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PHOTO BY MO DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY
Often associated with royalty and grandeur, ballgowns have been known as a classic wedding dress option for centuries. Today, the idea of an extravagant ballgown may seem outdated, but there are plenty of designers pushing the envelope to create modern and unique looks for every type of bride.
Whether you are after a princess-like look or want a cool, edgy style, there is a ballgown that will fit your dream day. And while trends have recently shifted towards more minimalist styling, statement gowns will still be popular no matter the season. Paris Hilton even recently donned two glamourous ballgowns (out of a total of six looks!) during her fairytale-esque wedding.
To help guide you through your search for the perfect modern ballgown, we put together 22 of our favorite looks. Scroll on to see if this style is "the one" for you.
For the Classic Bride: Jenny by Jenny Yoo Lawerence Gown
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Courtesy of BHLDN
We love a classic ballgown, and this one from Jenny Yoo is just that. The square neckline and illusion side cut-outs bring a subtle hint of modernity into the gown.
Price at time of publish: $1,300
For a Fairytale Wedding: Alonuko The Freedom Collection Look 11
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Courtesy of Alonuko
Live out your childhood dreams with this one-of-a-kind ballgown fit for a princess. The illusion sleeves give a magical feeling, while the sequins throughout the gown sparkle at every angle.
Most Dramatic: Vera Wang Bride Sleeveless Mikado ballgown Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Vera Wang
This ballgown from Vera Wang doesn’t need glitz or sparkle to make a statement. The oversized organza bow shoulder is truly breathtaking, paired with the plunging V neckline. Plus, it can be made in Mikado—an eco-friendly fabric option.
Best Cut-Out Detailing: Suzanne Neville Elliana Gown
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Courtesy of Suzanne Neville
Cut-out detailing was everywhere in Fall bridal collections. This look from Suzanne Neville subtly incorporates the trend with a modern cut-out along the neckline.
Best Ruffles: Vera Wang Bride Strapless Ballgown Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Vera Wang
Vera Wang is known for her dramatic gowns, and this contemporary look shows us why. The structured corset bodice is juxtaposed with a sideways ruffle skirt that will leave your guests speechless.
Most Versatile: Galia Lahav Ballerina Gown
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Courtesy of Galia Lahav
Go from ceremony to reception in this two-piece ballgown from Galia Lahav. The dress’s dramatic tulle skirt is perfect for a formal ceremony. It’s constructed around a strapless corset mini dress that you’ll want to dance the night away in.
Most Intricate Detailing: Peter Langner Amandine Gown
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Courtesy of Peter Langner
This off-the-shoulder ballgown features flowers and leaves hand-embroidered onto the dress. Each flower or leaf is hand-cut in the lace fabric and sewn on one by one, making for a truly one-of-a-kind gown.
Best Feather Detail: Ines Di Santo Martina Gown
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Courtesy of Ines di Santo
Feathers are definitely having a moment right now, and this Ines Di Santo gown takes the trend to the next level. The off-the-shoulder dress features layers of white feathers separated by sequins.
Best Budget Option: Azazie Lotus Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Azazie
You would never guess that this whimsical ballgown is priced below $500. The satin and tulle ruffle skirt, and pleated corset make for an unforgettable look.
Most Elegant: Giambattista Valli Magnolia Gown
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Courtesy of Giambattista Valli
Glide down the aisle in this beautiful ballgown from Giambattista Valli’s first bridal collection. We especially love how the coloring is ivory as opposed to traditional pure white. It gives this minimalist gown a hint of unexpectedness.
Best Beaded Detail: Watters Carroll Beaded Gown
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Courtesy of Watters
Fashion-forward brides, take note of this beaded and sequin ballgown. The striking structured bodice adds a bit of edge to the soft, flowy full tulle skirt. Lengths range from petite to extra tall.
Best Pop of Color: Andrew Kwon Flora V2 Gown
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Courtesy of Andrew Kwon
Gone are the days of strictly pure white wedding gowns. Now, brides are experimenting with color more, and we love this pale buttercup yellow ballgown for those going the nontraditional route. The tiered ruffle tulle skirt and corset bodice will certainly have your guests in awe.
Best Slit Detail: Alex Perry Abigail Satin Ball Gown
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Courtesy of Alex Perry
Ballgowns tend to be a more conservative option, but you can have the opportunity to show some skin with this high-slit ballgown. Pair with a red lip and slicked-back hair for a bold and glamorous look.
Most Simplistic: Anne Barge Crazy For You Gown
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Courtesy of Anne Barge
If you love the idea of a ballgown but still want a classic, minimalist look, opt for this simplistic ballgown from Anne Barge. The sweetheart neckline and thin spaghetti straps are made for a memorable look, sans sparkles.
Price at time of publish: $4,610
Best Bow Detail: Amsale Pierce Gown
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Courtesy of Amsale
Bold and chic, this modern ballgown is perfect for a black-tie wedding. From the plunging sweetheart neckline, abstract bow, and asymmetrical layered skirt, this gown has plenty of eye-catching details.
Price at time of publish: $5,280
Best Lace Detail: Oscar de la Rena Spring 2022 Look 8
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Courtesy of Oscar de la Renta
Crafted in only a way Oscar de la Renta could, this beautiful ballgown features luxe pressed embroidery and lace. Not to mention the breathtaking full skirt that looks straight off the runway.
For the Whimsical Bride: Peter Langner Panarea Gown
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Courtesy of Peter Langner
Your wedding dress is all about showing off your personal style, and we think this ballgown is perfect for brides who like to have fun with fashion. The entirety of the gown is embroidered with a paper ribbon, and the thin straps are made with paper ribbons tied into bows.
Most Royal-Wedding Inspired: Rita Vinieris Thyra Gown
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Courtesy of Rita Vinieris
From Kate Middleton to Lady Kitty Spencer, we know how much the British royal family loves lace-detailing in their wedding dresses. This long-sleeve lace-bodice ballgown is elegant and modest, and sure to make you feel like royalty.
For the Edgy Bride: Carolina Herrera Cut-Out Tulle-Layered Gown
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Courtesy of Carolina Herrera
Edgy brides will fall for this Carolina Herrera tulle ballgown that is like no other. The black cut-out fabric is layered on top of a full feminine and romantic tulle skirt.
Best Off-the-Shoulder Dress: Justin Alexander Off-the-Shoulder Plus Size Ball Gown
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Courtesy of Justin Alexander
We adore this off-the-shoulder ballgown with elegant Venice lace and tulle detailing. The cathedral train adds another level of drama that will look spectacular at a black-tie wedding.
For a Garden Wedding: Monique Lhuillier Freesia Gown
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Photo by KT Merry
Spring and summer brides, take note of the delicate floral detailing on this unexpected ballgown. We could picture it at a formal outdoor wedding with a bouquet that brings out the unique detailing throughout the gown.
Most Statement-Making: Ines by Ines Di Santo Rebecca Gown
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Courtesy of Ines by Ines di Santo
Perfect for a winter wedding, this long-sleeve ballgown is adorned with pearls all throughout the bodice and is paired with a statement tulle skirt. Not a fan of long sleeves? No problem, they are detachable and sold separately, so you can choose which style works best for you.