35 Best Classic Wedding Dresses

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Meghan Markle in Givenchy. Grace Kelly in Helen Rose. Jackie O in Ann Lowe. These iconic wedding dresses, while each individually unique, all shared one key characteristic: timelessness. Unless you have a penchant for taking bold risks with your wardrobe (if so, more power to you!), a classic bridal aesthetic helps ensure you'll love your dress before, during, and long after the wedding day.

What Is a Classic Wedding Dress?

Classic wedding dresses are designed to be timeless and come in tried and true simple silhouettes. A classic wedding dress is usually not overly ornate or trendy.

Rest assured, classic does not translate to boring. Rather, it simply means relying on tried-and-true silhouettes, necklines, textures, and embellishments. Ahead, discover scores of gowns that nod to an enduring aesthetic, with fresh options from legends like Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera as well as buzzy labels, including Danielle Frankel and Markarian.

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For the Minimalist Bride: Gabriela Hearst Joaquina Gown

classic dress — Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

This minimalist white dress takes the strapless silhouette to a whole new level. Plus, the breathtaking pleated back and pooling train add instant elegance.

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For a Backyard Wedding: Anna October Bustier Satin Dress

For a boudoir-inspired aesthetic, go for this bustier dress crafted from lustrous satin and featuring ruched straps. Wear yours with a loose bun and dewy makeup.

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Most Understated: Justin Alexander Charlie Gown

A square neckline and low back cement this sleek gown’s status as a classic pick. A detachable train can be removed after the ceremony.

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Most Skimming: David’s Bridal Strapless Wedding Dress

For a beachside wedding, consider a strapless column gown with a front slit. The simple-yet-statement combination is a classic.

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Best Simple Slip: Lela Rose The Foley Gown

Channel your inner Kate Moss with this gorgeous white slip dress. It’ll transition to the dance floor seamlessly.

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Most Unexpected: Emilia Wickstead Bow-Appliqué Cloqué-Crepe Dress

While an oversized bow might lend itself towards and more trendy aesthetic this impressive gown by Emilia Wickstead is undeniably an instant classic.

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For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Danielle Frankel Simone Gown

An open-back gown with long sleeves is epitome of minimal chic, which is why this satin gown by cult favorite Danielle Frankel is a winning pick. Try it with a low ponytail.

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Most Pared-Back: Vivienne Westwood Draped Off-the-Shoulder Satin Dress

Nothing is more elegant than an off-the-shoulder neckline. Showcase your shoulders and decolletage in this Vivienne Westwood gown featuring flattering ruching and sophisticated draping.

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Most Dramatic: Emilia Wickstead Diamond Duchesse-Satin Gown

If you’re yearning for a dramatic silhouette, consider this striking gown from British designer Emilia Wickstead. It’s sure to procure a real princess moment.

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Most Royal Wedding-Worthy: Bliss Monique Lhuillier Ballgown

A full skirt in a brilliant shade of white is a pairing that always feels fresh. If you want to make a statement, do it with this gown.

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Most Elegant: Halfpenny London Fern Gown

The standout detail on this gorgeous crepe gown is the low back. It’s great for creating a wow moment as you walk down the aisle.

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For Lace Lovers: Marchesa Sasha Lace Gown

If lace is what you’re after, don’t miss this classic option from Marchesa. It works for any season and is perfect for the vintage-inspired bride.

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Best Simple Style: Alex Perry Eliza Gown

The weighty satin-crepe of this striking gown helps to hug your curves in the best places. Plus, the clean lines and slim straps solidify the minimalist aesthetic.

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Best Subtle Details: Oscar de la Renta Gown

For the lover of bold romance, this gown from beloved Oscar de la Renta is a supremely perfect pick.

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Classically Vintage: Grace + Ivory Elle Lace Gown

Hand beading on this intricate gown gives it old-world appeal. Style with a classic chignon.

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Best Off-the-Shoulder: Cushnie Off-the-Shoulder Gown

Proof that asymmetry can work in your favor, this off-the-shoulder dress checks off all the boxes.

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Most Romantic: Wtoo Watters Hemingway Gown

Go for volume with this a-line gown featuring pearl, crystal, and sequin hand beading. A thoughtfully-design dress that’s classic and romantic.

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Best Back Details: Rime Arodaky Louvre

An off-the-shoulder silhouette is effortless elegance at its finest. This ivory-colored crepe is flattering and romantic.

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Most Effortless: Reformation Geranium Dress

Slinky satin and a low back harmoniously come together for this effortless gown. Include a tulle veil to contrast the fluidity of the dress’s fabric.

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Best Customizable: Fame & Partners Gathered Belted Gown

This belted gown would be perfect for an outdoor garden wedding. Wear yours with a casual pair of wedges or grass friendly block heels.

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Best Modest Dress: Roland Mouret Ella Gown

A long-sleeve wedding dress is an underrated pick you should consider. Look for details like a front slit to add fluidity to the silhouette.

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Best Allover Lace: Jenny Yoo Simone Gown

An allover lace gown often works best with simple silhouettes, like this striking dress from Jenny Yoo. The waist seam and court train offer a flattering finish.

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Most Modest Neckline: Alaia Maxi Dress

Leave it to Alaia to deliver on the perfect classic wedding dress. Add in a pair of fun earrings for an unexpected finish.

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Best Off-the-Shoulder: Amsale Fit to Flare Gown

The understated elegance of these sheer sleeves makes the whole gown feel ultra chic. A perfect pick for the modern bride.

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Best Strapless: Markarian Bernini Gown

The wrap silhouette on this strapless dress adds movement and a flash of leg. Accessorize with strappy sandals.

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Best Vintage-Inspired: Atelier Valentine Avoh Sunset Boulevard Gown

The cap sleeves constructed of delicate lace give this gown soft femininity. Ideal for the minimalist bride with a penchant for thoughtful details.

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Best Mermaid Silhouette: Ella & Oak The Lillian R Gown

Lace sleeves are a perennial favorite and look great with a slew of gown silhouettes. This mermaid option is an especially flattering pick.

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For a Black-Tie Wedding: Morilee Sandy Wedding Dress

If you’re inspired by the ‘90s, this minimal boatneck gown is up your alley. Accessorize with a beaded headband for a touch of flair.

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For the Boho Bride: Torrid Ivory Off Shoulder Lace & Sequin Dress

Embrace your inner bohemian with an off-the-shoulder lace gown featuring a pooling train. It goes great with soft waves.

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For the Modern Bride: Safiyaa Strapless Gown

The beauty of this strapless gown is the absence of extra details. It’s pared down to perfection.

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Best A-Line: White by Vera Wang Crepe Wrap Gown

An A-line gown will always be a flattering choice and this option from White by Vera Wang feels especially striking.

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For a City Wedding: Galia Lahav Don Gown

If you’re leaning toward a modern vibe, try this halter dress with a unique front twist detail.

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Best Neckline Details: Peter Langer Deauville Mermaid Gown

A mermaid gown with delicate lace detailing is a power pairing. The detachable belt on the back lends versatility.

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Best Classic Midi: BHLDN Satin Midi Dress

Keep it light and easy with a white slip dress for your wedding day. It never goes out of style.

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Best Clean Lines: Savannah Miller Darcie Gown

If your style is understated, this simple pick is worth considering. The deep low V back is a deal-maker.

Shopping FAQs

Are you searching for a timeless wedding dress? We've answered three common questions brides have when shopping for a classic wedding dress.

What is a classic wedding dress? Classic wedding dresses are designed to be timeless and come in tried and true simple silhouettes. A classic wedding dress is not overly ornate or trendy.
How do you style a classic wedding dress? For an utterly timeless wedding day look, pair your wedding dress with simple accessories, like delicate personal jewelry and classic bridal pumps.
What are the most classic wedding dress necklines? Some classic necklines that never go out of style are off-the-shoulder, bateau, high-neck, sweetheart, v-neck, portrait, and scoop.

20 Simple and Elegant Wedding Dresses You Can Buy Right Now

35 Timeless Wedding Dresses for the Classic Bride

These stunning gowns will never go out of style

For the Minimalist Bride: Gabriela Hearst Joaquina Gown

For a Backyard Wedding: Anna October Bustier Satin Dress

Most Understated: Justin Alexander Charlie Gown

Most Skimming: David’s Bridal Strapless Wedding Dress

Best Simple Slip: Lela Rose The Foley Gown

Most Unexpected: Emilia Wickstead Bow-Appliqué Cloqué-Crepe Dress

For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Danielle Frankel Simone Gown

Most Pared-Back: Vivienne Westwood Draped Off-the-Shoulder Satin Dress

Most Dramatic: Emilia Wickstead Diamond Duchesse-Satin Gown

Most Royal Wedding-Worthy: Bliss Monique Lhuillier Ballgown

Most Elegant: Halfpenny London Fern Gown

For Lace Lovers: Marchesa Sasha Lace Gown

Best Simple Style: Alex Perry Eliza Gown

Best Subtle Details: Oscar de la Renta Gown

Classically Vintage: Grace + Ivory Elle Lace Gown

Best Off-the-Shoulder: Cushnie Off-the-Shoulder Gown

Most Romantic: Wtoo Watters Hemingway Gown

Best Back Details: Rime Arodaky Louvre

Most Effortless: Reformation Geranium Dress

Best Customizable: Fame & Partners Gathered Belted Gown

Best Modest Dress: Roland Mouret Ella Gown

Best Allover Lace: Jenny Yoo Simone Gown

Most Modest Neckline: Alaia Maxi Dress

Best Off-the-Shoulder: Amsale Fit to Flare Gown

Best Strapless: Markarian Bernini Gown

Best Vintage-Inspired: Atelier Valentine Avoh Sunset Boulevard Gown

Best Mermaid Silhouette: Ella & Oak The Lillian R Gown

For a Black-Tie Wedding: Morilee Sandy Wedding Dress

For the Boho Bride: Torrid Ivory Off Shoulder Lace & Sequin Dress

For the Modern Bride: Safiyaa Strapless Gown

Best A-Line: White by Vera Wang Crepe Wrap Gown

For a City Wedding: Galia Lahav Don Gown

Best Neckline Details: Peter Langer Deauville Mermaid Gown

Best Classic Midi: BHLDN Satin Midi Dress

Best Clean Lines: Savannah Miller Darcie Gown

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