32 Simple Yet Striking Wedding Dresses for Minimalist Brides (2024)

Simple wedding dresses can be just as magical as ball gowns or dramatic a trained look, especially if you identify as a fashionminimalist. Tying the knot doesn’t mandate a theatrical or intricately detailed gown covered in sequins, lace, orfeathers. Instead, modern brides with pared-back tastes crave elegance with an unfussy feel, be it a long, full-length silhouette, sleek, sculptural midi, or timeless tea-length design.

Fortuitously, simple wedding dress options abound. A fluid slip can achieve the right amount of romance, skimming your silhouette effortlessly while commanding attention. Those detailed with lustrous pearls or cut with a bold open back offer a particularly spectacular result. In the same vein, a satin dress with an easy-going essence could be just the thing to make your less-is-more heart skip a beat. To master the art of effortless wedding day dressing, look for lengthier designs with subtly striking touches, like asymmetrical draping, or an element of volume, such as an off-shoulder neckline or puff sleeve.

If a shorter shape speaks your language, this is your moment to express yourself authentically, so why not divert with an unexpected midi length? Seek finely-crafted features like a sculpted bustier bodice, exaggerated sleeve, intricate back detail, or perfectly squared neckline—all deliver an uncomplicated yet striking result, whether for an intimate ceremony or civilcourthouse “I do’s.”

Ahead, shop 32 perfectly minimal and simple wedding dresses below.

Khaite

This off-the-shoulder dress combines classical draping with clean, modern lines. The crepe jersey fabric adds to the effortlessness for a simply elegant fit.

The Row

Let this cowl-neck gown hang languidly off one shoulder or with both straps upright. The draped back is just as entrancing as the front.

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The Row Bamaris one-shoulder maxi dress

Roksanda

Consider a draped cowl back for a stunning focal point. The silhouette resembles a cape without the full-on drama.

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Roksanda Oriana cowl-back dress

Alex Perry

A form-fitting gown is unquestionably the choice when voluminous shapes and layers of fabric feel like too much. The inner corseting construction and sweetheart neckline are the magic details of this sleek yet feminine design.

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Alex Perry Clove bustier gown

Solace

This crepe and satin gown defines pared-back drama. The sleeves project off the shoulders oh-so subtly for a touch of volume.

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Solace London Dakota off-the-shoulder gown

Galvan

Cascading freshwater pearls take this slip gown to the next level. It’s a truly striking option with a modern approach timeless.

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Galvan slip gown

Danielle Frankel

Behold a more ceremonious take on the classic slip dress. Danielle Frankel’s interpretation is detailed with an asymmetric neckline and soft internal bustier with boning for added shape.

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Danielle Frankel Harper open-back gown

Markarian

A full-length gown and train can, indeed, be simple. Case in point: this sweetheart column crafted from raw silk.

Maison Margiela

Sheer inserts along the bust and back steer his silk gown into edgy territory. Meanwhile, the trained hemline lends just a flicker of theatrics.

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Maison Margiela Bridal satin gown

Dior

J’adore a Dior bride. This refined one-shoulder is crafted in white silk crepe and draped delicately as ever.

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Dior Dream Asymmetric long dress

Staud

You’ll make a demure entrance in this high-neck ivory column but delight during your recessional. As you say your “I do’s,” everyone will take notice of the single shell chain detail down the open back.

Saint Laurent

It doesn’t get more effortlessly elegant than this lustrous silk satin gown. The delicate shoulder straps, which cross in the back, enhance the simplicity with a modern touch.

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Saint Laurent silk satin gown

Gabriela Hearst

Embrace Gabriela Hearst’s streamlined approach to tailoring for your bridal look. This strapless silhouette, made from wool, is incredibly well-crafted, from the straight-cut bodice to the darted skirt.

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Gabriela Hearst maxi dress

Maison Essentiele

Go the asymmetrical route with a white bridal slip. Maison Essentiele’s offers the slimmest one-shoulder we’ve seen.

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Maison Essentiele asymmetrical maxi slip dress

Jacquemus

Unfussy beach brides, this gathered number is for you. You might even skip the footwear in favor of bare feet in the sand.

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Jacquemus long dress

Safiyaa

We love the structure of this crepe maxi for a civil ceremony. The off-the-shoulder neckline and bow detail nod to romance while feeling perfectly retrained.

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Safiyaa off-shoulder maxi dress

Anna October

This column silhouette is not like any other. There’s a fluidity to the sustainable acetate fabric that sways in a relaxed manner with every step.

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Anna October column maxi dress

Emilia Wickstead

Emilia Wickstead’s bridal designs are synonymous with simplicity. The structural elements of this crepe gown, from the square neckline to the darted bodice, make it a genuinely striking long-sleeve option.

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Emilia Wickstead Geradine square-neck gown

Norma Kamali

Choose a cowl neck slip for a timeless and pristine bridal look if ever in doubt. Norma Kamali’s iteration is so well-priced.

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Norma Kamali Maria satin gown

Beare Park

Seeking a shorter dress? Look no further than this hyper-minimal pencil silhouette with a modern bustier bodice.

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Beare Park cowl neck pencil dress

Alexander McQueen

A halter neckline is among the most timeless. The fluidity offsets the shape beautifully, down to the floor-pooling hem.

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Alexander McQueen halterneck gown

Sau Lee

Luminous satin fabric feels easier in a strapless silhouette. But, for an alluring finish, it’s all about the thigh-high slit.

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Sau Lee Priyanka strapless gown

Halston

Stretch crepe makes for some of the most pristine wedding gowns. Take this plunging A-line number that’s so-subtly enhanced with a crystal bar.

Nili Lotan

A squared neckline ensures striking simplicity in the world of slip dresses. However, the sculptural open back truly sets this silk gown apart.

Roland Mouret

Crystal embellishments can veer minimal. Like, Roland Mouret’s stunning approach, with a shimmering panel peeking from the softly draped neckline.

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Roland Mouret Diamante Cady gown

A.L.C.

Fluid pleats and a criss-cross halter neckline combine for a beautifully graceful bridal gown. The small front cutout and open back are decidedly modern elements adding to the allure.

Cult Gaia

Skip the bridal jewelry in favor of this metal-adorned silk gown. It’s a truly unique take on the timeless bridal slip.

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Cult Gaia Azealia open-back gown

Totême

Leave it to Totême to make floral jacquard simple and sleek. Note the raw hem finishes for an unexpectedly relaxed element.

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Totême floral maxi dress

Emporio Armani

A jersey midi dress may soundtoo simple. And yet, one look at this tea-length look with a perfectly square neckline, and you’ll realize it’s flawless.

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Emporio Armani sleeveless midi dress

Taller Marmo

A one-shoulder always appears sleek and modern. Picture this draped design in a Marrakesh setting at sunset.

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Taller Marmo Bolkan one-shoulder dress

Victoria Beckham

Another stunning satin slip option from Victoria Beckham. As a ’90s icon herself, she’s perfected every detail, from the slim straps to the low V-shaped back.

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Victoria Beckham

satin slip dress

Tibi

This sleeveless silk gown in a stretch twill fabric looks incredible on the body—and it will appeal to those minimalist brides as it has everything she needs, and nothing she doesn’t.

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Tibi dress

32 Simple Yet Striking Wedding Dresses for Minimalist Brides (2024)

FAQs

Why simple wedding dresses are the best? ›

A lot of times, this will mean a more casual wedding dress - nothing too fussy or dramatic. Wanting a plain wedding dress does not mean it has to be boring! A bride that wants a plain dress might be more focused on function and movability the day of her wedding. Less Pinterest perfect, more fun and free.

What do most brides wear under their dress? ›

What's more, your wedding gown might be luxurious and fancy, but your undergarments don't need to be. A bra that fits well and underwear that doesn't bunch, ride up, or produce panty lines are really all that's needed to look and feel your best. Additionally, shapewear is always an option if needed.

How to make a simple wedding dress stand out? ›

A simple white dress stands out with a flower crown filled with bright colored blossoms, or even a dramatic seashell crown if you're having a beach wedding. Hair jewelry offers another unique touch of exotic elegance. For the boho bride, try a wide brimmed hat with a colorful ribbon or flower attachment.

How many dresses on average does a bride try on? ›

On average, brides try on about 4–7 dresses, but we recommend no more than 10. The more wedding gowns you try on, the more confusing things may get. When the bridal gown selection is too big, brides tend to get overwhelmed and struggle to remember what the first gown they tried on looked like.

Is it okay to wear a simple wedding dress? ›

The aesthetic of a simple wedding dress will likely withstand the test of time, and perhaps when you review the photographs of your nuptials in years to come the dress will appear to be as timeless as you hoped and relevant enough to pass it on to a loved one to enjoy.

What makes a wedding dress stand out? ›

Other ways to stand out

You don't have to completely reimagine the traditional wedding dress to stand out. You can still wear a white dress or a classic silhouette, but add additional elements that will make your wedding day look unique. Some elements to consider are lace, beading, or your veil.

Should you wear a bra with your wedding dress? ›

Many dresses have bra cups, pads, boning and even possibly a bra strap with adjustable hooks for you to feel comfortable and secure in the dress. Some of these items can help so you do not have to wear a bra and some will enhance the look with a bra.

What's the thing brides wear on their thigh? ›

A wedding garter is a piece of lingerie typically worn by brides under their bridal gown.

Is it better to be over dressed or under dressed for a wedding? ›

Don't be too casual

As the old saying goes, it's better to be overdressed than underdressed.

How to elevate your bridal look? ›

Consider adding statement pieces like a dazzling tiara, a vintage-inspired veil, or elegant jewelry that complements your dress. These accessories not only add a touch of glamour but also provide an opportunity to incorporate sentimental items such as heirloom pieces from your family.

How do I not spend a lot on a wedding dress? ›

Opt for a Pre-Owned Design

Since brides typically only wear their wedding gowns on the big day, selecting a second-hand alternative is basically like buying a brand-new design—with a huge price reduction. According to Avrumson, you can find a style that's at least 40 percent off.

What size are most brides? ›

Bridal sizing isn't like typical street wear sizing. While you might be a size 4-6 in jeans, you're in fact a bridal size 8-10, and if you're a size 14-16, you're likely a 18-20. Don't worry about it–sizing is just a number! You'll likely see most of our samples in a bridal size 8, 10, 12, 18, 20 or 22 to try on.

What length is a mother of bride dress? ›

The length of the gown or dress is a personal choice, even for formal weddings. Long dresses and skirts are fine for any wedding from noon on. The mothers do not have to wear dresses of equal length, although many do, feeling that it creates a more harmonious look, especially in wedding photos.

What is a good price to pay for a wedding dress? ›

Generally, the average cost of a wedding gown is typically between $1,800 to $2,500. Off-the-rack gowns may be priced lower than $1,800, while more luxurious gowns can sometimes fall in the $3,000 to $8,000 range. Customized dresses can even cost up to $10,000.

Why simple weddings are better? ›

Fewer People Can Mean Less Stress

You want to enjoy the time leading up to your wedding, and planning a huge party might make that difficult. If you're worried about feeling too stressed out while planning your special day that you can't take a moment and enjoy it, a smaller gathering might be what you need.

Can a wedding dress be too simple? ›

we get it, sometimes a simple wedding dress can just feel too plain. luckily for you, you're in the hands of expert bridal stylists that know how to spice up a simple wedding dress. here are ideas for spicing up your simple bridal gown, babes!

Can you wear a simple dress to a wedding? ›

A wedding ceremony is a serious occasion, so you should always dress respectfully: Skip anything too casual (no jeans), too bridal (no formal, white gowns), or too short. "I think a micro mini dress is always too short when it comes to a wedding," says Hurwitz.

What is the difference between a simple and extravagant wedding? ›

Extravagant weddings result in increased stress and distraction. Wedding days are stressful enough—adding dozens of unnecessary frills and expenses makes them even more so. On the other hand, a simple wedding helps keep focus on the bride and groom rather than decorations, accommodations, and food. 2.

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