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Photo by Lisa Ziesing of Abby Jiu Photography
If you’ve decided to have an outdoor wedding, there is truly no better location than a rooftop to set the scene for the big day. Rooftop weddings are the perfect blend of casual and chic, so it only makes sense that your wedding dress matches the vibe.
Sleek and sexy gowns are usually a go-to for these types of nuptials, however, don't let the venue restrict you from wearing the look you desire. Depending on the season, rooftop events are versatile enough to sport many different wedding gown silhouettes, from ballgowns to minis and A-line dresses. You can even try stepping out of your comfort zone with a blazer dress or an ensemble that boasts exaggerated ruffles.
Whatever style you choose, we've got you covered as we sifted through dozens of wedding dresses to find the best options for your "I dos". Keep reading for our favorite rooftop-approved wedding dresses.
Best Mini Dress
ROTATE Ruffled Tiered Strapless Dress
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Courtesy of Farfetch
Size: EU 32-42 | Length: Mini | Materials: Recycled polyester
You can’t go wrong with this fun and flirty tiered mini dress from ROTATE. Style the look with a pair of whimsical bridal heels and a slicked-back ponytail for a playful wedding day look.
Price at time of publish: $387
For a Spring Wedding
Oscar de la Renta Lace Midi Dress
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Courtesy of Moda Operandi
Size: 2-10 | Length: Midi | Materials: Polyester
A daytime rooftop spring wedding pairs perfectly with this lace mini dress. The A-line silhouette offers a flattering and classic look that will never go out of style.
Price at time of publish: $3,890
Most Dramatic
Markarian Evora Pearl Beaded White Lace Gown with Detachable Bow
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Courtesy of Markarian
Size: 0-16 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Cotton, rayon, nylon
This stunning number from Markarian is the perfect balance between statement-making and city chic. The bow is detachable so you can remove it when you’re ready to hit the dance floor for the night.
Price at time of publish: $8,150
Best Silk Gown
Markarian Aura Shirred Ivory Silk Satin Gown
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Courtesy of Markarian
Size: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Silk
We are dreaming of this dress at a rooftop wedding filled with greenery and florals. The silk fabric gives the gown a luxe look, while the black belt and floral embellishment add a modern touch.
Price at time of publish: $3,295
Danielle Frankel Ingrid Dress
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Courtesy of Danielle Frankel Studio
Size: 0-12 | Length: Mini | Materials: Wool, silk
A blazer dress for a rooftop wedding? Yes, please! And there’s no better option than this fashion-forward blazer mini from Danielle Frankel. It’s also a great choice if you're headed to city hall before your intimate rooftop reception.
Price at time of publish: $2,990
For a Wedding Under the Stars
Cucculelli Shaheen Constellations 2
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Courtesy of Cucculelli Shaheen
Size: 0-14 or custom | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Tulle, organza
We cannot think of a more fitting gown for a rooftop wedding under the night sky. The metallic threadwork and crystal beads will twinkle just like the stars above.
Price at time of publish: $14,400
Most Modest
Self-Portrait Ivory Blossom Sequin Tiered Maxi Dress
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Courtesy of Self-Portrait
Size: UK 4-16 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester
For a more modest bridal look, consider this gown from Self-Portrait. The subtle puff sleeves and the twist neck detail are elegant touches, but our favorite part has to be the pearl and diamanté trim at the waist.
Best Sleeves
Self-Portrait White Shirred Dot Mesh Midi Dress
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Courtesy of Self-Portrait
Size: UK 4-16 | Length: Midi | Materials: Polyester
If your wedding falls on a chilly night, you’ll be thankful you have the sleeves from this mesh midi dress. The ensemble also features a flattering sweetheart neckline and is made from shirred dot mesh fabric.
Best Set
Whistles Ariane Lace Wedding Co-Ord
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Courtesy of Whistles
Size: UK 4-16 | Length: Midi | Materials: Polyester
Co-ord sets are becoming a popular option amongst brides, especially those looking for a more versatile ensemble. Consider changing out of the skirt and into a pair of silk white pants later in the evening for your second bridal look.
Price at time of publish: $1,199
Best Balletcore
Zimmermann Dancer Frilled Ruffle Tiered Gown
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Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
Size: 2-10 | Length: Midi | Materials: Polyester, cotton, linen, silk
This show-stopping number from Zimmermann is truly something special. From the ballet-inspired dramatic ruffles to the floral applique, this dress is a bridal look you will treasure forever.
Price at time of publish: $2,700
Best Ballgown
Vera Wang Nolwenn Strapless Princess Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Vera Wang
Size: Contact retailer | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Crepe, organza, net tulle
Sometimes more is more, and that could not be more true with this voluminous gown from Vera Wang. The tiered ruffles add a unique, but romantic touch, to the otherwise show-stopping ensemble.
Best Wrap Dress
Reformation Rya Silk Dress
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Courtesy of Reformation
Size: XS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Silk
Wrap dresses are an easy-to-wear and versatile option for your wedding day. Opt for this silk gown from Reformation that has loose-fitting puff sleeves for a subtle romantic touch.
Price at time of publish: $648
For the Chic Bride
Amanda Uprichard x Revolve Samba Gown
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Revolve
Size: XS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Silk
You can never go wrong with this stylish halter neck gown for a sleek and chic look. The open back is also a sexy touch that balances out the high neckline.
Price at time of publish: $321
For Your Second Look
Retrofete White Grace Mini Dress
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Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
Size: XS-XL | Length: Mini | Materials: Viscose, sequins
If you want to switch up your outfit later in the evening, look no further than this sequin mini dress from Retrofete. It has long sleeves and is made from a heavier fabric, which is perfect for when the sun goes down and a cool breeze steps in.
Price at time of publish: $635
For the Minimalist Bride
Watters Gemini Gown
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Courtesy of BHLDN
Size: 0-16 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester
For a simple, effortless bridal look, we love this halterneck gown by Watter. The low back features dainty tie detailing, and it would look amazing alongside a city backdrop.
Price at time of publish: $1,528
Best Non-White Option
ML Monique Lhuillier Perrie Dress
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Courtesy of BHLDN
Size: 0-16 | Length: Mini | Materials: Polyester
Have a bit of fun with your bridal look by opting for this cheeky pink sparkly mini for the big day. It’s the perfect option for brides looking for an unexpected and playful look.
Price at time of publish: $595
Best Off-the-Shoulder
Rebecca Vallance Bridal Genevieve Off-Shoulder Crêpe Gown
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Courtesy of MyTheresa
Size: 0-12 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Crepe
This off-the-shoulder gown features dramatic puff sleeves and a modern V-shaped cutout along the neckline. Follow the styling lead and pair yours with drop earrings and a mini purse.
Best Asymmetrical Hemline
Grace Loves Lace Carmen Gown
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Courtesy of Grace Loves Lace
Size: S-XXL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Lace
Asymmetrical hemlines are hot right now, so jump on the trend with this eye-catching number from Grace Loves Lace. The wide straps are also great for supporting bigger chest sizes.
Price at time of publish: $2,400
Best Lace
Grace Loves Lace Sofia Wedding Gown
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Courtesy of Grace Loves Lace
Size: Custom | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Lace
Is there anything more lovely than lace? This faux wrap-style lace gown is truly a vision. For a unique touch, the dress features a scalloped hemline at the train.
Price at time of publish: $2,400
Most Statement-Making
Alessandra Rich Feather Embellished Mini Dress
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Courtesy of MyTheresa
Size: 0-10 | Length: Mini | Materials: Silk, feathers
For a party-ready bridal look, try out this Alessandra Rich feather embellished mini dress. Change into it for your second look or rock the dress all evening.
Price at time of publish: $1,960
Best Tea-Length
Azazie Dolores Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Azazie
Size: WD 0-30 | Length: Tea-length | Materials: Satin, tulle
There’s just something so effortlessly elegant about tea-length dresses. Style with a simple bridal heel for a daytime rooftop wedding look.
Price at time of publish: $349
Best Under-$100 Option
Lulus Pure Romance Gown
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Courtesy of Lulus
Size: XS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester
Jaws will drop when you share that this gown is under-$100. The flattering square neckline and darted bodice give this dress an elevated and luxe look, that also happens to be incredibly timeless. What’s not to love?
Price at time of publish: $89
Amsale Taffeta High-Low Hem Dress
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Courtesy of Amsale
Size: 00-28 | Length: High-low | Materials: Taffeta
Fall for this high-low taffeta dress from Amsale. The back features a cut-out and a petite bow as a sweet touch
Price at time of publish: $795.
What to Look for in a Rooftop Wedding Dress
While there is no right or wrong dress to wear for your rooftop wedding, there are a few things you should keep in mind when shopping for your day-of look. First, consider the weather. If you’re having a rooftop wedding in the middle of the summer, you should opt for a light and airy gown. On the other hand, rooftops can get windy and bring a chill, so if your event is in the spring or fall you should consider a dress that is a bit warmer, or make sure you can wear a jacket on top. Also, if you are leaning toward a shorter ensemble, make sure that it won’t fly up with a gust of wind. The last thing you want is to spend the whole night trying to hold your dress down.
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.