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Photo by Sarah Falugo
We're not entirely sure what it is about a two-in-one motif that feels so satisfying, but when you apply this concept to bridalwear—overskirt wedding dresses, to be precise—the entire outcome feels ultra enticing.
What Is an Overskirt Wedding Dress?
An overskirt wedding dress is a bridal gown that features a detachable skirt, which is typically removed after the ceremony.
These types of versatile gowns allow brides to transform their look without actually changing into a different dress. For many, walking down the aisle feels more romantic and bold with a voluminous skirt worn on top. But for the reception, when you're dancing and walking around to visit with friends and family, taking off a layer and revealing a dress that's more mobile can make all the difference. It's a two-for-one kind of a deal, you might say.
Read on for our favorite overskirt wedding dresses of the moment featuring swaths of gorgeous tulle, delicate lace, and everything in between.
Most Clean and Classic
Amsale Darcy Gown
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Courtesy of Amsale
This overskirt by Amsale adds a soft touch to an otherwise clean and modern gown. We can only imagine how nicely this tulle skirt will float down the aisle—and how perfect the dress underneath will look on the dance floor!
Price at time of publish: $5,005
For the Playful Bride
Galina Signature Embellished bridal Jumpsuit with Overskirt
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
If you’re on the hunt for a bold reception look, consider this gorgeous beaded jumpsuit with an overskirt for the ceremony. It’s the perfect way to get the best of both worlds.
Price at time of publish: $999
For the Daring Bride
Ines by Ines di Santo Flirty Gown
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Courtesy of Ines di Santo
If you’re searching for the kind of dress that’ll turn heads as you make your way down the aisle, this might be it. With a slim lace silhouette in front and a ruffled overskirt on top and in behind, it’s the definition of a memorable wedding gown.
Price at time of publish: $5,005
For the Sexy Bride
Galina Signature Floral Illusion Plus Size Bodysuit Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
An illusion dress is among the more alluring bridalwear details and it also happens to complement an overskirt quite nicely. All that’s left to find is the perfect pair of satin heels.
Price at time of publish: $1,399
Most Ethereal
Watters Danbury Overskirt
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Courtesy of BHLDN
If you’re after a simple overskirt sans dress, this option from Watters is a solid choice. It could style well with a minimal gown or a lacy dress.
Price at time of publish: $250
For the Fashion-Forward Bride
Galia Lahav Style: G-507
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Courtesy of Galia Lahav
Galia Lahav is known for her intricate design details, which is why this overskirt silhouette from the designer is so strong. Volume up, please!
For the Classic Bride
Anne Barge Newport Overskirt
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Courtesy of Anne Barge
Anne Barge is a go-to for clean, classic design and her riff on the overskirt dress reflects these sensibilities. This overskirt is sold separately and is designed to be worn with the matching 'Newport' gown. To complete your classic look, add drop earrings and a tennis bracelet.
Price at time of publish: $3,730
For the Glamorous Bride
Pronovias Premiere Collection Cathy Dress
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Courtesy of Pronovias
Contrast a plunging neckline with an overskirt for a gown silhouette that’s A+. To finish, go for soft curls, shoulder-grazing earrings, and classic bridal pumps.
Most Unique
Rivini Fawcett Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Rita Vinieris
An overskirt is exciting enough but this iteration takes the layer to a whole new level. Tulle, ruffles, and texture galore. We love this for the bride who isn't afraid to make a bold fashion statement.
For a Traditional Wedding
Peter Langner Vichy Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Peter Langner
Though overskirts tend to be crafted in lighter fabrics like tulle and lace, the motif also translates well to thicker textiles as well—especially if the aesthetic is minimal. This style from Peter Langner is perfect for the who appreciates beautiful draping and classic silhouettes.
For the Romantic Bride
Anne Barge Walton Overskirt
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Courtesy of Anne Barge
Lace on lace on lace! Here, the overskirt is proof that this gown can flawlessly transition from day to night—or in your case, ceremony to reception!
Price at time of publish: $8,130
Most Gauzy
Berta Strapless Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Berta
This overskirt gown is ideal for the lover of texture and attention to detail. Romance, coming right up.
For an At-Home Wedding
Amsale Blossom Overskirt
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Courtesy of Amsale
An overskirt is a clever way to show off your legs while still playing with a longer hemline. Plus, you still have the opportunity to show off a fun pair of shoes. We like this mini dress and sheer overskirt combo for a backyard or courthouse wedding.
Price at time of publish: $220
For the Elegant Bride
Rebecca Ingram Carmen Gown
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Courtesy of Rebecca Ingram
For a slightly bohemian vibe, go for this ivory beaded and lace motif gown featuring a detachable tulle skirt. It’s the kind of piece you’ll feel elegant moving around in all evening long.
For the Minimalist
Show Me Your Mumu Oliva Overskirt
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Courtesy of Show Me Your Mumu
For a dress with fluidity and movement, go for a clean and classic overskirt like this one from Show Me Your Mumu. To finish, consider a bright shade of lipstick for a stylish contrast.
Price at time of publish: $58
Best Romper
Lulus Haute Spot White Embroidered Lace Maxi Romper
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Courtesy of Lulus
Who says overskirts are reserved for wedding dresses? Here, a lacey romper is made extra bridal with the addition of the tulle skirt. This look is perfect for a summer or destination wedding.
Price at time of publish: $79
Most Versatile
David's Bridal Satin Overskirt with Embellished Waistband
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
For a look that feels both regal and timeless, check out this simple yet stylish overskirt from David's Bridal. While this satin overskirt would work well with virtually any wedding dress, we personally love it paired with a body-hugging silhouette.
Price at time of publish: $250
What to Look for in an Overskirt Wedding Dress
If you're looking for a wedding outfit that boasts two looks in one, go for an overskirt wedding dress. Stylish and versatile, overskirt wedding dresses come in a wide range of styles and silhouettes to accommodate all types of weddings and aesthetics.
When shopping for an overskirt wedding dress, it's important to take both your personal style and wedding venue into consideration. For brides seeking out a princess moment, embroidered wedding dresses with dramatic overskirts made from layers of voluminous tulle and lace are especially fitting for a formal ballroom setting. More of a minimalist bride? A simple, lightweight lace or tulle overskirt is perfect for dressing up a clean and classic dress. And for the traditional bride, architectural overskirts crafted from crisp white crepe elevate classic silhouettes like column, A-line, and sheath dresses.
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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