There’s no reason to overheat during your wedding just because it’s summer. Check out these tips for looking good and staying cool on your big day.

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Ditch the length

It's traditional to wear a long, white gown on your wedding day. Many brides decide to have a sky-high amount of tulle or a long, elegant train. But who needs all that extra fabric in the summertime? Give yourself space to breathe (and room to dance!) with a shorter dress. While many dresses are at least floor length, try a vintage-style dress at tea length or show off your legs with a knee-length gown. 

Go for light fabrics and colors

Stay away from heavy fabrics that will weigh you down, and do the same for your wedding party. Talk to your groom about dressing his best guys in linen or seersucker suits instead of the traditional dark wool. For your dress, consider cotton if you want to keep it casual, or silk if you want to retain a sense of elegance. You'll already be in white, but keep your wedding party in paler hues, too. Pale blues, pinks and beiges will keep everyone in your ceremony looking and feeling cool.

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Keep your hair out of the way

Up or down? It's a hairy question. We recommend keeping your hair off your neck and tucked away in an elegant updo to reduce the dreaded tress sweat. Talk to your hairstylist about the need for a style that will stay cool and stay put. A durable braid or bun will let you dance the night away without worrying about a curtain of hair. (Need a recommendation for a stylist? Click here for our favorites.)

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Try a hat

You can wear a hat whether you decide to wear your hair up or down. Keep your updo low and make sure your hat stillfits on your head, or let your hair flow freely under the brim. Wear a fascinator or hatinator if you want the feeling of a hat ability to add a veil. Hey, if it's grand enough for Kate Middleton's wedding, it's good enough for yours! Want something that will block a little more sun? Try a floppy soft hat with a bit of a brim. It's more informal, but it will also be more functional.