55 Unique Wedding Dresses You Probably Never Knew Existed

by
Sophie Moore
Sophie has worked in the fashion industry for over seven years and has been with Brides since 2013.
Brides's Editorial Guidelines
Sophie Moore
Updated 09/22/20
Model in short wedding dress with satin top and feathered skirt

Courtesy of Lela Rose

If you want to exude red-carpet style on your wedding day, why not go for a totally unique wedding dress? While we always appreciate an impeccable classic gown, bridal designers are having fun creating one-of-a-kind wedding dresses for brides who love to stand out from the crowd.

Wedding traditions are seeing a Renaissance, and the bride's outfit is no exception. Your wedding should be a reflection of you, and an unconventional wedding gown is one of the best ways to show off your unique style and personality. Whether you're curious about trying a bridal jumpsuit, wishing to wear anything but white, dying to be dripping in diamonds, or dreaming of a skirt covered in tulle hearts, these experimental designs have you covered.

Below, we rounded up 55 of our favorite unique wedding dresses that are anything but boring.

01 of 55

Willowby by Watters Stars Align Wedding Dress

Model in frothy ball gown with shooting star embroidery

Courtesy of Willowby by Waters

Why not wear a wedding gown that reminds you of how the stars aligned when you met your perfect person? This V-neck tulle ball gown, available in Misty Violet and Sunbeam, features silver or gold custom shooting star embroidery with seed beads and clear sequins.

SHOP NOW: Willowby by Watters, from $1,995

02 of 55

Kaviar Gauche Flirty Glitter Wedding Dress With Sleeves

Model in glitter wedding dress with voluminous sleeves

Courtesy of Kaviar Gauche

This modern wedding gown is made of glittering fabric with silk lining and voluminous silk sleeves. The plunging V-neck gives way to a cinched waist for a figure-defining element to this unique bridal look.

SHOP NOW: Kaviar Gauche, $3,434.514

03 of 55

Zuhair Murad Spring 2021 Collection Look 9

Model in strapless light blue ballgown wedding dress

Courtesy of Zuhair Murad

Make your wedding dress your "something blue" with this voluminous non-white ball gown with a strapless bodice. The skirt features layers of tulle and delicate lace that create a beautifully unique effect.

SHOP NOW: Zuhair Murad, Price Upon Request

04 of 55

Viktor&Rolf Floral Appliqué Detail Sheer Panel Dress

Model in midi floral applique detail sheer panel dress

Courtesy of Farfetch

This mid-length sheer panel dress is adorned with fun, daisy-like appliqués. Unique aspects include the polka-dot embroidered tulle on the hem, sleeves, and collar and the ruffle detailing.

SHOP NOW: Farfetch, $1,373

05 of 55

Danielle Frankel Lou Off-the-Shoulder Poplin Gown

Model in high-low off-the-shoulder white gown

Courtesy of Net-A-Porter

This off-the-shoulder cotton-blend poplin gown was exclusively created with inspiration from the designer's fiancé's shirts and a vintage trench coat. The result is a unique wedding dress with a waist-defining belt, a high-low hem with a quilted trim, and discreet pockets.

SHOP NOW: Net-A-Porter, $3,900

06 of 55

Oscar de la Renta Ombré Organza Dress

Model in pink ombre tulle gown with tiered skirt

Courtesy of Moda Operandi

Another great gown for the bride who wants to ditch traditional white, this pink dress in ombré organza is a head-turner. The strapless bodice hugs the waist while the tiered maxi skirt creates a beautiful flowing effect.

SHOP NOW: Moda Operandi, $6,890

07 of 55

Atelier Pronovias Everette Wedding Dress

Model in mermaid wedding dress with puff sleeves and embroidered bodice

Courtesy of Atelier Pronovias

This utterly regal mermaid gown in crepe and silk organza features a sweetheart neckline and detachable puffed sleeves (but we suggest wearing them for a super dramatic look). The textured lace bodice contrasts with a smooth, fluid skirt that contours the lower body.

SHOP NOW: Atelier Pronovias, Price Upon Request

08 of 55

Honor Fall 2020 Collection Look 4

Model in strapless tiered wedding gown

Courtesy of Honor

This tiered strapless gown in flocked glitter tulle is whimsically unique for the carefree bride. The oversized bow detail creates a high-waist effect that enhances this gown's one-of-a-kind design.

SHOP NOW: Honor, Price Upon Request

09 of 55

Atelier Pronovias Seven Stars Wedding Dress

Model in sheer beaded short wedding gown with long sleeves

Courtesy of Atelier Pronovias

This dress proves that short doesn't always mean casual. Long sleeves contrast with a plunging V-neck on this unique dress featuring allover illusion beadwork embroidered in stars and streams of light. Long tassels hang from the skirt, sleeves, and back for a shine effect.

SHOP NOW: Atelier Pronovias, Price Upon Request

10 of 55

Pnina Tornai Fit-and-Flare Wedding Dress With Floral Appliqués and Ruffles

Plus size model in fit-and-flare gown with ruffle sleeves

Courtesy of Kleinfeld

This satin fit-and-flare wedding dress comes to life with dimensional sequined floral appliqués along the plunging neckline and back. Ruffles at the shoulder add a unique flair.

SHOP NOW: Kleinfeld, $6,600

11 of 55

Naeem Khan Maxine Jumpsuit

Model in white bridal jumpsuit

Courtesy of Naeem Khan

Bridal jumpsuits are totally in right now, and this one is full of glamour. Fitted from head-to-toe and featuring straight legs, a tie at the waist, and a criss-cross halter neckline, this jumpsuit is made from shimmering fabric that will catch the light as you walk down the aisle.

SHOP NOW: Naeem Khan, Price Upon Request

12 of 55

Maggie Sottero Brinkley Lynette Wedding Dress

Plus size model in beaded mermaid wedding gown

Courtesy of Maggie Sottero 

This isn't your typical mermaid gown. The tiered organza skirt trimmed in horsehair is full of drama, while the tulle bodice is covered in intricately beaded embroidery and Swarovski crystals. Other lovely details include the beaded illusion cold-shoulder sleeves and the bead-trimmed illusion tulle V-back.

SHOP NOW: Maggie Sottero, Price Upon Request

13 of 55

Naeem Khan Woodstock Dress

Model in short wedding dress with floral applique

Courtesy of Naeem Khan

Bursting with unique floral details at the neckline and hem, this above-the-knee, allover floral embroidered dress is perfect for garden ceremonies.

SHOP NOW: Naeem Khan, Price Upon Request

14 of 55

BHLDN Odalis Gown

Plus size model in lace wedding gown with flutter sleeves

Courtesy of BHLDN

You'll feel oh-so-dramatic in this figure-defining graphic lace gown. The plunging V-neck and long train come second only to the flutter sleeves that transform into a cape detail to frame the wide-open back.

SHOP NOW: BHLDN, $1,295

15 of 55

Elisabetta Polignano Ilkay Dress

Model in white wedding dress with gold buttons and flare skirt

Courtesy of Elisabetta Polignano

This mermaid-esque wedding dress is truly one-of-a-kind with its oversized gold-accented buttons, gold belt, and gold-hued ruffle collar. The fitted bodice hugs the curves, giving way to the wide, tiered skirt.

SHOP NOW: Elisabetta Polignano, Price Upon Request

16 of 55

Danielle Frankel Leigh Gown

Model in Chantilly lace drop-waist gown with pleated skirt and covered button details paired with lace bra and briefs

Courtesy of Danielle Frankel

This ultra-sheer Chantilly lace gown features a drop waist, a pleated skirt, and covered button details. Make it truly unique by pairing it with your choice of undergarments, and add a belt to create a double-waist effect.

SHOP NOW: Danielle Frankel, $6,990

17 of 55

Viktor&Rolf Mariage Wild Rose Bustier Jumpsuit

Model in bridal jumpsuit with floral bustier

Courtesy of Viktor&Rolf Mariage

Ultra-modern and chic, this strapless bridal jumpsuit features a graphic draped sweetheart neckline with wild rose detailing. The fitted cigarette pants add length to the legs, especially when paired with a great set of heels.

SHOP NOW: Viktor&Rolf Mariage, Price Upon Request

18 of 55

Alyne by Rita Vinieris Warwick Dress

Model in fringed lace sheath dress with satin belt

Courtesy of Alyne by Rita Vinieris

European castles inspired this designer when she created dresses like this strapless sheath with fringed lace. The satin belt detail hugs the waist while the sheer skirt shows off the legs for a barely-there look.

SHOP NOW: Alyne by Rita Vinieris, Price Upon Request

19 of 55

Sachin & Babi Clarissa Gown

Model in black ballgown with a half-bow shoulder and high slit in skirt

Courtesy of Sachin & Babi 

We've established that a bride need not wear white, but what about nixing color altogether? This jet black gown is for the statement-making bride who still appreciates the elegance of a Mikado ballgown. The oversized half-bow and box pleats at the waist add drama to this unforgettable look.

SHOP NOW: Sachin & Babi, $1,195

20 of 55

Wtoo by Watters Rosalind Dress

Model in black and white plaid wedding gown with off-the-shoulder sleeves

Courtesy of Wtoo by Watters

Floral patterns are somewhat expected, but plaid is a game-changer. This Caledonia plaid ballgown with optional off-the-shoulder sleeves is available in black on ivory or ivory on ivory for a more subtle contrast. The A-line silhouette is enhanced by a waist-defining grosgrain ribbon.

SHOP NOW: Wtoo by Watters, from $1,278

When dress shopping, keep your eye out for gowns with prints, mixed fabric, asymmetrical hemlines, or patterned embroidery—all details that make for a unique gown.

21 of 55

Hayley Paige Gigi Gown

Model in Ivory floral embroidered lace ball gown with textured tulle skirt

Courtesy of Hayley Paige

This floral embroidered ballgown is romantic at the top, party at the bottom. It features ivory lace over cashmere lining and a V-neck bodice with an asymmetrical drop-waist detail. Then comes the beautifully textured tiered tulle skirt that's sure to turn heads.

SHOP NOW: JLM Couture, Price Upon Request

22 of 55

Reem Acra Love Story Gown

Model in strapless gold ball gown with floral appliques

Courtesy of Reem Acra

This couture silk ballgown is blooming with beaded floral appliqués in a range of colorful pastels. Metallic champagne fabric is an eye-catcher while the sweetheart neckline and a pleated skirt offer softer, romantic details.

SHOP NOW: Reem Acra, Price Upon Request

23 of 55

All Who Wander Ryan Wedding Dress

Model in lace fringe wedding gown

Courtesy of Kleinfeld

Vintage lace over nude lining creates a negative space effect on this figure-hugging fit-and-flare boho dress. The gently scalloped choker-style halter neckline gives way to linear cotton-style lace and fringe details on the bodice for a unique touch.

SHOP NOW: Kleinfeld, $2,000

24 of 55

Needle & Thread Precious Rose Ballerina Dress

Model in midi length rose embroidered gown

Courtesy of Needle & Thread

Perfect for a springtime wedding, this tulle ballerina dress features soft pink, green, and champagne stripe-embroidered florals creating a banding layout. Each stripe is paneled with lace edging for extra textile detail. The subtle volume in the sleeves and ruffled collar are charming touches.

SHOP NOW: Needle & Thread, $599

25 of 55

ML Monique Lhuillier Ada Jumpsuit

Model sitting on stool in white jumpsuit with ruffle sleeves and slit let

Courtesy of Anthropologie

This modern, feminine jumpsuit featuring ruffled sleeves, high slits on the pant legs, and a keyhole back is an alternative look that's still totally bridal.

SHOP NOW: BHLDN, $295

26 of 55

Lela Rose The Seychelles Dress

Model in short gown with satin tank top and feathered skirt

Courtesy of Lela Rose

This mini dress is for the bride whose wedding is sure to be a party. A silk V-neck top with spaghetti straps and a crepe back contrasts with a fun feathered skirt.

SHOP NOW: Lela Rose, Price Upon Request

27 of 55

Amsale Pierce Wedding Gown

Model in off-white silk taffeta and tulle ball gown

Courtesy of Amsale 

This bridal ballgown has tons of unique, modern details, like an abstract bow with a crystal brooch at the waist and an asymettrical tiered skirt. The combination of silk taffeta and sheer tulle creates a stunning textural contrast.

SHOP NOW: Amsale, Price Upon Request

28 of 55

Viktor&Rolf Mariage Petite Love Cloud Gown

Model in long sleeve wedding gown with tulle hearts on the skirt

Courtesy of Viktor&Rolf Mariage

Remember what we said about tulle hearts? This super sweet gown features a fitted bodice with long sleeves, a sheer tulle ruffled neckline with sparkling embroidery, and gathered tulle heart ruffles on the A-line skirt.

SHOP NOW: Viktor&Rolf Mariage, Price Upon Request

29 of 55

Naeem Khan Jaffa Gown

Model in embroidered gown with raffia details and fringe skirt

Courtesy of Naeem Khan

This unique wedding dress is a total head-turner. Tonal thread embroidery overlays silk lining and raffia details adorn the bodice and tiered skirt.

SHOP NOW: Naeem Khan, Price Upon Request

30 of 55

Francesca Miranda Alina Jumpsuit

Model in floral white jumpsuit with overskirt

Courtesy of Francesca Miranda

This bridal number boasts the best of both worlds. The sheer, sleeveless bodice and high-low skirt with a romantic train grab the eye with their intricate floral details, while the simple straight white pants make for an easy walk down the aisle and first dance.

SHOP NOW: Francesca Miranda, Price Upon Request

31 of 55

Alexandra Grecco Moonstone Halo Gown

Model in V-neck pink wedding gown with metallic fil coupé shimmers

Courtesy of Alexandra Grecco

This showstopping A-line gown features a plunging V-neckline and strappy back detail for a hint of sexiness, but the real star is the shimmering metallic fil-coupé along the bodice and skirt. This unique wedding dress is available in Rose Quartz, Pearl, and Ash.

SHOP NOW: Alexandra Grecco, Price Upon Request

32 of 55

Inbal Dror Style 19-10

Model in sheer allover beaded wedding dress with high slit skirt

Courtesy of Inbal Dror

You'll feel like an A-lister in this gown dripping with sparkling jewels. Total sheerness, a super-high skirt slit, and a plunging neckline make for a sultry look while draping on the sleeves adds extra drama.

SHOP NOW: Inbal Dror, Price Upon Request

33 of 55

Justin Alexander Signature Plunging V-Neck Allover Beaded Fit-and-Flare Gown

Model in allover beaded V-neck fit and flare gown

Courtesy of Justin Alexander Signature 

Another gown boasting allover opulent beadwork, this fit-and-flare dress features a hand-beaded Sabrina neckline with a plunging V-neck and an illusion back for a touch of sheerness.

SHOP NOW: Justin Alexander Signature, Price Upon Request

34 of 55

Rime Arodaky Caplan Top and Pennington Skirt

Model in lace trimmed crop tip with floor-length skirt

Courtesy of Rime Arodaky

This dress's classic details contrast beautifully with its unique two-piece design. The high-neck crop top features lace detailing in the front and a full floral lace back with buttons, while the full-length, high-waisted skirt has lovely lace trim and a romantic train.

SHOP NOW: Rime Arodaky, $5,083.90

35 of 55

Daalarna Rebelle Style 780

Model in tea-length floral embroidered gown with puff sleeves and fringe hem

Courtesy of Daalarna

This tea-length wedding dress is ultra-unique with tulle, floral-embroidered overlay, voluminous sleeves, and a high neckline.

SHOP NOW: Daalarna, Price Upon Request

36 of 55

Wtoo by Watters Clarinda Gown

Plus Size Model in strapless black ballgown wedding dress with lace bodice and tulle skirt

Courtesy of BHLDN

The alternative bride will appreciate this striking black wedding gown. The strapless corset bodice is edged in ribbon and features black floral lace over a contrast lining, while the full tulle skirt offers just a hint of classic bridal.

SHOP NOW: BHLDN, $1,495

37 of 55

Rosa Clará Tuset Gown

Model in ballgown wedding dress with lace bodice and layered tulle skirt

Courtesy of Rosa Clará

This stunning princess-cut gown features a lace bodice, a low-cut décolletage, long straps, an open back, and a lace-paneled fitted waist. Most unique is the layered tulle skirt with a long train that will emanate glamour with every step.

SHOP NOW: Rosa Clará, Price Upon Request

38 of 55

Blush by Hayley Paige Delta Gown

Plus Size Model in Ivory Marrakesh all-over beaded gown

Courtesy of Blush by Hayley Paige

The intricate pattern is what gives this A-line gown its distinction. This Ivory Marrakesh allover beaded gown features details like a scalloped deep sweetheart neckline with a nude net insert and a T-strap back.

SHOP NOW: JLM Couture, Price Upon Request

39 of 55

Needle & Thread Shimmer Ditsy Gown

Model in periwinkle tulle gown with multicolored floral motifs

Courtesy of Needle & Thread

Available in Periwinkle Purple and Pearl Rose, this dress is full of texture. Floral multi-colored cluster motifs play alongside tulle kisses, deconstructed seams, and ruffle trims, while a grosgrain ribbon brings in the waist.

SHOP NOW: Needle & Thread, $569

40 of 55

Allison Webb Hadley Gown

Model in ivory lace and beaded appliqué feather mini dress with asymmetrical mikado pleated overskirt with front slit

Courtesy of Allison Webb

This gown may seem classic from the back, but the front reveals a playful feather mini skirt under the asymmetrical mikado pleated overskirt. The strapless bodice features ivory lace and beaded appliqués for a unique textural contrast.

SHOP NOW: JLM Couture, Price Upon Request

41 of 55

Jenny Yoo Bridal Wesley Gown

Model in V neck fit-and-flare wedding gown with chiffon panels

Courtesy of Jenny Yoo Bridal 

For the bride seeking something simple yet still statement-making, there's this crepe fit-and-flare gown, available in Antique White and Pearl. The flowing chiffon panels at the shoulders that align with the court-length train are what make this gown unique. They create a cape effect that can easily be converted int a draping cowl to frame the open back.

SHOP NOW: Jenny Yoo Bridal, $3,200

42 of 55

Houghton Bonita Top With Sailor Skirt

Model in off-the-shoulder crop top and high-low tulle skirt

Courtesy of Houghton 

This top and skirt set gives off total ballerina vibes. For the alternative bride, the simple, off-the-shoulder layered crop top takes no attention away from the high-low layered tulle skirt.

SHOP NOW: Houghton, Price Upon Request

43 of 55

Morilee by Madeline Gardner Kori Plus Size Wedding Dress

Plus size model in off-the-shoulder mermaid wedding dress with corset back and ruffled tulle skirt

Courtesy of Morilee by Madeline Gardner

Intricate design is the best descriptor for this figure-flattering mermaid gown available in white, ivory, and ivory/champagne. Appliquès and crystals adorn the cap sleeves and waist, while the flounced full skirt with ruffles adds extra drama. Just when you thought the look was complete, there's a totally sexy corset-style back.

SHOP NOW: Morilee by Madeline Gardner, Price Upon Request

44 of 55

Ashi Studio x Alothman High-Low Wedding Dress

Model in high-low ruffled wedding gown with sheer lace bodice and high neck

Courtesy of Ashi Studio 

This layered, high-low lace skirt with ruffled tulle trim contrasts gorgeously with the sheer lace bodice. Long sleeves and a turtleneck with tulle trim add extra detail.

SHOP NOW: Ashi Studio, Price Upon Request

If you're looking for a subtly unique wedding dress, skirt length is key. Choose a mini, midi, or tea-length dress for something out of the ordinary. High-low hems are another option.

45 of 55

Azazie Quincy Dress

Plus size model in one-shoulder mermaid gown

Courtesy of Azazie 

This one-shouldered tulle and lace mermaid gown includes a removable bow at the shoulder. Hand-pieced lace motifs cascade down the gown toward the mermaid skirt with soft tulle godets and a slit up to the knee. A cathedral train finishes off the look.

SHOP NOW: Azazie, $349

46 of 55

Sachin & Babi Lindval Gown

Model in illusion neckline ball gown with sequined floral embroidery

Courtesy of Sachin & Babi

This tulle ballgown features a sheer yoke cover creating an illusion neckline. In Petal, it's a subtly hued alternative to classic white. Most striking is the hand-applied, sequined floral embroidery from the bodice down through the airy skirt.

SHOP NOW: Sachin & Babi, $3,295

47 of 55

Alexandra Grecco Verita Gown

Model in deep V floral A-line gown with floral appliqué and sheer cap sleeves

Courtesy of Alexandra Grecco 

Perfect for a spring wedding in a garden or forest, this A-line gown is adorned with intricate, hand-embroidered floral appliqués. The cascading cap sleeves are made of the same illusion tulle that covers the back and beautifully showcases the floral embroidery. Available in Dove Grey and Off White, this gown has a side slit in the skirt and a deep-V neckline for a sexy touch.

SHOP NOW: Alexandra Grecco, Price Upon Request

48 of 55

Houghton Cassidee Gown

Model in strapless high-low ruffled silk wedding dress

Courtesy of Houghton

This playful white silk gown features a strapless bandeau neckline and a tiered, high-low ruffle skirt that flares out just below the bust for a dramatic effect.

SHOP NOW: Houghton, Price Upon Request

49 of 55

Willowby by Watters Marcail Gown

Model in long-sleeve lace gown with V neck

Courtesy of Willowby by Watters

This A-line gown is fit for a goddess. A blend of fabrics including bowie lace, illusion tulle, matte organize, and soft chiffon gives it a unique edge. Available in Ivory-Blush and Ivory-Off White, it features chevroned lace down the skirt, billowing sleeves, and a tassel detail on the open back.

SHOP NOW: Willowby by Watters, from $1,700

50 of 55

Jenny Packham Faye Wedding Dress

Model in high-low polka dot tulle strapless wedding dress with feather trim

Courtesy of Jenny Packham

This strapless polka-dot tulle gown is a party from top to bottom. The feather trim along the neckline adds a playful detail while the light-as-air ruffled high-low skirt creates a unique sillhouette.

SHOP NOW: Jenny Packham, Price Upon Request

51 of 55

Monique Lhuillier Valencia Gown

Model in strapless high-low floral wedding gown

Courtesy of Monique Lhuillier

This strapless, white dress with pink floral print features a flamenco-style skirt and a ruffled hem. The tulle underlay adds volume, creating an utterly enchanting fairytale ballgown effect.

SHOP NOW: Monique Lhuillier, Price Upon Request

52 of 55

Naeem Khan Nevada Beaded Silk-Chiffon Jumpsuit

Model in shimmery white long-sleeve jumpsuit

Courtesy of Net-A-Porter 

For the contemporary bride, this silk-chiffon jumpsuit is embellished with tonal and metallic beads that will catch the light and glimmer as you make your way down the aisle. We love details like the '70s-inspired collar, drawstring waist, and wide pant legs.

SHOP NOW: Net-A-Porter, $7,495

53 of 55

Badgley Mischka Eyelet Off-Shoulder Gown

Model in off-the-shoulder lace weddinggown

Courtesy of Olivela

This dress boasts Old Hollywood glamour. The off-the-shoulder puff sleeves and trumpeted skirt are made from intricate lace for a see-through effect, while the lined inset waist and skirt are adorned with white bow details that subtly contrast with the off-white fabric.

SHOP NOW: Olivela, $1,290

54 of 55

Mac Duggal Long-Sleeve Floral Lace Jewel-Neck Gown

Model in floral-embroidered sheer tulle lace gown

Courtesy of Neiman Marcus

This floral-embroidered sheer tulle lace mermaid gown is a beautiful, unique option for a garden bride. Details like a jeweled neckline, a beaded waist, and sheer long sleeves add to the intricate design.

SHOP NOW: Neiman Marcus, $798

55 of 55

Rebecca Ingram Reggie Jane Wedding Dress

Model in tea-length allover lace gown

Courtesy of Rebecca Ingram

This flirty tea-length wedding dress is casual yet elegant. The novelty lace with circular cutouts over nude lining creates a patterned effect, while more intricate lace details accentuate the waist. It features an illusion deep V-neckline and back, illusion lace tank straps, and illusion side panels. A detachable peplum is also included.

SHOP NOW: Rebecca Ingram, Price Upon Request

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