What kind of dress should I wear to a beach wedding?

Casual beach brides may opt for shorter frocks, midi-length dresses, or high-low hemlines. If you want to wear something more formal, turn to flowing A-line silhouettes.

Do I need to wear shoes as a beach bride?

For beach brides, shoes are optional! If you envision yourself walking down the aisle barefoot in the sand, then go for it. However, if you prefer to wear shoes, consider flat sandals, sturdy wedges, or block heels.

The 26 Best Beach Wedding Dresses of 2023

Brides-to-be who are planning seaside nuptials have so many options when it comes to finding their perfect wedding dress. The right gown can be anything from casual and laid back to elegant and voluminous—it really depends on the overall style of the wedding. While boho chic is typically the go-to style for beach ceremonies, you shouldn't feel required to stick with that look.

For a no-frills ceremony, you might want to pick a non-traditional beach wedding dress that feels simple and relaxed, like something short that won't be dragged through the sand or something more modern like a sleek jumpsuit. If you're going for a ceremony that is more formal, a ballgown or stylish A-line gown can look unexpected in just the right way. For a more feminine look, opt for gowns with embellishments like florals or beads.

Read on for the best beach wedding dresses perfect for any bridal style.

Our Top Picks

Best Mermaid:

Lulus Lace-Up Maxi Dress at Lulus

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Best Back Detail:

Lulus Lace-Up Maxi Dress at Lulus

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Best Budget:

Lulus Maxi Dress at Lulus

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Best Sheer Look:

Heartloom Lace Gown at Revolve

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Best Open-Back:

Galina Signature Tulle Wedding Dress at David's Bridal

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Best Midi:

Show Me Your Mumu Midi Dress at Amazon

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Best Short Sleeves:

ASOS EDITION Embellished Wedding Dress at Asos

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Best Long Sleeves:

Willowby by Watters Wedding Dress at Bhldn

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Best Jumpsuit:

ML Monique Lhuillier Doutzen V-Neck Jumpsuit at Bhldn

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Best Lace:

Rish Lace Gown at Bhldn

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Lulus

View On Lulus

Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Maxi

This flowing, bohemian wedding gown fits in nicely with a beach setting. The flared hem creates a flattering mermaid shape while a lace-up back makes for an eye-catching and sexy look.

Price at time of publish: $229

Lulus

View On Lulus

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Material: Polyester

From the front, this crepe maxi dress looks fairly simple with a slit up the leg and a pleated bodice. The back features an unexpected lace-up detail that makes this come off as more trendy and modern.

Price at time of publish: $99

Lulus

View On Lulus

Size Range: XXS-3X | Length: Floor-length | Material: Georgette fabric

There's no rule that you have to spend a lot on your wedding dress. This maxi dress comes in at under $100 and has a beautiful flowy look that will look right at home against the sand.

Price at time of publish: $89

Revolve

View On Revolve

Size Range: XS-L | Length: Floor-length | Material: Lace

All-over lace and a nude slip underneath gives the appearance of a sheer look that is sexy without being over-the-top. The detailing and soft flare of the skirt are what makes this dress so special.

Price at time of publish: $319

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Polyester

The crystal-encrusted bodice of this dress will catch the light reflecting off the ocean in a beautiful way. We love the open-back and flowing and delicate tulle skirt.

Price at time of publish: $1,699

Show Me Your Mumu

View On Amazon View On Showmeyourmumu.com

Size Range: XXS-XXL | Length: Ankle-length | Material: Luxe Satin

A midi dress is a less formal choice for a beach wedding because you don't have to worry about dragging the skirt through the sand. This one with a square neckline, a front slit, and a fitted bodice is effortlessly chic and comfortable.

Price at time of publish: $98

ASOS

View On Asos

Size Range: US 0-26 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Mesh and chiffon

An embellished bodice and sleeves that hit at your elbows offer a little more coverage without looking like too much fabric for a beach wedding. We love the simple skirt paired with the vine-like accents.

Price at time of publish: $270

BHLDN

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Size Range: Standard 0-15, Plus 16W-26W | Length: Floor-length | Material: Strech mesh

If the weather may be on the cooler side, long sleeves are a good option for an outdoor wedding. Mesh offers a breathable and airy feel, and the corseted top is a nice balance that makes this one so romantic.

Price at time of publish: $1,298

ML Monique Lhuillier Doutzen V-Neck Jumpsuit

Courtesy of BHLDN

View On Bhldn

Size Range: 0-18 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Polyester charmeuse

Not interested in the traditional bridal gown? This silky charmeuse jumpsuit is both modern and sophisticated, with interesting side slits and simple slim straps.

Price at time of publish: $320

BHLDN

View On Bhldn

Size Range: Standard 0-16, Plus 16W-26W | Length: Floor-length | Material: Knit graphic lace

Lace feels just right for a beach wedding, and this fit-and-flare gown offers a lovely silhouette that doesn't feel too fussy. There is some beadwork for a little added embellishment, and we love the flutter sleeves.

Price at time of publish: $1,495

BHLDN

View On Bhldn

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Polyester, nylon, rayon

Floral lace, a Swarovski crystal belt, a plunging illusion neckline, and an exposed back make this dreamy gown feel like the epitome of romance and femininity. We love the sheer long sleeves.

Price at time of publish: $1,865

strapless gown featuring large-scale cutwork and removable puff sleeves

Courtesy of BHLDN

View On Bhldn

Size Range: Standard 0-16, Plus 16W-26W | Length: Floor-length | Material: Cotton silk taffeta

Off-the-shoulder puff sleeves, a full and voluminous skirt, and cotton silk taffeta come together to create a dramatic and unique gown that will certainly stand out. We love the cut-out details along the hem that give this dress a more boho feel.

Price at time of publish: $2,495

BHLDN

View On Bhldn

Size Range: Standard 0-15, Plus 16W-26W | Length: Floor-length | Material: Swiss dot tulle

Floral appliques are dusted across the bodice and down the light tulle skirt of this romantic and feminine gown. The skirt will look so lovely in contrast to the sand.

Price at time of publish: $1,595

LoveShackFancy

View On Loveshackfancy.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Size Range: 00-10 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Catalina lace

It doesn't get much more classic than a universally flattering A-line silhouette. This one features sweet puff sleeves and is crafted from sheer lace that is sure to catch the sunlight beautifully.

Price at time of publish: $795

LoveShackFancy

View On Loveshackfancy.com

Size Range: 00-14 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Lace

Tiers of lace, a flowing skirt, and an English bustle at the backside give this gown a decidedly cottage core-meets-beach aesthetic. Wear your hair down and accessorize with delicate personal jewelry for a completely effortless look.

Price at time of publish: $1,695

Net-a-Porter

View On Net-a-Porter

Size Range: IT 36-50 | Length: Floor-length | Material: White stretch-knit

Made with corded lace and featuring a relaxed fit, this maxi dress feels comfortable and breathable on a hot summer's day. A subtle lace trim neckline and fun scalloped hem make this dress feel perfect for a more casual ceremony.

Price at time of publish: $3,445

Net-a-Porter

View On Net-a-Porter

Size Range: FR 34-44 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Cotton-blend lace

There is nothing casual about this romantic lace gown, with a high front slit with a scalloped edge and a small but beautiful train. Still, the lace design and the elbow-length sleeves make this just right for a daytime ceremony.

Price at time of publish: $7,250

Phase Eight

View On Phase-eight.com

Size Range: US 2-14 | Length: Maxi | Material: Polyester

Intricate beading in floral shapes makes this gown ideal for spring and summer weddings. The fluttering tulle skirt feels elegant and ballet-chic and creates a dress that is easy to walk (and dance) in.

Price at time of publish: $810

empire maxi dress made with subtly textured chiffon

Courtesy of Sachin & Babi

View On Sachinandbabi.com

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Polyester

This dress is simple and romantic, and it's in an off-white shade that will look subtly different. The floral straps and front slit make it anything but boring, but it's still ideal for that clean, minimalist look.

Price at time of publish: $1,095

Reformation

View On Reformation

Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Ankle-length | Material: Viscose

Both casual and romantic, this off-the-shoulder dress feels simple in the best way. A fitted bodice and flared hem give this one a really nice fit for any body type.

Price at time of publish: $298

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Jersey

Between the thin spaghetti straps and jersey material, this maxi dress feels like it was made for an outdoor summer wedding. The lace along the slit is a pretty detail that really stands out.

Price at time of publish: $150

Courtesy of Reformation

View On Reformation

Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Embroidered tulle and pearls

It's hard to imagine a better wedding setting for a crop top and skirt than a beach. This summery and casual outfit will feel just right for seaside nuptials, and can easily be dressed up or down.

Price at time of publish: $298

Theia Couture

View On Theiacouture.com

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Material: Crepe

A draped halter neck makes for a unique neckline. It doesn't feel too stuffy thanks to the keyhole detail and the sleek, elegant skirt.

View On Reformation

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Material: Georgette fabric

When you're going for a more simple look, you really can't go wrong with a classic wrap dress. This one has a minimalist tone that is beautifully made and will feel incredibly comfortable all day and night long.

Price at time of publish: $298

Markarian

View On Markarian-nyc.com

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Mini | Material: 0-16

Throwing an afterparty complete with a beach bonfire? This mini dress will complete the night. The bow details on the shoulders and the long train in the back are so unexpected in the best way.

Price at time of publish: $4,195

Jenny Yoo

View On Jennyyoo.com

Size Range: 0-18 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Dahlia sequin lace and luxe chiffon

This soft and feminine gown features a flowing chiffon skirt that will look so nice against the water, as well as a tulle illusion bodice and satin trim. The bodice is studded with clear sequins for the perfect amount of sparkle.

Price at time of publish: $1,460

What to Look For in a Beach Wedding Dress

Since beach weddings typically happen in the summer or late spring, you may want to choose fabrics that are more comfortable and breathable for warmer weather. This can include cotton, linen, lightweight silk, chiffon, or lace.

While fabrics like satin and crepe certainly aren't off the table completely, they might feel a little more restricting. You should also consider the hemline of your dress. If you are getting married in the sand, an ankle-length or shorter gown would work best.

FAQ

What kind of dress should I wear to a beach wedding?

Casual beach brides may opt for shorter frocks, midi-length dresses, or high-low hemlines. If you want to wear something more formal, turn to flowing A-line silhouettes.
Do I need to wear shoes as a beach bride?

For beach brides, shoes are optional! If you envision yourself walking down the aisle barefoot in the sand, then go for it. However, if you prefer to wear shoes, consider flat sandals, sturdy wedges, or block heels.

Why Trust Brides

Jessica Booth is a journalist with over 10 years of experience and a freelance writer whose work has appeared on sites such as Bustle, Insider, and Refinery29.

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