What’s the difference between a wedding suit and an elopement suit? How you’ll be using it. On an adventure elopement, you could be hiking, jumping, and exploring all day. You’re going to want a suit that is comfortable, moves well, is packable, and will look great amongst the landscape.

Everything from suit style to fabric can make a difference in your day, but don’t worry, this guide will help you navigate the choices.

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Disclosure: I’ve included affiliate links to elopement dresses and accessories in this post. If you click through and end up buying something, I might receive a small portion of that sale. You won’t be charged more as a result, and I wasn’t paid by any of these retailers to share their information. These are all my genuine preferences.

Suit fabrics

You’ll need to keep a few things in mind when you begin suit shopping. First, what activities are you planning for your elopement day? If you’ll be riding in 4x4s, hiking, skiing, or taking part in another activity full of movement while wearing your suit, you’ll want a material that can stretch and move with you.

You’ll also need to consider the season and weather where your elopement is taking place. The warmer the weather, the lighter your suit should be. And no matter where you’ll be getting married, you’ll want to avoid shiny, scratchy materials and anything that shows wrinkles easily.

Warmer weather suits

Natural fibers are great for warmer climates. Think cotton, or even linen, if it will be very warm. You can also ditch the blazer and go for suspenders, a vest, or a button-up shirt (just make sure your shirt is not too sheer).

Colder weather suits

Heavier fabrics like wool, tweed, cashmere, and velvet will help keep you warm in cool temps.

Pro tip — if you’re expecting it to be really cold, wear long johns (like these men’s/women’s base layers) underneath.

Layering

Temps often vary throughout the day, especially in the mountains. It can be cool in the morning, warm in the afternoon, and chilly again in the evening. Be prepared for this with layers. Scarfs, hats, gloves, blazers, and sport coats can keep you looking classy and staying comfortable.

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Hiking in your suit

How hike-able your suit is will depend on the material so let whoever fits you know about your elopement plans. That way they’ll be able to help suggest materials that will give and stretch with movement. Do test out various movements in your suit as well. See if you can squat or reach forward while being careful not to tear the suit. Remember to try your suit on with the shoes you plan on wearing as well. If you’ll be in hiking boots, you’ll want your pant legs to fit over the boots.

When to wear it and when to pack it

If you’ll be on a shorter hike (1-4 miles roundtrip) that has beautiful views along the trail, I suggest hiking in your suit. You can stop for photos along the way, and you’ll get more photos while you’re dressed up.

For longer hikes (5+ miles), I suggest changing into your outfits when you’ve reached your destination. How do you change? Find a big tree or rock to hide behind and have your partner keep a lookout! There are also portable changing stations you can buy, but they’re more of a hassle than they’re worth. If you’re hiking to a busy and barren place, I think it’s easier to have one or two people make a “changing room” by holding up blankets or towels around you if necessary.

If you’re worried about getting sweaty by the time you reach your destination, bring body wipes. It’s a quick way to look, feel, and smell refreshed!

How to pack your suit for a hike

If you won’t be hiking in your suit, plan on stashing it in a garment bag with tissue paper to prevent wrinkling. Hang that on the outside of your pack and you’re good to go. If you have small accessories, put them all together in a Ziplock bag and tuck them in a zippered pocket so they won’t get lost floating around.

Wondering what else you’ll be needing to pack for a hiking elopement? Check out this list.

Choosing a suit

You’ll want to choose a suit color that pops against the landscape. Navy and burgundy seem to do well in most locations, while black suits can blend into dark areas with heavy shadows, like forests. Grey is also another great option, but it can blend into the rocks and boulders of alpine areas.

Jackets

Looking for a trendy, modern look? Trade out the traditional suit for a blazer, sport coat, or leather jacket. Some of my favorite outfits ditch the traditional suit altogether! Pair your jacket with a button-up, slacks, or even jeans.

If you want a softer, look, go for a sweater. Pullovers, button ups,

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Accessories

As for accessories, there are tons of choices to add pizzaz, style, and personality to your outfit.

Check out ties, pocket squares, watches, tie clips, cuff links, collar tips, and boutonnieres. If you choose to wear a tie, solid colors and smaller prints tend to photograph well.

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