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Courtesy of Sachin and Babi
Choosing the right neckline for your bridal dress can be difficult. There are so many styles to choose from! If you're like many modern brides, perhaps you want something nontraditional that will still remain timeless for years to come. Well, one style that has been consistent throughout the years is the one-shoulder neckline. It’s the perfect balance of edgy and unique but still offers the stability that a strapless dress might not have.
This neckline is a multifaceted silhouette, appropriate for both formal and casual weddings, spanning all budgets and styles. "One-shoulder or asymmetric dresses look so chic and elegant, and there is currently a trend for that look," says bridal stylist Bella Hignett. "One-shoulder dresses are timeless and are a little more unusual than the more obvious strapless choices. They work for both formal and casual weddings and ooze sophistication," she adds. "The one-shoulder dress is reminiscent of the ancient Romans and Greeks who wore draped wrap fabric around them, which swept over one shoulder."
Whether you want to look like a Grecian goddess or desire a modern and chic aesthetic, there is a one-shoulder wedding dress out there to suit your style preferences. To help narrow down your choices, we've researched and rounded up the best options available. With Hignett's expert insight in mind, we picked our final selection based on design elements, materials, price point, and overall quality.
Read on for the best one-shoulder wedding gowns for every bridal style and budget.
Best for a Black-Tie Wedding
Mac Duggal Tatum One-Shoulder Bow Front-Slit Gown
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Courtesy of Anthropologie
Size Range: 0-18 | Color(s): White | Material(s): Polyester | Length: Maxi-length
For a formal black-tie wedding, you cannot go wrong with this one-shoulder column gown. The sleek bow tie detailing gives this structural dress a playful feel while the column silhouette skims and drapes the body beautifully. The high leg slit allows you to show a bit of skin and move around the dance floor with ease.
Price a time of publish: $348
Most Glamorous
Jenny Yoo Collection Zara Dress
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Size Range: Standard: 0-19, Plus: 20-26 | Color(s): Ivory | Material(s): Polyester, elastane; polyester lining | Length: Floor-length
Sparkle under the twinkle lights at your reception in this glittering floor-length gown from Jenny Yoo. It's crafted from polyester and coated in shimmering sequined stripes that are sure to catch the light from every angle. The simple spaghetti strap one-shoulder neckline adds a crisp touch to this glamorous and modern gown.
Price at time of publish: $495
Best Wrap Silhouette
Sachin & Babi Dova Puffed One-Shoulder Bow Train Wrap Mini Dress
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Anthropologie
Size Range: 0-16 | Color(s): White | Material(s): Polyester | Length: Mini-length
Nontraditional brides will love this statement-making mini dress from Sachin & Babi. The ruching at the side of the waist and the faux wrap silhouette is beyond flattering, while the singular puff sleeve and dramatic side train create a real wow factor. This mini dress is the perfect bold wedding day look but it also works well for everything from your rehearsal dinner to your reception.
Price at time of publish: $398
Best Cut-Out
Jenny Yoo Blanca Fit-and-Flare One-Shoulder Illusion Crepe Wedding Gown
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Anthropologie
Size Range: 0-18 | Color(s): Ivory | Material(s): Polyester | Length: Floor-length
For a modern take on a classic bridal gown, consider this satin dress from Jenny Yoo. The statement cut-out detailing on the shoulder is a trendy accent.
Price at time of publish: $1,200
Most Dramatic
Imad Eduso Adaeze Dress
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Courtesy of Imad Eduso
Size Range: 2-16 | Color(s): Ivory | Material(s): Silk satin | Length: Floor-length
For the bold brides who aren't afraid to make a statement, your search for the perfect wedding dress stops here! Walk down the aisle, in style thanks to this thigh-high slit dress. The shiny silk satin material is sure to glisten under the lights, and we especially love the dynamic neckline.
Price at time of publish: $2,415
Best Under-$100
Lulus Love You Best White One-Shoulder Ruffled Tulip Midi Dress
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Lulus
Size Range: XS-XL | Color(s): White | Material(s): Polyester, spandex | Length: Midi-length
Effortless, timeless, and chic, we can't get enough of this pretty piece from Lulus. This budget-friendly dress is perfect for a second look or a more intimate, low-key ceremony. Plus, the stretchy knit fabric is comfortable and wearable no matter the season.
Price at time of publish: $79
Best Jumpsuit
Amsale LW194 One-shoulder Jumpsuit
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Courtesy of Amsale
Size Range: 00-32 | Color(s): White | Material(s): Satin | Length: Floor-length
Jumpsuits are a fashionable and comfortable alternative to a traditional wedding gown, and we love this one-shoulder ensemble from Amsale. It can also easily be hemmed for petite brides interested in this style.
Price at time of publish: $550
Most Unconventional
Markarian Juno White Floral Brocade Gown
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Courtesy of Markarian
Size Range: 0-14 | Color(s): White | Material(s): Viscoe, silk | Length: Floor-length
We are swooning over this quirky and unconventional gown from Markarian that’s perfect for a spring or summer wedding. The dress features an eye-catching open back, but the star of the show is the tulle flower detail at the shoulder.
Price at time of publish: $4,295
Best Fit-and-Flare
Amsale Fatima Gown
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Courtesy of Amsale
Size Range: Contact brand for more information | Color(s): White or Ivory | Material(s): Silk Faille | Length: Floor-length
The fit-and-flare design is one of the most flattering options you will find during your dress search. Our favorite part? The dramatic back streamer. We also love the asymmetrical draping and gorgeous white silk fabric that delivers a luxe-looking finish.
Price at time of publish: $4,500
For the City Bride
Michelle Mason One-Shoulder Silk Gown
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Courtesy of Farfetch
Size Range: 0-12 | Color(s): Ivory | Material(s): Silk | Length: Floor-length
City brides will love this undeniably chic silk gown from Michelle Mason. The flattering ruching on the side seam makes for a dynamic and eye-catching detail, while the high slit adds a touch of sexy flair. Pair it with a loose updo and glowy makeup for an effortless look.
Price at time of publish: $965
Best Bow Detail
Sachin & Babi Aubrey One-Shoulder Gown
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Courtesy of Sachin and Babi
Size Range: 0-16 | Color(s): Off-white | Material(s): Polyester | Length: Full-length
All we have to say is wow. If you opt for a fairytale wedding aesthetic, you must consider this dreamy one-shoulder dress from Sachin and Babi. The oversized bow is nothing short of whimsical and features a crystal-encrusted knot that's sure to catch the light from all angles. Plus, the asymmetric seam at the waistline and column silhouette ensures a flattering and comfortable fit.
Price at time of publish: $795
Most Customizable
Justin Alexander Signature Gramercy Gown
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Courtesy of Justin Alexander
Size Range: Contact brand for more information | Color(s): Ivory | Material(s): Mikado, chiffon | Length: Floor-length
While this dress is absolutely stunning as is, it comes with plenty of customizable options. The skirt can be made with or without the front slit, and the chiffon streamer is detachable and can be removed whenever you want. This is an excellent choice for the brides who want a unique look that is all their own.
Price at time of publish: Contact brand for more information
Best Slit-Detailing
Showpo Desire Me One Shoulder Thigh Split Gown
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Courtesy of Showpo
Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Full-length | Shipping: Free standard shipping over $100 | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
Go for a bold bridal look with this dramatic high-slit gown. It has a classic ballgown cut with a train, but it’s also made more functional with two-side pockets. We love the idea of this strutting down the aisle at an elegant black-tie ceremony.
Price at time of publish: $173
Most Party-Ready
Retrofête Ella Dress
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Courtesy of Retrofete
Size Range: XXS/XXL | Length: Asymmetrical mini | Shipping: Free ground shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
Get ready to dance under the disco ball in this sparkling sequin mini dress from Retrofête. It’s the perfect second (or third) look for your wedding day that radiates party. Pair it with shiny silver accessories to play up the party-ready look.
Price at time of publish: $525
Best Floral-Detail
Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Gosia One-Shoulder Gown
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Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
This seemingly simplistic gown is made unique with the floral detail that sits upon the shoulder of the dress, paired with a keyhole cut-out. At once feminine and chic, this pretty frock would look absolutely stunning at a formal spring or summer affair.
Price at time of publish: $995
For a Garden Ceremony
Lulus Everlasting Loveliness White Floral One Shoulder Midi Dress
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Lulus
Size Range: XS-XL | Color(s): White | Material(s): Polyester | Length: Midi-length
There is no dress more fitting for an intimate garden ceremony surrounded by flowers than this one from Lulus. The frilly neckline complemented by the one-shoulder accent adds a romantic feel, and the tea-length hemline is perfect for walking down a grass aisle, as it will keep you from ruining the bottom of your dress.
Price at time of publish: $59
Most Feminine
Lulus Sweetest Success White Organza Tiered One-Shoulder Midi Dress
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Lulus
Size Range: XS-XL | Color(s): White | Material(s): Polyester, Spandex | Length: Midi-length
Girly brides, this one is for you! We love this tea party-worthy dress for its feminine tiered layers and radiant white organza fabric that will subtly shine under the venue lights. We also love the hot pink version of this dress for a fun bridal party dress option.
Price at time of publish: $68
What to Look for in a One-Shoulder Wedding Dress
Style and details
One-shoulder wedding dresses are perfect for the bride who wants a classic silhouette with a subtle, yet exciting, twist. This neckline comes in dresses of all lengths and styles—from grand ballgowns to mini dresses. Even more, we love that they offer brides the opportunity to have standout detailing on the neckline. If you’re feeling bold, look for a one-shoulder dress with exaggerated detailing, such as an oversized bow or intricate floral applique. For those looking to go the minimalist route, consider a singular twisted strap.
Comfort and accessories
Key features to look for are ensuring the one shoulder is comfortable, has the right width, and doesn’t dig into the shoulder," Hignett recommends. "Also, there can often be creases or excess fabric with one-shoulder dresses as the fabric is cut in a certain way. Brides must have worked out what jewelry they will wear to ensure it works with the one shoulder." She also advises to ensure you have the proper bra and underwear to pair with your one-shoulder dress, as you don’t want to see it if the fabric is fine.
Meet the Expert
Bella Hignett is a London-based fashion stylist who helps her clients with wardrobe edits, personal styling, and personal shopping. She also helps clients dress for high-profile events, TV appearances, and photo shoots.
Why Trust Brides
Contributing writer Melony Forcier is a recent graduate starting her career path in beauty and fashion journalism. Before graduating, she interned with both Boston Magazine and Foundation PR. Additionally, she served as a fashion editor for Boston University's lifestyle magazine, The Buzz.
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