Can I wear a black wedding dress for my wedding?

Absolutely! A black wedding dress can be just as timeless and elegant as a white wedding dress.

How can I accessorize my black wedding dress?

When it comes to choosing bridal accessories, let your personal style and wedding gown guide your decision. Minimalist brides may opt for delicate jewelry and monochromatic accessories while statement-making brides might be drawn to accessories in bold pops of color.

Can I wear a black wedding dress for my summer wedding?

Yes! Black is a highly versatile color and can work for all types of weddings. For a summer wedding, opt for a black wedding dress crafted from a light and airy fabric like cotton or linen and keep accessories simple and laid-back.

The 12 Best Black Wedding Dresses of 2023

backless black dress — Courtesy of Cult Gaia

Don't get us wrong, we'll always have an affinity for the traditional ivory gown, but with so many gorgeous black wedding dresses out there, from dramatic ballgowns to slinky slips, it's easy to see why this flattering hue has quickly become an instant classic suited for any bridal style. And, we're not the only ones crushing on this ultra modern and sleek bridal look either. Celebrities and influencers are hopping on the black wedding dress train, too. Can we ever forget the ever-stylish Sarah Jessica Parker saying "I do" in a ruffled black wedding gown?

Not only are black wedding dresses sleek and stylish, they're also very versatile and can easily be worn again and again long after you say "I do."

Whether you consider yourself an unconventional bride or you're searching for a sleek and statement-making alternative to bridal white, we've rounded up the best black wedding dresses for every style, body type, and budget. We looked for high quality materials, flattering cuts, wide size ranges, and various styles to fit every wedding theme and location.

Our Top Picks

Best Budget:

Lulus Ruffled One-Shoulder Dress at Lulus

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Best Plus-Size:

David's Bridal Off the Shoulder Satin Gown Wedding Dress at David's Bridal

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Best Boho:

ASOS Edition Eyelet Midi Dress at Asos

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For the Minimalist Bride:

BHLDN Serephina Dress at Bhldn

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Best Slip:

Reformation Chania Silk Dress at Reformation

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Best Corset Style:

BCBGMAXAZRIA Corset Tulle Gown at Revolve

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Best Sparkle:

Nookie Lumiere Gown at Revolve

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Best Slit:

Betsy & Adam Ruffle Gown at Amazon

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Best with Bow:

Sachin & Babi Keira Gown at Anthropologie

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Best Ruffle:

Markarian Arabella Gown at Markarian-nyc.com

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Lulus

View On Lulus

Size range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester, Spandex | Neckline: One Shoulder

With its one shoulder ruffled design, this dress looks way more expensive than it actually is. Made from polyester and spandex, this dress has a nice weight to it that makes you feel supportive but it's still stretchy enough to be comfortable. It's also extremely flattering—the ruffles play up your chest while the mermaid skirt flaunts your curves.

Price at time of publish: $89

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Size range: 16-30 | Material: Satin | Neckline: Off-the-Shoulder

Though we love all the colors this dress comes in—there are six to choose from—we love how going with black puts a spin on tradition. You still have the traditional fairytale ball gown, only in a dramatically dark color. Made from satin, the dress feels extra luxurious in the dark hue. Little details like hidden pockets on elastic on the off-the-shoulder sleeves make it functional and comfortable too.

Price at time of publish: $699

ASOS

View On Asos View On Asos

Size range: 0-26 | Material: Cotton | Neckline: V-Neck

Black and summer may not sound like the best combination but this dress from ASOS will keep you cool. It's made from 100 percent which is extra breathable and the eyelet design will let a breeze pass through. We love the twist front and the square back as extra cute details. The boho vibe is also great for warmer seasons. You can shop both regular and curve sizes for the ideal fit.

Price at time of publish: $225

Anthropologie

View On Bhldn

Size range: 0-26 | Material: Crepe | Neckline: High

Conservative in the front but all party in the back, this BHLDN crepe dress is simple, sleek, and stunning. Wear your hair up to showcase the sophisticated high neckline and sexy back details.

Price at time of publish: $108

Reformation.

View On Reformation View On Anthropologie

Size range: XS-XL | Material: Silk | Neckline: V-Neck

Minimalist brides – don this sexy and sleek slip dress for an effortless and totally unfussy wedding day look. Plus, since this slip is in black, there's no need to worry about your undergarments peeking through.

Price at time of publish: $398

REVOLVE

View On Revolve View On Bcbg.com View On Bloomingdales

Size range: 0-16 | Material: Polyester | Neckline: Square with Spaghetti Straps

For the bride who isn't afraid to make a statement, this one's for you. We love a leg moment and a little ruffled texture for a fashion-forward walk down the aisle. The corset bodice is super on trend as well.

Price at time of publish: $498

REVOLVE

View On Revolve

Size range: XS-XL | Material: Nylon, Spandex, Polyester | Neckline: Sweetheart

If you're already breaking tradition with a black gown, you might as well go all out and bring on the sparkle. The simple silhouette of this gown created the perfect balance to the allover sparkle. It's the perfect choice for a New Years Eve wedding.

Price at time of publish: $429

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Lyst.com

Size range: 2-14 | Material: Spandex, Polyester | Neckline: Jewel

Did someone say flamenco? With the sexy slit and romantic ruffles, we can totally see this dress at a destination wedding in Spain. While it shows off some leg and your curves, it's still modest on top. The fabric has a bit of stretch to hug your curves. We won't be surprised if you wear this beyond your wedding.

Price at time of publish: $259

Saks Fifth Avenue

View On Anthropologie View On Sachinandbabi.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Size range: 0-14 | Material: Spandex, Polyester | Neckline: Strapless

We love a good oversized bow, especially if it's attached to a glamourous gown! A structured bodice and a column skirt make for a very flattering silhouette. We love the pearl accents and high slit in the back. Pair this dress with shoulder-grazing earrings and a classic sandal for a completely put together and polished look.

Price at time of publish: $895

Markarian

View On Markarian-nyc.com

Size range: 0-16 | Material: Silk dupioni | Neckline: Scoop

For brides looking for understated elegance, we leave you with this exquisite gown from Markarian. Crafted from light-weight silk dupioni, this gown is a special occasion piece meant to wow on your wedding day and to be worn long after you say "I do." Wear yours with cascading pearl earrings for a particularly striking look.

Price at time of publish: $2,695

SHERBONclothing Black Gothic Floral Wedding Dress

Etsy

View On Etsy

Size range: Inquire with retailer | Material: Tulle and floral lace appliqué | Neckline: Off-the-Shoulder

This show-stopping ballgown combines a gothic flair with a bit of Victorian style. Our favorite part: those super dreamy bishop sleeves.

Price at time of publish: $2,088

SkairaShop Black Lace Bohemian Wedding Dress

Etsy

View On Etsy

Size range: S-2XL | Material: Tulle and lace | Neckline: Plunging

Ideal for outdoor nuptials, this soft and bohemian gown features stunning lace details throughout its sheer tulle skirt. We especially love the double slit and ultra striking plunging neckline.

Price at time of publish: $115

What to Look For in a Black Wedding Dress

Style

For the bride looking for classic styles with a twist, the options for black dresses with clean and structured silhouettes are endless. We love how David's Bridal Satin Gown juxtaposes the classic ball gown with the dark shade. A minimalist bride searching for simplicity will find inspiration in sleek slip dresses and body-skimming sheaths, like Reformation's Chania Dress. The dark shade is especially perfect for the ultra dramatic bride seeking a statement-making gown. Elaborate ballgowns with cathedral-length matching veils are ideal for the over-the-top bride celebrating Halloween-themed, goth, or even Victorian-style nuptials. Coming with a long tulle train, this dress from Etsy will make you feel like the main character of your own fairytale.

Fabric

You might think that black dresses aren't suited for warm weather, but that's not true! The key to staying cool while wearing black is looking for lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and lace. Made from 100 percent cotton and filled with cutouts, ASOS Edition Broderie Midi Dress is ideal for a warm wedding. On the other hand, heavier fabrics like silk or full on sequins are ideal for winter weddings. As the name suggests, Nookie Lumiere Dress will have you shimmering all night long.

Veil

Ask your bridal consultant if your black gown has a matching veil. If you're going custom, inquire with your designer if he or she can create a matching veil that incorporates black details or (dare we say) is entirely black! We also think a black birdcage veil is incredibly chic, dramatic, and slightly mysterious. If you're truly going nontraditional in all aspects, ditch the veil and opt for show-stopping jewelry. Gold and silver tones pop even more against the dark hue. Skip the necklace and go for chandelier drop-earrings for an elegant and elongating look. Or, slip on a stack of bracelets for another bold option. Long story short—the options are endless!

FAQ

Can I wear a black wedding dress for my wedding?

Absolutely! A black wedding dress can be just as timeless and elegant as a white wedding dress.
How can I accessorize my black wedding dress?

When it comes to choosing bridal accessories, let your personal style and wedding gown guide your decision. Minimalist brides may opt for delicate jewelry and monochromatic accessories while statement-making brides might be drawn to accessories in bold pops of color.
Can I wear a black wedding dress for my summer wedding?

Yes! Black is a highly versatile color and can work for all types of weddings. For a summer wedding, opt for a black wedding dress crafted from a light and airy fabric like cotton or linen and keep accessories simple and laid-back.

Why Trust Brides

With over seven years of industry experience, contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding parties, and guests.

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