helps them avoid any sticky (well, sandy) situations. The spaghetti straps and fitted bodice are classically beautiful, and the ruffle turns an otherwise simple dress into something a little more special, but at a really reasonable price. Yes, please.

Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: 7 | Material: Polyester, Spandex | Length: High-Low

Show Me Your Mumu

View On Showmeyourmumu.com $178

Satin is pretty much always a good idea for bridesmaid dresses, but pair it with a criss-cross halter neck and backless design, and you have a sure winner. Beyond those details, this maxi dress is a no-fuss slip that comes in a range of beach-ready tones—the Champagne and Dusty Purple versions are turning our heads. This one is another of Hurwitz’ faves for beach bridesmaids, and we definitely see why.

Size Range: XXS-XXL | Colors: 15 | Material: Polyester Satin | Length: Full

Lulus

View On Lulus $112

Lulus proves once again that it’s an amazing destination for more affordable bridesmaid dresses. We’re big fans of the deep V and wide waistband on this georgette number, and we can already picture it floating in the wind. Try it in Magenta, Forest Green, or Marigold Yellow for your oceanside ceremony.

Size Range: XXS-XL | Colors: 17 | Material: Polyester Georgette | Length: Full

Reformation

View On Reformation $114

Romantic brides are a perfect match for this lightweight gown with not one but two bows in the back. We’re obsessed with the Andee Dress’ halter, open back, and leg slit, and we love the curated selection of colorways, too. The viscose used to make this piece is sustainably sourced, and each dress helps save 5 pounds of carbon dioxide and 46 gallons of water.

Size Range: 0-12 | Colors: 7 | Material: Viscose Georgette | Length: Full

Baltic Born

View On Balticborn.com

Coming in at a great budget-friendly price, this midi wrap is a dance floor dream, thanks to its layered high-low skirt. Between the wrap style and the adjustable straps, the sizing can easily be altered by each bridesmaid for a perfect fit—and it’s even suitable for maternity wear. We’re loving the Emerald shade here, but the florals would also look gorgeous for your beach wedding.

Size Range: S-XL | Colors: 12 | Material: Polyester | Length: Midi

BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie $168

Beyond its entrancing shade names (Champagne or Sedona, anyone?), this is such a sleek and elegant satin slip dress. The simple straps and fitted skirt keep it understated, while the cowl neck and double slit lend it a little personality. This is an amazing midi option for bridesmaids who are nervous about getting their dresses sandy.

Size Range: 0-26 | Colors: 14 | Material: Polyester Satin | Length: Midi

Flutter Sleeve Mesh Maternity Bridesmaid Dress

Davidâs Bridal

View On David's Bridal

This is the perfect dress for any mamas-to-be in your wedding party! Your bridesmaids will dazzle in an array of shades with this pretty style, Made from stretchy mesh fabric, this number features flutter sleeves, a neckline, an empire waist, and pleated skirt.

Size Range: XS-3X | Colors: 43 | Material: Polyester | Length: Full

Sachin & Babi

View On Sachinandbabi.com

Sachin & Babi’s Pastel Sunset Hydrangea print is one of Hurwitz’ top picks, and it’s calling your name if you’re getting married somewhere in the Pacific. That said, the Kayla gown also comes in a few other floral prints and some solids, too. We love its halter neck, ribbon detail, and the way the skirt moves when you walk.

Size Range: 0-22 | Colors: 14 | Material: Polyester Crinkle Georgette | Length: Full

Lulus

View On Lulus $122

The lace bodice on this bridesmaid dress makes it a great fit for a spring beach wedding (try it in Blush or Lavendar) or for fall (when it would look gorgeous in Burgundy or Navy). It’s perfect if you love a lace accent but aren’t willing to commit to the full lace look, since the skirt is made from smooth chiffon.

Size Range: XXS-XL | Colors: 5 | Material: Polyester | Length: Full

Mac Duggal

View On Nordstrom $498 View On Macduggal.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue $598

For brides with a penchant for the dramatic, Hurwitz recommends this incredible ruffle-embellished gown, which comes in equally show-stopping tones like Hot Pink, Sunshine and Mint, all of which would look stunning on beach bridesmaids. The sweetheart neckline, side cutouts, and tiered full skirt all ensure your bridal party will make a definite splash on the day.

Size Range: 0-16 | Colors: 8 | Material: Polyester | Length: Full

Azazie

View On Azazie.com

Not only does this gown from Azazie feature a mermaid-style skirt, but the sweetheart bodice is also embellished with lace that wouldn’t look out of place on Halle Bailey’s Ariel. Go full mermaid with the Peacock or Royal Blue shades, or keep it classic with a Dusty Rose or Taupe. It’s without a doubt the ultimate beach bridesmaid dress.

Size Range: 0-30 | Colors: 14 | Material: Chiffon, Lace | Length: Full

AW Bridal

View On Awbridal.com

While many couples choose to get married on the beach in the warmer months, a winter beach wedding can be incredibly scenic. Depending on where in the world yours is set, your bridesmaids may need to don a little extra fabric to ward off the chill, and this long-sleeved AW Liza Dress is one very pretty way to tick that box.

Made from glitter mesh, the fabric has a magical look that’s fitting for the sea, especially in colors like Mist. The square neckline is ultra flattering, plus there’s a built in bra. Best of all, your bridesmaids can customize the measurements for free.

Size Range: 0-30 | Colors: 411 | Material: Glitter Mesh | Length: Full

What to Look for in Beach Bridesmaid Dresses

Style

Some bridesmaids might opt for a mini or midi dress for a beach wedding, like BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress, but it’s definitely not mandatory. Your bridesmaids can still wear a beautiful full skirt on the beach, as long as they have the right footwear. As for the rest of the dress, the style will depend on each bridesmaid’s personal preference, as well as your wedding’s theme and the season. “Stay away from anything that is too stiff, thick, or formal,” says stylist Lauren Hartman.

Material

As with dress styles, there's definitely plenty of room to choose a fabric you love for your beach bridesmaids, but Hurwitz shares one important guideline. “Aesthetically, I love the look of lightweight fabrics that will blow with the breeze,” she says. “I think the key is to avoid anything too heavy or stiff, like velvet or a silk faille.” You can’t go wrong with a chiffon dress like the Kennedy Blue Luca Dress. We also love how a satin style, like Show Me Your Mumu Jasmine Dress, glimmers by the water.

Shipping & Return Policies

Understandably, you want your bridesmaids’ dresses to be perfect and ready to go ahead of time, so it’s one less thing to worry about on the big day. For that to happen, though, you have to keep some logistics in mind. “Before ordering your bridesmaids dress, always take the time to thoroughly review the shipping and return policy,” says Hartman. “Some brands will allow returns but require the customer to pay for shipping or charge a restocking fee. Pay attention to shipping times too. Many bridesmaids dresses are made to order, which will take a few months to ship.”

FAQ

What colors are best for bridesmaid dresses for a beach wedding?

Your wedding, your rules! “Whether it's shades of blues and greens inspired by seaglass, or bright pops of pink, orange, and yellow inspired by tropical flowers, most colors can work for a beach wedding,” says Hurwitz. Use nature as your guide, think about the shades you love, and of course make sure to consider the season when making your choice.
Should bridesmaid dresses be shorter if you are having a beach wedding?

They can be, but not necessarily! “Your bridesmaids dresses don’t have to be shorter just because you’re getting married at the beach,” says Hartman. “A long flowy dress is perfect for the occasion.” Hurwitz agrees, but cautions, “The only thing to consider is footwear so that you're comfortable on both the sand and whatever hard surface the reception will be on.” Block heels and wedges fare better on the sand than thin stilettos.
Should bridesmaids pick their own dresses?

Both experts typically recommend letting bridesmaids pick their own dresses, but giving them solid guidelines to make sure their choice works with your aesthetic. “I'm a big proponent of giving guidance and direction but ultimately letting the bridesmaid choose whichever silhouette is most comfortable for them,” says Hurwitz. “I think it's the kind thing to do to let your bridesmaids pick a dress that celebrates what they love about themselves.” For instance, you can pick a specific shade, length, and/or material for the guidelines. Many wedding brands offer free swatches and a range of styles in the same exact shade to help you out with the process, as well.

Meet the Expert

Gabrielle Hurwitz is a bridal fashion stylist based in Los Angeles and New York City and the founder of Gabrielle Hurwitz Bridal Styling.
Lauren Hartman is the founder of Philadelphia-based bridal and fashion styling company Trousseau Style.

Why Trust Brides

Iris Goldsztajn is a Paris-born, London-based freelance writer with 10 years of experience covering fashion, beauty, wellness and lifestyle for the likes of Brides, InStyle, Marie Claire, British Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Bustle, Refinery29 and many more. In order to write this article, Iris conducted extensive research and spoke to bridal styling experts Gabrielle Hurwitz and Lauren Hartman to learn more about choosing the perfect beach bridesmaid dress.

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