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JP Yim
For many brides-to-be, a top priority is finding a wedding dress that feels timeless but still speaks to their personality. A classic gown that nods to one's unique style is the most reliable way to ensure you'll feel in your own skin on the big day. One silhouette that consistently checks off these boxes is the long-sleeve wedding dress.
Gowns with long, fitted sleeves have been a favorite for centuries thanks to their versatility and elegance. And while you may consider a dress that covers up your arms as a more conservative look, many fashion brands have proven that long sleeves can go a lot of ways (minimalist, bohemian style, architectural, Victorian-inspired...you get the idea). From intricate lace sleeves to ethereal tulle all the way to sleek satin—there are so many choices for every style and body type.
Read on for the best long-sleeved wedding gowns.
Best Off-the-Shoulder: Wtoo by Watters Miles Gown
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Courtesy of BHLDN
If you want the long-sleeved look but want to show off a little more skin, an off-the-shoulder silhouette is the way to go. This ethereal pick is alluring and universally flattering.
Price at time of publish: $1,278
Best Under $150: Lulus Following Your Heart White Lace Long Sleeve Maxi Dress
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Courtesy of Lulus
Lace sleeves (as opposed to solid silk) add a textural element to a wedding dress. This Lulus gown feels romantic and delicate—and the lace-crafted sleeves add a touch of old-world charm. Plus, it retails for under $150 making it budget-friendly to boot.
Price at time of publish: $119
Best Plunging Neckline: BHLDN Vale Gown
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Courtesy of BHLDN
If you’re going for the unabashedly romantic aesthetic, this long-sleeved lace dress should do the trick. The feminine puff sleeves are offset by the sexy and modern plunging neckline. We can't help but picture this style at a gorgeous garden soirée.
Price at time of publish: $1,950
Best Lace Sleeves: Melissa Sweet Illusion Long Sleeve Faux Surplice Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
The high slit on this long-sleeved lace dress adds fluidity to the entire gown. Plus, it gives the perfect opportunity for your heels to shine.
Price at time of publish: $849
For a Chic City Wedding: Rime Arodaky Joni Swiss-Dot Tulle and Crepe Gown
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Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
For a bold aesthetic, go for this striking gown featuring delicate swiss-dot tulle, slightly flared sleeves, and a dramatic front slit. It's a design that works with a range of wedding decor styles, but we can't help but envision it at a chic city wedding.
Price at time of publish: $5,055
For the Classic Bride: David's Bridal Off-the-Shoulder Buttoned Back Crepe Wedding Dress
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This classic long-sleeved gown echoes minimalist sensibilities without feeling too plain. Add in sparkling earrings for a touch of glamour.
Price at time of publish: $499
Best A-Line Silhouette:: Oleg Cassini Off-the-Shoulder Lace A-Line Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
Crafted with three types of lace motifs and over 2,000 beads and sequins, this long-sleeved gown is sure to shine bright all day long. Follow the styling lead and pair yours with a matching lace-trimmed veil for an utterly show-stopping ensemble.
Price at time of publish: $1,499
Best Puff Sleeves: Reformation Stars Dress
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Courtesy of Reformation
If you’re searching for a wedding dress with bohemian vibes, this puff sleeves number from Reformation is a pretty pick. Add a delicate wreath of flowers in your hair and keep accessories simple to complete your effortless look.
Price at time of publish: $428
Retro Yet Timeless: Rebecca Vallance Rebecca Vallance Monique Gown
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Courtesy of BHLDN
If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, try this square neckline, puff sleeves gown. It has a slightly retro vibe, but it still comes off looking timeless. Plus, the back bow offers a real 'wow' moment.
Price at time of publish: $1,695
For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Danielle Frankel Noa Gown
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Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
This exquisite gown is structured yet fluid and is bound to leave a lasting impression thanks to the unique off-the-shoulder neckline. Call off the search, minimalists—your dream dress has been found.
Price at time of publish: $5,990
Most Romantic: Galia Lahav Style #G-408
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Courtesy of Galia Lahav
Featuring 3-D embellishments, this whimsical gown checks off all the boxes. And both the plunging neckline and striking back offer extra wow moments.
Best Sheer Sleeves: Amsale Karime Gown
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Courtesy of Amsale
If you want the effect of long sleeves without the added weight, try sheer ones. The contrast between the delicate tulle and leaf lace lends a delicate finish to this gorgeous gown.
Most Victorian-Inspired: Erdem Alvaro Belted Ruffled Tiered Embroidered Silk-Organza Gown
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Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
Lean into an old-world look with this ruffle-neck, fluted-sleeve gown. Victorian-inspired brides, get excited. Accentuate the aesthetic with pearl drop earrings and a delicate tennis bracelet.
Price at time of publish: $7,495
Most Unique: Dana Harel Design Wild Flowers Alexandra Gown
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Courtesy of Dana Harel Design
Not for the faint of heart, this show-stopping gown features a plunging neckline and matching front slits that reveal a lace mini hemline.
Best Square Neckline: Chana Marelus Dahlia Pearl-Encrusted Sheath Wedding Gown
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Courtesy of Chana Marelus
Exquisite beading and a delicately scalloped neckline are just a couple of many breathtaking details on this wedding dress. The dainty, long sleeves seal the deal.
For the Boho Bride: Design Files x Nevenka Your Heart is Your Queen Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Nevenka
The proportions on this handcrafted gown are well-suited for an earthy, free-spirited bride. Come for the bell sleeves, stay for the pretty swaths of white lace.
Best Detailed Open-Back: Galvan Athena Open-Back Jersey Maxi Dress
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Courtesy of Matchesfashion
Crafted in a comfortable and sculpting jersey, this dress boasts clean lines and a flattering silhouette. The open back silhouetted with faux pearls also offers a unique twist and will look stunning from every angle.
Price at time of publish: $1,695
Most Ethereal: Willowby by Watters Cameron Gown
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BHLDN
It would be impossible to not feel elated walking down the aisle in this striking long-sleeved lace gown from Willowby by Watters. With an off-the-shoulder neckline, exaggerated puff sleeves, and a flowing skirt, this gown is equal parts dramatic and ethereal.
Price at time of publish: $1,298
What to Look For in a Long Sleeve Wedding Dress
Long sleeve wedding dresses are a great choice for winter nuptials or for brides who are looking for a silhouette with more coverage. While long sleeve dresses are a smart pick for the colder months, they're actually highly versatile and can be worn year-round. For spring and summer weddings, opt for sleeves crafted from sheer tulle or lightweight lace. If you're looking for something a little more fashion-forward and statement-making, consider dramatic bishop sleeves or styles with allover embellishments. And for brides who prefer a more modest silhouette, long sleeve gowns with high necklines and floor-length hems have you covered.
Why Trust Brides
Nicole Kliest is a fashion, travel, and food & wine writer based in New York City. With over nine years of experience in the digital publishing industry, her work has appeared on sites including Who What Wear, The Zoe Report, Cools, Popsugar, Harper's Bazaar, Elle.
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