Do I have to wear a dress for my engagement photos?

Not at all; when it comes to your engagement photos , the most important thing to remember is that they’re a celebration of your relationship. While lots of couples choose to dress up for the occasion, there’s no rule that says you have to wear a dress—wear something that feels true to you and makes you feel comfortable.

Am I supposed to wear white for my engagement photos?

There’s no rule that says you have to wear white for your engagement photos. While lots of brides choose to as a nod to their wedding, you should wear something that feels true to your personal style and preferences.

How do I pick an engagement photo dress?

If you’re taking photos at home or in your favorite coffee shop, something comfy and casual will complement the locale. Whereas, if you’re at a nice venue or luxe location, opt for something a little dressier.

28 Best Engagement Photo Dresses of 2021

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engagement shoot — Photo by Ivash Studio

For many couples, taking engagement photos is a way to celebrate their new relationship status. These photos, which usually happen shortly after a proposal, tend to be used for save the dates, the wedding website, social media, and most often, as a personal souvenir to remember this special period of time. So, selecting what to wear can feel like a big decision. Depending on your style, you could keep things casual or use this photoshoot as a reason to go fully glam.

Whether you envision a dramatic gown with opulent details, or something relaxed and carefree, there are a wide variety of engagement photo dresses to choose from—catering to all budgets and bridal styles. If you're not sure where to start when it comes to dress shopping, the best rule of thumb is to choose a style and hue that makes you feel comfortable—one that also highlights your personal aesthetic. After all, these pictures will live on forever and you want to be sure you look back on them fondly.

Ahead, discover our favorite engagement photo dresses, that are sure to kick off the next chapter of your life in the best way possible.

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Most Romantic: Needle & Thread Elin Blossom Sequin-Embellished Dress

It truly doesn’t get sweeter than this pastel dress embordered with wildflowers and roses. The ruffled cap sleeves and flowy skirt exudes romance and femininity.

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For a Subtle Print: Rixo Lucile Matisse Pen Midi Dress

Fitted at the waist, with a paneled skirt around the hips, this dress is for a bride looking to keep it simple and chic. The subtle floral print will serve as a lovely detail in your photos.

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For a Summer Engagement Shoot: Muehleder Made You Look Dress

Fierce and flirty, this voluminous, color-block dress comes in a variety of hues—all of which boast a V-neck front, low back, and adjustable straps.

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Best Velvet: Jenny Yoo Ellis Velvet Open Back Dress

If you're taking engagement photos in the cooler seasons, then this dress is for you. Jenny Yoo's open-back dress will make you feel at once warm and luxe.

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Best Animal Print: Hanifa Carrie Wrap Dress

This playful satin wrap dress, from Hanifa, is a bold choice in the best way possible. One side has a rich gold and brown hue, while the other side showcases purple and grey.

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Most Tropical-Inspired: Fe Noel Nutmeg One Shoulder Dress

We love this tropical twist on a floral pattern. The one-shoulder neckline and lightweight fabric makes this Fe Noel dress a dream to wear in warm weather.

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For a Pop of Color: Zimmermann Wild Botanica Mini Dress

The ombre design and floral pattern makes this Zimmermann mini dress one of our all-time favorites. The balloon sleeves, three-dimensional appliqué, and tiered skirt will add unexpected movement to your photos.

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For the Casual Bride: Lulus Coastal Couture Button-Front Mini Dress

Want to take engagement photos that showcase your laid-back aesthetic? Lulu’s Coastal Couture dress is elevated yet casual—ideal for shoots at home, on the beach, or any place relaxed and laid-back.

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For a Timeless and Trendy Look: Undra Celeste New York Turtleneck Wrap Joi Dress

If you want your photos to have a polished and poised look, Undra Celeste’s merlot Joi dress will fully fit the theme. The turtle neckline, keyhole detail, and wrap-around ties will compliment every figure.

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For the Glamourous Bride: Retrofête' Olivia Gown

If you want to go full glam for your engagement photos, this gown in allover sequins and tiny crystals will make you feel like a star.

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Best Jumpsuit: Alex Perry Morgan Jumpsuit

If you'd prefer to switch things up, opt for a jumpsuit. You'll make a powerful impression in your photos, and we're sure you'll wear this piece long after the wedding festivities.

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For the Playful Bride: ModCloth Open-Air Flair Pleated A-Line Dress

This fit-and-flare A-line dress will quickly become a staple in your closet post-photos. Offered in both white and blue floral, this mini can easily be dressed up or down. Throw on a jacket in between shots to completely change your look, too!

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Best Slip Dress: ASOS Slip Satin Dress

If you long for something sleek and sophisticated, ASOS’s slip satin gown kicks things up a notch. Opting for a black dress is a classic choice that will stand out from your wedding photos.

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Best Print: Dolce & Gabbana Patchwork Printed Mini Dress

We can't help but love the patchwork print on this poplin mini dress. If you plan to have a beach or island wedding, this Dolce & Gabbana dress will perfectly fit your theme.

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Most Art Deco-Inspired: ASOS Super Plunge Embellished Fringe Midi Dress

Vintage, glamorous, and oh-so-flattering, this ASOS stunner is hard to beat. With beads and sequins sewn throughout, it gives off a shimmer that'll dazzle on camera.

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Best Sparkle: Revelry Bardot Sequin Dress

If you're looking to shine in your photos, then Revelry’s Bardot dress is a must-have. This figure-flattering fit is covered with sequins and comes in a variety of colors for every bridal aesthetic.

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Most Chic: Adrianna Papell Structured Cape Sheath Dress

This elegant cocktail dress, with a fashion-forward cape, is the epitome of bridal chic. It'll be able to elevate even the most casual engagement shoot settings.

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Most Sexy: Windsor Myra High Slit Dress

If you want your pictures to have a little "va-va-voom", this A-line formal gown from Windsor will surely turn up the heat. The flattering style also comes in black, navy, red, and burgundy, if you’re looking to save white for the big day.

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For the Retro Bride: Unique Vintage Rue Swing Dress

retro dress — Courtesy of Unique Vintage

If you picture an engagement photoshoot over a shared milkshake and a drive-in, throw on this vintage dress. You can also deck out your S.O. in a leather jacket, for some photos as epic as your love story.

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For the Sporty Bride: Daily Paper Jacaranda Purple Kelotie Dress

For brides who subscribe to a more chill and sporty style, Daily Paper’s Jacaranda dress is exactly what you need. The hybrid garment gives you the relaxed vibe of a hoodie, with a dash of feminine flair.

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Most Bridal: Tobi Analise Plunging Floral Maxi Dress

Tobi’s Analise maxi dress comes in multiple hues. But, no matter the color you choose, the luscious lace overlay and dramatic plunging neckline makes it an engagement photo favorite.

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For a Fall Engagement Shoot: Lulus Modena Dolman Sleeve Bodycon Sweater Dress

Autumn-loving brides, meet the sweater dress of your dreams! This medium-weight, ribbed knit bodycon comes in rust brown and sage green—and will look right at home in an orchard, pumpkin patch, or just cuddled up in the cold.

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Most Formal: Wtoo Baylie Dress

Floaty sleeves, a thigh-high slit, and an off-the-shoulder neckline come together to create Wtoo’s famed Baylie dress. Offered in over nine colors, and ranging in sizes 00-26W, this sophisticated number is a showstopping selection for any bride.

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Best One-Shoulder Dress: Lulus Love at Dusk One-Shoulder Asymmetrical Fringe Midi Dress

If you want a dress that has it all, this midi from Lulus will do the trick. The asymmetrical hem, one-shoulder neckline, and fringe detail makes this frock stand out in all the best ways.

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Most Ethereal: Tobi Enchanted Crochet Trim Maxi Dress

Soft and flowing with a crocheted bodice, Tobi’s Enchanted maxi dress comes in both white and blush hues that’ll compliment any photo setting.

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Most Sophisticated: BHLDN Montreal Crepe Maxi Dress

Hello, gorgeous! Bring on the Hollywood vibes with this elegant crepe maxi from BHLDN. The high-neck is balanced by a deep slit, so select your hue (it also comes in midnight, emerald, and ivory) and get ready to feel like a star.

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For the Lace Loving Bride: Chi Chi London Gilded Grace Lace Dress

Layers of tulle, metallic gold accents, and allover lace makes this dress a favorite amongst brides. It's the perfect choice for a photoshoot at a ritzy hotel, cute coffee shop, or something in between.

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For the Boho Bride: Milumia Bohemian Drawstring Waist Lace Maxi Dress

Breakout your flower headband and pack away your shoes, because this lace maxi dress is meant to be worn amongst nature. The flowy fabric is a wonder in hot weather, and the drawstring waist makes it comfortable to wear long after the photo session is over.

FAQ

Do I have to wear a dress for my engagement photos?

Not at all; when it comes to your engagement photos, the most important thing to remember is that they’re a celebration of your relationship. While lots of couples choose to dress up for the occasion, there’s no rule that says you have to wear a dress—wear something that feels true to you and makes you feel comfortable.
Am I supposed to wear white for my engagement photos?

There’s no rule that says you have to wear white for your engagement photos. While lots of brides choose to as a nod to their wedding, you should wear something that feels true to your personal style and preferences.
How do I pick an engagement photo dress?

If you’re taking photos at home or in your favorite coffee shop, something comfy and casual will complement the locale. Whereas, if you’re at a nice venue or luxe location, opt for something a little dressier.