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Photo by Zoe with The Foxes Photography
From the engagement ring to the perfect bridal shoes, there are plenty of opportunities to shimmer and shine throughout the wedding process. If you’re a big fan of bling, though, there’s no better way to showcase your sparkling style than with a rhinestone wedding dress. The vice president and general merchandising manager at David’s Bridal, Heather McReynolds, says this scintillating option is having a big moment in bridal fashion, so if you’ve ever dreamed of being draped in diamonds (or at least accents that look like diamonds) on your big day, now’s the time!
A rhinestone is a man-made stone that’s created and cut to look similar to a diamond. While they used to be made from rock crystal, now, many of the rhinestones you see are made from acrylic or crystal glass; and these shimmering stones are featured in many modern-day accessories and formalwear. “Rhinestones are quite versatile and can be conveyed in a variety of looks—modern, classic, glamorous, and more—as well as seasons,” McReynolds shares. Some gowns feature all-over rhinestone detailing while others have just a touch to give a dusting of effervescence.
Whatever your wedding vision, chances are there’s a rhinestone gown fit for the occasion. Sourced from the most reputable sellers with the best customer reviews, these 21 rhinestone gowns will make you feel like a star on your special day.
Best All-Over Sparkle
Galina Signature Floral Applique Open Back Tulle Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
Size: 0-30W | Materials: Polyester, lace, tulle | Length: Floor-length
As McReynolds’ favorite rhinestone gown, this A-line halter is hard to top. “I love the femininity of the floral applique juxtaposed with the glam of the crystal embellishment and the sultriness of the sheer bodice,” she says. The skirt features glitter tulle and additional sequins for extra added shine.
Best Boho Gown
BHLDN Belize Dress
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BHLDN
Size: 0-18 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length
Understated yet seriously stylish, BHLDN’s Belize is perfect for a bohemian celebration with its fitted waist, plunge neckline, and off-white oyster hue. The soft flower embroidery is accented with subtle beads and rhinestones that add a shimmer without detracting.
Price at time of publish: $298
For the Modern Bride
Amsale Ellory Gown
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Courtesy of Amsale
Size: 00-28, custom sizing | Materials: Silk faille | Length: Floor-length
It doesn’t get chicer than the Ellory gown from Amsale. The sleek white, silk strapless bodice and column silhouette gives an unparalleled air of contemporary elegance. Paired with a dramatic tiered streamer and rhinestone floral embellishments, this is one wedding dress that’s sure to wow.
Price at time of publish: $5,280
For a Courthouse Wedding
Phase Eight Annie Embellished Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Phase Eight
Size: 2-14 | Materials: Polyester, mesh tulle | Length: Midi
Micro weddings and courthouse “I dos” usually call for shorter-length gowns, and this Phase Eight midi makes an impression no matter where you host your wedding. The sweetheart neckline feels more covered with a mesh panel, while the floral vine design made of beads and rhinestones glimmers down the gown.
Price at time of publish: $585
Best Back Detail
Justin Alexander Style #8799
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Courtesy of Justin Alexander
Size: 4-32 | Materials: Chiffon | Length: Floor-length
The sweetheart neckline, portrait illusion, and soft chiffon of this Justin Alexander original exude romance all on its own, but when you add in the rhinestone details, you’ll officially be in love. Dazzling gems dance along the waist while extensive rhinestones and beadwork create a lace-line pattern along the back and bodice.
Strapless Favorite
Galina Signature Beaded Brocade Embellished Mermaid Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
Size: 0-30W | Materials: Polyester, tulle | Length: Floor-length
Sexy and sparkling, this Galina Signature gown turns heads with its trumpet silhouette, brocade appliques, and diamond-patterned tulle. Visible boning adds a touch of sultriness while sequins and rhinestones decorate the design. McReynolds especially loves the dramatic cathedral train for grand entrances and exits.
Price at time of publish: $1,499
Best Bateau Neckline
Grace + Ivory Elise Gown Elise Gown
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Courtesy of Grace + Ivory
Size: Custom sizing | Materials: Polyester, tulle | Length: Floor-length
The Elise gown from Grace + Ivory is the definition of ethereal elegance. The Japanese crepe fabric, bateau neckline, and sheath silhouette give a refined look, while the hand-beaded, wing-inspired rhinestone design along the shoulders and back expertly define your curves.
Price at time of publish: $1,995
For Illusion Lovers
Wtoo Damali Gown
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Courtesy of Watters
Size: 00-32W | Materials: Organza, poly lining, tulle, netting | Length: Floor-length
While the light-as-air tulle skirt and sweep train of this Wtoo wedding gown might pull you in, it’s the dimension detailing that’ll make you say “I do.” The opulent bodice features all-over beading and sparkle while rhinestones decorate the illusion neckline, giving the appearance of dancing jewels decorating your skin.
Price at time of publish: $2,290
For the Romantic Bride
Wtoo Hampton Gown
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Courtesy of Watters
Size: 00-32W | Materials: Georgette, tulle, Stretch poly charmeuse | Length: Floor-length
Contemporary romance has met its match with Wtoo’s Hampton gown. The sleek column silhouette and square neckline are taken to the next level by sheer, floral embellished sleeves that are dotted with rhinestones and pearls.
Best Budget
Lulus True Love White Beaded Rhinestone Maxi Dress
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Courtesy of Lulus
Size: 0-10 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length
There’s no reason you can’t have glitz and glamor on a budget. This gorgeous Lulus gown boasts a flowy floor-length skirt and a sheer mesh bodice fit for any bride. We especially love the plunging bodice adorned with light-catching rhinestones, sequins, and beads.
Price at time of publish: $259
For the Sophisticated Bride
Amsale Jay Wedding Dress
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Amsale
Size: 00-28, custom sizing | Materials: Crepe, tulle | Length: Floor-length
At first glance, this crepe gown from Amsale looks simplistic in its beauty with a V-neckline and fit-and-flare silhouette. Another look, though, shows a touch of glam on the timeless style thanks to sheer flutter sleeves and a sheer back, both covered in rhinestone and pearls.
Price at time of publish: $4,395
Cap Sleeve Favorite
Galina Signature Illusion Plunge Lace Appliqued Wedding Dress
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David's Bridal
Size: 0-30W | Materials: Polyester, lace, tulle | Length: Floor-length
Get a little arm coverage with your rhinestones in this cap sleeve Galina Signature gown. McReynolds especially loves the glam rhinestone and lace bodice paired with the plain, double slit diaphanous skirt. Choose from multiple illusion options to find your perfect skin tone match.
Best Mermaid
Pantora Bridal Naomi Mermaid Gown
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Courtesy of Kleinfeld
Size: 0-32 | Materials: Crepe, mesh | Length: Floor-length
Mermaid gowns were made to turn heads, so when you add in hand-applied rhinestones and a plunging neckline, you get a dress that demands attention. The Naomi from Pantora comes in diamond white and is complete with a billowing tulle skirt that flares below the knee.
Price at time of publish: $4,980
Favorite Jewel Detailing
Morilee by Madeline Gardner Drita Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Morilee by Madeline Gardner
Size: 0-28 | Materials: Net, satin | Length: Floor-length
A sheer boned bodice and rhinestone straps give the Drita from Morilee by Madeline Gardner an undeniably alluring aesthetic, especially when paired with the thigh-high slit skirt. It’s the wrap-style silhouette, though, that truly takes this gown to the next level.
Asymmetrical Favorite
Essense of Australia Style #D3195XS
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Courtesy of Essence of Australia
Size: 2-34 | Materials: Tulle | Length: Floor-length
This universally flattering A-line gown from Essense of Australia is an easy choice for any bride, thanks to its glitter tulle skirt, sweetheart bodice, and subtle train. What sets this gown apart is the sheer asymmetrical neckline and plethora of beads, pearls, and rhinestones. Skip the necklace and rock statement earrings to really compliment this style.
Most Regal
Jenny Packham Elspeth Gown
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Courtesy of Kleinfeld
Size: 0-18 | Materials: Crepe | Length: Floor-length
Elegant in its simplicity but bold in its bling, this Jenny Packham fit-and-flare crepe gown elongates your body and adheres to the most luxurious tastes. Rhinestone embellishments decorate the top of the sleeves while the luscious crepe descents to the floor, creating a cape-like effect.
Price at time of publish: $5,075
For the Non-Traditional Bride
Retrofete Margot Dress
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Courtesy of Revolve
Size: XS-XL | Materials: Silk | Length: Floor-length
This open-back number, featuring a rhinestone chain detail and front split hems, is a standout for the most extravagant of affairs. Complete the look with heeled sandals, hoop earrings, and a slick low bun for an effortless and modern bridal look.
Price at time of publish: $895
For the Rehearsal Dinner
Zhivago White Rabbit Dress
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Courtesy of Revolve
Size: 0-14 | Materials: Poly | Length: Midi
A long-sleeve mesh overlay covered in rhinestone embellishments and floral embroidery? Zhivago delivers with the White Rabbit dress. We absolutely see this stunning ensemble being worn during an elegant rehearsal dinner at any destination.
Price at time of publish: $594
Vintage Inspired
BHLDN Laurel Gown
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Courtesy of BHLDN
Size: 0-18 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length
Art deco meets boho in BHLDN’s Laurel gown. The flattering silhouette features a deep, elongating V-neckline and plunging back, and an empire waist that compliments every shape. The neutral almond shade is elevated by silver and pink crystals and beadwork for an all-over vintage vibe.
Price at time of publish: $1,195
For the After-Party
Mac Duggal Rhinestone Strap Satin Mini Dress
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Courtesy of Mac Duggal
Size: 0-12 | Materials: Satin | Length: Mini
Sexy and chic all at once, this Mac Duggal dress will captivate any dance floor or after-party. The rhinestone straps add a bit of texture and shine while the mini hemline makes the final statement.
Price at time of publish: $298
For a Touch of Sparkle
Justin Alexander Style #9878
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Courtesy of Justin Alexander
Size: 4-32 | Materials: Faille | Length: Floor-length
Clean lines and a plunging neckline make this Justin Alexander ballgown a contemporary favorite. The debonair dress features convenient pockets, a cathedral train, and couture knife pleats, while the natural waist is accentuated by a shimmering, hand-beaded rhinestone belt.
Meet the Expert
- Heather McReynolds is the vice president and general merchandising manager at David’s Bridal, one of the most popular online and in-person bridal salons in the country.
What to Look for in a Rhinestone Wedding Dress
Before saying “yes” to an ultra sparkly dress, take a look at how well the rhinestones are secured, what they look like in different lighting, and how they pair with any accessories you already have or dream of wearing. While rhinestones are a detail that’s made to help you shine, sometimes more isn’t always better, especially if they’re scattered in extra sensitive areas. “You want to ensure the rhinestone placement doesn’t create irritation at high friction points like along the neckline edge, back around the armhole, and at sides of the gown under the arm,” McReynolds notes. She adds that it’s also a good idea to try sitting down in any potential rhinestone gown to ensure the embellishments don’t dig into your skin. You’ll also want to store your rhinestone dress in a cool, dark place before and after the wedding to help prevent discoloration of the gems.
About the Author
Rachel Varina is a social media, digital marketing, and editorial expert with over seven years of professional writing experience. Her work has appeared on sites such as Betches, Cosmopolitan, and Elite Daily.