What are the best wedding dresses for warm-weather nuptials?

If your wedding is taking place during the summer months, you should consider dresses in breezy fabrics like cotton and linen—as well as lightweight lace. Short wedding dresses are also a stylish and practical choice for the summertime.

If I am not a dress person, what are some other options?

Popular alternatives to gowns are typically wedding jumpsuits or pantsuits, which are both chic and statement-making looks. However, it's always important to remember that you should wear what makes you feel most comfortable.

What are the best bridal shoes for seaside weddings?

For beach weddings , opt for sand-friendly shoes like flats, espadrilles, and sandals.

25 Best Summer Wedding Dresses for 2023

Summer—the season of sun, sand, and, most importantly, weddings—is finally upon us! For most brides, summer signifies not only beautiful wedding locales and weather, but also gorgeous wedding gowns to match the cheery season. And whether you are looking to spend $60 or $6,000, there's a dress out there for you and your warm-weather nuptials. From budget-friendly designers like Maggie Sottero, Paloma Blanca, and David's Bridal to the most iconic couture designers in the industry such as Monique Lhuillier, Berta, Vera Wang, and Amsale, there are certainly more than just a few to choose from.

If you're searching for a look that's both traditional and summer weather appropriate, opt for gowns with light and airy fabrics. Planning a black-tie affair? Elegant slips dresses and lightweight, strapless ball gowns are always a wonderful choice! Whatever your style preference might be, just remember that you shouldn't let the warmer temperatures stop you from wearing the dress of your dreams. After all, there are many designers who create their gowns with the sun and higher temperatures in mind.

So, to help kickstart your search, we’ve narrowed down our top summer wedding dresses for every style, budget, and wedding destination.

For the Chic Bride: Paloma Blanca Style #4987 Mikado A-Line Wedding Dress

Size range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Material: Mikado | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

When it comes to a summer wedding, sometimes less is more. This chic and sophisticated mikado gown proves to be just that. We love the ruched bodice and striking slit.

Best Floral Design: Martina Liana Luxe Style #LE1184 Floral A-Line Wedding Dress

Size range: 2-28 | Material: Tulle and 3D floral appliqué | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

A flurry of 3D floral appliqués cascade down this beauty. This Martina Liana gown is ideal for a romantic garden wedding or outdoor estate nuptials.

Most Sleek: Jenny by Jenny Yoo Beale Gown

Jenny by Jenny Yoo Beale Summer Wedding Gown — Courtesy of BHLDN

Size range: 0-18 | Material: Satin | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

Romantic flutter sleeves pair beautifully with a low swoop back and gorgeous train in this Jenny Yoo gown. For a romantic entrance on your wedding day, opt for this elegant, unique, and lightweight dress.

Best Dress with Pockets: DB Studio Satin V-Neck Tea Length A-Line Dress

DB Studio Satin V-Neck Tea Length A-Line Summer Wedding Dress — Courtesy of David's Bridal

Size range: 0-14 | Material: Satin | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 7 days of purchase

In a day and age where convenience is key, who doesn’t want a wedding dress with pockets? This tea-length beauty is perfect for any bride searching for an elevated A-line dress.

Most Timeless: Mikaella by Paloma Blanca Style #2383 Crepe and Organza A-Line Wedding Dress

Mikaella by Paloma Blanca Style #2383 Crepe and Organza A-Line Summer Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Mikaella by Paloma Blanca

Size range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Material: Crepe and organza | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

A timeless bridal look is everything and more. Plus, the soft and airy organza skirt is light and breathable for the warm summer months.

Best Texture: Monique Lhuillier Delilah Gown & Jacket

Monique Lhuillier Delilah Summer Wedding Gown & Jacket — Courtesy of Monique Lhuillier

Size range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Material: Embossed organza | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

This Monique Lhuillier gown is a summer bridal dream. The fitted silhouette and sharp, modern neckline adds a sophisticated touch to this romantic fabric.

For the Modern Bride: Rosie Assoulin Whoopsy Daisy Asymmetric Ruffled Silk-Charmeuse Gown

Rosie Assoulin Whoopsy Daisy Asymmetric Ruffled Silk-Charmeuse Summer Wedding Gown — Courtesy of Net-A-Porter

Size range: 0-12 | Material: Silk charmeuse | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 28 days of purchase

This slim-fit gown is perfect for the modern bride. Pair with all gold jewelry and heels to accentuate the flair of the voluminous ruffles.

Price at time of publish: $4,995

Best High Neckline: Jenny by Jenny Yoo Shipley Gown

Jenny by Jenny Yoo Shipley Summer Wedding Gown — Courtesy of BHLDN

Size range: 0-26 | Material: Crepe | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

If you're looking to channel Meghan Markle's regalness on your wedding day, opt for this halter gown by Jenny Yoo. Reminiscent of the Stella McCartney reception gown the Duchess of Sussex wore, this form-fitting look will certainly turn heads as you walk down the aisle.

Price at time of publish: $995

For a Pop of Color: Zimmermann Resort 2022 Look 1 Midi Dress

Zimmermann Resort 2022 Look 1 Midi Summer Floral Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Zimmermann

Size range: Inquire with designer | Material: Tulle and floral appliqué | Shipping: Inquire with designer | Return policy: Inquire with designer

This ivory tulle midi, covered in colorful flowers, is our top choice for a bridal dress with a twist. Pair with colorful heels, flats, or sandals to accentuate the florals on the dress.

Best Sparkle: Maison Signore Pandora Dress

Maison Signore Pandora Lace and Sparkle Summer A-Line Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Kleinfeld Bridal

Size range: IT38-IT54 | Material: Embellished floral lace appliqué and shimmer tulle | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Final sale

Shimmer the night away in this Italian-made tulle gown. The plunging neckline and cascading floral embellishment is sure to be remembered. Plus, it's effortless fit will provide optimal comfort and mobility all day long.

Price at time of publish: $5,390

Most Classic: Alaia Cotton-Gabardine Maxi Dress

Alaia Cotton-Gabardine Summer Wedding Maxi Dress — Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

Size range: FR36-FR44 | Material: 100% cotton | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 28 days of purchase

This beautiful fit and flare dress, by Alaia, features a classic silhouette for a traditional and modern bride. To further elevate your look, pair with a colorful clutch or statement-making shoes.

Price at time of publish: $3,310

Best Cap Sleeve: DB Studio Appliqued Cap Sleeve Tulle Plus-Size Wedding Dress

DB Studio Appliqued Cap Sleeve Tulle Plus-Size Summer Wedding Dress — Courtesy of David's Bridal

Size range: 16W-30W | Material: Tulle and lace appliqué | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 7 days of purchase

Beaded lace and cap sleeves create a stunning silhouette that falls into a tulle ball gown skirt. Most importantly, the V-neckline and open back will keep you cool on balmy nights.

For the Cottagecore Bride: Sachin & Babi Inez Gown

Sachin & Babi Inez Summer Wedding Gown — Courtesy of BHLDN

Size range: 0-14 | Material: Lace | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

For a wedding in the countryside or an intimate garden affair, opt for this allover lace beauty. The column fit paired with its irresistible lace texture is simple yet striking.

Price at time of publish: $1,395

Best Fabric: Sleeper Michelin Silk Dress

Sleeper Michelin Silk Summer Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Shopbop

Size range: XS-XL | Material: 100% silk | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted

This 100 percent silk, off-the-shoulder dress is a great option for a flirty and fun look. We love it for everything from a tropical beach wedding to nuptials held on a vineyard.

Price at time of publish: $420

For Something Blue: Marchesa Notte Lianne Gown

Marchesa Notte Lianne Summer Wedding Gown — Courtesy of BHLDN

Size range: 0-16 | Material: Tulle | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

The powder blue hue to this Marchesa gown is undeniably soft and romantic. We love how the craftsmanship of the tulle makes for an effortlessly fashion-forward bridal look.

Best Back: Mikaella by Paloma Blanca Style #2380 Crepe and Lace Fitted Wedding Dress

Mikaella by Paloma Blanca Style #2380 Crepe and Lace Fitted Summer Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Mikaella by Paloma Blanca

Size range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Material: Lace and crepe | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

This figure-hugging crepe gown's minimalistic design makes it perfect for a summer wedding. Its delicate lace bodice is beautifully paired with a multi-strap back detail—talk about eye-catching!

For a Garden Wedding: Estee Couture Milly Dress

Estee Couture Milly Summer Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Estee Couture

Size range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Material: Organdy and floral appliqué | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

You'll practically float down the aisle in this Estee Couture gown. Featuring an embroidered floral design, the uniqueness of this organdy fabric makes for the most light and airy bridal statement.

Most Comfortable: Maggie Sottero Monaco Gown

Maggie Sottero Monaco Summer Wedding Gown — Courtesy of Maggie Sottero

Size range: 0-28 | Material: Stretch mesh | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

Sometimes, comfort is key—especially when it comes to a hot summer wedding. This Maggie Sottero gown is just that. Featuring stretch mesh fabric, the impeccable draping sculpts the body for a sexy and sophisticated look.

Best Embroidery: Rebecca Schoneveld Carolina Gown

Rebecca Schoneveld Carolina Summer Wedding Gown — Courtesy of Kleinfeld Bridal

Size range: 0-30 | Material: Embroidered tulle | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

This Carolina gown's stunning embroidery intricately adorns this fitted silhouette. The scoop neckline adds a modern touch to an equally comfortable fit.

Price at time of publish: $3,000

For a Feathery Finish: Elliatt Harley Dress

Elliatt Harley Summer Wedding Dress — Courtesy of BHLDN

Size range: XS-XL | Material: Crepe and feathers | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

What's better than a midi dress with a touch of glam? Nothing! We're sure this feathered frock will become a wardrobe staple long after you say "I do."

Best Two-Piece Set: Zimmermann Floral Blouson Shirt and Appliqué Skirt

Zimmermann Floral Blouson Shirt and AppliquÃ© Skirt — Courtesy of Zimmermann

Size range: Inquire with retailer | Material: Tulle and floral appliqué | Shipping: Inquire with retailer | Return policy: Inquire with retailer

Zimmermann didn't disappoint with this two-piece ensemble—perfect for the non-traditional and bold bride. Trust us, you'll be the star of the show at any of your summer wedding festivities if you choose this look.

Most Subtly Sexy: Martina Liana Style 1059-Bead Lace and Crepe Wedding Dress

Size range: 2-28 | Material: Embellished lace, tulle, and crepe | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

Showcasing shimmering floral embellishment, the intentional illusion detail along this Martina Liana gown creates an effortlessly sexy vision. We love how the details appear to merely float across the skin.

For the Boho Bride: For Love & Lemons Temecula Maxi Dress

For Love & Lemons Temecula Maxi Summer Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Free People

Size range: XS-XL | Material: Tulle and floral embroidered lace | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

For brides seeking out a statement-making gown, that isn't overly ornate or dramatic, Free People's Temecula dress is for you. Skip the veil and opt for delicate hairpins for a more laidback look.

Price at time of publish: $298

Best Long Sleeve: Wtoo by Watters Miles Gown

Wtoo by Watters Miles Long Sleeve Summer Wedding Gown — Courtesy of BHLDN

Size range: 00-15 | Material: Stretch mesh | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery

Who says you can't flaunt a long-sleeve stunner in the summer?! This stretch mesh gown is soft, light, and effortless. We especially love the A-line silhouette paired with the shoulder-bearing neckline.

Price at time of publish: $1,395

Most Dramatic: Amsale Koa Gown

Amsale Koa Summer Wedding Ballgown — Courtesy of Amsale

Size range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Material: Tulle | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer

This Amsale gown may just be the epitome of bridal. The airy and ethereal silhouette made of purely tulle is a dream.

Price at time of publish: $5,995

What to Look for in a Summer Wedding Dress

There's a good reason why the summertime is one of the most well-love wedding seasons. With its sunny days, warm starry nights, and luscious blooms, it's truly ideal for a bright, romantic, and welcoming day. So, when it comes to selecting the wedding dress of your dreams for your summer nuptials, it's important to keep the time of year in mind—in fact, use it to your advantage! Opt for details that will accentuate the season. We especially love dreamy floral dresses, raw tulle, and romantic shoulder-bearing looks. These small yet striking details will pair beautifully with your summer nuptials whether you're tying the knot tying the knot seaside, in a garden, or at an estate. Since you'll likely be taking an array of photos outside, or possibly hosting the entire event outdoors, you'll want your gown to pop alongside the natural setting. Most importantly, go for comfortable and breathable fabrics. While rich, heavy satin fabrics are beautiful, it may not be the best option if you won't be in a space with air conditioning. Materials such as organza, organdy, and crepe will give you the same clean and polished look without holding the same degree of heat. You also can't go wrong with effortless fabrics like tulle or light chantilly laces. If you're set on a fabric like satin, we recommend opting for a strapless or off-the-shoulder style that will help keep you cool. The point is, there are lots of options and a gorgeous summer look for every bridal style.

FAQ

What are the best wedding dresses for warm-weather nuptials?

If your wedding is taking place during the summer months, you should consider dresses in breezy fabrics like cotton and linen—as well as lightweight lace. Short wedding dresses are also a stylish and practical choice for the summertime.
If I am not a dress person, what are some other options?

Popular alternatives to gowns are typically wedding jumpsuits or pantsuits, which are both chic and statement-making looks. However, it's always important to remember that you should wear what makes you feel most comfortable.
What are the best bridal shoes for seaside weddings?

For beach weddings, opt for sand-friendly shoes like flats, espadrilles, and sandals.

Why Trust Us / About the Author

Contributing writer Samantha Crompton is a freelance writer covering beauty, fashion, travel, and décor. With a background in journalism, her work has been featured in Bydrie, Stylecaster, and other publications in addition to Brides.

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