Is there a dress code for civil ceremonies?

There is no dress code to follow, so you really can wear whatever you want. Many brides opt for a casual, traditional white ensemble, but you can feel free to do whatever you please.

What color should a bride wear to a civil ceremony?

You can wear any color you choose. White or ivory are obviously two classics, but if you want to get more creative with your look, go for a bold color or a cool pattern. You could also stick with neutrals like cream, blush, or even a light gray.

How can you make your civil ceremony dress fun?

Wear something that expresses your personal style and makes you feel good inside and out. You can add personal accessories, like a "something old" piece, or play around with jewelry and shoes. Additionally, consider bold dresses with feather details and/or elaborate bows, or skip white and opt for a loud pattern. There are so many ways to make your outfit more fun and exciting.

28 Best Civil Ceremony Wedding Dresses of 2023

bride wearing a mini dress — Photo by Inma Fiuza

As fun as a big, glamorous wedding is, a marriage is really about the love between two people—and you don't need an expensive venue and large crowd to make things official. A civil ceremony, often done at a courthouse, city hall, or a local county clerk's office, can be as romantic (or as casual) as you want it to be. And since this is obviously a more laid-back option, you have a lot more room to play around with your look. Selecting a wedding dress for a civil ceremony can allow you to get creative and really have fun with your outfit.

There are really no fashion rules or etiquette tips to follow when opting for a civil ceremony. Some brides choose to go more casual and low-maintenance and wear a mini dress or a matching set. While others don't want to skimp on the glamour and go all out in a gown or a nice maxi dress. There are even some who skip the dress altogether and opt for a jumpsuit or a chic blazer and pants set.

How to Plan a Civil Wedding Ceremony

You can wear traditional white or ivory, or you can go completely out-of-the-box and wear a pattern or a bright color. Florals can be fun and a jewel-toned dress can be beautiful. It's all about your personal style here, and it's nice to be able to select the look you love without having to worry about expectations.

The world is your oyster when it comes to civil ceremony bridalwear, and to help start your search, here are some of our favorite options.

Courtesy of Khaite

View On Net-a-Porter

Sizes: XS-XL | Material: Dense cotton | Length: Mini

This refined mini dress, made with compact Italian cotton that feels and looks luxe, is a great casual option. The scoop neck silhouette features bust darts and a nice Basque waistline, and a back tie can be made into an elaborate and adorable bow detail.

Price at time of publish: $1,180

Courtesy of Net-A-Porter

View On Net-a-Porter

Sizes: 6-22 UK | Material: Sequined chiffon | Length: Knee-length

This dress is whimsical and fun with a classic feel to it. The sequined chiffon material makes it glitter with a lightweight feel, and the cape-effect look makes it perfect for cooler weather. This is a great way to do something glamorous without feeling over the top.

Price at time of publish: $3,765

Courtesy of Lulus

View On Lulus

Sizes: XS-XL | Material: Cotton, nylon | Length: Mini

This is a great casual, laid-back option that is also super versatile and can work for almost any season. Sheer cap sleeves and a rounded top make this ideal for a bride who doesn't want anything too revealing.

Price at time of publish: $69

Courtesy of Reformation

View On Reformation

Sizes: 0-12 | Material: Linen | Length: Midi

Made of lightweight linen, this halter dress is a great option for a summer civil ceremony. It's casual on its own, but could easily be dressed up, especially with the front slit. And if you don't want white, it comes in three other color options.

Price at time of publish: $248

Courtesy of Show Me Your Mumu

View On Showmeyourmumu.com

Sizes: XXS-XXL | Material: Organza | Length: High-low

Light and frothy, this organza confection would show up beautifully in photos. The ruffled off-the-shoulder neckline and long train make this the best dress for the bride who wants to do something different and fun.

Price at time of publish: $298

Courtesy of BHLDN

View On Bhldn

Sizes: XS-XL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Floor-length

A jumpsuit is a sleek and chic option if you don't want to wear a dress. This one features an unexpected cut-out and a one-shoulder detail that makes it feel extra glam.

Price at time of publish: $230

Courtesy of Revolve

View On Revolve

Sizes: XS-XL | Material: Linen | Length: Mini

A blazer dress feels effortlessly stylish and cool and seems like such a good fit for a civil ceremony. This one features lightly padded shoulders and is made of lightweight linen. It also comes in blush and a green color if you don't want white.

Price at time of publish: $359

Huishan Zhang Reign Feather-Trimmed Crepe Mini Dress

Net-a-Porter

View On Net-a-Porter

Sizes: 6-18 UK | Material: Crepe | Length: Mini

Whimsical but with a traditional feel, this mini dress features feather detailing on the sleeves that make it so much fun. The back cinches with a small bow detail and it's made of a stretchy crepe material.

Price at time of publish: $2,845

Courtesy of BHLDN

View On Bhldn

Sizes: 0-18 | Material: Polyester | Length: Mini

If you want something more dramatic that isn't a gown, opt for this fun mini dress. The removable skirt acts like a long, billowing train, and when you're ready to let loose, you can take it off so you're just wearing a classic off-the-shoulder dress.

Price at time of publish: $1,500

Courtesy of Lulus

View On Lulus

Sizes: XS-3X | Material: Nylon, cotton | Length: Floor-length

For a more traditional bridal look, opt for this lace maxi dress. It features a slit in the front and a subtle mermaid flare at the bottom. The long sleeves are great for fall, winter, or even spring ceremonies, and the square neckline is so pretty.

Price at time of publish: $99

Courtesy of Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

Sizes: XS-XXL | Material: Nylon, rayon | Length: Mini

Matching sets have never been more trendy, so why not wear one for your civil ceremony? This one is made up of a romantic scalloped lace blazer and matching skirt, and is such a special option. Plus, after your big day, you can always wear the pieces separately if you want.

Price at time of publish: $750

Courtesy of Khaite

View On Khaite.com

Sizes: XS-XL | Material: Stretch matte viscose | Length: Midi

Perfect for the more casual winter bride, this knit midi dress is a versatile option because it doesn't look traditionally bridal. Made of a luxe Italian knit for a close fit, this is a fairly low-key option that is also so elegant.

Price at time of publish: $1,580

Courtesy of BCBG

View On Bcbg.com

Sizes: 0-16 | Material: Crepe | Length: Floor-length

Some brides want to go more casual for a civil ceremony, while others want to be just as formal as they would for a large celebration. Luckily, there's no right or wrong way to do it. If you want to be more dressed up, this BCBG gown is a beautiful choice, in a sleek crepe with off-the-shoulder tulle sleeves.

Price at time of publish: $428

REVOLVE

View On Revolve View On Katiemay.com View On Shop-confete.com

Sizes: XS-XL | Material: Nylon, spandex | Length: Mini

Reminiscent of Kendall Jenner's iconic Giambattista Valli hot pink tulle gown—that she wore to Cannes in 2019—this dress is fun and unique. It would look adorable in photos and just as cute at an after-party.

Price at time of publish: $525

Courtesy of Lulus

View On Lulus

Sizes: XS-XL | Material: Polyester | Length: Shorts

A romper is casual and unexpected, and makes for a great summer ceremony ensemble. This one has a bridal vibe thanks to the ruffled neckline and delicate jacquard fabric.

Price at time of publish: $68

Courtesy of Net-A-Porter

View On Net-a-Porter

Sizes: 34-42 FR | Material: Crocheted cotton-blend | Length: Mini

It's hard to resist this delightful crochet mini dress, which features a boned bodice and feathers along the hem. It might feel more casual, but it's still the kind of dress you wear for a special occasion.

Price at time of publish: $3,275

Courtesy of BHLDN

View On Bhldn

Sizes: 0-16 | Material: Polyester | Length: Mini

The playful bubble hem of this dress is what makes it so adorable. Spaghetti straps and a lace-up back are two other details we love here.

Price at time of publish: $495

Courtesy of Watters

View On Watters.com

Sizes: 4-8 | Material: Tulle | Length: Mini

Made with Ossetra beading, this mini dress sparkles in all the right ways. Soft netting makes up the unique sleeves and the corset bodice is another romantic touch.

Price at time of publish: $895

Courtesy of BCBG

View On Bcbg.com

Sizes: 0-12 | Material: Cotton sateen | Length: Midi

We love this low-maintenance white midi dress that feels versatile and chic. The fitted bodice, pleated detail, and notched neckline are all lovely details.

Price at time of publish: $268

Courtesy of BHLDN

View On Bhldn

Sizes: 0-12 | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Midi

This silhouette is timeless for a beautiful and elegant look that anyone could love. Details like sparkling beaded straps, a V-neck, and a large bow on the front make it feel extra special.

Price at time of publish: $630

Courtesy of Reformation

View On Reformation

Sizes: 0-12 | Material: Linen | Length: Mini

Go for easy elegance with this button-up linen dress that is versatile and easy to dress up or down. A tie at the back waist cinches things in and there's even a pocket in the front.

Price at time of publish: $198

Anthropologie

View On Bhldn

Sizes: 0-26W | Material: Polyester | Length: Floor-length

This gown has a boho feel to it, but it was actually inspired by an early Victorian bridal gown found on Portobello Road in London. It features delicate tulle, cotton embroidery, and an allover floral pattern for the perfect texture.

Price at time of publish: $1,495

Courtesy of For Love and Lemons

View On Forloveandlemons.com

Sizes: XXS-2XL | Material: Lace | Length: Mini

Las Vegas is known for its civil ceremonies, and this mini dress, reminiscent of lingerie, is a perfect choice. Made with sheer lace, dotted ruffle tulle, and the cutest tutu skirt, this is a bold, but appropriate, choice.

Price at time of publish: $266

Courtesy of Revolve

View On Revolve

Sizes: XXS-XL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Mini

Make an entrance with this curve-hugging white mini dress thanks to its asymmetrical hem and billowing long sleeve. It's fun, it's different, and it's definitely a statement maker.

Price at time of publish: $215

Courtesy of For Love and Lemons

View On Forloveandlemons.com

Sizes: XXS-XL | Material: Lace | Length: Mini

This vintage-inspired dress is a little bit dramatic and definitely bridal. It features an intricate corset top with a scalloped hemline, and a billowing train-like skirt.

Price at time of publish: $648

Courtesy of Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

Sizes: 0-14 | Material: Polyester | Length: Mini

Exclusive to BHLDN, this beautiful strapless mini dress is made up of a pearl-encrusted, corset-style bodice and a flouncy tulle skirt. The two very different fabrics make for a fun texture experience.

Price at time of publish: $1,200

Courtesy of Free People

View On Freepeople.com

Sizes: 0-12 | Material: Polyester | Length: Mini

This lace mini dress has a big surprise in the back: a huge bow detail that hangs almost to the ground for a train-like effect. This is a great mix of casual and dramatic.

Price at time of publish: $695

Revolve

View On Revolve

Sizes: 0-12 | Material: Viscose, cellulose | Length: Midi

You don't have to wear white to a civil ceremony. This cream-colored midi dress is sophisticated and effortlessly cool, with fabric-covered buttons down the front and flared sleeves.

Price at time of publish: $380

What to Look for in a Civil Ceremony Wedding Dress

Since civil ceremonies don't follow many of the same traditions as a big wedding event, you're really able to play around with your look a bit more. You can opt for something casual, like a mini dress, or go for something more formal, like a regular bridal gown. However, what's most important is that you find a dress you're most comfortable in. Also, something versatile could be a great option, especially if you're going from a civil ceremony to some sort of party to celebrate your union.

FAQ

Is there a dress code for civil ceremonies?

There is no dress code to follow, so you really can wear whatever you want. Many brides opt for a casual, traditional white ensemble, but you can feel free to do whatever you please.
What color should a bride wear to a civil ceremony?

You can wear any color you choose. White or ivory are obviously two classics, but if you want to get more creative with your look, go for a bold color or a cool pattern. You could also stick with neutrals like cream, blush, or even a light gray.
How can you make your civil ceremony dress fun?

Wear something that expresses your personal style and makes you feel good inside and out. You can add personal accessories, like a "something old" piece, or play around with jewelry and shoes. Additionally, consider bold dresses with feather details and/or elaborate bows, or skip white and opt for a loud pattern. There are so many ways to make your outfit more fun and exciting.

The 18 Best Effortless Elopement Dresses of 2023

Why Trust Us

Contributing writer Jessica Booth is a freelance writer and formerly served as an editor for seven years. Her work has been featured in Bustle, Insider, Redbook, and Refinery29.