Bride and groom getting married by preacher wearing a cowboy hatHow rustic venues have changed the rules of wedding fashion

Make no mistake, white gowns and black tuxedos are still the top fashion choice for brides and grooms.

But as more couples choose barn weddings over more traditional church weddings, the rules of “what not to wear” are starting to loosen up.

“Barns have that country feel. It’s a more comfortable feeling,” said Lauren Burns, manager of Windy Hill Wedding & Event Barn in Simpsonville.

Proof of that comfort can be found on Windy Hill’s popular Instagram feed. If you scroll through the photos, you’ll come across grooms that decked out in light-colored tuxedos and wheat boutonnieres.

“A lot of our grooms lean toward khaki. I’ve even seen a few with jeans and cowboy boots,” Burns said.

Because barn weddings have a rustic feel, experts say you should avoid any wardrobe item with too much bling. Stay away from sequins, satins and metallics. Soft fabrics like lace and chiffon are preferred. In other words, the simpler the better.

“Rustic is a simple design. Even the guests feel more comfortable,” Burns said.

Especially when guests learn it’s okay to dress down—and perhaps even loosen their belts a notch.

“Most barn weddings offer a country meal. Chicken, steak, barbeque, shrimp, grits and salad,” Burns said. “What more could you possibly want?”