What does a bride wear to a courthouse wedding?

Whatever you wear is entirely up to you—there are no rules! Some popular outfits for a courthouse wedding include bridal suits , mini dresses, slip dresses, and jumpsuits.

Can I wear a wedding gown for my courthouse wedding?

You can absolutely wear a wedding gown for your courthouse wedding. Your city hall outfit can be as formal or casual as you'd like.

Can I wear a wedding veil for my courthouse wedding?

You can accessorize your courthouse wedding look with anything from a wedding veil and tiara to a chic hat and bridal shawl .

20 Best Courthouse Wedding Outfits of 2022

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What do Bianca Jagger and Emily Ratajkowski have in common? Besides being fashion icons, they both wore bridal suits to their courthouse wedding. Many brides have started to take nontraditional approaches to their wedding looks, especially for courthouse nuptials. Em Rata even skirted the classic white color altogether with her look. Instead, she opted for a mustard yellow suit from—believe it or not—Zara!

The courthouse wedding trend has been increasing in popularity. One plus is that it offers brides the chance to make a seriously chic fashion statement. For the most part, nothing is off-limits. Brides who love a vintage-inspired look, tea-length dresses, or mod silhouettes are sure to please your retro tastes. Modern courthouse brides will be drawn to jumpsuits, sleek separates, and tailored suits, while statement-making brides should go for bold silhouettes with asymmetrical bodices and exaggerated ruffles. And for the bride-to-be with a classic aesthetic, a simple satin or lace dress is forever timeless and elegant.

There are also unlimited places to shop for the courthouse wedding dress of your dreams. You could choose to go to a traditional wedding dress boutique or you can find a dress at stores like Zara or Reformation. In fact, some brands—like Jane Summers—make dresses specifically for courthouse weddings. If you're feeling really adventurous, check out your local vintage store to search for a hidden treasure of a dress. And don't forget accessories: Since courthouse weddings tend to be a more budget-friendly option, brides may have the opportunity to splurge on them a bit more to make their courthouse wedding look truly one of a kind.

Whether your bridal style is clean and classic or edgy and alternative, read on for our favorite courthouse wedding outfits.

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For the Playful Bride: Lulus Absolutely Stunning White Lace Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free shipping over $50 | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

Go whimsical with this off-the-shoulder lace dress. You'll adore how the full-bodied midi skirt allows for movement while still capturing a vision of elegance. Plus, it's under-$100 price tag is unbeatable.

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Best Slip Dress: Satin Slip Dress

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Midi | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

A slinky slip dress is probably as courthouse chic as it gets. Keep accessories casual for a more daytime look or dial up the glamour with embellished heels and statement earrings for a more formal affair.

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For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Danielle Frankel Trench Coat

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Full length | Shipping: $10 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days

What does one wear over their courthouse outfit? A chic trench coat of course! Crafted from light organza and tulle, this sheer jacket makes for a stylish finishing touch for the fashion-forward bride.

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Best Separates: Reformation Linen Top and Skirt

Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

Summer weddings call for bridal separates and lightweight fabrics. If this two-piece set from Reformation feels too casual for your courthouse nuptials, it could easily be worn to your bridal shower or on your honeymoon.

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Best Blazer Dress: Rime Arodaky Jax Belted Lace-Trimmed Crepe Mini Dress

Size Range: FR34-42 | Length: Mini | Shipping: $10 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days

This crisp and sleek blazer dress is a no-brainer for your courthouse wedding. Carry a simple posy of flowers or even just a single stem to complete this ultra-modern and minimalist look.

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Best Jumpsuit: ML Monique Lhuillier V-Neck Jumpsuit

Size Range: 0-18 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

A bridal jumpsuit is a great alternative to a courthouse wedding dress. Style this look with a statement-making clutch or keep it monochromatic for a minimalist vibe.

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For a Winter Courthouse Wedding: Krisa Smocked Turtleneck Dress

Size Range: XS-L | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days

Winter brides, take note of this dress for your courthouse nuptials. The long sleeves and high collar make it perfect for chillier weather, while the short length doesn't make it overly dressy. Pair with a long coat to keep your legs warm after the "I do."

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Most Minimalistic: Victoria Beckham Sleeve Detail Dolman Midi Dress

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

Looking for a classic and simple courthouse wedding outfit? This mini dress from Victoria Beckham just might be your answer. Style with a fun pair of wedding heels for an unexpected touch.

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Best with Long Sleeves: Sachin & Babi Rhinebeck Mini Dress

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Mini | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

Simple yet elegant, this mini dress feels utterly timeless for courthouse nuptials. We love it with a bridal headband or elbow-length veil.

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For a Summer Wedding: Self-Portrait Off-the-Shoulder Guipure Lace Mini Dress

Size Range: UK4-14 | Length: Mini | Shipping: $10 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days

If you're searching for a courthouse wedding outfit that you'll definitely wear again, look no further than this Self-Portrait dress. This dreamy lace number is divine for summer nuptials and can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

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Best Floral Detailing: Payal Jain Archer Mini Dress

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Mini | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

This off-white mini dress is perfect for the vintage-loving bride. The shift silhouette is embellished with dimensional floral detailing.

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Most Formal Jumpsuit: DB Studio One-Shoulder Crepe Bow Jumpsuit

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Full-length | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $149; Standard shipping fees are based on your order's value | Return policy: Full refund within 7 days

A nontraditional bride will love this wide-leg jumpsuit with a drapey charmeuse one-shoulder neckline from DB Studio. A removable sash allows you to tailor a fit most comfortable to you.

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Best Lace Dress: Jonathan Simkhai Signature Joy Mini Dress

Size Range: 00-16 | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free shipping over $100 | Return policy: Full refund within 14 days

Sweet and simple, this mini dress is perfect for a spring or summer courthouse wedding. The silhouette is signature for Jonathan Simkhai, from its rounded high-collar to its A-line design.

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Best Back: Bernadette Bow-Back Satin Mini Dress

Size Range: EU34-42 | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free shipping on all orders over $250 or $15 express shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days

Though this mini dress is simple in silhouette, the oversize bow detail is a playful touch for low-key impact. We love it with classic kitten heels and modern pearl accessories.

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Most Romantic: Bronx and Banco Saba Blanc Midi Dress

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days

If you are deciding on a courthouse wedding, but still want a fairy-tale dress, opt for this design from Bronx and Banco. Mesh fabric with lace trim and floral applique make up this midi dress fit for a princess.

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For the Vintage Bride: Sau Lee Cassia Dress

Size Range: 0-8 | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days

The founder of Sau Lee, Cheryl Leung, combines modern and vintage with an East-West influence, and that shines through in this elegant midi dress. Pair with classic white or nude heels and gold jewelry for a timeless look that's perfect for your courthouse wedding.

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Most Sophisticated: Black Halo Carolina Dress

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

For a polished courthouse look, consider this A-line option. The mid-weight stretch crepe works great for any season, and the bow detail at the neckline pulls this design together.

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For Your Something Blue: Jane Summers Isabella Backless Short White Wedding Dress

Jane Summers Isabella Backless Short White City Hall And Courthouse Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Jane Summers

Size Range: 2-12 | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 14 days

This dress from Jane Summers features a fun fit-and-flare style skirt with a fitted bodice. Our favorite part is the unexpected baby blue ribbon that ties together the back. It's the perfect way to add a bit of subtle color into your look.

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Best Bridal Suit: Reformation Kinsale Set

Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Full-Length | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

Channel some of the most iconic celeb courthouse wedding outfits with this bridal suit from Reformation. The wide-leg pant and oversize blazer is a chic and fashion-forward twist on tradition.

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Best Linen Dress: Zimmerman Rosa Laced Midi Dress

Size Range: 00-4 | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free 3-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

For a lightweight, stylish dress for your courthouse "I-dos", we adore this linen midi dress from Zimmermann. The trim features elegant scalloped detailing, and the bodice has unique strap detailing.

What to Look for in a Courthouse Wedding Outfit

The beauty of a courthouse wedding is that anything goes when it comes to your bridal outfit. While some brides may gravitate toward sleek jumpsuits and modern bridal suits, others choose to wear floor-length gowns or tea-length frocks. Plus, there’s no rule that says you have to wear white. If you’re looking to make a statement at city hall, opt for dresses in floral prints and vibrant colors.

Since you'll likely be taking plenty of photos outside or on the steps of city hall, it's important to dress for the season. Winter brides should consider long-sleeve jumpsuits, dresses, and wedding suits made from warm fabrics while summer brides should opt for cotton or linen dresses in crisp bridal white and floral prints. And as you're shopping, keep in mind what accessories you're looking to pair with your ensemble. Accessories like veils, headbands, clutches, and classic pumps often make for the perfect finishing touch to a courthouse outfit.

FAQ

What does a bride wear to a courthouse wedding?

Whatever you wear is entirely up to you—there are no rules! Some popular outfits for a courthouse wedding include bridal suits, mini dresses, slip dresses, and jumpsuits.
Can I wear a wedding gown for my courthouse wedding?

You can absolutely wear a wedding gown for your courthouse wedding. Your city hall outfit can be as formal or casual as you'd like.
Can I wear a wedding veil for my courthouse wedding?

You can accessorize your courthouse wedding look with anything from a wedding veil and tiara to a chic hat and bridal shawl.

The Best Wedding Suits for Every Bridal Occasion

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, guests, wedding parties, and more.