Can I wear white to my second wedding?

Of course! A bride traditionally wears white to the wedding, however, some brides choose to wear colored dresses down the aisle.

Should older brides wear veils?

As with any bridal fashion choice, the decision whether or not to wear a veil is entirely up to the bride. If a bride doesn't want to wear a veil, she can wear a fascinator, headband, or other accessory down the aisle —or nothing at all!

Can I wear a wedding dress to a vow renewal?

Yes, brides can wear wedding dresses to renew their vows . Before choosing a wedding dress to renew your vows, consider the style, venue and dress code for the event.

17 Best Wedding Dresses for Older Brides of 2023

Spoiler alert: There is no perfect age to get married. Whether you found your soulmate early on or later in life, all that matters is you get to say "I do!" But, if you do consider yourself an older bride, you may be wondering what you should (or shouldn't!) wear down the aisle.

Yet, the wedding dress options for older brides are endless! Regardless of age, style is personal and unique to everyone, and therefore what might be a perfect match for some, feels off for others. In other words, just because you're not in your twenties anymore doesn't mean a stiff, ultra-conservative gown is in order. Au contraire! Feel free to incorporate design elements into your bridal look that you've always gravitated toward.

Be bold with a unique neckline, go classic with a simple silhouette, or have some fun with a mini—because age means nothing when it comes to bridal fashion. It is your big day, after all!

Read on for the best wedding dresses for older brides that prove age is just a number.

Our Top Picks

Best Under $300:

BHLDN Belize Dress at Bhldn

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Best Lightweight Fabric:

Halston Cape-Effect Crepe de Chine Gown at Net-a-Porter

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Best One-Shoulder:

Taller Marmo Ubud One-Shoulder Ruffled Crepe Gown at Net-a-Porter

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Best Slip Dress:

BHLDN Cali Satin Charmeuse Midi Dress at Bhldn

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Most Unique:

Taller Marmo Feather-Trimmed Crepe Maxi Dress at Farfetch.com

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Best Lace Look:

BHLDN Ludlow Gown at Bhldn

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For the Vintage-Inspired Bride:

Galvan Majorelle Plissé-Satin Midi Dress at Net-a-Porter

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Best Short Dress:

Amsale Crepe V-Neck Shift Dress at Amsale.com

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Best Off-the-Shoulder:

Rebecca Vallance Lace-Sleeves Off-the-Shoulder Dress at Farfetch.com

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Most Elegant:

Gucci Silk-Blend Satin Gown at Matchesfashion.com

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Anthropologie

View On Bhldn

For the free-spirited bride, this long-sleeve dress with voluminous sleeves and delicate embroidery is a perfect pick. Retailing for just under $300, the "Belize" dress is stylish and budget-friendly.

Price at time of publish: $298

Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

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This maxi dress is taken up a notch (or twelve) with cape-effect detail. It’s subtly sexy and oh-so-stylish. Since the gown is crafted from airy crepe de chin, it's a fitting choice for spring or summer weddings.

Price at time of publish: $425

Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

View On Net-a-Porter

Inspired by glamorous silhouetted of the '60s and '70s this sophisticated gown offers fluidity and ease. It's made from soft ivory crepe and features a scarf that drapes elegantly around the neck. Style yours with white kitten heels and gold jewelry for an effortlessly chic look.

Price at time of publish: $900

BHLDN

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A slip dress is always a chic and classic wedding dress silhouette. Timeless and alluring, the "Cali" dress is perfect for courthouse nuptials or a casual ceremony.

Price at time of publish: $168

Courtesy of Farfetch

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If you’re never one to shy away from a statement-making moment, don’t let a walk down the aisle change that! This feather-trim dress is fun and eccentric, in the best way possible. Go bold with shoulder-grazing earrings or keep accessories minimal for a pared-back look.

Price at time of publish: $2,025

Courtesy of BHLDN

View On Bhldn

You can never wear too much lace on your wedding day, as proven by this head-to-toe lacy gown that’s ideal for any bride. The delicate cap sleeves are so elegant while the open back and sweeping train offer a statement-making moment.

Price at time of publish: $975

Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

View On Net-a-Porter

If you live for a nostalgic fashion moment, Galvan's 'Majorelle' dress should definitely be on your radar. Its elegant silhouette is crafted from lightweight plissé-satin and is detailed with vintage-style beaded buttons at the back. We love this look for courthouse nuptials.

Price at time of publish: $1,495

Courtesy of Amsale

View On Amsale.com

Eschew a long hemline altogether and try this long-sleeve number from Amsale. It’s effortlessly cool in every sense of the term. Plus, a short hemline offers the opportunity to showcase a fun pair of bridal shoes.

Price at time of publish: $410

Courtesy of Farfetch

View On Farfetch.com

A sleek way to do off-the-shoulder, this lace long-sleeve dress is a real crowd pleaser. Featuring a flattering fitted waist, lace paneling, and a gentle train, this gown is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Courtesy of Matchesfashion

View On Matchesfashion.com

A silky dress that gives off 1930's vibes, you’ll feel confident and comfortable all day long in this elegant number. Wear yours with vintage-inspired jewelry, classic pumps, and a simple bouquet.

Price at time of publish: $7,200

Courtesy of Lela Rose

View On Lelarose.com

This asymmetric gown offers a fresh approach to showing off a little shoulder while still feeling pared-back and classic. We love 'The Stratford' gown for the bride-to-be who appreciates clean lines, minimalist silhouettes, and understated elegance.

Courtesy of MyTheresa

View On Theoutnet.com

A delicate lace dress is lovely for a quiet garden wedding. This pretty number by Elie Saab features ruffled sleeves, eyelet lace, and a waist tie that forms a bow at the back. Wear grass-friendly block heels or espadrilles.

Price at time of publish: $3,120

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

View On Sachinandbabi.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue

If your style is decidedly retro, this tea-length pick from Sachin & Babi might just be up your alley. Rich with details like a high-neck bodice with an intricate floral lace overlay, and an illusion back finished with pearl closures–it doesn't get more romantic than this.

Price at time of publish: $965

Anthropologie

View On Bhldn

From the puff sleeves to the square neckline and oversized bow, this long-sleeve frock embodies Old Hollywood glamour. Boasting eye-catching details at the front and back, you'll be sure to stun from all angles.

Price at time of publish: $1,695

Courtesy of Temperley London

View On Temperleylondon.com

Another unexpected choice, opt for this wrap number by Temperley London. We can see Diane Keaton in this structured white dress—can you? Its wrap silhouette is beyond flattering while the shoulder pads and silk satin shawl collar give it a decidedly 1940s feel.

Courtesy of Farfetch

View On Farfetch.com

Sweet, romantic, feminine—we’re all in for this pretty white dress. It's packed with dazzling details like a diaphanous layered skirt, delicate short sleeves, and a shimmery sequin neckline. It's the perfect option for the bride who wants coverage without feeling too covered up.

Courtesy of Savannah Miller

View On Savannahmiller.com

A wedding dress with a bateau neckline is universally flattering and enduringly elegant–especially when balanced out by a plunging back. Keep accessories simple for an effortless look–think diamond stud earrings and a delicate tennis bracelet.

What to Look For in a Wedding Dress

No matter your age, there are no rules that say you have to dress a certain way on your wedding day. After all, it’s your day and you get to decide what outfit makes you look and feel your best. What’s more, there are so many wedding dress options to choose from! Holding an intimate ceremony in your backyard or at the courthouse? There are scores of fitting outfits on the market from tea-length frocks to tailored pantsuits. If you’re more of a classic bride, opt for a simple shift dress or go big and bold with a traditional ball gown complete with lace detailing and a dramatic train. For those seeking out modest attire, look for floor-length dresses with long sleeves, high necklines, and covered backs. Still not sure where to start? Take some of the guesswork out and start with universally flattering silhouettes, like a-line, fit and flare, and wrap dresses.

FAQ

Can I wear white to my second wedding?

Of course! A bride traditionally wears white to the wedding, however, some brides choose to wear colored dresses down the aisle.
Should older brides wear veils?

As with any bridal fashion choice, the decision whether or not to wear a veil is entirely up to the bride. If a bride doesn't want to wear a veil, she can wear a fascinator, headband, or other accessory down the aisle—or nothing at all!
Can I wear a wedding dress to a vow renewal?

Yes, brides can wear wedding dresses to renew their vows. Before choosing a wedding dress to renew your vows, consider the style, venue and dress code for the event.

Why Trust Brides

Nicole Kliest is a fashion, travel, and food & wine writer based in New York City. With over nine years of experience in the digital publishing industry, her work has appeared on sites including Who What Wear, The Zoe Report, Cools, Popsugar, Harper's Bazaar, Elle.