24 Jan How to Match Country Wedding Dresses for a Rustic Chic Look

Getting married in the countryside offers so many possibilities for creating a romantic, rustic chic wedding. From ceremonies in open meadows to receptions in weathered barns, there are endless venues and details you can incorporate to embrace the rustic vibe. One of the most important elements for pulling off a country chic wedding is finding the right country wedding dresses. Country venues and details pair beautifully with laid-back wedding gowns. Choosing a dress with a country vibe will help you look and feel your rustic chic best on your big day.

Here’s your complete guide on how to find country wedding dresses to match your rural venue and vision. I’ll cover:

• Key features of country wedding dresses
• Different country dress neckline options
• Country dress sleeve styles
• Country wedding dress silhouettes
• Fabrics for rustic wedding dresses
• Styling and accessorizing your country dress
• Where to shop for country wedding dresses

I’ll also answer some frequently asked questions at the end to help you put together the perfect country chic bridal look. Let’s get started!

Key Features of Country Wedding Dresses

Rustic chic wedding dresses have some signature features that capture the country vibe. Here are the main elements to look for in a country bridal gown:

Simple Silhouettes

Country wedding dresses tend to have simple, unfussy silhouettes. Flowing A-line or empire waists are common rural bridal styles. These uncomplicated shapes pair well with rustic venues and capture an effortless countryside elegance.

Natural Fabrics

Fabrics like cotton, linen, and lace are popular for country wedding dresses. These natural materials have a casual, earthy look and lightweight feel perfect for country weddings. Lace with cutout floral patterns adds pretty rural texture.

Relaxed Styling

From necklines to sleeves to lengths, country wedding dresses have a relaxed vibe. Off-the-shoulder necklines, flutter sleeves, and tea length hems add to the laidback country charm.

Subtle Embellishments

Some delicate embellishments like floral appliques, crochet trim, or pearls can accent country wedding dresses. But rustic brides tend to avoid heavy beading, sequins, or rhinestones that would feel overly formal.

Casual Detailing

Details like braided straps, ties, sashes, and buttons down the back keep country wedding dresses unfussy. These casual details align with the rural DIY aesthetic.

Now that you know what defines a country wedding dress, let’s look at how to put together your perfect rustic bridal look.

Country Wedding Dress Necklines

The neckline is one of the main ways to add country flair to your wedding dress. Here are some neckline options that match beautifully with rural venues:

Off-the-Shoulder

Off-the-shoulder necklines are so romantic and have a dreamy, countryside vibe. With the shoulders and collarbone exposed, off-the-shoulder dresses are perfect for warm country weddings. Pair this neckline with flutter sleeves or go strapless.

Sweetheart

Subtly shaped sweetheart necklines look gorgeous on country wedding dresses. The delicate sweetheart shape is feminine without being fussy, making it ideal for a rustic chic bride. Sweetheart necklines work well with sleeveless or short sleeve dresses.

Square

A square neckline has a straight-across shape that gives country dresses a modern, casual feel. Go for a higher square neck for the ceremony, then opt for a lower square shape for the reception to switch it up.

V-Neck

Nothing beats the classic elegance of a V-neck. This versatile neckline instantly makes wedding dresses look sophisticated. Choose a plunging deep V-neck for drama or keep it subtler with a shallow V.

Bateau

Also called a boat neckline, the bateau is a graceful modest neckline option. The straight cut from shoulder to shoulder creates an elegant silhouette. Bateau necklines pair beautifully with short flutter sleeves.

Halter

Halter necklines make a pretty choice for summer country weddings. Tying at the neck, this style leaves shoulders and back exposed while still offering support. Halter dresses are perfect for showing off a backless look.

Country Wedding Dress Sleeves

Sleeves add an extra layer of romance and charm to rustic wedding dresses. Here are some dreamy country sleeve cuts:

Flutter Sleeves

Flutter sleeves are so delicate and ethereal on country wedding dresses. The flowing shape brings graceful movement perfect for twirling around the dancefloor at a countryside reception.

Bishop Sleeves

Voluminous bishop sleeves cinch at the wrist and upper arm for a fabulously feminine statement. The billowy shape captures the whimsical vibe of rural weddings. Bishop sleeves pair perfectly with off-the-shoulder or V-necklines.

Bell Sleeves

Similar to bishop sleeves, bell sleeves puff out from the shoulder seam to the elbow for dreamy volume. Choose bell sleeves for an ultra romantic and soft country bridal style.

Cold Shoulder

Cold shoulder dresses have cutouts that expose the shoulders while still covering the arms. This trendy cut mixes flirty and modest for the perfect balance. Cold shoulder works for country brides who want a contemporary rural look.

Lace Cap Sleeves

Delicate lace cap sleeves add a hint of coverage in a sheer, romantic way. Cap sleeves work nicely with strapless or sweetheart necklines. The lace provides pretty rural texture.

Short Sleeves

Simple short sleeves give country wedding dresses a casual, fuss-free feel. Pair short sleeves with a flowy dress silhouette and natural fabric for an easy rustic chic look.

Sleeveless

During warm country weddings, brides may opt to go sleeveless. Whether strapless, halter, or with off-the-shoulder straps, sleeveless dresses maximize airflow for comfort and romance.

Country Wedding Dress Silhouettes

Your dress silhouette ties your whole country bridal style together. These are the best silhouettes for rustic chic brides:

A-Line

A-line dresses cinch at the waist then flow out to the ground in a gently flared shape. This versatile silhouette works for any country bride and flatters most body types. A-line dresses move beautifully while dancing barefoot at barn receptions!

Empire Waist

Empire waist dresses have a seam right below the bust before flowing down in a loose shape. This silhouette accentuates the bust while concealing the stomach and hips. The effortless flow is perfect for outdoor country weddings.

Ballgown

Full ballgown skirts create dreamy romance for rustic brides who want serious drama. Ballgowns sway majestically down aisles flanked by trees or fields. Just choose lightweight rather than heavy materials to keep the ballgown country casual.

Sheath

Streamlined sheath dresses taper close to the body for a simple silhouette. Brides seeking an unfussy look can embrace the sheath, and add country flair through neckline, sleeves, or other details.

Slip Dress

Slip dresses are basics elevated. The slim slip shape has an easy nonchalant vibe that lets brides accessorize and customize. Add lace, floral embroidery, or off-the-shoulder straps to transform slip dresses into boho-country perfection.

Tea Length

Tea length dresses, falling to the shin or mid-calf, offer a fun alternative to full length for casual brides. The shorter length allows you to show off pretty vintage shoes and move freely, perfect for country dancefloors.

Mermaid

Mermaid gowns slim down to the knee before flaring out at the bottom. This style hugs curves while still having movement. Choose softer fabrics like chiffon to keep the mermaid silhouette country casual.

Fabrics for Country Wedding Dresses

Fabrics make all the difference in getting that rustic chic bridal style. Some top country wedding dress material options include:

Lace

Lace brings intricate texture, pattern, and romance. Vintage-inspired lace with floral or botanical cutout designs is perfectly on-theme for country weddings. Lightweight lace adds countryside charm without weight.

Cotton

Simple, breathable cotton exudes comfort and casual elegance. Choose cotton in an airy weave or eyelet design to match the laidback country vibe. Cotton dresses are perfect for outdoor farm weddings.

Linen

Linen has a wonderfully relaxed wrinkled look. The natural fiber fabric drapes beautifully on the body and keeps brides cool. Light linen dresses work especially well for summer country weddings.

Chiffon

Flowy lightweight chiffon makes ethereal country dresses that move gracefully with every step. A ruched chiffon bodice with long chiffon skirt channels boho rural romance.

Tulle

For the ultimate romantic drama, opt for a full tulle skirt. This delicate material adds floaty volume perfect for twirling. Keep the bodice simple to balance the voluminous tulle for a countryside glam look.

Satin

Satin offers sheen and luster for rustic brides who want some subtle shine. Look for satin with a matte finish to stay muted. Satin slips, cowl necklines, and bias cut skirts drape beautifully.

Crepe

Crepe has a gauzy texture with a lightly crinkled look. This thin material is perfect for relaxed peasant sleeves, maxi skirts, and empire waist dresses. Crepe and lace together create dreamy combinations.

Eyelet

The pretty cutout holes of eyelet lace make it ideal for breezy country weddings. Eyelet sundresses have a timeless vintage charm. Or choose eyelet details like trims or overlays to accent simple dresses.

Styling and Accessorizing Your Country Dress

Once you’ve chosen the perfect rustic chic dress, accessorize with these finishing touches:

Statement Sleeves

For a boho vibe, add romantic giant puff sleeves, bell sleeves, or bishop sleeves. Volume draws attention to the shoulders and creates playful movement.

Lace Cape

Capes and capes add striking vintage glam. An airy lace cape provides coverage for colder weather while contributing ethereal style.

Flower Crown

A flower crown instantly channels woodland fairy princess elegance. Look for ones with wildflowers, baby’s breath, or greenery to complement your country venue.

Cowboy Boots

Cowboy boots make an adorably on-theme statement with country wedding dresses. Opt for traditional boots or vintage inspired fringed, floral, or embroidered pairs.

Hoop Earrings

Small or oversized hoop earrings add a subtle western flair to balance prairie-style dresses. Go for gold, rose gold, or freshwater pearl hoops.

Braided Belt

A braided belt at the waist brings rustic texture. Cording, leather, or fabric belts make a laidback finishing touch. Tie in any color scheme.

Laidback Veil

Choose a simple elbow length veil with minimal embellishment for that casual countryside vibe. Or just go for a pretty single tier fingertip veil without lace or beading.

Practical Shoes

For outdoor country weddings, opt for wedge sandals, espadrilles, or comfortable flats that can handle grassy terrain. Add a pop of color or floral accents to tie into your dress.

Where to Shop for Country Wedding Dresses

Looking for the perfect rustic chic wedding dress? Here are some go-to spots:

Boutiques

Local independent bridal boutiques often carry bohemian and nontraditional gowns that align with the country vibe. Many also sell stylish separates so you can mix and match.

Etsy

On Etsy you can find talented independent designers creating dresses with rustic details. Search terms like “country wedding dress” or “farmhouse bridal gown” yield stunning boho options.

David’s Bridal

Major retailers like David’s Bridal offer affordable country inspired dresses. Search “country” or “bohemian” wedding dresses on their website for lots of casual options under $500.

LaceMarry

LaceMarry on Etsy has hundreds of dresses with country charm. Their embroidered, lacy designs look straight out of a whimsical rural cottage.

Free People

Free People’s wedding line (available online and in stores) features slip dresses, lace maxis, and embroidered gowns with relaxed boho vibes.

Anthropologie

BHLDN, Anthropologie’s wedding brand, has some breezy country inspired dresses. Search for styles with terms like “peasant”, “meadow”, or “ruffle” for the rural look.

Knowing what styles and details to look for will help you find your dream country wedding dress. Keep an open mind when trying on different silhouettes, fabrics, sleeves, and necklines. Once you find the one, accessorize to really bring your rustic vision to life. With a relaxed country gown, you’re sure to be a radiant, effortlessly chic rustic bride.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best fabrics for a country wedding dress?

Great fabrics for rustic country wedding dresses include lace, cotton, linen, chiffon, tulle, satin, crepe, and eyelet. These natural, lightweight materials align with the casual countryside vibe.

What neckline looks best with a country wedding dress?

Off-the-shoulder, sweetheart, V-neck, square, bateau, and halter necklines all pair beautifully with country inspired wedding dresses. Choose based on your venue’s formality and your desired look.

What silhouette is most flattering for a rustic wedding dress?

A-line and empire waist silhouettes are universally flattering and perfect for country brides. But sheath, mermaid, ballgown, and tea length dresses can also work nicely for rustic venues depending on your vision.

Should I avoid certain fabrics or details for a country wedding dress?

Steer clear of anything too formal or heavy like brocade, velvet, excessive beading, or dramatic trains. Stick to unfussy details and lightweight airy fabrics to match the relaxed countryside vibe.

Where can I find affordable country wedding dresses?

David’s Bridal, Etsy, and Free People have budget-friendly options under $500. Sample sales at local boutiques are another great way to score a discount on a boho-style dress.

Conclusion

Rustic country weddings allow you to celebrate your love surrounded by the beauty of nature. When selecting the perfect engagement ring, consider these four essential tips, and remember, choosing an unfussy wedding dress with relaxed silhouettes, delicate details, and natural fabrics is key to completing your dreamy rural vision and complementing your countryside bridal look. Don’t be afraid to break tradition and customize elements to capture your unique spirit. With an effortlessly elegant country wedding dress, you’re sure to be a picture-perfect rural bride!