Are beaded wedding dresses more expensive?

Beaded wedding dresses may sometimes come with a higher price tag—especially if the beading is done by hand. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly beaded wedding dresses out there that look just as luxurious as other expensive brands.

Are beaded wedding dresses appropriate for black-tie weddings?

Definitely! Embellished dresses are perfect for all dress codes and every season.

How should I style a beaded wedding dress?

Since beaded wedding dresses can be quite sparkly, a bride may want to keep accessories simple and let the dress do all the talking. However, if you prefer a more glamorous look, add shimmering statement earrings or a pair of embellished heels to your ensemble.

12 Best Beaded Wedding Dresses of 2022

When shopping for wedding dresses, it seems styles are separated into two categories: beaded and not beaded. How do you pick? Well, before you jump into making any decisions, it's important to get the facts on this popular wedding dress detail. There is no denying beaded dresses are incredibly glamorous. Some of the most iconic wedding looks have been beaded dresses. Who can forget the chic crochet and beaded mother-of-pearl dress that Zoë Kravitz wore to her rehearsal dinner? Princess Beatrice of York's diamond- and bead-encrusted vintage gown.

Even though celebrities and royalty have worn this style, it's a common misconception that beaded wedding dresses are super formal and very expensive. Although the bridal market is flooded with its fair share of extravagant big-ticket designs, there are plenty of more casual and affordable beaded options to choose from. It all comes down to what you want in your dress. Whether you're positive you want to walk down the aisle in an embellished style, or you're still on the fence, we're here to help with this edit of beaded wedding gowns.

How to Choose Your Dream Wedding Dress: 70 Things to Know

Ahead, 24 beaded wedding dresses for all styles, dress codes, seasons, and budgets.

Our Top Picks

Best Long-Sleeve Design:

Dana Harel Sasha Dress at Danahareldesign.com

Jump to Review

Best Back Detail:

Azazie Cersei BG at Azazie.com

Jump to Review

For a Cathedral Wedding:

Maggie Sottero Tiffany Gown at Maggiesottero.com

Jump to Review

Best Two-Piece:

Anna Campbell Cap Sleeve Illusion Neckline Two-Piece Sheath Wedding Dress at Kleinfeldbridal.com

Jump to Review

Best Off-the-Shoulder Option:

Lulus Promised Love White Beaded Lace Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress at Lulus

Jump to Review

Best Mermaid Style:

Tony Ward Spaghetti Strap Illusion Neckline Mermaid Wedding Dress at Kleinfeldbridal.com

Jump to Review

Most Romantic:

Markarian Evora Pearl Beaded Lace Gown with Large Detachable Bow at Markarian-nyc.com

Jump to Review

For the Statement-Making Bride:

Georges Hobeika Bridal Spring-Summer 2022 at Georgeshobeika.com

Jump to Review

For the Playful Bride:

Badgley Mischka Beaded Crepe Tie-Strap Gown at Saks Fifth Avenue

Jump to Review

For the Fashion-Forward Bride:

Milla Nova Irina Gown at Millanova.com

Jump to Review

Courtesy of Dana Harel

View On Danahareldesign.com

Size Range: Inquire on website | Length: Floor-length| Shipping: Contact brand | Return policy: Contact brand

If you're going to opt for long sleeves, it truly doesn't get more fabulous than these crystal-encrusted semi-transparent ones. Paired with a low-back and train, this beaded gown is sure to wow your guests.

Courtesy of Azazie

View On Azazie.com

Size Range: 0-30 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

As you walk the aisle, the back of your dress should make just as much of a statement as the front. This flowy chiffon A-line gown features a hand-beaded pearl button back and chapel-length train, making for a stunner even when you walk away.

Price at time of publish: $419

Courtesy of Maggie Sottero

View On Maggiesottero.com

Size Range: 0-30 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

This dress was created for cathedral dream nuptials. The royal A-line silhouette paired with shimmering beaded lace motifs fits in with formal settings.

Courtesy of Kleinfeld Bridal

View On Kleinfeldbridal.com

Size Range: XXS-XXL| Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Book an appointment

It's not often you come across bridal two-pieces, but this skirt and top duo is perfect for the modern bride. The sleek figure-hugging skirt with a train feels classic, while the hand-embellished sequin and pearl top, featuring a fluttering open back, adds an unexpected sparkle.

Price at time of publish: $1,750

Courtesy of Lulus

View On Lulus

Size Range: 2-10 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Free shipping over $50 | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

We love an affordable fashion find, and wedding dresses are no exception to the rule. This under $300 beaded lace off-the-shoulder gown is proof that you can boast expensive taste without the price tag.

Price at time of publish: $298

Courtesy of Kleinfeld

View On Kleinfeldbridal.com

Size Range: 2-14 with an additional charge for size 16-24 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Book an appointment

Our favorite part of this dress? It's a tie between the mermaid silhouette, the beaded fabric, and the train that drapes from the waist.

Price at time of publish: $4,500

Courtesy of Markarian

View On Markarian-nyc.com

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: $25 FedEx ground shipping | Return policy: Final sale

Romance is a given on your big day, but this dress will make you feel like you just stepped out of a fairy tale. Tiny white beads make up the delicate lace on the gown, and the back features an oversize bow that will wow as you walk down the aisle. Plus, it's detachable for a quick mid-wedding outfit change.

Price at time of publish: $8,150

Courtesy of Georges Hobeika

View On Georgeshobeika.com

Size Range: Contact brand | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Contact brand | Return policy: Contact brand

There is nothing more striking than a dramatic train. This dress has just that, along with intricate beadwork and a sweetheart neckline that is the epitome of glamorous elegance.

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Full-length with raised front | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

We love this beaded crepe dress for the whimsical bride looking to have a bit of fun with their look. The raised hemline allows the opportunity to show off some fun wedding day heels and the asymmetric gathered waist is an interesting and unexpected detail.

Courtesy of Milla Nova

View On Millanova.com

Size Range: Contact brand | Length: Full-length | Shipping: Contact brand

A bit of an '80s-inspired silhouette, this turtleneck and structured-shoulder style is perfect for the fashion-forward bride. It even comes with a detachable overskirt for a wardrobe change only a fashionista can pull off.

Courtesy of Milla Nova.

View On Millanova.com

Size Range: Contact brand | Length: Full-length | Shipping: Contact brand

If the word ethereal comes to mind when thinking of your dream wedding dress, consider this the design you need IRL. The full beaded tulle skirt with a delicate train is only rivaled by the sheer corset bodice and see-through off-the-shoulder sleeve.

Courtesy of The Outnet

View On Theoutnet.com

Size Range: UK6-14 | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days

Get ready to hit the dance floor in this fun and flirty feather beaded dress. The short length is perfect for a post-ceremony outfit change or even a bachelorette party.

Price at time of publish: $3,350

What to Look for When Shopping for a Beaded Wedding Dress

During your search for the perfect beaded gown, keep in mind the style first and foremost. Yes, it's easy to get carried away in the glitz and glamour of beaded dresses, but you still want the dress to be something you will be comfortable in all night long. Also, make sure that you are buying from a trusted vendor. The last thing you want on your big day is poorly secured beads falling on the ground behind you all night long. This doesn't mean you need to buy a more expensive dress. Just ensure that the dress is well-made, and there isn't any snagging or pulling before purchasing.

Also, consider that beaded dresses tend to be on the heavier side. If your wedding is outdoors in the summer heat, consider the fact you might get a little warm wearing a head-to-toe beaded dress. In this case, opt for a gown with only a few beaded accents instead of many.

FAQ

Are beaded wedding dresses more expensive?

Beaded wedding dresses may sometimes come with a higher price tag—especially if the beading is done by hand. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly beaded wedding dresses out there that look just as luxurious as other expensive brands.
Are beaded wedding dresses appropriate for black-tie weddings?

Definitely! Embellished dresses are perfect for all dress codes and every season.
How should I style a beaded wedding dress?

Since beaded wedding dresses can be quite sparkly, a bride may want to keep accessories simple and let the dress do all the talking. However, if you prefer a more glamorous look, add shimmering statement earrings or a pair of embellished heels to your ensemble.

13 Best Wedding Dresses With Pearl Detail

Why Trust Us

Stephanie Montes is a beauty and fashion writer for national outlets. Early in her media career, Stephanie served as an editorial assistant for Women's Wear Daily and as a styling assistant for Allure. Most notably, she was the beauty director for the Zoe Report from 2014 to 2017. She has written for a multitude of publications, including Elite Daily, HelloGiggles, MyDomaine, Elle, Byrdie, Well + Good, and more.