25 Best Destination Wedding Dresses of 2021

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Planning a destination wedding is exciting—especially when it comes to picking out your wedding day look. Whether you’re getting married on the white sands of a tropical beach or in the sprawling gardens of a grand castle, you’ll need to find the perfect dress to suit your bridal style as well as your wedding destination.

No matter the location of your wedding, be it abroad or domestic, it’s important to choose a dress that works best for the climate and wedding venue. If you’re tying the knot with your toes in the sand, opt for laidback silhouettes crafted from breathable fabrics like linen and cotton. Short dresses and bridal separates are also ideal for seaside nuptials and warm-weather weddings. For brides planning a more formal affair, elegant slip dresses and lightweight ball gowns are always a sophisticated choice.

From casual cotton mini dresses to romantic ball gowns, we've rounded up the best destination wedding dresses for every style and budget.

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For the Boho Bride: LoveShackFancy Lace Maxi Dress

Rich in romantic detail, this LoveShackFancy dress is a stunning option for the bohemian bride. We love it with vintage-inspired accessories, barely-there makeup, and strappy sandals.

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Best Bridal Separates: Reformation Two-Piece

Bridal separates are a no-brainer for a destination wedding, especially if you're exchanging vows on the beach. This versatile set from Reformation is the epitome of effortlessly chic, and pairs beautifully with a simple veil or blusher.

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Most Whimsical: BHLDN x Free People Siena Dress

Bright pops of color are perfect for saying "I do" in the sand. We love this unique dress for the bride who's looking for a casual dress with unexpected details. Wear yours with espadrilles and loose waves.

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For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Rosie Assoulin Pearl-Trimmed Silk and Hemp Maxi Dress

wedding dress — Courtesy of Moda Operandi

This unique dress from Rosie Assoulin is crafted from two-tone eco hemp and features a bodice lined with luminous faux pearls. Not only is this style divine for a destination wedding, but it's one you can wear again long after the wedding weekend is over.

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Best Tea-Length: Sabina Musayev Ariana Dress

Breezy lace dresses are always a good idea for warm-weather destination weddings. This style from Sabina Musayev is a stunning option for a rehearsal dinner or casual nuptials.

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Best Floral Pattern: Agua by Agua Bendita Ruffled Floral-Print Cotton Maxi Dress

A blue and white floral dress is an utterly romantic choice for a waterfront wedding. We're picturing this Agua by Agua Bendita gown with beautiful woven accessories like espadrilles and a raffia clutch.

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Best Simple Slip Dress: Birdy Grey Slip Dress

No matter what type of wedding you're having, a simple slip dress will never feel out of place. This sophisticated style from Birdy Grey is a minimalist's dream, and can easily be dressed up or down. Plus, it's super easy to pack in your luggage!

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Most Sexy: Cult Gaia Cutout Woven Knit Maxi Dress

If your wedding is taking place on the beach or at a stunning desert locale, this Cult Gaia dress is more than a fitting choice. Not only are the bodice cut-outs perfect for keeping you cool, but they're utterly sexy and flattering.

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Most Architectural: Jacquemus Amour Dress

Jacquemus is known for his exquisite creations and this wedding dress is no exception. It's crafted from heavyweight fabric meaning it will stay put during any gusts of wind at your seaside wedding.

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Best Allover Lace: Heartloom Lace Gown

We can't stop picturing this dress set against a backdrop of white sand and clear blue water. Its sexy, yet sweet, back will make for the most stunning photos.

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Best Classic with a Twist: Oscar de la Renta Asymmetric Embroidered Dress

Brides looking for a wedding dress that feels classic with a twist should opt for this beautifully detailed Oscar de la Renta frock. Its sheer paneling and cotton fabric make it perfect for balmy summer nights.

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Best Mini: Carolina Herrera Curved-Neck Floral Guipure-Lace Mini Dress

For the unfussy bride who's looking to show some skin, a mini dress is undoubtedly the way to go. Pair this floral mini dress from Carolina Herrera with a tiered veil for added romance.

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Most Unique: Cult Gaia Constance Dress

Leave a lasting impression with this striking gown from Cult Gaia. It's perfect for showing off your elegant shoulders and back, and will photograph beautifully.

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Best Mini Dress: Bernadette Bow-Back Satin Mini Dress

off-the-shoulder dress — Courtesy of Matchesfashion

Let's keep this short and sweet: We love a mini dress for a destination wedding. This pretty style from Bernadette features an exquisite off-the-shoulder neckline and a billowing bow at the back for added drama.

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Best Under $300: Lulus Floral Embroidered Lace-Up Maxi Dress

Just because you're getting married with your toes in the sand doesn't mean you can't wear a floor-length gown with a billowing train. This Lulus dress was born to grace the beach and is budget-friendly, to boot.

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Best Midi Dress: Catherine Deane Textured Midi Dress

destination wedding dress — Courtesy of BHLDN

At once playful and classic, this textured midi dress would be right at home at a romantic garden wedding. Wear yours with a pair of kitten heels and delicate personal jewelry.

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Most Romantic: LoveShackFancy Silk Gown

Whether your ceremony is held on the sands of Mexico or Australia, you can't go wrong with this beach-worthy dress. Its sheer, floor-sweeping train will catch the light with every step.

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Most Sweet: DB Studio Flutter Sleeve Satin Plus Size Dress with Ruffle

ruffle dress — Courtesy of David's Bridal

If you love a simple silhouette with feminine accents, opt for this sweet gown featuring gentle ruffles and a plunging neckline. Elevate the look with a bridal headband or pearl hairpin.

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Most Elegant:Danielle Frankel Silk Wool V-Neck Gown

We can't think of a more swoon-worthy gown for a black-tie wedding. Its liquid silk silhouette strikes the perfect balance between minimalist and romantic.

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For a Formal Wedding: David's Bridal Collection Off the Shoulder Satin Ball Gown

This breathtaking ball gown feels especially appropriate for brides getting married in the gardens of a grand estate. Its A-line silhouette and alluring off-the-shoulder neckline also make it a flattering option for a wide range of body types.

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For an Elopement: Markarian Scalloped Lace One Shoulder Dress With Duchess Satin Train

Make an exit that's just as striking as your entrance in this exquisite dress from Markarian. The duchess satin train feels utterly regal and adds some drama to the simple silhouette.

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Most Casual: Cecilie Bahnsen Open-Back Quilted Silk Top

If you're throwing a casual or intimate wedding, and don't picture yourself wearing a wedding dress on the big day, why not opt for a pair of white jeans and an effortless top? We also love this look for your rehearsal dinner, honeymoon, and beyond!

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Best Floor-Length: Reformation Lace Dress

Calling all laidback brides! This lace gown looks incredibly effortless for a warm-weather wedding. Follow the styling lead and complete your boho ensemble with a flower crown.

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Best Sparkle: Dana Harel Iris Dress

Between the beaded and sequin embroidery, the corset bodice, and thigh-high slit, there's no element to this design that wasn't carefully thought through. A perfect choice for brides looking to elevate any destination venue.

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Most Versatile: Galia Lahav Esme Midi Dress

Whether you're having a mini ceremony in the south of France or hosting your nuptials on a Greek island, this strapless midi dress is versatile enough for any wedding locale. Even better, we're sure you'll wear it long after you say "I do."

FAQ

What are the best wedding dresses for a beach wedding?

If your wedding is taking place on the beach, you should consider dresses in breezy fabrics like cotton and linen—as well as lightweight lace. Short wedding dresses are also stylish and practical for seaside nuptials.
Does a destination wedding dress have to be casual?

Definitely not—destination wedding dresses come in a wide range of styles, from laidback slip dresses to lace ball gowns. Just keep in mind that some silhouettes and fabrics may be too heavy and uncomfortable for a beach wedding.
What are the best bridal shoes for a destination wedding?

For beach and garden weddings, opt for sand and grass-friendly shoes like flats, espadrilles, and sandals.