30 Best Classic Wedding Dresses of 2021

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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. Classic wedding dresses are designed to be timeless and come in tried and true silhouettes. A classic wedding dress isn't typically 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. Read on to discover scores of gowns that nod to an enduring aesthetic.

For a Backyard Wedding: Anna October Bustier Satin Dress

classic dress — Courtesy of Moda Operandi

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Classically Vintage: Grace + Ivory Elle Lace Gown

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

wedding dress — Courtesy of David's Bridal

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

What to look for in a classic wedding dress

Classic wedding dresses are designed to never go out of style and come in a wide range of timeless silhouettes. If you're a bride-to-be with traditional tastes, opt for crisp and structured ball gowns or dresses in allover lace. For brides with a more daring aesthetic, sexy slip dresses and body-hugging sheath silhouettes are always a striking choice. And when it comes to classic wedding dresses, the beauty is in the details. If you're looking for subtle or statement-making touches, consider gowns with eye-catching open backs, plunging necklines, or dazzling embellishments.

FAQs

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.

Why Trust Brides

Nicole Kliest is a fashion, travel, and food & wine writer based in New York City. With over nine years of experience in the digital publishing industry, her work has appeared on sites including Who What Wear, The Zoe Report, Cools, Popsugar, Harper's Bazaar, Elle.