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 .

18 Best Courthouse Wedding Outfits of 2021

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Coveting Bianca Jagger or Emily Ratajkowski's courthouse wedding looks? You're not alone! Courthouse weddings are gaining popularity and offer brides the chance to make a seriously chic fashion statement.

When it comes to dressing for intimate courthouse nuptials, there are scores of stylish outfits to choose from. For 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.

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

Best Blazer Dress: Rime Arodaky Lace Trimmed Dress

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.

Best Back: Bernadette Bow-Back Satin Mini Dress

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.

For a Summer Wedding: Self-Portrait Crochet-Trimmed Tiered Corded Lace Gown

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.

For the Classic Bride: Emilia Wickstead Belted Wool-Crepe Midi Dress

You can never go wrong with a structured and belted dress. Not only is this Emilia Wickstead midi dress flattering and comfortable—it's a classic style that will remain timeless in photos.

Best Open Back: Especia Cut-Out Dress

Summer brides— you need this ruffled open back dress. Effortlessly chic and crafted from easy-breezy cotton, you'll never want to take off this laid-back style.

Best Separates: Reformation Linen Top and Skirt

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.

Best Jumpsuit: ML Monique Lhuillier V-Neck Jumpsuit

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.

For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Danielle Frankel Trench Coat

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.

Best Tea-Length: By Watters Bustier Dress

Who says you can't wear sparkle at city hall? Not us! It's time to celebrate in this vintage-inspired and pearl-studded frock.

For the Traditional Bride: Self-Portrait Ruched-Sleeve Flared Midi Dress

ruched sleeves dress — Courtesy of Farfetch

A tea-length dress is a classic choice for a courthouse outfit. What sets this dress apart is its sweet swiss dot sleeves and ruched bodice. Pair this look with strappy sandals or velvet mules.

Best Bridal Suit: Carolina Herrera Wool Suit

For the modern and fashion-forward bride, a wedding suit is a smart pick. Sleek and sexy, this Carolina Herrera number reminds us of Bianca Jagger's iconic wedding day look.

Best Mini: Lulus Puff Sleeves Dress

Keep it short and sweet in this mini puff sleeves dress. Looking to kick things up a notch? Add a floor-length veil for instant drama.

Most Elegant: Markarian White Silk Dress

courthouse dress — Courtesy of Markarian

For a supremely elegant courthouse look, this silk dupioni dress is a must. Wear yours with classic block heels, delicate personal jewelry, and a berry lip.

Best Slip Dress: Satin Slip Dress

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.

Best Details: Rebecca Vallance Clara Bustier Mini Dress

Show off your legs in this flirty and fitted mini dress. A pearl-embellished belt and bustier-inspired seaming make this courthouse-ready outfit all the more showstopping.

Most Simple: Reformation Tie Straps Dress

This frock from Reformation is as sweet as ever for the bride-to-be with a feminine aesthetic. Follow the styling lead and pair with a mid-length veil for added romance.

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

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

Best with Long Sleeves: Sachin & Babi Rhinebeck Mini Dress

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

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 towards 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 your 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.

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.

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