18 Timeless Wedding Dresses for the Classic Bride

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timeles wedding dress

PHOTO BY KELLY GIARROCCO

Meghan Markle in Givenchy. Grace Kelly in Helen Rose. Jackie O. in Ann Lowe. These iconic wedding dresses, while each individually unique, all share one key characteristic: timelessness. Unless you have a penchant for taking bold risks with your wardrobe (if so, more power to you!), a classic bridal aesthetic helps ensure you'll love your dress before, during, and long after the wedding day.

Classic wedding dresses are designed to stand the test of time, meaning you'll never cringe when looking back at those wedding portraits. Tried-and-true wedding dress silhouettes deliver by maintaining a sense of structural harmony that never goes out of style. These designs typically shy away from anything considered too ornate or trendy, but rest assured, classic does not translate to boring. Rather, it simply means relying on immaculate tailoring, sleek necklines, rich textures, and restrained embellishments. The finished look is always luxurious in that it commands a presence, regardless of the era.

To help you find your dream gown, we've researched the best options available. When scouring the web, we considered a wide variety of styles, keeping silhouette, materials, cost, and overall quality in mind.

Read on for the best timeless wedding dresses.

Best Midi

BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress

BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress

Anthropologie

Keep things easy and breezy with a midi length dress that's both universally flattering and never goes out of style. Plus, this stunner comes in 11 beautiful shades, so your bridesmaids can match your personal style.

Size Range: 0–26W | Material: Polyester | Delivery: Standard shipping | Return Policy: Within 30 days

Best Simple

Anna October Snowdrop Asymmetric Maxi Dress

Anna October Snowdrop Asymmetric Cotton-Blend Maxi Dress

Moda Operandi

Nothing says long, lazy days and summer romance quite like this streamlined, striking dress. Pair it with a loose bun and a dewy makeup look to complete the laid-back, summertime vibe.

Size Range: XS–XL | Material: Polyester, cotton | Delivery: Standard shipping | Return Policy: Within 28 days

Most Unexpected

Emilia Wickstead Bow-Appliqué Cloqué-Crepe Dress

Emilia Wickstead Charlotte Bow-Appliqué Cloqué-Crepe Dress

Matches

Remember what we said about classic wedding dresses not being boring? This dress proves our point! While an oversized bow typically lends itself to more trendy aesthetics, this impressive cape gown is undeniably classic and effortlessly chic.

Size Range: 2–12 | Material: Polyester, cotton, elastane | Delivery: Standard shipping | Return Policy: Within 14 days

For the Minimalist Bride

Alex Perry Eliza Gown

Alex Perry Eliza Gown

Net-A-Porter

Strut down the aisle in this striking dress that channels Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's elegant wedding look. The weighty satin crepe hugs all your gorgeous curves in just the right way. Clean lines, slim straps, and a sharp neckline solidify the minimalist aesthetic.

Size Range: UK 4–16 | Material: Satin crepe | Delivery: Standard shipping | Return Policy: Within 30 days

Most Understated

Galvan Hampshire Satin-Crepe Gown

Galvan Hampshire Satin-Crepe Gown

Net-A-Porter

Simple elegance is always in fashion, and this square-neck design is as timeless as they come. We love the extra detailing in the boned bodice and chapel-length train for a more elevated silhouette. While it's understated in style, it's still gorgeous enough for a formal black-tie event—and you can bet the classic design will hold up for decades to come.

Size Range: FR 34–44 | Material: Satin crepe | Delivery: Standard shipping | Return Policy: Within 30 days

Best Slip

Lela Rose The Foley Gown

LelaRose The Foley Gown

Lela Rose

All hail the slinky slip dress! This otherwise simplistic silhouette comes to life with exquisite seaming, a fuller skirt, a sultry low back, satin crepe throughout, and covered button detailing. It would look stunning at a spring garden wedding surrounded by fresh flowers or an intimate indoor affair.

Size Range: Custom | Material: Satin crepe | Return Policy: Within 10 days

Best Vintage-Inspired

Grace + Ivory Elle Dress

Grace + Ivory Elle Dress

Grace + Ivory

Delicate hand-beading, rich lace overlay, jeweled high neck, and dreamy scalloped train give this design quite the old-world presence. We love how the warm peachy underlay heightens the retro romantic appeal. Just a heads up, you'll want to order this custom-made dress at least six months ahead of your wedding day.

Size Range: Custom | Material: Cotton, polyester | Delivery: 5–6 months | Return Policy: Within 10 days for partial refund

Best Strapless

Markarian Bernini Gown

Markarian Bernini Gown

Markarian

No straps? No problem. Structured and flattering, yet with a dreamy and romantic feel, we can't get enough of this gown. The classic wrap dress, with all its movement and flashes of leg, gets a unique twist courtesy of a strapless neckline. We especially love the soft jacquard print for added richness.

Size Range: 0-14 | Material: Polyester | Delivery: 12–16 weeks | Return policy: Final sale

Most Pared-Down

SAFIYAA Strapless Crepe Gown

SAFIYAA Strapless crepe gown

When in doubt, keep it simple. The timeless beauty of this strapless gown is in the absence of extra details and distracting embellishments. Pair this no-nonsense number with sparkling diamond earrings, a tennis necklace, or pearl-tipped bobby pins for a touch of glam.

Size Range: FR 34–46 | Material: Crepe | Delivery: Standard shipping | Return Policy: Within 30 days

Best High-Low Hem

Halfpenny London Strapless Asymmetric Duchesse-Satin Gown

Halfpenny London Jackson Strapless Asymmetric Duchesse-Satin Gown

Net-A-Porter

With a traditional sweetheart neckline, a satin finish, and a full skirt, this stunning wedding dress has a high-low hemline with considerable staying power. Just look at how the fabric drapes into a perfect, elegant pool in the back.

Size Range: UK 0–16 | Material: Duchesse satin | Delivery: Standard shipping | Return Policy: Within 30 days

Most Iconic

DB Studio Sheath Wedding Dress

DB Studio Crepe off-the-Shoulder Sheath Wedding Dress Style WG-4033

Davids Bridal

The gathered bodice, fold-over bust, and off-the-shoulder sleeves of this crepe sheath are as familiar as they are enduring. It's a truly iconic look that's also figure-friendly and would look stunning on a range of different body types. Note: Full-size availability is divided between two dress listings.

Size Range: 0–30W | Material: Polyester | Delivery: Standard shipping | Return Policy: Within 7 days

Best Sleeves

Roksanda Garance Crepe Midi Dress

Roksanda Garance Crepe Midi Dress
Net-A-Porter.

These exaggerated sleeves certainly need no introduction, but we especially love the three-quarter length that makes this design more approachable. Plus, there's a stunning diamond-shaped back cutout that now lives in our minds rent-free. The longer sleeves are just the thing for an indoor wedding held in the fall or winter.

Size Range: UK 6–18 | Material: Crepe | Delivery: Standard shipping | Return Policy: Within 30 days

Best With Pockets

Jenny by Jenny Yoo Lawrence Gown

Jenny by Jenny Yoo Lawrence Square-Neck Open-Back Taffeta Gown

Anthropologie

That's right, this dress has pockets! This classic scoop neck, A-line gown got a major upgrade with the addition of concealed compartments to keep your phone close by and your lipstick conveniently within reach. You can also nonchalantly tuck your hands inside for a casual look during your wedding-day photography session. Pair this beauty with an up-do to show off the low back.

Size Range: 0–18 | Material: Polyester | Delivery: Standard shipping | Return Policy: Within 30 days

Best Lace

Jenny Yoo Adrienne Gown

Jenny Yoo Adrienne Gown

Jenny Yoo

There's nothing like a bit of chantilly lace to give you all the feels on your wedding day. This stunning gown keeps things simple with a skimming fit-and-flare silhouette, while the beaded floral appliqués layered over airy tulle give a modern twist. Just a heads up, the made-to-order design will take 20 weeks to ship out.

Size Range: 00–32 | Material: Lace | Delivery: 20 weeks | Return Policy: Final sale

Best Trumpet Skirt

Anne Barge Lamar Strapless Gown

Anne Barge Lamar Strapless Gown

Anne Barge

A strapless sweetheart neckline is a classic pick every bride should consider, as it's at once timeless and flattering. We love this gorgeous mikado scuba gown, with its dramatic trumpet skirt and fitted bodice. For a timeless bridal look, consider wearing it with shoulder-grazing earrings, and keep other accessories minimal.

Size Range: 0–22 | Material: Mikado scuba | Delivery: 5–7 business days | Return Policy: Within 7 days

Best Formal

Sareh Nouri Blaine Gown

Sareh Nouri Blaine Gown

Sareh Nouri

Planning a black-tie wedding or an otherwise formal affair? Make a statement that’ll last a lifetime in this bold gown that features an off-the-shoulder neckline and a classic A-line silhouette. The glamorous full skirt adds some drama, while the structured bodice keeps things flattering and comfortable.

Size Range: 0–30 | Material: Italian stretch mikado | Delivery: Free ground shipping | Return Policy: Final sale

For the Romantic Bride

Reformation Ronda Silk Dress

Reformation Ronda Silk Dress

Reformation

Give old Hollywood glamor in this effortlessly elegant silk gown from Reformation. The sumptuously smooth, liquid-like material adds dimension while the off-the-shoulder neckline adds a touch of sexiness. Perfect for the romantic bride, this gown is perfect for a formal black tie affair.

Size Range: 0–12 | Material: Silk | Delivery: Free shipping | Return Policy: Within 30 days

Best Off-the-Shoulder

Amsale Salem Gown

Amsale Salem Gown

Amsale

Off-the-shoulder wedding dresses flatter the upper body, and you won't have to worry about the style going out of fashion. The understated elegance of these sheer sleeves makes the whole gown feel ultra-chic. It's the perfect pick for the modern bride who still wants to stay true to classic styles and silhouettes.

Size Range: Custom | Material: Radzimir silk, tulle | Delivery: Free ground shipping | Return Policy: Final sale

What to Look For in a Classic Wedding Dress

Timeless Style

If you think your decision about a wedding dress might be steered by the latest trends, ask yourself if you'd still be happy to wear the dress in a few years. Furthermore, will you look back at your wedding photos and cringe or hesitate to pass it down to future generations? If so, you might want to browse a more timeless dress style, like the Galvan Hampshire Satin-Crepe Gown.

Silhouette and Materials

Classic wedding dresses are designed to never go out of style. Timeless silhouettes like streamlined sheaths and columns or romantic A-lines and ball gowns have proven their enduring appeal. Case in point: the Jenny Yoo Lawrence Square-Neck Open-Back Taffeta Wedding Gown.

If you're a bride-to-be with traditional tastes, opt for crisp and structured silks, like the Sareh Nouri Blaine Gown, or dresses in all-over lace, like the Jenny Yoo Adrienne Gown. For brides with a more daring aesthetic, sexy slip dresses (such as the Lela Rose Foley Gown) and slim, body-hugging designs (like the Alex Perry Eliza Gown) are always a striking choice. Remember: The beauty is in the details—or lack thereof.

Details and Embellishments

If you're looking for subtle or statement-making touches, consider eye-catching open backs, rich beading, or exquisite seaming that aligns with the look's more elegant vibe. Not a fan of embellishments? You can never go wrong with a simple design, like the Anna October Snowdrop Asymmetric Cotton-Blend Maxi Dress.

FAQ
  • How do you style a classic wedding dress?

    For an utterly timeless bridal look, pair your wedding dress with simple accessories like delicate personal jewelry and a classic shoe like an elegant pump or barely-there strappy sandals. Simple hair accessories are always a great choice, such as pearl-tipped bobby pins or a pared-down gold clip.

  • What are the most classic wedding dress necklines?

    Off-the-shoulder, bateau, high-neck, sweetheart, V-neck, portrait, and scoop are a few classic wedding dress necklines that have established their enduring presence within the bridal sphere.

  • What are the most popular wedding dress shapes?

    Ball gowns, mermaid styles, fit-and-flare dresses, and A-line silhouettes are among the most popular throughout history and today. A-line dresses tend to be the most universally flattering—plus they have a timeless appeal you'll love looking back on when flipping through your wedding album decades down the road.

Why Trust Brides

Brides contributor Nicole Kliest is a freelance fashion and travel writer with over 11 years of experience reporting on the latest trends.

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