Who can wear a cottagecore bridal look?

Anyone! Cottagecore is a universal trend that can apply to all body types, budgets , and venues.

What shoes do you wear with a cottagecore wedding dress?

It all depends on the style of the dress and your wedding venue . However, you can wear heels, strappy sandals, or even wedges with this trend.

Are cottagecore wedding dresses appropriate for black-tie weddings?

Of course! You can dress up this trend by focusing on luxury fabrics and floor-length gowns to make it feel more formal.

The 15 Best Cottagecore Wedding Dresses of 2023

cottagecore wedding dress bride — Photo by Adriana Rivera/Dress by Azeeza

If you've always fantasized about running away to a country cottage in your flowy dress, with billowing sleeves and hair blowing in the wind, you have the cottagecore aesthetic running through your veins. While leaving everything behind to live farmside sounds dreamy, the logistics could be a bit more complicated. Rather than make an entire lifestyle change, we recommend channeling your inner Laura Ingalls on the most photographed day of your life. Enter: Cottagecore wedding dresses. Cottagecore dresses are a romanticized take on clothing worn in rural settings and exude a feeling of living in a rustic retreat or secluded countryside.

From allover tulle, floral embroidery, and effortless silky chiffon to cotton sundresses with puff sleeves, there are an array of unique ways to achieve a cottagecore bridal aesthetic. Pair the look with a flower crown, natural makeup, and minimal jewelry to elevate the organic ensemble. Luckily for you, there is plenty of inspiration and an increasing number of looks on the market that cater to this romanticized style. Our favorite places to shop include Reformation, BHLDN, LoveShackFancy, Free People, and Grace Loves Lace—just to name a few. So, if you're planning romantic, nature-inspired nuptials, whether it be in an intimate garden or a vast field, it's well worth considering the laid-back look.

Ahead, 15 cottagecore wedding dresses romantic enough to make it in the country, yet modern enough to complement any less-than-rural lifestyle.

For the Chic Bride: Reformation Rachelle Dress

Reformation Rachelle Cottagecore Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Reformation

Size range: 0-12 | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted within guidelines

This white midi is beyond effortlessly chic. Gather a few sprigs of babies' breath or wildflower in your hair, pair it with straw block heels, or simply go barefoot to complete the ensemble.

Best Strapless: Essense of Australia Style D2752 Strapless A-Line Cotton Lace Wedding Dress

Essense of Australia Style D2752 Strapless A-Line Cotton Lace Cottagecore Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Essense Designs

Size range: 2-34 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

Adorned with intricate cotton lace, this strapless wedding dress is meant for the outdoors. Its structured bodice will ensure an equally comfortable and flattering fit.

For a Garden Wedding: Sachin & Babi Inez Gown

Sachin & Babi Inez Cottagecore Wedding Gown — Courtesy of BHLDN

Size range: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

The dreamy lace details and delicate ruffles throughout the Inez gown create the most mesmerizing textured look just perfect for garden nuptials. We love the effortless column fit and tried-and-true V-neckline.

Price at time of publish: $1,395

Best Statement Sleeve: Míe Gozo Phi Phi Dress

MÃe Gozo Phi Phi Cottagecore Wedding Dress — Courtesy of MÃe Gozo

Size range: XS-3XL | Length: Midi | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 10 days of delivery within guidelines

While puff sleeves are a dead giveaway for the classic cottagecore look, there are plenty of other elements to help you master the aesthetic. An empire waist and off-the-shoulder double puff sleeves are just the places to start.

Price at time of publish: $280

Most Intricate Detail: LoveShackFancy Kylen Victorian Maxi

LoveShackFancy Kylen Victorian Cottagecore Wedding Maxi Dress — Courtesy of LoveShackFancy

Size range: 00-12 | Length: Midi | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery within guidelines

Nothing says charm like intricate schiffli embroidery. The Kylen dress exudes just that with its high smock neckline, mother-of-pearl buttons, and free-flowing skirt.

Best Backless Design: Shona Joy La Lune Backless Maxi Dress

Shona Joy La Lune Backless Maxi Cottagecore Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Shona Joy

Size range: 2-12 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns within 10 days of delivery within guidelines

Chic and effortless, it's safe to say that we're simply obsessed with this backless Shona Joy gown. Featuring loose, flowy sleeves, it's no doubt that this is a statement-making piece.

Price at time of publish: $560

For the Floral Lover: LoveShackFancy Charo Maxi Dress

Size range: XS-XL | Length: Midi | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery within guidelines

The pastel floral embroidery throughout the skirt of this antique white maxi is ideal for a laid-back spring wedding among wildflowers. The subtle scoop neckline and slit make for an effortlessly romantic bridal look.

Best Geometric Design: Essense of Australia Style D3443 Graphic Lace Boho Wedding Dress

Essense of Australia Style D3443 Graphic Lace Boho Cottagecore Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Essense Designs

Size range: 2-34 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

A bold geometric lace cascades throughout the entirety of this striking Essense of Australia gown. The sheer bishop sleeves add the most unforgettable detail and certainly make for great photo opportunities.

For the Romantic Bride: Needle & Thread Blossom Ankle Dress

Needle & Thread Blossom Ankle Cottagecore Wedding Dress — Courtesy of BHLDN

Size range: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

This petal pink dress is ideal for the romantic bride. Featuring delicate floral embroidery and a striking tiered skirt, the sheer illusion sleeves just add the final show-stopping touch.

Best Two-Piece Set: Grace Loves Lace Florence Set

Grace Loves Lace Florence Cottagecore Bridal Two-Piece Set — Courtesy of Grace Loves Lace

Size range: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Final sale

The Florence set simply exudes effortless femininity and romance. With its soft French lace and whimsical silhouette, the two-piece ensemble is equally comfortable as it is eye-catching.

Price at time of publish: $1,600

For the Minimalist Bride: Shona Joy La Lune Bias Slip Dress

Shona Joy La Lune Bias Slip Cottagecore Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Shona Joy

Size range: 2-12 | Length: Midi | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns within 10 days of delivery within guidelines

Sleek and effortless, this slip dress is what minimalist dreams are made of. The best part: the striking row of fabric-covered buttons cascading down into the center slit.

Price at time of publish: $340

Best Corset Bodice: Reformation Tagliatelle Linen Dress

Reformation Tagliatelle Linen Cottagecore Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Reformation

Size range: 0-12 | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted within guidelines

The corset bodice and striking cut of this neckline are ideal for the cottagecore bride. Plus, the organic linen texture simply seals the deal.

Most Ethereal: Willowby by Watters Lilia Gown

Willowby by Watters Lilia Cottagecore Wedding Gown — Courtesy of BHLDN

Size range: 00-26W | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

The alluring floral embroidery of the Lilia gown speaks for itself. Plus, the sheer puff sleeves can be worn on or off the shoulder for an effortlessly versatile bridal look.

Price at time of publish: $1,495

Best Crepe Dress: All Who Wander Briar Dress

All Who Wander Briar Cottagecore Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Essense Designs

Size range: 2-34 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

Organic leaf-inspired details trickle throughout the bodice of the Briar gown. Paired with a minimalist crepe skirt, the whimsical puff sleeves create the most jaw-dropping bridal look.

Best Bridal Mini: LoveShackFancy Faye Mini Dress

LoveShackFancy Faye Cottagecore Mini Wedding Dress — Courtesy of LoveShackFancy

Size range: 00-12 | Length: Mini | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery within guidelines

How chic is this little bridal mini?! The darling eyelet detail paired with its subtle puff sleeve make for an irresistible ensemble.

What to Look for in a Cottagecore Wedding Dress

When it comes to the cottagecore aesthetic, if there is one thing that is true, it is this: comfort is key. Due to the light and ethereal nature, it's important to choose a dress that will provide optimal mobility. Whether it be running barefoot through the grass or floating down the aisle of a flowery-filled garden, you'll want a gown that feels equally effortless. Fabrics like cotton, soft tulle, and lace will not only be comfortable and easy to wear, but it will create that billowy affect that is oh-so-dreamy in photos. Similarly, charming details like ruffles, floral embroidery and appliqué, or even a corset bodice will instantly elevate your cottagecore look. Last, but certainly not least, accessorize your bridal ensemble with minimal yet romantic jewelry. Especially in this case, it's all in the details. Keep your makeup fresh and dewy, incorporate wildflowers into your bouquet, and opt for more practical footwear. Go for a tiny pendant necklace, subtle drop earrings, or stack a few dainty rings to add a little charm. But remember: when in doubt, keep it simple.

FAQ

Who can wear a cottagecore bridal look?

Anyone! Cottagecore is a universal trend that can apply to all body types, budgets, and venues.
What shoes do you wear with a cottagecore wedding dress?

It all depends on the style of the dress and your wedding venue. However, you can wear heels, strappy sandals, or even wedges with this trend.
Are cottagecore wedding dresses appropriate for black-tie weddings?

Of course! You can dress up this trend by focusing on luxury fabrics and floor-length gowns to make it feel more formal.

Why Trust Us / About the Author

Contributing writer Stephanie Montes is a professional writer with expertise in beauty and fashion content. With over a decade of editorial experience, she served as a former beauty director at Zoe Media Group, an editorial assistant for Women's Wear Daily, as well as a styling assistant for Allure Magazine.

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