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Courtesy of Cult Gaia
Wedding dresses with feathers are perfect for brides who’ve dreamed of a fanciful gown on their big day. And lately, bridal designers are delivering in spades, from Monique Lhuillier’s A-line gown with hot-pink plumes to Oscar de la Renta’s strapless silk organza dress with a full-feathered skirt (which features 81 yards of ostrich feather trim!). But not all feathered wedding dresses have to be over the top or bold. Many iterations come with delicate feathered details, incorporated as playful accents to minimal and classic designs.
“One of my favorite details right now would have to be the feather accent,” says Pia Panaligan, director of styling and visual design at David’s Bridal. “It’s very sleek and modern, especially as a trim around the neckline or hem!” The bridal expert also suggests feathers for a party dress, be it a second look at the reception or an after-party. “It gives off a fun, flirty look,” she says.
While a wedding dress with feathers can work in any year or season, BHLDN's senior brand stylist, Lindsey Love, says they’re an excellent option for 2021 brides whose weddings were postponed or those who are having a bigger celebration after intimate nuptials. “In 2021, anything goes,” she tells Brides. “The 2021 bride is excited to celebrate, and she’s letting her personality shine.” Adding, “These optimistic touches bring a sense of whimsy and fun—and who couldn’t use more of that!?”
Meet the Expert
- Pia Panaligan is the director of styling and visual design at David’s Bridal and is based in Philadelphia, PA. With a thorough knowledge of bridal fashion, current trends, and an acute eye for fit and detail, she articulates the brand's voice each season by styling their digital and print fashion editorials and brand visuals.
- Lindsey Love is a senior brand stylist at BHLDN. With a deep understanding of the BHLDN bride and product, she styles brides head to toe and provides thoughtful insight to internal teams, in order to ensure the customer’s voice is heard. Her favorite perk of the job: trying on every single gown!
No matter your style, whether it be feminine, boho, glamorous, or refined, there’s undoubtedly a feathered wedding dress for you. Ahead, discover 17 dresses we love for every budget.
Best Ballgown: Elie Saab Look 1 Feathered Wedding Ballgown
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Courtesy of Elie Saab
Material: Embroidered beading and sequins and ostrich feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
This Elie Saab ballgown is the ultimate show stopper. Adorned with intricately embroidered beading and sequins, opulent ostrich feathers undoubtedly steal the show.
Price at time of publish: Price Upon Request
For the Chic Bride: Elizabeth Fillmore Veronika Feathered Wedding Gown
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Courtesy of Elizabeth Fillmore Bridal
Material: Satin, crepe, and feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
Sleek and simple, the Veronika is chic perfection. Its effortlessly couture fit and show-stopping satin fabric speak for itself.
Price at time of publish: Price Upon Request
For the Maximalist: Esé Azénabor Style #4017 Feathered Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Esé Azénabor
Material: Crystals, Japanese glass stones, sequins, pearls, and feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
If you subscribe to a more-is-more aesthetic, you’ll adore this extravagant design by Esé Azénabor. The bedecked design features long feathered sleeves, a high neckline, and a dramatically high slit with cascading ruffles.
Price at time of publish: Price Upon Request
Best Wrap Silhouette: Markarian Artemis White Silk Dress with Feather Detailing
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Courtesy of Markarian
Material: 100% silk, crystal belt, and feathers | Length: Midi | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Final sale
Though this wrap dress is structured, the feather trim and pretty puff sleeves are plenty whimsical. We love this for City Hall brides or those planning an intimate ceremony.
Price at time of publish: $3595
Best Strapless Neckline: Pantora Bridal Style Mira Feathered Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Kleinfeld Bridal
Material: Embroidered Mira lace, beading, sequins, crepe, and feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
From its beading, sequins, silky soft crepe, and ostrich feathers, to the exquisitely embroidered Mira lace, this Pantora gown has it all. We adore the classic sweetheart neckline paired with its strapless cut that beautifully showcases the décolletage.
Price at time of publish: Price Upon Request
For a Splash of Color: Monique Lhuillier Happy Feather Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Monique Lhuillier
Material: Tulle and feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
Leave it to Monique Lhuillier to perfectly fuse sophistication and spirit into one elegant gown. For the bride craving a pop of color, it doesn’t get better than this.
Price at time of publish: Price Upon Request
Best Two-Piece Set: Lela Rose The Seychelles Mini Embroidered Feather Skirt with Crepe Backed Satin Tank
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Courtesy of Lela Rose
Material: Crepe-back satin and feathers | Length: Mini | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
For an after-party look made up of two pieces, it doesn’t get more elegant than this Lea Rose set. The crepe-backed satin tank is a sleek contrast to the playfulness of the embroidered feather mini skirt.
Price at time of publish: Price Upon Request
Best Mermaid Gown: Galia Lahav Style G-108 Feathered Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Galia Lahav
Material: Beading, 3D petals, and feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
Feather-embroidered netting and 3D petals make this mermaid dress distinctive as ever. It’s versatile, too—the dress includes a hand-beaded top intended to be worn under the fanciful feathers.
Price at time of publish: Price Upon Request
Most Embellished: Justin Alexander Signature Lenox Off The Shoulder Beaded Gown With Marabou Feathers
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Courtesy of Justin Alexander
Material: Tulle, beading, embroidery, and marabou feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
Lean into a glamorous vibe on your wedding day in this fully beaded gown, with marabou feather sleeves. The detachable straps offer you the option to start sans feathers, then add them on once the celebration kicks into gear at the reception.
Price at time of publish: Price Upon Request
Best High-Low Hem: BCBG Max Azria Paloma Faux Feather Evening Wedding Gown
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Courtesy of BCBG Max Arzia
Material: Metallic mesh and faux feathers | Length: High-low | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery
This fun and flirty little number demands a statement shoe with its striking high-low hemline. Adorned with a flurry of faux feathers, you'll have the time of your life twirling the night away in this beauty.
Price at time of publish: $468
Best One Shoulder: Christian Siriano Silk Cascading Feather Sleeve Wedding Gown
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Courtesy of Christian Siriano
Material: Silk and feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 10 days of delivery
Effortlessly sophisticated, this Christian Siriano gown is a pure bridal dream. We're obsessed with the slinky draping and shoulder-baring neckline.
Price at time of publish: $5200
For the Romantic Bride: Rivini SS/22 Valerie Feathered Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Rita Vinieris
Material: 3D floral appliqué, beading, shimmer lace, and feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
You'll practically float down the aisle in this dreamy Rivini gown. Adorned with a shimmering 3D floral design and ethereal statement sleeve, it's impossible to take your eyes off of this work of art.
Price at time of publish: Price Upon Request
Best Bridal Mini: Anne Barge Twinkle in Time Feather Lace One-Shoulder Mini Dress
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Courtesy of Anne Barge
Material: Beading and feathers | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted within guidelines
Featuring a one-shoulder neckline and exceptionally tailored fit, this Anne Barge mini is fresh and fun. Its feathered design is paired with intricate beading for a sparkly finish.
Price at time of publish: $825
Best Train: Casablanca Bridal Style 2385 Adeline Feathered Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Casablanca Bridal
Material: Stretch chiffon, lace, and feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
The exquisite feather-filled train of this Casablanca gown speaks for itself. Paired with a classic fit-and-flare silhouette and strapless neckline, the Adeline dress photographs especially well.
Price at time of publish: Price Upon Request
Best Slip Dress: Wiederhoeft Long Bias Feather Embroidered Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Wiederhoeft
Material: Hammered crepe-back satin, crystals, and feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
Calling all minimalists! This pretty little number is equally comfortable as it is effortlessly chic. We absolutely adore the subtle cowl neckline paired with its dainty straps and silky column fit.
Price at time of publish: $2090
Most Dazzling: Naeem Khan Lafayette Feathered Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Naeem Khan
Material: Beading, sequins, and feathers | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
Beads! Sequins! Feathers! This dress has it all. With a plunging neckline to boot, you’re guaranteed to dazzle in this gown on your wedding day.
Price at time of publish: Price Upon Request
Best Party Dress: REVOLVE Zariah Feathered Mini Dress
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Courtesy of REVOLVE
Material: Feathers | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 60 days of purchase
You're bound to get the party started in this incredible feather-filled mini. Need we say more?
Price at time of publish: $1194
What to Look for in a Feathered Wedding Dress
When it comes to saying "yes!" to a wedding gown with feather details, it's all about letting your personality shine through. With its bold and fashion-forward connotation, a feathered dress is the ultimate way to make a chic bridal statement. For those looking to style this soft texture to the max, we recommend a full ballgown with a flurry of feathers from head to toe or a design featuring an ombré effect. Of course, the look pairs especially well with intricate beading or embroidery. Plus, it adds an irresistible sparkle that ensures all eyes on you. If you're searching for a more subtly chic feathered bridal look, we can't get enough of silky slip dresses adorned with luxurious draping and feathered trims or necklines. Pair the ensemble with chandelier earrings and a statement shoe to instantly elevate the effortlessly elegant look. No matter how opulent the feathered gown you ultimately choose may be, be mindful of balance. If the gown features a heavy volume of feathers towards the hem of the dress, opt for a strapless or open neckline. Conversely, for a piece with a large volume of feathers along the neckline or bodice, keep the skirt more straight such as a column silhouette. Keeping the voluminous nature of your feathers balanced will help ensure that the details don't consume you.
Why Trust Us / About the Author
Contributing writer Laura Lajiness Kaupke is a professional writer and editor covering all things bridal fashion. With a degree in Journalism from the University of Arizona, she later became the senior fashion editor at The Zoe Report and POPSUGAR. Her work has appeared on ELLE, InStyle, Refinery29, Well+Good, and Barneys New York in addition to Brides.