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Photo by Sylvie Rosokoff
While some couples choose to escape to the wide open spaces of the countryside for their nuptials, others are just as happy saying “I do” in a crowded concrete jungle. Those in the latter category are happy to have their wedding amongst all the hustle and bustle and honking cars, with skyscrapers as their backdrop.
"I think there is an extra element of fun in city weddings," says destination wedding planner Billy Folchetti. "The backdrop is swoon-worthy, but also it allows them to look outside of the 'normal' venue for their special day—Paris, New York, Rome, and London (to name a few) all have some insane landmark restaurants that you can either buy out or reserve an area for your big celebrations while still dining, drinking, and enjoying amongst the locals. "
Once you choose the vibe and location of your venue, it's time to shop for your dream dress! Folchetti recommends searching for a gown inspired by the type of wedding you are having. Having a traditional cathedral wedding? Folchetti suggests a long and lacy number, as it will "provide great juxtaposition between the softness of your look against the hard city surfaces and architecture." For modern and fashion-forward brides hosting a party-ready city wedding, he loves a short shift dress with some amazing texture.
No matter your venue location, there's a beautiful gown to suit your style. To help narrow down your choices, we've researched the best options available. We made our final selection based on design, cost, materials, size range, and overall quality.
Read on for the best wedding dresses for a chic city wedding.
For a City Hall Ceremony
Katie May Boss Lady Dress
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Courtesy of Revolve
Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days
Perfect for a courthouse wedding, this modern white blazer dress gets straight down to business. The deep V-neckline adds a sexy and sophisticated touch, while the cape detail and padded shoulders provide a dose of drama. Pair this with a slicked-back ponytail and chunky earrings to complete the look.
Price at time of publish: $285
Best Silk Dress
Danielle Frankel Carrie Charmeuse Gown
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Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
Size Range: 0-12 | Length: High-low | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $200 | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
Is there anything sexier than a simple silk dress? This stunning high-low number is made from a blend of wool and silk-blend charmeuse, which allows it to drape beautifully over your curves. The asymmetric hem is finished with a sheer strip of lace, adding to the feminine feel.
Price at time of publish: $2,990
Best Two Piece Set
Daughters of Simone x BHLDN Ledger Set
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Courtesy of Anthropologie
Size Range: XS-XXL | Length: Mini | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
Most bridal suits are sleek and sophisticated, but this one is decidedly more sweet than chic. Bohemian brides will love the lace fabric and scallop detail on the skirt, which gives a soft and romantic quality to this otherwise structured two-piece set. Style it with a bralette underneath for some added sexy flair.
Price at time of publish: $525
For a Fairytale City Wedding
Katie May Elle Mini Dress
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REVOLVE
Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days
Ballgowns aren't the most practical dress for a city wedding, which is why we'd suggest this tulle mini instead. It has the whimsical feeling of a ballgown but it can hold its own on the dirty city streets. We can picture it with a pair of strappy heels and dazzling diamond accessories.
Price at time of publish: $525
Best Off-the-Shoulder
Lulus Song of Love White Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress
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Lulus
Size Range: XXS-XL | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free standard shipping on orders over $50 | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
For a formal gown at an affordable price, opt for this sleek yet elegant floor-length frock from Lulus. Featuring a high slit, an overlapping off-the-shoulder neckline, a princess-seamed bodice, and a subtle mermaid silhouette, this dress is a no-fail option. It would be especially perfect for a chic rooftop ceremony overlooking the city skyline.
Price at time of publish: $119
Best Ruffle
Fanm Mon Giamba Dress
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Shopbop
Size Range: XXS-XL | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
Comfortable linen fabric and dramatic tulle ruffle sleeves come together to create this dreamy wedding dress that is both effortless and easy to wear. Style this look with a pair of statement earrings and embellished heels to dress it up.
Price at time of publish: $320
Best Pant Set
BHLDN Mira Embellished Wide-Leg Pant Bridal Set
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Anthropologie
Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Full length | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days
Who says you have to wear a dress on your wedding day? A chic city wedding is the perfect opportunity to play with modern and trendy style, such as this set of pretty separates from BHLDN. We love the wide leg pants for dancing the night away, and the all-over beaded embellishments add a more bridal touch.
Price at time of publish: $750
Best Asymmetrical
Rosie Assoulin Whoopsy Daisy Asymmetric Ruffled Silk-Charmeuse Gown
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Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Full length | Shipping: $10 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days
Bring the drama to your city wedding in this stunningly modern, asymmetric ruffled silk-charmeuse gown by Rosie Assoulin. The high scoop neck is classic and almost tomboyish in style—and is offset by the voluminous ruffles and an asymmetric ankle-grazing hem. Pair it with metallic accessories and a fun clutch.
Price at time of publish: $3,497
For a Summer Wedding
Reformation Liliwen Dress
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Reformation
Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
We love this standout dress for a spring or summer outdoor wedding in the city. The body-hugging mini is perfect for trendy brides who want to show a little leg. Our favorite part, though, is the removable train that ties at the waist. Wear it for the ceremony, then take it off when you're ready to hit the dance floor at your reception.
Price at time of publish: $428
Best Contemporary Dress
Galvan Isola Bella Knitted Maxi Dress
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Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
Size Range: F34-F44 | Length: Maxi | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $200 | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
Say "I do" in this peekaboo maxi gown featuring a center cutout with a beige mesh overlay. The barely-there straps and double high slit detail add alluring charm without taking away from the sleek and contemporary design of the dress.
Price at time of publish: $1,197
For a Spring Wedding
LEIN x BHLDN Tulip Gown
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BHLDN
Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Maxi | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
If you're looking for an elegant wedding dress for your spring ceremony in the city, you can't go wrong with this classic floor-length column gown. The luxe heavyweight crepe fabric is draped in a delicate tulip shape, with a fitted bust and delicate front pleats. A matching removable belt is the perfect finishing touch.
Price at time of publish: $550
Best Blazer Dress
NONchalant Label Dina Blazer Dress
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Courtesy of Revolve
Size Range: XS-L | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days
We have absolutely zero objections to this chic blazer dress by NONchalant Label. The classic cut features a plunging deep-V to elongate the neck and a super short skirt that will give anyone supermodel-long legs. Pair this seriously sophisticated dress with fun shoes to complete the outfit.
Price at time of publish: $387
Best Sequin Dress
Lulus Endless Enchantment White Sequin Mermaid Maxi Dress
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Lulus
Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Maxi | Shipping: Free standard shipping on orders over $50 | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
With a flattering fit and deep-V neckline to elongate and balance your silhouette, this sparkling sequin dress will turn heads as you strut down the aisle. The intricate rows of white sequins are sure to glimmer under the city lights. Pair this with a red lip and slicked-back hair for a bold and modern look.
Price at time of publish: $110
Best Affordable Dress
Lulus From this Day White Floral Jacquard
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Courtesy of Lulus
Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free standard shipping on orders over $50 | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
Timeless and chic, this floral jacquard midi dress is straight out of a storybook romance novel. It boasts a strapless sweetheart neckline and a bustier-style seamed bodice, with underwire support, to accentuate your natural silhouette. The high-fitted waist sits atop a pleated midi skirt, adding to the romantic and feminine appeal. The best part? It has pockets! At under $100, this dress is an absolute steal.
Price at time of publish: $89
Most Fun
Huishan Zhang Reign Feather-Trimmed Crepe Mini Dress
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Net-a-Porter
Size Range: UK6-UK18 | Length: Mini | Shipping: $10 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days
Take your bridal style to new heights in this feather-trimmed crepe mini dress. The bateau neckline gives this wedding dress a sophisticated and vintage-inspired feel, while the feathers on the sleeves add a fun and flirty flair. If you're getting married at a historic wedding venue in the city, this gown is the perfect complement. Add a birdcage or blusher veil to really lean into the vintage vibe.
Price at time of publish: $2,845
Best Mini
Selkie The Puff Dress
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REVOLVE
Size Range: XXS-6X | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days
This leg-baring mini dress is equal parts fun and feminine. The oversized puff sleeves and semi-sheer organza fabric is completely romantic and totally bridal—ideal for a rooftop wedding in the city. We can picture this with a messy low bun and fun, colorful accessories.
Price at time of publish: $249
Most Versatile
Watters Marlina Dress
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Courtesy of BHLDN
Size Range: 0-18 | Length: Mini | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
If you want the drama of a long train with the practicality of a short dress, opt for this versatile gown from BHLDN. This off-the-shoulder style features a mini tulip hemline, and a removable skirt, giving you two looks in one. Wear the removable skirt for the ceremony and photos before taking it off for the reception.
Price at time of publish: $1,500
Best Jumpsuit
Lovers and Friends Heather Jumpsuit
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Revolve
Size Range: XS-XXL | Length: Full-length | Shipping: Free two-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
Make the city streets your runway in this contemporary wedding jumpsuit. This stunning yet simple suit is the perfect base for the accessories of your choosing: go minimalist with pearl earrings and a dainty necklace, or go for a more bold and glamorous look with chunky block heels and statement jewelry.
Price at time of publish: $248
Best Sleeves
Watters Meringue Radiant Taffeta V-Neck Balloon-Sleeve Mini Dress
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Anthropologie
Size Range: 0-15 | Length: Mini | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
All we have to say is wow. This striking mini would look perfectly on-point among a backdrop of sky-high city buildings. We're obsessed with the extravagant puff sleeves, as well as the structured mini skirt, flattering waistband, and plunging neckline. This piece is the perfect balance of sexy and sweet.
Price at time of publish: $425
For the Dancing Queen
Lulus Making Magic White Fringe Lace-Up Mini Dress
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Lulus
Size Range: XXS-XL | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free standard shipping on orders over $50 | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
The name of this dress says it all—you'll feel the magic as you twirl in this party-ready dress that's dripping in glitter. The fringe sequins and open-back make this a standout pick for the bride who wants to spend all night celebrating on the dance floor.
Price at time of publish: $70
What to Look for in a City Wedding Dress
Style and Details
Cities are rich with history, bustling with activity, and look best when they're lit up at night. So, consider these factors when deciding on your wedding ensemble. The best city wedding dresses are made up of one or more of the following: vintage-inspired details, flowy fabrics, and dazzling embellishments. However, the only style we would hesitate to recommend is a ballgown, since it drags on the floor and would carry all the dirt and debris from the city streets. That being said, the over-the-top look of a ballgown would certainly vibe in cities like New York or Paris, and ultimately, it's up to you to decide which style best suits your own nuptials.
Length
Since city weddings are a bit more modern and fun, there is more freedom to play with various styles and lengths. If you're getting married at city hall, chic mini dresses can be an excellent choice, such as the Katie May Boss Lady Dress. For European cities or church weddings, long, floor-sweeping gowns with cathedral-length veils are an appropriate fit, while formal affairs set with a skyline backdrop call for sleek maxi options, like the Lulus Song of Love White Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress.
Meet the Expert
Billy Folchetti is a destination wedding planner and the founder of Luxe x Billy Folchetti, which specializes in event planning, travel experiences, and floral design.
Why Trust Brides
Chloe Caldwell is a Commerce Writer for Brides who specializes in shopping and lifestyle topics. She has more than six years of journalism experience writing about all things fashion, beauty, travel, weddings, and wellness.
Contributing writer Cristina Montemayor has been writing for Brides for over two years, covering beauty, fashion, and relationships. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, wedding parties, and more.
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