Wedding Gowns and Suits: Choosing the Perfect Look for Your Wedding in Baltimore
- jessheddings
- Apr 29
- 4 min read
As the venue manager at Island View Waterfront, a Baltimore wedding venue, I’ve seen countless brides and grooms shine on their wedding day in outfits that make them feel absolutely incredible. And let’s be honest, your wedding attire is one of the most fun and exciting parts of planning your celebration. Whether you’re dreaming of a flowy gown with intricate lace details or a sharp suit with a touch of modern elegance, what you wear on your wedding day matters. After all, you'll be wearing these outfits when you say "I do"—so it’s important to feel like the best version of yourself.
Why It’s Worth Investing in Your Wedding Gown and Suit
Wedding gowns and suits can be an expensive investment, but here’s the thing: Your wedding attire sets the tone for the entire day. It’s what you’ll be wearing for one of the most special moments of your life, so having something you absolutely love can make the experience even more memorable. And, trust me, the pictures last a lifetime! Plus, wedding attire isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling amazing too. You’ll want to dance the night away in comfort and confidence, and a well-fitted gown or suit makes all the difference.
At Island View Waterfront, we love seeing couples bring their personal style to life against our stunning Chesapeake Bay backdrop. Whether you're rocking a timeless tux or a breezy boho gown, your outfit is a reflection of you!
Rent vs. Buy: What’s Best for Your Wedding Suit?
Grooms and groomsmen, the big question: Should you rent or buy your suit? Here’s how to decide:
Renting:
✅ More affordable—Perfect if you don’t wear suits often✅ Less commitment—Return it after the wedding, no storage needed✅ Convenient—Many places offer full rental packages, including shoes and accessories
💡 Best for: Groomsmen who want a cohesive look, couples on a budget, or those who don’t wear suits often
Buying:
✅ Tailored fit—You get a suit that’s perfectly customized for you✅ Wear it again—Great if you attend formal events or want a keepsake✅ More fabric and style options—Choose exactly what you love
💡 Best for: Grooms who want a long-term investment, those who prefer a perfect fit, or anyone who wants a more personalized style
If you love the idea of wearing your wedding suit for future events, buying might be worth it. But if you’re all about convenience and budget-friendliness, renting is a great option!
Thrifting a Wedding Dress? YES, Please!
Not every bride dreams of spending thousands on a dress they’ll only wear once. If you love sustainable fashion, vintage vibes, or just a good deal, thrifting your wedding dress might be for you!
💍 Where to Find Thrifted Wedding Dresses:
Local bridal consignment shops – These often carry designer dresses at a fraction of the cost
Online resale platforms – Websites like Stillwhite, Poshmark, or Nearly Newlywed have amazing secondhand finds
Vintage boutiques – Perfect for finding something truly unique
💡 Pro Tip: A great seamstress can make any thrifted gown fit like it was made for you!
Mix and Match Bridal Party Attire: The Perfect Blend of Styles
Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all bridesmaid dresses! Mixing and matching bridal party attire is not only trendy, but it also allows each member to feel comfortable and confident in what they wear.
👗 How to Pull Off a Mismatched Look:
Pick a Color Palette – Stick to a range of colors (e.g., dusty blues, earth tones, pastels) so the look feels cohesive
Vary the Styles – Let your bridal party choose silhouettes that flatter their body types
Consider Fabrics & Textures – Mixing satin, lace, and chiffon can add depth and visual interest
💡 Bonus: This trend isn’t just for bridesmaids! Groomsmen can mix and match ties, pocket squares, or even different shades of suits for a laid-back but polished look.
Where to Shop for Wedding Gowns and Suits in Baltimore and the DMV
Baltimore and the DMV area are full of fantastic boutiques and stores. Here are a few local spots we recommend:
Love It! at Stella’s – https://loveitatstellas.com
Tuxedo House – https://www.tuxedohouse.com
Betsy Robinson’s Bridal – https://www.robinsonsbridal.com
K and B Bridal and Tux – https://www.kandbbridals.com
At Island View, we can’t wait to see your wedding look come together! Whether you go new, vintage, or mix-and-match, your style will shine.
Make Your Dream Wedding a Reality at Island View Waterfront
Island View Waterfront offers a flexible approach to wedding planning, allowing you to customize your package to suit your needs and budget.
Island View Waterfront is committed to making your dream celebration a reality.
Contact us today to schedule a tour and start planning your unforgettable wedding or event.
Wedding Website: www.islandviewwaterfrontevents.net
Instagram: Island View Waterfront Venue, Essex Maryland
About us: Island View Waterfront is an independent, locally-owned wedding venue near Baltimore Maryland. We have been family owned and operated since 1968. What started as a small bar and marina (read the history here), we are proud to be the current stewards of this waterfront property on the Chesapeake Bay.
When you choose an independent, locally owned venue like ours, you work directly with the owner, and third generation operator Jessica, throughout your entire wedding planning process!
We are committed to supporting other locally owned wedding venues around the country. A shout-out to the following venues who are offering their continued support and encouragement:
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