21 Best Bridal Outerwear Pieces of 2021

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bride with leather jacket — PHOTO BY LARISSA CLEVELAND

Bridal fashion trends come and go, and some are exceptionally fleeting depending on the season. As the times change, brides are constantly seeking ways to incorporate new and of-the-moment looks into their wedding day fashions, and as such, brands are regularly reinventing the wheel of what is stylish and contemporary. However, there are several recurring bridal fashion trends we think are here to stay, one being outerwear.

From capes to leather jackets to fur coats, brides have been incorporating these outer garments into their wedding day looks for years. Some opt for custom moto jackets, while others subtly incorporate lace capes for a two-in-one bridal look. Whatever your style might be, outerwear can easily elevate and transform any wedding dress.

If you're a bride looking to wear different looks throughout your day, go for detachable capes and coats that can easily be removed once you say "I do". And if you're looking to incorporate something edgy, throw on a leather or denim jacket for the reception or afterparty—one that you and your partner can match in too! Of course, if you plan to get married in cooler temperatures, a fur shawl or feathered overcoat is a practical choice for fall and winter nuptials.

Ahead, we've curated an edit of the best bridal outerwear pieces for every style, budget, and season.

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For the Modern Bride: Danielle Frankel Allegra Organza and Tulle Trench oat

Danielle Frankel never disappoints, and absolutely showed out with this stunning sheer trench coat. Made with ivory organza and delicate tulle, this is the perfect piece for a modern bride.

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For Every Bridal Event: Fifth & Welshire Charli Puff Sleeve Duster

This duster from Fifth & Welshire is perfect for an engagement party, rehearsal dinner, or after-party. Even better, it can be worn after you've said "I do."

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For a Fall Elopement: Andrew GN Feather-Trimmed Wool-Blend Tweed Coat

Made in Italy with wool-blend, featuring feather-trimmed cuffs, this coat from Andrew GN is chic enough to serve as both outwear and a dress itself. For brides looking to elope, this is the coat for you!

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Most Simplistic: Galvan Satin Trench Coat

If you're a bride who subscribes to a more pared-back aesthetic, look no further than this satin trench coat from Galvin. A perfect piece for your bridal shower or rehearsal dinner.

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For the Glamorous Bride: Tomo Koizumi x Emilio Pucci Ruffled Tulle Cape

We are absolutely in love with this cape from Tomo Koizumi x Emilio Pucci's collaboration. The white tulle and exaggerated puffed shape are tailormade for a bride who loves a little extra drama.

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Most Ethereal: Erdem Angelo Lace Cape

Equal parts ethereal and whimsical, this lace cape would look stunning on any type of bride. It's a perfect transitional piece to take you from the ceremony to the reception.

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Most Vintage-Inspired: Christopher Kane Pearl-Button Satin Evening Coat

If you're looking for a vintage-inspired piece of outerwear, look no further! This evening coat is versatile enough to be worn to all your wedding celebrations, or styled as your wedding dress for when you say "I do."

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Best Floral Motifs: Noir Kei Ninomiya Sequin Embroidered Organdy Cape & Veil

Sequinned embroidered organdy veil — Courtesy of Matchesfashion

Walk down the aisle in style, with this sequin and floral embroidered cape from Noir Kei Ninomiya. It features a buckled collar for brides who'd like to add a unique, but subtle, touch to their wedding day fashion.

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For the Boho Bride: Carine Gilson Lace-Trimmed Silk Georgette Cape

Crafted from ultra-light and semi-sheer georgette, we can see this floor-length cape at a garden or beach wedding.

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For a Winter Wedding: Chloé Leather-Trimmed Shearling Coat

You'll look absolutely chic in this shearling coat from Chloé. The best part? You won't have to sacrifice comfort for style.

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For a Beach Wedding: A.B. Ellie Martine Cape

Let the ocean wind blow as you glide down the aisle in this airy cape from A.B. Ellie. Wear your hair with beachy waves and keep accessories minimal to compliment this look.

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Best Moto Jacket: TheBrodieBride Custom Bridal Leather Jacket

One of our favorite bridal outerwear trends is the moto jacket. Customize your jacket, and buy a matching pair for you and your partner to wear at your reception and after-party.

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Most Chic: Zimmermann Botanica Split Stitch Coat Milk

Zimmermann's Botanica coat is a great choice for brides who need a staple piece of outerwear for every event. Even better, it can be worn over and over again after you've said "I do."

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Best Design: Oui Madam Amelia Bridal Coat

Wear this coat on top of a slip dress or an A-line wedding gown. It can also serve as lingerie for the night of your wedding.

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Best Transitional Piece: Karen Willis Holmes Opera Train

This statement off-the-shoulder puff sleeve cape is ideal for those who prefer to have a removable train. A perfect transitional piece for brides of all styles.

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Best Denim Jacket: Untamed Petals Mrs Denim Jacket

We can't get over how chic this oversized denim jacket is by Untamed Petals. End your day as a "Mrs" by sporting this trendy look.

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Most Regal: David's Bridal Faux-Fur Mock Neck Capelet

faux fur stole — Courtesy of David's Bridal

You'll be sure to feel like a royal in this faux-fur capelet. A perfect accessory for winter and fall nuptials.

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Most Sequinned: Chosen by Kyha Huntley Jacket

All heads will turn as you walk down the aisle in this cropped number from Khya Studios. Featuring intricate beading, statement shoulders, and a chiffon necktie, you're wedding guests will be stunned by how amazing you look.

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For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Materiel Double-Breasted Cloqué Coat

Show off your style in this classic double-breasted coat, featuring an exaggerated lapel. A sophisticated choice for those looking for extra coverage.

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Best Print: Etro Paisley Print Coat

This paisley print coat from Etro is lovely for those who prefer prints over monochromatic white. We're sure it'll become a staple item in your wardrobe long after your wedding day, too.

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For the Edgy Bride: By The Namesake Joanne Fringe Leather Jacket

Fun fact: This leather jacket was designed as a commission piece for Lady Gaga! Tap into your edgy side with this fringe, leather jacket from By The Namesake.

Shopping FAQs

Looking for the best bridal outerwear piece? We've answered three common questions brides-to-be have when shopping for this fashion trend.

Can I wear outwear to my wedding? Absolutely! Bridal outerwear serves as an additional accessory to any bridal look. Remember, you don't have to stick to the basics!
Which type of bridal outerwear should I wear? It all depends on your style and the season of your wedding. For spring and summer weddings, sheer and lace capes are light enough to wear all day. If you plan to get married in cooler temperatures, a fur shawl or feathered overcoat is a practical choice for fall and winter nuptials.
What type of wedding dress works best with outerwear? Outerwear can be incorporated with any and all styles of wedding dresses.

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