- Wedding Dresses
By
Rachel Varina
Rachel Varina
Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and six years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured inCosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more.
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Updated on 10/23/23 02:38PM
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When it comes to planning a wedding, some brides prefer glitz and glamour while others veer towards a relaxed celebration. There's no wrong way to have a wedding, of course, and if a laid-back affair is calling your name, a low-key or casual wedding might be the move. Not only are these events typically more intimate and budget-friendly, but a casual dress code is often easier for guests to achieve. Even if your "I dos" are going to be low-key, finding a casual wedding look that still feels beautiful, bridal, and special is essential. Typically, casual wedding dresses have fewer (if any) embellishments and beading, and they're often made of more lightweight, breezy fabrics. What's more, lots of casual brides opt to wear shorter styles to suit their bridal aesthetics. Not only are most of these gowns easy to wear after the big day, but they're typically lower in cost, which can help you stick to a specific budget. And the best part is, there are tons of casual wedding dresses out there, fit for all types of celebrations. Whether you're having a seaside celebration, a backyard bash, or simply keeping things informal at your dream venue, there's a laid-back look for you. To help, we've sourced the best options from the most reputable sellers, keeping quality, materials, size range, and price point in mind. Read on for the best casual wedding dresses. We love everything about this casual wedding dress from Jenny Yoo. The minimalist slip dress oozes effortless style. It’s made with a luxurious satin cut on the bias and has a flattering asymmetrical one-shoulder design. The dress comes in ivory as well as five additional colors and falls gracefully over the body. The timeless dress comes in a midi length but can be made longer by having it customized. Brides who favor a one-shoulder style dress Size Range: 0-26 | Material: Satin | Length: Midi This ethereal gown from Lulus is a casual wedding favorite. The plunging neckline, banded waist, and full maxi skirt feel effortlessly bridal. Considering there are 13 different color options to choose from, you can either stick to classic white or opt for cream or even black to switch it up. The bride who wants a classic but casual bridal gown Size Range: Chic detailing and flirty hems pair perfectly for spring weddings, and this high-neck dress from DB studio is faultless for floral-filled celebrations. The short skirt keeps the look casual while the long sleeves fight any springtime chill—plus, the all-over lace makes the design feel bridal as can be. A bride who wants to incorporate lots of lace into her casual look Size Range: 0-26W | Material: Polyester | Length: Knee-length An off-the-shoulder style and airy linen fabric make this charming midi dress from Reformation an easy choice for laidback nuptials. The understated silhouette is perfect for informal backyard weddings or intimate elopements, while the high slit adds some sexy flair. Made from super breathable linen, this dress is made for weddings in sweltering climates. Brides looking for a lightweight dress for a summer or outdoor casual wedding Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Linen | Length: Midi This is the type of dress you can wear to the courthouse and then to a celebratory brunch afterwards. The white lining gives the appearance of a two-piece set, while the sheer lace overlay provides coverage with a rounded neckline and short sleeves. Pair it with some statement heels for a sophisticated-meets-casual bridal look. Sophisticated brides who want a stylish dress Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, lace | Length: Midi The 19 Best Courthouse Wedding Outfits of 2024 Covered in fluttery floral 3D appliqués, the Sidney gown from Dress the Population is ideal for brides who lean toward dreamy silhouettes and eccentric styles. A sweeping peekaboo skirt keeps the design casual, while the high-end detailing boasts your bridal status. You can either opt for white flowers over nude or branch out with blue, black, or a pink overlay. Brides who love a dress with a lot of stunning details Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Nylon | Length: Floor-length 16 Whimsical Wedding Dresses for a Magical Bridal Look Whether you choose this style in maxi or midi length, Revelry's Abigail dress is a boho bride's dream, complete with convertible off-the-shoulder sleeves and a breezy A-line skirt. The style also comes in chiffon for an even softer aesthetic, and is available in over 30 colors. We love that the dress has built-in cups and you can either wear the sleeves on your shoulders or off. A bride who wants a dress with several style and color options Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Tulle | Length: Maxi or midi Full of vintage charm and bygone-era beauty, BHLDN's Katarina tulle gown feels at home in almost any casual setting. The tulle design is surprisingly streamlined with floral embroidery and a subtle train. We suggest keeping your accessories simple to really allow the dainty, all-over floral embroidery to shine. A bride who wants a feminine gown with butterfly sleeves Size Range: 0-26W | Materials: Polyester, tulle | Length: Floor-length 20 Embroidered Wedding Dresses for a Beautifully Intricate Look Elegant without feeling too formal, this sleeveless dress from Katie May seamlessly marries bridal and elevated casual aesthetics. The sweetheart neckline and midi length are easy to dress up or down, while the lace accent and big bow keep the look contemporary. A bride who is looking for a casual dress that is elegant Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester | Length: Midi Satin has become one of the most popular wedding dress fabrics, and this sleek style from Revelry is an easy bridal choice. A cowl neckline, figure-flattering ruching, and dual knee-high slits make the Skye a must-have, no matter which of the 30+ colors you select it in. Brides who want a midi dress in a luxurious fabric Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Satin | Length: Midi 20 Satin Wedding Dress Ideas for Modern Brides From the rich velvet material to the long sleeves and high bateau neckline, it's clear Revelry's Gemma dress was made with cold-weather celebrations in mind. Whichever color you select (there are 25+ hues), this gown will keep you warm, while the dramatic draped back keeps the look from feeling too covered up. Brides who want a more covered-up look with an elegant style Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Velvet | Length: Floor-length If you’re looking for a simple and stylish dress, this mini from Reformation has it all. The sleeveless, fitted dress has an A-line skirt and a boat neckline. The polyester fabric has a nice sheen and comes in a lovely ivory shade. This dress has a V-back and zipper for a great fit, and a style that you’ll want to wear again and again. The bride who wants a fitted, stylish dress they can wear frequently Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Deadstock woven fabric made from 100% Polyester | Length: Mini This floral frock is perfect for fashion-forward brides who want their gowns to fill in as "something blue." A flattering ruched waist and simple spaghetti straps give way to a subtle slit and mixed blue patterns, for an eclectic look. Brides who want a casual wedding dress that can double as a sundress Size Range: 00-12 | Materials: Viscose | Length: Ankle Fall weddings and velvet fabrics go hand-in-hand, which is why we adore Revelry's Giselle dress for a casual autumn celebration. The glamorous faux-wrap style is elevated but not too fancy, and the short sleeves provide just enough coverage against the fall breeze. Pair it with a pretty jacket or shrug if the temps start to dip. A bride who wants a glamorous and flattering dress Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Velvet | Length: Maxi 14 Cool and Custom Wedding Jackets for Every Bridal Style If you're torn between a suit and a dress, SuitShop has you covered with a frock that blends the two wedding styles. Featuring a structured tuxedo silhouette, satin lapel, and pockets at the hips, this statement style exudes sophistication, class, and timelessness. We love that it also comes in short lengths for all the petites. The bride who prefers a more structured and stylish dress Size Range: 00-20 | Materials: Crepe and satin | Length: Mini The 14 Best Wedding Suits for the Modern Bride Between the exaggerated collar and the romantic puff sleeves, LoveShackFancy's Liv dress is fit for a night of dancing with your family and friends. Whether you wear it for the ceremony or just the after-party, this flirty mini was made to turn heads. A bride who wants a casual dress with a romantic style Size Range: P-XL | Material: Cotton | Length: Mini You don't have to ditch your bold bridal gown vision just because you're having a casual wedding. This gown from Watters Cameronbalances a relaxed style with a formal look thanks to its richly textured fabric, large-scale cutwork, puff sleeves, and sweeping floor length. A bride who wants to wear a formal gown to her casual ceremony Size Range: 0-26 | Material: Polyester | Length: Floor-length The Madeleine Dress, by Bronx and Banco, is a dream come true for any lace aficionado. The figure-flattering sheath wedding dress features a defined waist and elegant puff sleeves. The scalloped hem is an especially lovely feature because of its raw texture. The bride who wants a fitted and feminine sheath dress Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Lace, polyester and elastane | Length: Calf-length The 16 Best Lace Wedding Dresses We Love This beautiful Lulu's halter dress is ideal for any summer bride because it is both modern and flattering. This sleeveless, pleated bodice dress has an open back and is shaped from sheer woven organza for a sophisticated yet seductive look. Wear this midi-length, stretchy crepe knit skirt with a bodycon silhouette and a sultry side slit for ease of movement during the outdoor ceremony. A bride who wants a modern dress that is suitable for a summer wedding Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Calf-length Calling all fashion-forward brides! Whether worn together or separately, we adore this trendy ruffle-decorated crop top and fitted pants ensemble with some blooming floral accessories and strappy bridal sandals. The easygoing two-piece outfit will become an instant classic after the wedding, whether you opt for a minimalist approach or glam it up with a few statement jewelry pieces. The bride with a trendsetting style Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Cotton | Length: Floor-length FAQ What should a bride wear for a casual wedding? There's no rule that says you have to wear a wedding dress to your celebration. Anything you feel comfortable in works, whether that's a two-piece set like Free People's Danelle Set, a bridal suit, or something you already have hanging in your closet. You don't even need to wear white, though many casual brides still prefer a lighter shade for their casual wedding dress or day-of outfits. Where can I find casual wedding dresses? Lulus, Revelry, Reformation, and David's Bridal are all fantastic options when looking for casual wedding dresses. We love the Lulus Remarkable White Lace Dress and the Revelry Skye Midi Satin Dress. They both have a great style, come in a variety of colors, and are reasonably priced. You can also find great casual wedding dresses at consignment shops. Don't feel like you have to search for gowns marketed as "wedding dresses" either, as there are plenty of ready-to-wear options that can align with your style and needs. What kind of venues are casual wedding dresses best for? While you can wear a casual wedding dress no matter where you get married, we tend to see them most at outdoor venues like backyard and garden weddings, as well as beach weddings. They also are popular for a courthouse wedding. Contributing Expert Writer Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and six years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more. 18 Elegant Slip Wedding Dresses for the Minimalist Bride Who It's For
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