Can I wear a princess wedding dress to any venue?

Yes! While your venue can help you determine your bridal style, you can wear a ball gown down the aisle no matter where you say "I do." Do consider the elements and landscape of your wedding location—a seaside wedding in the height of summer may call for a more lightweight, laid-back slip dress. If you are getting married in a rustic setting, make sure that your dress will accommodate the terrain.

Does my princess dress have to have beading?

While it's a common addition, a princess wedding dress does not require embellishments. If you're a more minimalist bride, stick with an A-line silhouette with minimal frills. But for a truly glam look, follow Osemwenkhae’s lead: “More is more!” she recommends. “Lace trimming, beautiful beading applique, or a sleeve with pearl button detail” are all details to look for.

Who are some of the most famous princess brides?

Today, many brides draw inspiration from the bridal looks of Princess Diana, Kate Middleton, and Meghan Markle . They all had very different takes on the princess style and looked equally stunning.

How do I dance, sit, and go to the bathroom in a princess wedding dress?

The big, billowy gown can make the simplest activities a little bit tougher. Some brides choose to change into a shorter gown to make reception activities, like dancing and sitting, easier. If this isn’t an option for you, just give yourself lots of room and grace when dancing or eating dinner. If you're heading to the bathroom and are comfortable doing so, enlist the help of a friend. They'll be able to help keep your skirt out of the way.

20 Princess Wedding Dresses Fit for a Royal Wedding

Who doesn't want to feel like royalty on their big day? While we may not be fairy godmothers, we've got a few princess-worthy gowns that should do the trick. Cue the fanfare.

A princess wedding dress is a full-skirted ball gown typically featuring embellishments, sparkles, and beading. They make for a show-stopping entrance, whether you choose an oversized and romantic dress or a more modern and streamlined one. “It's a classic-meets-regal look that immediately evokes a fairy tale,” says Beverly Osemwenkhae, a NYC/London Style Expert. A dress like this can fit a lavish venue or something more whimsical. Whatever vibe you choose, your debut down the aisle will surely be an ornate event.

Meet the Expert

A stylist based out of New York and London, Beverly Osemwenkhae is the CEO and founder of Project Bee Consulting, a wardrobe consultancy firm that specializes in bridal.

Below, we've rounded up our favorite princess gowns for the modern bride. With designs this stunning, you'll be giving real-life princesses a run for their money.

How to Choose Your Dream Wedding Dress: 70 Things to Know

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

David's Bridal Off the Shoulder Satin Gown Wedding Dress at David's Bridal

Jump to Review

Best for a Traditional Bride:

Emilia Wickstead Diamond Duchesse-Satin Gown at Net-a-Porter

Jump to Review

Best for a Garden Wedding:

Lela Rose The Bennett Dress at Lelarose.com

Jump to Review

Morilee Madeline Gardner Ama Wedding Dress at Madamebridal.com

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Best Embroidery:

Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Platinum Collection Belle Dress at Kleinfeldbridal.com

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Best Vintage-Inspired:

Lara Bodice Lace Bridal Gown at Fostani.com

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Best Print:

Jenny Yoo by Jenny Yoo Holden Wedding Gown at Anthropologie

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Best Classic Design:

Sareh Nouri Blaine Gown at Sarehnouri.com

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Best Unique Design:

Odylyne the Ceremony Casden Gown at Odylynetheceremony.com

Jump to Review

Best Bodice:

Pronovias Dietrich Dress at Alexandrasbridalboutique.com

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Brides

View On David's Bridal

Timeless, romantic, and fit for a royal: this is everything a princess wedding dress should be. The silk-look fabric is artfully gathered into a full skirt with a chapel-length train, and along with the sweetheart neckline and off-the-shoulder sleeves, it’s a romantic, princess-worthy look that will wow on the big day.

Price at time of publish: $524 (normally $699)

Size Range: 0-14, petite and plus sizes available | Materials: Polyester | Silhouette: Ballgown

Emilia Wickstead Diamond Duchesse-Satin Gown

Net-a-Porter

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

This dress was actually inspired by real-life women, including Princess Grace Kelly. The elegant, full skirt drapes beautifully thanks to the fabric, and is topped by a sweetheart neckline bodice.

Price at time of publish: $5,775

Size Range: UK 6 - UK 18 | Materials: Polyester | Silhouette: A-line

Lela Rose

View On Lelarose.com

This floral-patterned gown features a draped off-the-shoulder neckline. The full skirt effect is stunning, while the overall look is simple and chic.

Price at time of publish: Price upon request

Size Range: Made-to-order | Materials: n/a | Silhouette: Ballgown

Morilee Madeline

View On Madamebridal.com View On Morilee.com

This gown by Morilee features feminine floral embroidered appliqués throughout the tulle A-line ball gown and sheer train. The sleeves are sheer and fitted, while a plunging V-neckline trimmed in linear lace is a lovely touch.

Price at time of publish: Price upon request

Size Range: 16W-32W | Materials: Tulle, lace | Silhouette: Ballgown

Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Platinum Collection Belle Dress

Kleinfeld Bridal

View On Kleinfeldbridal.com

Inspired by Belle of Beauty and the Beast, rose and floral appliqués, crystals, and sequins adorn the bodice and trail across the illusion sleeves of this ball gown. A lace-up corset back with crystal buttons complements the sparkle tulle.

Price at time of publish: $7,460

Size Range: 2-32 | Materials: n/a | Silhouette: Ballgown

LARA

View On Fostani.com View On Lara.com View On Lordandtaylor.com

Modern yet classic, this dress is where the old world and the new collide. A sheer bodice with beautiful floral patterns adds visual dimension to the full skirt.

Price at time of publish: $538

Size Range: 4-18 | Materials: Polyester | Silhouette: Ballgown

Jenny Yoo by Jenny Yoo Holden Off-Shoulder Floral Lace ball-Skirt Wedding Gown

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie View On Jennyyoo.com

A beautiful mix of glamour and romance, this gown is sure to turn heads. The sweet, off-the-shoulder sleeves are fluttery (and removable), and the all-over floral pattern adds interest to this white dress.

Price at time of publish: $1,895

Size Range: 0-19, plus sizes available | Materials: Polyester, rayon | Silhouette: Ballgown

Sareh Nouri

View On Sarehnouri.com View On Thebridalfinery.com

This elegant dress exudes sophistication. The off-the-shoulder, diagonally draped top is paired with a pleated, modified ball gown for a modern silhouette. The design features a signature side bow, plus petals that adorn the side of the skirt.

Price at time of publish: Price upon request

Size Range: 0-30, petite and plus size available | Materials: Stretch Mikado | Silhouette: Ballgown

Odylyne the Ceremony

View On Odylynetheceremony.com

This 100-percent organza silk gown features a sweetheart strapless bodice and billowing ruffles. The modern sheer puff sleeves and full skirt with a ruffled overlay are charming.

Price at time of publish: $3,750

Size Range: 2-20, petite and tall lengths available | Materials: Silk Organza | Silhouette: Ballgown

Alexandra's Boutique

View On Alexandrasbridalboutique.com

Intricate geometrical beading and embroidery are combined with a unique scalloped neckline and layered tulle skirt. The result? A truly regal statement gown. The full-length sleeves are reminiscent of Kate Middleton’s 2011 wedding look.

Price at time of publish: Price upon request

Size Range: 0-28 | Materials: n/a | Silhouette: Ballgown

Lulus

View On Lulus

An alluringly simple strappy bodice and voluminous skirt pair perfectly with the eye-catching, sequined fabric. This gown was made for brides looking to glitter down the aisle.

Price at time of publish: $200 (normally $249)

Size Range: 2-10 | Materials: Polyester | Silhouette: A-line

ASOS

View On Asos

Details make a princess wedding dress stand out, and the pearl-beaded lace on the bodice of this dress is beautiful. The skirt is less full than other dresses, but the small train makes up for any missing drama.

Price at time of publish: $630

Size Range: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester | Silhouette: A-line

Maggie Sottero

View On Maggiesottero.com

The elegant bishop sleeves on this dress give off a poetic elegance and romantic charm. This idyllic, off-shoulder creation is crafted out of sheer organza, sparkling tulle, horsehair trim, and ornate beaded lace.

Price at time of publish: Price upon request

Size Range: 0-28 | Materials: Organza, tulle | Silhouette: A-line

Kleinfeld

View On Kleinfeldbridal.com

Hand-appliquéd embellishments completely engulf this stunning floral creation. A plunging neckline delicately spreads into a ball gown shape before descending into a chapel train.

Price at time of publish: $5,445

Size Range: 2-22 | Materials: n/a | Silhouette: Ballgown

Lulus

View On Lulus

This gown was designed with a princess bride in mind. The regal off-the-shoulder style is flirty, while the all-over lace offers up classic bridal flair. The deep-v neck illusion neckline is a modern surprise.

Price at time of publish: $329

Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Silhouette: A-line

Lulus

View On Lulus

The delicate details make this the perfect dress for a bride who loves ultra-feminine designs and accents. The sheer bodice features a lace-illusion embroidery that continues down the gown, and the voluminous skirt seems to float with multiple layers of lightweight tulle.

Price at time of publish: $299

Size Range: 2-10 | Materials: Polyester | Silhouette: A-line

Ieena for Mac Duggal V-Neck Lined Pocketed Sleeveless Ball Gown

Dillards

View On Nordstrom View On Dillards.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue

The full A-line skirt still leaves room for dancing. The simple design is just waiting to be enhanced with jewel-filled necklaces — or even a luxurious crown. Did we mention it has pockets?

Price at time of publish: $398

Size Range: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester | Silhouette: M

Oleg Cassinni lace long sleeve keyhole back wedding dress

Davids Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Long sleeves add a demure look to a princess dress, but the deep-v neckline and open back are anything but boring. This dress has all-over lace, sheer sleeves, and a chic tulle gown with a chapel train.

Price at time of publish: $720 (normally $1,599)

Size Range: 0-14, petite and plus sizes available | Materials: Polyester, nylon | Silhouette: Ballgown

Jenny Yoo

View On Anthropologie View On Jennyyoo.com

Princess gowns are known for their ruffles and frills, but even streamlined looks are royal-worthy. This dress has an airy floral applique on the bodice and down the skirt, but the main focus is on the weightless and dreamy full ball gown silhouette with a chapel-length train.

Price at time of publish: $1,495

Size Range: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester organza | Silhouette: Ballgown

Lulus

View On Lulus

Show some skin with the thigh-high slit in this dramatic, full-ballgown skirt. The sweetheart neckline is romantic, and the bodice is covered in intricate beading and embroidery.

Price at time of publish: $464

Size Range: 2-10 | Materials: Polyester | Silhouette: Ballgown

What to Look for in A Princess Wedding Dress

Fabric

A big, ball gown silhouette is the star of any princess wedding dress, but consider the fabric type, too. “Princess wedding dresses are elegant and timeless, but there's always a glam factor with the details,” says Osemwenkhae. That detail can come in the form of embellishments, like beading, or in lace overlays and appliques. Of course, you can also choose a princess gown in a simple all-over silk, which is especially appropriate for a more traditional weddings.

Neckline

A particular neckline isn’t exclusive to a princess wedding dress, but the type of neckline you choose can change the vibe of your look. For example, a sweetheart neckline is perfect for romantics and pairs well with an ethereal-style wedding. Square and scoop neck dresses are best for a traditional look, and those who want to up the sex appeal should look for a plunging or deep-v neckline.

Venue

Princess wedding dresses are a statement and deserve a venue equally as striking. Osemwenkhae suggests “a historic destination or a beautiful countryside estate—after all, you are creating a fairy tale moment.” Ultimately, choose a location you love, and you'll be able to create a royal-worthy venue anywhere you desire.

FAQ

Can I wear a princess wedding dress to any venue?

Yes! While your venue can help you determine your bridal style, you can wear a ball gown down the aisle no matter where you say "I do." Do consider the elements and landscape of your wedding location—a seaside wedding in the height of summer may call for a more lightweight, laid-back slip dress. If you are getting married in a rustic setting, make sure that your dress will accommodate the terrain.
Does my princess dress have to have beading?

While it's a common addition, a princess wedding dress does not require embellishments. If you're a more minimalist bride, stick with an A-line silhouette with minimal frills. But for a truly glam look, follow Osemwenkhae’s lead: “More is more!” she recommends. “Lace trimming, beautiful beading applique, or a sleeve with pearl button detail” are all details to look for.
Who are some of the most famous princess brides?

Today, many brides draw inspiration from the bridal looks of Princess Diana, Kate Middleton, and Meghan Markle. They all had very different takes on the princess style and looked equally stunning.
How do I dance, sit, and go to the bathroom in a princess wedding dress?

The big, billowy gown can make the simplest activities a little bit tougher. Some brides choose to change into a shorter gown to make reception activities, like dancing and sitting, easier. If this isn’t an option for you, just give yourself lots of room and grace when dancing or eating dinner. If you're heading to the bathroom and are comfortable doing so, enlist the help of a friend. They'll be able to help keep your skirt out of the way.

Why Trust Brides

Joline Buscemi is a freelance writer for Brides. She writes beauty and wellness stories for publications including HuffPost, Byrdie, and Glamour. For this story, she spoke with style expert Beverly Osemwenkhae to learn the features of a princess wedding dress to look for, along with pairing the style with the right venue and accessories.

Wedding Dresses Inspired by Princess Beatrice's Vintage Gown

Best Overall

David's Bridal Off the Shoulder Satin Gown Wedding Dress

Best for a Traditional Bride

Emilia Wickstead Diamond Duchesse-Satin Gown

Best for a Garden Wedding

Lela Rose The Bennett Dress

Morilee Madeline Gardner Ama Wedding Dress

Best Embroidery

Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Platinum Collection Belle Dress

Best Vintage-Inspired

Lara Sheer Bodice Lace Bridal Gown

Best Print

Jenny Yoo by Jenny Yoo Holden Off-Shoulder Floral Lace ball-Skirt Wedding Gown

Best Classic Design

Sareh Nouri Blaine Gown

Best Unique Design

Odylyne the Ceremony Casden Gown

Best Bodice

Pronovias Dietrich Dress

Best Sparkle

Lulus Loved For Life White Sparkly Tulle Embroidered Sleeveless Gown

Best Pearl Details

ASOS EDITION Sienna Bead and Embroidered Plunge Bodice Wedding Dress

Best Sleeves

Maggie Sottero Stevie Gown

Best 3D Florals

Rivini Reagan Ball Gown Wedding Dress

Best Off-the-Shoulder Neckline

Lulus Fairytale Love Story White Lace Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress

Best for the Feminine Bride

Lulus Fantasize About Forever White Tulle Lace A-Line Maxi Dress

Best A-Line

Ieena for Mac Duggal V-Neck Lined Pocketed Sleeveless Ball Gown

Best Long Sleeve

Oleg Cassinni Lace Long Sleeve Keyhole Back Wedding Dress

Most Minimalistic

Jenny Yoo Abernathy Organza A-Line Ball Skirt Wedding Gown

Best Strapless Gown

Lulus Now and Always White Beaded Embroidered Strapless Gown

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