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 Courtesy of Rache Havel
We're firm believers that your wedding day look should celebrate and showcase your personal style. While some brides may covet dramatic ballgowns crafted from layers of voluminous tulle or heavily embellished fabrics, others may find beauty in clean lines, classic silhouettes, and subtle details. If you fall into the latter category – you're a minimalist bride.
As a minimalist bride, you'll likely be drawn to simple and classic silhouettes like pared-back slip dresses, unadorned ballgowns and courthouse-chic mini dresses. For the bride who seeks out simple designs with an unexpected twist, you'll love gowns that boast subtle and shimmering beading, romantic lace details and modern necklines. Whether you're having an intimate backyard ceremony, throwing a glamorous black-tie wedding or exchanging vows at city hall, there are scores of simple wedding dresses out there to complement every bridal style.
Ahead, the best simple wedding dresses for every season, body type, and budget.
Best Slip Dress: Julie de Libran Crystal-Embellished Silk-Satin Gown
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Courtesy of Matchesfashion
If you're a bride-to-be with a minimalist aesthetic, then a simple slip dress is a no-brainer for your wedding day but if you're looking for an elevated version of this classic silhouette, then opt for a style with unexpected details. This silk-satin slip from Julie de Libran features an exquisite crystal embellished back and a high slit at the front.
Best Size Inclusive: David's Bridal Strapless Plus Size Dress
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This clean and modern stretch crepe strapless gown hugs your body in all of the right places. Designed with a form-fitting bodice and curve-accentuating princess seams, this David's Bridal gown couldn't be any more flattering or timeless.
For a Spring Wedding: Black Halo Asymmetrical Bodice Dress
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Courtesy of Shopbop
For the spring or summer bride, a strapless column dress is the way to go. This Black Halo number actually features a no-slip grip on the bodice so you won't have to worry about adjusting your gown throughout the night–phew!
Most Dramatic: Alex Perry Cape-Effect Crepe Gown
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Courtesy of Alex Perry
Choosing to wear a simple gown doesn't mean you can't bring the drama! This lightweight crepe gown with a modern cape-effect is giving us serious Solange Knowles vibes.
For a Semi-Formal Wedding: Floravere Bow Back Dress
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Courtesy of Floravere
It's all in the details when it comes to making a simple dress feel special. Maybe it's bows, a plunging neckline, lace embroidery, an asymmetrical hemline, or an open back–start with the shape of the silhouette and go from there!
Best High-Neck: White by Vera Wang High Neck Halter Dress
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
One of the best features of a simple wedding dress is that it most likely won't weigh you down and instead, will move effortlessly with you. This body-skimming halter-neck gown from White by Vera Wang will have you gliding down the aisle.
For a Winter Wedding: Floravere Flocked Velvet Dress
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Courtesy of Floravere
For a winter wedding, long sleeves and velvet touches are a must. This dreamy Floravere gown comes complete with gauzy sleeves flocked with velvet details.
Best Cowl Neck: Jenny by Jenny Yoo Minimalist Slip Gown
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Courtesy of BHLDNÂ
Not all slips are created equal. How a slip dress is constructed is very important from the draping right down to the placement of seams. This Jenny by Jenny Yoo style features a soft cowl neckline, an empire bust seam, and a bias-cut skirt that gives way to a gentle train to create a truly figure-flattering design.
Shopping FAQs
Are you a minimalist bride searching for the perfect simple dress? We've answered three common questions brides have when shopping for a simple wedding dress.
- What is a simple wedding dress? Traditionally, a simple wedding dress is clean and sleek with minimal embellishments. A simple wedding dress is pared-back and unfussy and suited to all types of weddings from casual ceremonies to formal nuptials.
- How do I style a simple wedding dress? There are many ways to style a simple wedding dress. If you're more of a minimalist, you can choose to pair your dress with delicate personal jewelry and modern accessories. If you're looking to make a statement, consider a dramatic floor-length veil or shoulder-grazing earrings.
- Are simple wedding dresses less expensive than other wedding dresses? Usually, simple wedding dresses with less embellishments like hand beading or embroidery will be less expensive than ornate gowns. That said, the type of fabric also plays a major role in the overall cost of a gown so make sure to familiarize yourself with the different types of fabrics before you start your search.