If you are currently scrolling through endless Pinterest boards feeling more confused than inspired, take a deep breath. You are not alone. To help you narrow down the noise, I’ve put together a list of nine beautiful styles that range from the traditional to the unexpected.
9 Wedding Dress Styles to Consider
There is no “right” way to be a bride. Whether you want to look like royalty or you just want to be comfortable enough to eat a full slice of cake, here are some ideas to get you thinking.
1. The Classic A-Line If you are worried about fit, this is your best friend. The A-line silhouette is fitted at the bodice and flows out gradually to the ground, resembling the outline of an uppercase “A.” It is incredibly forgiving and works beautifully on almost every body type. I love this style because it feels bridal without being difficult to move in.
2. The Minimalist Slip Dress There is something so confident about a clean, unadorned slip dress. Inspired by the 90s, this style relies on silk or satin and impeccable tailoring rather than lace or beading. It is perfect for a modern city wedding or a bride who feels like she is wearing a costume when she puts on a big gown.
3. The Romantic Bohemian If your venue is outdoors—a garden, a forest, or a backyard—you might want to look at “boho” styles. Think flowing fabrics, bell sleeves, and softer, matte lace rather than sparkly sequins. These dresses usually lack stiff boning, making them incredibly comfortable for a long day.
4. The Ballgown Sometimes, you just want the fairytale moment. A ballgown has a fitted bodice and a dramatic, full skirt. It is the most formal option and definitely makes a statement. My only piece of advice here: make sure you practice sitting down in it before you buy it.
5. Long Sleeves For a long time, strapless was the default, but sleeves have made a massive comeback. Whether it is sheer illusion lace or solid crepe, sleeves add an element of elegance and timelessness. They are also a practical choice if you are getting married in the autumn or winter and don’t want to be shivering during your vows.
6. Tea-Length or Midi Not every bride wants a dress that sweeps the floor. A tea-length dress (hemmed between the knee and the ankle) has a wonderful vintage, 1950s charm. It is also fantastic if you have an amazing pair of shoes you want to show off, or if you plan on doing a lot of dancing and don’t want to worry about anyone stepping on your train.
7. Bridal Separates This is a trend I wish had been around when I got married. Instead of a single dress, you choose a top and a skirt. This allows you to mix and match textures—perhaps a beaded top with a sleek satin skirt. It feels very modern and allows for a custom fit that is often easier to alter than a traditional gown.
8. The Jumpsuit or Pantsuit Who says you have to wear a dress? A tailored white jumpsuit is incredibly chic, powerful, and unexpected. It is a fantastic option for a civil ceremony, a rehearsal dinner, or simply for the bride who never feels quite right in a skirt.
9. Soft Color White is traditional, but it isn’t mandatory. Soft blushes, champagnes, doves greys, or even pale blues can be breathtaking. If bright white washes you out or just feels too stark, try a dress with a warm undertone like cappuccino or ivory. It can add a depth and warmth that photographs beautifully.
A Note on Comfort and Presence
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While we focus so much on the aesthetic of the dress, I want to gently remind you to think about the experience of wearing it.
A wedding is a long day. You will be standing, hugging, sitting, eating, and dancing. If you can’t lift your arms above your head to hug your grandmother, or if the fabric is so itchy you are distracted during the ceremony, it might not be the right dress, no matter how beautiful it looks in the mirror.
True elegance comes from a woman who is comfortable in her own skin. When you aren’t fidgeting with a strap or sucking in your stomach, you are free to be present. You are free to look into your partner’s eyes and actually hear the words being spoken. That presence is what makes a bride glowing and beautiful, far more than the specific cut of the silk.
Trusting Your Instincts
The best advice I can give you is to stop looking at what everyone else is doing and listen to that quiet voice inside you. When you put on the right outfit, you won’t necessarily feel like a princess; you will just feel like a relieved, happy version of yourself.
I would love to hear from you—are you leaning toward a traditional look, or are you thinking of breaking the mold with something totally different?
Warmly,
Clara
