Can I wear a long sleeve wedding dress in the summer?

Absolutely! Wedding dresses with lightweight sleeves cut from breathable fabrics like tulle, chiffon, and lace are all great options for warm-weather nuptials—we love the Wtoo by Watters Miles V-Neck Mesh Wedding Gown and the Lulus Elegant Eternity White Mesh Maxi Dress .

Do long sleeve wedding dresses work for all body types?

Long sleeve wedding dresses work well for all shapes and sizes and come in a wide range of figure-flattering silhouettes . The key is to try on a variety of styles and choose whichever one makes you feel like your most beautiful and confident self!

Are long sleeve wedding dresses comfortable?

Long sleeves wedding dresses can be very comfortable but keep in mind that some fabrics are more structured than others and may limit your range of motion. Certain fabrics may also feel rough or scratchy if you have sensitive skin.

18 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses

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 confident 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 be equally sexy and on-trend—like minimalist and bohemian styles or architectural and Victorian-inspired gowns.

From intricate lace sleeves to ethereal tulle to sleek satin—there is an abundance of long-sleeve choices for every style and body type. To help narrow down your search, we've researched and selected the best options, keeping materials, price point, style, and overall quality in mind.

Read on for the best long-sleeved wedding gowns.

Our Top Picks

Best Under $150:

Lulus Wedding Dress at Lulus

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For the Fashion-Forward Bride:

Danielle Frankel Wedding Dress at Net-a-Porter

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Best Off-the-Shoulder:

Wtoo by Watters Wedding Dress at Anthropologie

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Most Ethereal:

Willowby by Watters Tiered-Sleeve Off-Shoulder Mesh Column Wedding Gown at Anthropologie

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For a Chic City Wedding:

Rime Arodaky Wedding Dress at Net-a-Porter

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Best Plunging Neckline:

BHLDN Wedding Dress at Anthropologie

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Retro Yet Timeless:

Rebecca Vallance Wedding Gown at Anthropologie

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Most Romantic:

Galia Lahav A-Line Wedding Dress at Galialahav.com

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Most Victorian-Inspired:

Erdem Wedding Gown at Net-a-Porter

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Most Unique:

Dana Harel Design Wedding Gown at Danahareldesign.com

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Brides

Lulus

View On 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

Courtesy of Danielle Frankel Studio

View On Net-a-Porter View On Daniellefrankelstudio.com

Call off the search, minimalist brides—your dream wedding dress has been found. This exquisite gown is structured yet fluid and is bound to leave a lasting impression thanks to the unique off-the-shoulder neckline and liquid-like fabric.

Price at time of publish: $5,990

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

If you want a long-sleeved look but also 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. We can picture this at a boho garden or beachside wedding.

Price at time of publish: $1,395

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

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

Rime Arodaky Joni Swiss-Dot Tulle and Crepe Gown

NET-A-PORTER

View On 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

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

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: $1,365

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie View On Rebeccavallance.com

If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, try this gorgeous gown with a square neckline and puff sleeves. It has a slightly retro vibe, but at the same time is effortlessly timeless. Plus, the back bow offers a real 'wow' moment thanks to the oversized bow.

Price at time of publish: $850

Galia Lahav

View On Galialahav.com

Featuring 3-D embellishments, this whimsical gown checks off all the boxes. Both the plunging neckline and striking back offer extra wow moments, while the romantic floral pattern adds a beautiful and feminine touch.

Contact a boutique for pricing

Erdem Alvaro Belted Ruffled Tiered Embroidered Silk-Organza Gown

NET-A-PORTER

View On 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

Dana Harel

View On Danahareldesign.com

Not for the faint of heart, this show-stopping gown features a plunging neckline and matching front slits that reveal a lace mini hemline. This design is perfect for the boho bride who also loves to make a statement.

Contact a boutique for pricing

Chana Marelus

View On Chanamarelus.com

Exquisite beading and a delicately scalloped neckline are just a couple of the many breathtaking details on this wedding dress. The dainty, long sleeves seal the deal.

Contact a boutique for pricing

Galvan Athena Open-Back Jersey Maxi Dress

Matches Fashion

View On Matchesfashion.com

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: $678

Self-Portrait

View On Farfetch.com View On Self-portrait.com

The perfect combination of glitz and more conservative style, this is a top-notch pick for traditional brides who also love a bit of pizazz. The intricate detailing and flattering silhouette create a unique and eye-catching bridal look.

Price at time of publish: $700

Grace + Ivory

View On Graceandivory.com

If you’re here for the fairytale vibe, this full skirt crafted in tulle is a dream find. The fitted lace sleeves create a royal and elegant addition to an already stunning silhouette.

Price at time of publish: $1,895

Lulus

View On Lulus

This simple yet beautiful gown is an easy, effortless option for the bride who wants a gown that feels low-key. Still, the sheer sleeves and ruched bodice add an intricate element. Wear your hair naturally and add in a pair of strappy sandals for a minimalist look.

Price at time of publish: $99

Lulus

View On Lulus

Brides who love retro fashion will go crazy for this '70s-inspired gown featuring bold bell sleeves. The lace fabric, deep-V neckline, and high slit create a subtly sexy silhouette that's sure to turn heads as you glide down the aisle.

Price at time of publish: $149

Markarian

View On Markarian-nyc.com

A peplum silhouette may not be on your wedding dress list of priorities—but it probably is now. This gown feels fashionable and fun for brides who love bold boho styles. Just add a soft lip color and simple heels to keep the look fresh.

Price at time of publish: $6,996

Revolve

View On Revolve

This Bridgerton-like slip dress is ideal for courthouse weddings or fall garden nuptials, as it delivers understated beauty and grace. We especially love the faux front buttons and the flutter sleeves. Plus, the sheen satin material adds an eye-catching element.

Price at time of publish: $380

What to Look For in a Long Sleeve Wedding Dress

Materials and season

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 all-over embellishments. And for brides who prefer a more modest silhouette, long sleeve gowns with high necklines and floor-length hems have you covered.

FAQ

Can I wear a long sleeve wedding dress in the summer?

Absolutely! Wedding dresses with lightweight sleeves cut from breathable fabrics like tulle, chiffon, and lace are all great options for warm-weather nuptials—we love the Wtoo by Watters Miles V-Neck Mesh Wedding Gown and the Lulus Elegant Eternity White Mesh Maxi Dress.
Do long sleeve wedding dresses work for all body types?

Long sleeve wedding dresses work well for all shapes and sizes and come in a wide range of figure-flattering silhouettes. The key is to try on a variety of styles and choose whichever one makes you feel like your most beautiful and confident self!
Are long sleeve wedding dresses comfortable?

Long sleeves wedding dresses can be very comfortable but keep in mind that some fabrics are more structured than others and may limit your range of motion. Certain fabrics may also feel rough or scratchy if you have sensitive skin.

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.

17 Modest Wedding Dresses for Every Bridal Style