13 Vow Renewal Dresses to Suit Any Kind of Celebration

Say "I do" again with these chic and sophisticated styles.

By
Jessica Booth
Jessica Booth
Jessica Booth

Jessica Booth is a journalist with over 10 years of experience and a freelance writer whose work has appeared on sites such as Bustle, Insider, and Refinery29.

Brides's Editorial Guidelines
Updated on 06/20/23 10:13AM
bride and groom holding hands in front of a door

Photo by Jeremy Chou

If your wedding dress holds a special place in your heart, then finding a vow renewal dress is probably an important task for you. After all, vow renewals are pretty much a second mini-wedding, so you should feel empowered to find a look that'll help you celebrate your love once again.

To start, when shopping for vow renewal attire, we recommend getting creative with your options to find a look that's less traditional and classic than your standard wedding gown. However, that's not to say that you can't opt for a gorgeous wedding dress, or gown similar to the look you absolutely loved years before.

As for style, in particular, since there's a large selection of vow renewal dresses to choose from, your final decision will likely depend on the type of celebration you plan to have. For instance, if you're hosting something big and extravagant, then you may want to consider another wedding gown or a very formal white dress. Keeping things casual? Opt for a white cocktail dress or even a white jumpsuit. Regardless of the exact style you pick, though, know that there is no wrong dress to wear for this momentous occasion.

Ahead, celebrate your vow renewal with a look that's just as special as your relationship, from this shopping edit below.

01 of 13

Best Midi: Mac Duggal Natalie V-Neck Beaded Embroidered Sleeveless Midi Dress

mac duggal beaded embroidered midi dress

Size: 0-14 | Length: Midi | Return Policy: Free returns within 30 days of purchase

Though this dress feels obviously bridal, it isn't too formal for a vow renewal ceremony. The shoulder bow and sparkling beaded embroidery throughout are fun details, and we love the ruffle hem at the bottom for a bit of flair.

Price at time of publish: $538

02 of 13

Best Jumpsuit: Altar'd State Gabbie Lace Jumpsuit

altar'd state gabbie lace jumpsuit

Size: XS-L | Length: Floor | Return Policy: Free returns

If a dress doesn't feel like the right fit, then a chic jumpsuit is a great option, like this Altar'd State lace number. The best part? It's a budget-friendly choice that'll keep you comfortable and ready to dance all night long.

Price at time of publish: $130

03 of 13

Most Versatile: Show Me Your Mumu Garden Midi Dress

Show Me Your MuMu Garden Midi Dress

Show Me Your MuMu

Size: XXS-3X | Length: Midi | Return Policy: Free returns within 30 days of purchase

Whether you're hosting a semi-formal or laid-back affair, this midi feels extra special. It's simple yet so pretty, and it can be dressed up or down depending on your dress code.

Price at time of publish: $188

04 of 13

Best Gown: Jenny Yoo Janine

jenny yoo janine dress

Size: 0-18 | Length: Floor | Return Policy: Free returns within 14 days of delivery

A wedding gown is always acceptable at a vow renewal ceremony, especially if you're going big with the party. While this option is more minimalist, it's still a showstopper thanks to the deep V-neck and satin fabric.

Price at time of publish: $1,250

05 of 13

Most Size-Inclusive: ASOS Edition Curve Constance Satin Wrap Wedding Dress

ASOS Edition Curve Constance Satin Wrap Wedding Dress

ASOS

Size: 12-26 | Length: Floor | Return Policy: Free returns

A simple white gown is an option that feels formal without being over the top. This ASOS number, in particular, features a wrap front and a slit to keep it interesting, and it comes in at a budget-friendly price point for a look we're sure you'll love.

Price at time of publish: $199

06 of 13

Best With Cape: Betsy and Adam Jordan Short Scuba Crape Draped Dress

betsy and adam short draped dress

Size: 2-16 | Length: Knee | Return Policy: Free returns within 14 days of delivery

We love the attached cape on this otherwise minimalist white bodycon dress. Add some diamonds, statement shoes, and the right hairstyle, and you've got an old Hollywood-style vibe going on.

Price at time of publish: $199

07 of 13

Best Lace: Zwillinger's Hope Lace Backless Minidress

Zwillinger’s Hope Lace Backless Minidress

Size: XS-XL | Length: Mini | Return Policy: Free returns within 30 days of delivery

There's something about this mini dress that makes it feel like the perfect pick for a daytime ceremony during the spring. The high neck and lace design are elegant and classy, and we love the open back for an unexpected finish.

Price at time of publish: $5,500

08 of 13

Most Modern: Mac Duggal Octavia Scoop-Neck Side-Slit Column Wedding Gown

mac duggal column gown

Size: 0-18 | Length: Floor | Return Policy: Free returns within 30 days of purchase

This Mac Duggal column gown definitely gives off a royal vibe. We love the touch of sparkle at the neckline, as well as the scoop neck that provides a pretty feminine look. While it seems plain, there's really nothing simple about this.

Price at time of publish: $348

09 of 13

Best Ruffles: Lulus Molinetto White Lace Ruffled Tiered Sleeveless Maxi Dress

Lulu’s Molinetto White Lace Ruffled Tiered Sleeveless Maxi Dress

Size: XXS-3X | Length: Ankle | Return Policy: Free returns within 30 days of delivery

A tiered skirt, ruffles, and plenty of lace make this dress feel so romantic. It's also available in a variety of other colors if you don't want to wear white, which absolutely contributes to the overall versatility of this style.

Price at time of publish: $114

10 of 13

Most Sophisticated: Reformation Ronda Silk Dress

Reformation Ronda Silk Dress

Reformation

Size: 0-12 | Length: Floor | Return Policy: Free returns

A one-shoulder asymmetrical neckline and cowl neck make this dress incredibly elegant and sophisticated. It's a beautiful option for any season, and also ideal for a more formal vow renewal.

Price at time of publish: $748

11 of 13

Most Feminine: Adrianna Papell Stretch Knit Crepe Sheath Dress With Rosettes in Ivory

adrianna papell STRETCH KNIT CREPE SHEATH DRESS WITH ROSETTES IN IVORY

Size: 0-20 | Length: Knee | Return Policy: Returns within 30 days of delivery with a $9.95 restocking fee for the first item and $5 for each additional item, or free exchange

This feminine sheath dress is lovely for a more casual, daytime celebration. The chiffon rosettes along the neckline add some flair, and the pleats, in addition to the stretchy knit crepe fabric, make it comfortable enough to wear for hours.

Price at time of publish: $179

12 of 13

Best Off-The-Shoulder: Amsale Dropped Off The Shoulder Satin Midi Dress

Amsale Draped Off-The-Shoulder Satin Midi-Dress

Size: 0-16 | Length: Midi | Return Policy: Free returns within 30 days of delivery

With a draped off-the-shoulder neckline and midi length, this dress is at once classic and elegant. It's made of a gorgeous satin material that makes it catch the light really nicely, and would flatter brides of all shapes and sizes.

Price at time of publish: $595

13 of 13

Best Halter: White House Black Market Pleated Halter Midi Dress

white house black market pleated midi dress

Size: 00-18 | Length: Midi | Return Policy: Free returns within 60 days of purchase

If your aesthetics lean more casual, this pleated midi dress is a beautiful choice. While still bridal, it's not too extravagant, and can even be dressed up with accessories. Overall, it's a lovely option for a daytime ceremony.

Price at time of publish: $160

What to Look for in a Vow Renewal Dress

When shopping for the perfect vow renewal dress, first decide on the formality of the ceremony and celebration. If you're doing a sort of second wedding, then you probably want a formal white gown, like a wedding dress or similar.

Length

If you're keeping things more casual with a small party, you can choose between a floor-length number (it's okay for you to be more dressed up than guests), or a midi or mini cocktail dress. Some shorter and casual styles can also be a great choice for a daytime affair. What's more, a chic jumpsuit is always an elegant option if you want something unique and less traditional.

Style and Silhouette 

Determine the style and silhouette that flatter your body shape and personal preferences. Consider whether you want a more casual or formal look. Popular options include A-line ballgowns like the Jenny Yoo Janine dress, sheaths, mermaid, or tea-length dresses like the Bronx and Banco Mademoiselle Corset Sequin Midi number.

Budget 

Think about your budget ahead of time to help narrow down your options and concentrate on dresses within your price range. Consider alterations and optional extras like a hat, scarf, or jewelry.

FAQ
  • What should a bride wear to a vow renewal?

    You have a lot of options for a vow renewal dress as the bride. For a more fancy and formal celebration, opt for a wedding gown, a white maxi dress, or a formal white midi dress. For a more casual and/or daytime celebration, select styles like a white cocktail dress, white midi dress, or a chic jumpsuit.

  • Is it okay to wear a wedding gown to a vow renewal?

    Definitely! A wedding gown is a perfect choice for a vow renewal, whether you're keeping the celebration small or doing something big.

  • What color should you wear to a vow renewal?

    White dresses are usually worn to vow renewals, but just like any wedding, you can wear whatever color you prefer. Blush is a lovely choice, as is a shade of cream or ivory that isn't quite white.

Why Trust Us

Brides contributor Jessica Booth is a freelance writer and formerly served as an editor for seven years. In addition to Brides, her work has been featured in Bustle, Romper, Insider, Forbes, Redbook, and Refinery29.

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