What type of wedding dress do you wear for a garden wedding?

For a spring garden wedding , you can go flowy with an enchanting chiffon gown or channel the charming countryside with a romantic floral dress. Vice versa, a blush-toned or lace gown can be just as impactful for a ceremony at a historic estate, castle, or cathedral. In the summer, you might consider a shorter style or a plunging neckline without straps or sleeves. And you really can't go wrong with embellishments, whether it's floral appliqués, beading, embroidery, or layered chiffon.

What are some factors to consider when selecting a garden wedding dress?

If your celebration takes place on grass, for instance, your floor-length gown and the trailing train could possibly snag or get muddy. Additionally, spring temperatures can fluctuate greatly throughout the day; opting for a long-sleeved style in an airy material will ensure you're comfortable well into the cooler nighttime festivities.

What are some ways to accessorize a garden wedding dress?

Depending on your bridal aesthetic, a flower crown could be the perfect bohemian touch to a lace wedding gown. We also love the idea of incorporating a bouquet of freshly picked flowers or heirloom jewelry for a hint of whimsy.

The 16 Best Garden Wedding Dresses of 2023

Vera Wang Camellia Dress — Courtesy of Vera Wang

Springtime is all about romance and new beginnings. With so much natural magnificence abounding from blossoming blooms to fresh scents, seemingly every locale can transform into a secret garden, ready for a celebration. What better time to have a wedding? Better yet, what better time to dress for a wedding?

From ethereal chiffon to delicately structured lace to goddess-like simplicity, springtime unfolds with a plethora of picture-perfect wedding dress options. Draw inspiration from all that gorgeous garden foliage by experimenting with color for your own gown. From petal pinks, light lavenders, and even the slightest shades of gray, spring wedding fashion can showcase softness and femininity.

But mild temperatures also lend themselves to serving some bold, fashion-forward looks from daring prints to bold hues to architectural appliqués. And if you're longing to show some leg after the longest winter ever, now's your chance to wear something short, flirty, and perfect for late-night dancing on the grass—barefoot and dewy, of course.

For The Romantic Bride: Jenny by Jenny Yoo Lourdes Flutter Sleeve Gown

Jenny by Jenny Yoo Lourdes Flutter Sleeves Gown — Anthropologie

Buy on Anthropologie $1,695

This jaw-dropping lace-appliqué gown will leave you speechless. With a fit-and-flare style and a plunging neckline, it's a dreamy vision to wear on your wedding day. We also like how the convertible lace sleeves give you the flexibility to switch up your style.

Price at time of publish: $1,695

Size: 0-19 | Material: Nylon, Polyester, Lace | Length: Floor-length

Best Off-The-Shoulder: Reformation Butterfly Dresss

Buy on Reformation $298

You had us and our retro-loving hearts at the midi-length, trumpet skirt. A sweetheart neckline and off-the-shoulder sleeves are perfect for showing off some sun-kissed skin. The tailored bodice and slim fit flatter the curves while keeping the relaxed style undeniably chic.

Price at time of publish: $298

Size: 0-12 | Material: 100% Viscose | Length: Ankle length

Best Pattern: Watters Wtoo Rosabel

Buy on Watters.com $1,912

Become one with the garden in this stunning gown covered in printed blush-colored florals and dramatic tulle layers. A sweetheart neckline and an off-the-shoulder style add a chic touch to the romance of the dress.

Price at time of publish: $1,912

Size: 00-32W | Material: Eden Floral Printed Organza, 16mm Velvet Ribbon, Tulle, Poly Lining, 5' Horsehair | Length: Petite 41"

For the Contemporary Bride: Grace Loves Lace "Inca" Gown

Grace Loves Lace "Inca" Dress — Courtesy of Graces Loves Lace

Buy on Graceloveslace.com $3,400

Romance is definitely in the air when lace is brought into the mix. This effortless dress has all the antique vibes, with French and Japanese lace, long sleeves, and a straight boat neck. But the classic style is anything but boring, with a curve-skimming fit and sultry low back, and you can bet it'll stand the test of time.

Price at time of publish: $3,400

Size: Made to Order Customised |Material: Stretch lace: 85% Nylon, 15% Elastane; Embroidered lace: 80% Nylon, 20% Cotton; Stretch lining: 80% Nylon, 20% Elastane; Chiffon: 100% Silk | Length: Floor-length

Best A-Line Silhouette: Willowby by Watters Galatea Dress

Buy on Watters.com $1,774

A picture-perfect silhouette for gliding down a flower-flanked aisle. Soft layers of tulle practically float about you, creating a beautiful A-line silhouette, while the gentle gray hue introduces a refreshing twist. (It's also available in blush or ivory). A large dahlia print and barely-there velvet ribbon detailing finish the look of this truly stunning gown.

Price at time of publish: $1,774

Size: 00-24W | Material: Dalia Flower Motifs Medium, Dalia Flower Motifs Large, Illusion Tulle, Tulle, Stretch Poly Charmeuse, 16mm Velvet Ribbon, Elastic Tulle | Length: Petite, Regular, Tall, Extra Tall; Floor-Length

For the Simplistic Bride: Markarian Arabella Dress

Buy on Markarian-nyc.com $3,995

If the onset of spring fills your head with reveries of pastoral bliss and wholesome simplicity, this dress was custom-tailored to your tastes. Silk moire composition gives the vintage-inspired design an organic, homegrown feel, while ruffle detailing sweetens the deal. A bustier-style bodice anchors the airy ensemble, while a slit adds a little peek-a-boo factor.

Price at time of publish: $3,995

Size: 00-14 | Material: 100% Polyester | Length: Floor-length

best Slip Dress: Grace Loves Lace Loyola Dress

Buy on Graceloveslace.com $2,700

Minimalism, but make it spring. A slinky slip dress with an exaggerated train, a V-neckline, and a sultry low back is about as sexy and effortless as it gets without sacrificing a look of luxury. A silk burnout floral motif adds dimension and femininity to the timeless style.

Price at time of publish: $2,700

Size: Made to Order | Material: Satin Burnout Silk: 30% Silk, 70% Rayon; Crepe de Chine: 100% Silk | Length: Floor-length

Best Budget: DB Studio Stretch Lace Long Sleeve Sheath Wedding Dress

Buy on David's Bridal $230

At under $250, this beautiful lace sheath dress is a gorgeous form-fitting option to take you down the aisle in style. The long sleeves and understated, drapey skirt make it an excellent choice for a fall or winter wedding.

Price at time of publish: $230

Size: 0-14 | Material: Nylon, Spandex | Length: Floor-length

For the Whimsical Bride: Markarian Petal Floral Applique Strapless Mini Dress

Buy on Markarian-nyc.com $9,350

A perfect pick for a warm spring or summer wedding, this mini dress is nothing if not the very essence of every sweet girly dream come to life. Silk floral appliqués in a mix of colorful pastel hues are attached to a cute strapless dress with a fitted bodice to offer three-dimensional texture while making a stunning statement.

Price at time of publish: $9,350

Size: 00-16 | Material: Satin Burnout Silk: 30% Silk, 70% Rayon; Crepe de Chine: 100% Silk | Length: Floor-length

For a Wedding Under the Stars: Needle & Thread Petunia Gown

Buy on Needleandthread.com $719

Floral fantasies come to life in this fairytale dress. Intricate details of beautiful embroidery, a softly dotted texture, ribboned waist, and floral appliqués are oh-so sweet. A ruffled bodice and silhouette made for swaying complete the dream. Consider pairing it with the complementing Petunia Cape for an extra layer of whimsy.

Price at time of publish: $719

Size: 0-14 | Material: 100% Polyester | Length: Floor-length

For a Destination Wedding: Willowby Lainie Dress

Buy on Watters.com $1,898

An ethereal vision in layers upon layers of floaty tulle. This elegant princess-like dress has an illusion bodice that allows for just a peek without showing off too much. Loosely scattered floral motifs round out the lush silhouette and airy display.

Price at time of publish: $1,898

Size: 00-24W | Material: Wildfell Floral Motifs; Wildfell Floral Motifs; Illusion Tulle; Tulle; Poly Lining, Illusion Over Stretch Satin | Length: Floor-length

The Ultimate Guide to Spring Weddings

Best Floral Print: Meadows Bella Dress Roses

Buy on Garmentory.com $300

This modern prairie dress is beckoning the approval of spring brides planning slightly more casual weddings. With voluminous layers and a sweet floral print, it calls to mind a field of wildflowers. We imagine it looking idyllic with a handpicked bouquet and maybe even a straw hat for a free-spirited vibe.

Price at time of publish: $300

Size: 2-10 | Material: 100% Organic Cotton; Lining: 100% cotton | Length: Ankle-length

Most Flirty: Watters Adelia Dress

high-neck wedding dress — Courtesy of Watters

Buy on Watters.com $585

Be prepared to get swept off your feet with this gorgeous lace number that nods to midcentury bridal style. The short, flirty hemline looks so cute paired with a romantic high neckline and puffed sleeves.

Price at time of publish: $585

Size: 0-14 | Material: Pont Neuf Lace, Annika Lace, Illusion Tulle, Knit Lining, Tulle | Length: Above Knee-length

For a Rooftop Garden Wedding: BHLDN Belize Dress

Buy on Anthropologie $298

Equal parts sophisticated and timeless, this long-sleeved gown will command attention at first twirl. Just the thing for an enchanting rooftop garden ceremony in the fall or wintertime nuptials at a cathedral, it flaunts a flowy silhouette, subtle beading, and floral embroidery throughout the silky fabric.

Price at time of publish: $298

Size: 0-18 | Material: Polyester; Polyester lining | Length: Floor-length

Best Lace: Markarian Bridal Apple White Lace Dress With Bow

Buy on Markarian-nyc.com $4,795

How sweet is the retro feel of this charming made-to-order lace dress from Makarian? Crafted from 100 percent silk, the corset bodice is completed by a full skirt with beautiful embroidery and a delightful bow at the waistline.

Price at time of publish: $4,795

Size: 0-16 | Material: Composition: 60% cotton; 25% Rayon; 15% Nylon; Lining 100% Silk | Length: Floor-length

Most Regal: Justin Alexander Abrianna Dress With Illusion Mandarin Collar

Buy on Justinalexander.com

A dress fit for a regal affair. A high illusion neckline with a deep plunge and lace bodice flow into a smart cummerbund before flaring into soft chiffon, while the long sleeve look on-season for fall or winter nuptials. We envision a cathedral ceremony followed by drinks in the garden and an alfresco reception.

Price at time of publish: Avaiable upon request

Size: Made to Order | Material: Chiffon, Lace | Length: Floor-length

What to Look For When Buying a Wedding Dress for a Garden Wedding

If you're planning a garden wedding, there are a few routes you can take with your dress while still nodding to the theme. In terms of style, you could opt for a classic ball gown, an A-line dress, or a mermaid silhouette. Trumpet skirts and empire-waist cuts are also excellent choices, though a tea-length dress (or something even shorter) can work for a summer nuptials.

To align with the whimsy, organic feel of a garden wedding, consider a dress with embellishments. This could be lace detailing, floral embroidery, delicate beading, textured appliqués, woven ribbon, or layered chiffon. Of course, there's nothing wrong with a more simple, sleek number if that's more your style.

FAQ

What type of wedding dress do you wear for a garden wedding?

For a spring garden wedding, you can go flowy with an enchanting chiffon gown or channel the charming countryside with a romantic floral dress. Vice versa, a blush-toned or lace gown can be just as impactful for a ceremony at a historic estate, castle, or cathedral. In the summer, you might consider a shorter style or a plunging neckline without straps or sleeves. And you really can't go wrong with embellishments, whether it's floral appliqués, beading, embroidery, or layered chiffon.
What are some factors to consider when selecting a garden wedding dress?

If your celebration takes place on grass, for instance, your floor-length gown and the trailing train could possibly snag or get muddy. Additionally, spring temperatures can fluctuate greatly throughout the day; opting for a long-sleeved style in an airy material will ensure you're comfortable well into the cooler nighttime festivities.
What are some ways to accessorize a garden wedding dress?

Depending on your bridal aesthetic, a flower crown could be the perfect bohemian touch to a lace wedding gown. We also love the idea of incorporating a bouquet of freshly picked flowers or heirloom jewelry for a hint of whimsy.