Not to knock tradition, but it isn't for everyone. Some brides love a classic, all-white ball gown, but others choose non-traditional wedding dresses to showcase a bit of their own story and style. From jet-black to bohemian rust, any color of the rainbow is up for grabs if you're in search of a non-traditional wedding dress. Eye-catching embellishments can take a dress from conventional to unconventional, or you can go big with a Barbiecore bridal look.
"Consider alternatives such as a jumpsuit, a matching top and pant set, or something a bit bolder like a colorful wedding dress or even a black dress," says Alicia Lloyd, styling supervisor at Stitch Fix. "A traditional white wedding gown is not for everyone, and I always encourage clients to choose something that will make them feel their most confident and showcase who they are on their big day."
When browsing options, think about your personal style and preferences for material, color, length, and fit. You'll also want to consider the season, your wedding venue, and, of course, your budget.
Best Details
ASOS LUXE Wedding embellished gemstone mini dress
This budget-friendly dress packs a serious punch. Featuring all over sequin embellishments, a sexy plunge neckline, faux-feather trim, and a high-low silhouette with a train, there's so much happening on this gemstone dress, and it's all pretty fabulous.
Size Range: 0–14 | Length: High-low | Material: Polyester
For the Vintage Bride
Houghton by Katharine Polk Gwen Gown
This beautiful gown is fit for an empress, thanks to its dramatic, short, ballooned sleeves and crystal-lined, cut-out back. The minimalist silhouette has some serious vintage charm, without being too demure for modern fêtes. It's also size inclusive, from 00-30, and can be rush ordered for an additional fee.
Size Range: 00–30 | Length: Floor | Material: Moire
Best Blush
Willowby by Watters Galatea Dress
Named after a sweet, summer wine, this blush-colored gown features an oversize Dalia-inspired floral print and dreamy A-line silhouette. Two rows of velvet ribbon wrap around the bodice, cinch at the waist, and come together in a dainty bow.
Size Range: 0–24 | Length: Floor | Material: Tulle, stretch poly charmeuse
For the Dreamer Bride
WardrobeByDulcinea Estelle Celestial Wedding Dress
This Etsy Design Awards winner deserves pride of place at the altar. The two-piece set features a sweetheart-neckline bodysuit with dramatic cape sleeves and an A-line skirt dotted with allover sparkling silver and gold sequin stars.
Size Range: Made to measure | Length: Floor | Material: Satin, tulle
Most Playful
Lulus I'm All Yours Maxi Dress
Available in five pretty hues, this easy-breezy dress is quite sensual in its playful simplicity. Featuring ruffled short sleeves and a deep V-neck, the gauzy gown's plunging backline is what really sets it apart.
Size Range: XXS–XL | Length: Floor | Material: Polyester
For a Backyard Wedding
Quince Organic Cotton Tiered Maxi Dress
Perfect for a backyard affair, this chic maxi strikes a great balance between elevated and relaxed styles. It gathers at the waist to add shape, and is made from organic cotton for breathability. The dress also features a v-neck and short sleeves, a three tiered voluminous skirt, and functional pockets to make your day easier and more convenient.
Size Range: XS–XL | Length: Maxi | Material: Organic cotton
Best Blue
Azazie Rowe Wedding Dress
Looking for that special something blue? This regal gown—it even features a chapel-length train—is what princess dreams are made of. It features a sweetheart neckline with scattered lace embellishments, with a ballgown silhouette that commands attention. It comes in a wide variety of sizes, and is relatively affordable, especially when considering all the added tule and lace detailing!
Size Range: 0–30 | Length: Floor | Material: Tulle, lace
Most Sparkly
StylishBrideAccs Rose Gold Sequin Bridal Dress
This transparent, sequined dress may not be for the faint of heart, but we wouldn't have it any other way. Shimmy down the aisle in this stunner at golden hour, and we guarantee you'll have everyone under your spell.
Size Range: XS–XXXL | Length: Floor | Material: Polyester
Best Texture
Danielle Frankel Studio Rosalie Dress
Bridgerton vibes, coming in hot. This beautifully textured, empire-waist gown pairs a square neckline with puffy, crinkled sleeves for a look that's as elegant as it is youthful. Further, this darted and hand twisted organza ballgown features an interesting wave lace underlay that adds even more interest.
Size Range: 0–12 | Length: Floor | Material: Silk
Best Custom
Hilandel Custom Bridal
If you want something truly unique, make it one of a kind. The CEO and designer of Hilandel, Hillary Anne O'Dell, along with her team, are experts at creating personalized, special, and non-traditional wedding dresses that feel the most "authentically you." Each dress is 100 percent designed and made in New York City, but they work with brides all over the country.
The process begins with a consultation and a concept, and then the team shares a sketch and a price quote. Choose your own fabrics, design, cut outs, colors, and length within a budget that works for you. You'll have about three in-person fittings, and then take home your one of a kind, truly original wedding dress.
Size Range: Made to measure | Length: Custom | Material: Custom
Best Lace
Narces Viola Lace Jumpsuit
This delicate lace jumpsuit is sure to speak to the lace lover's heart. The open back adds a touch of sexy sophistication, and the dramatic ruffle shoulders and high neck bring a playful elegance. We also love the flared pant legs with lace pockets detailing.
Size Range: 2–14 | Length: Floor | Material: Polyester
For the Fairytale Bride
Selkie The Fairytale Gown
It's all in the name. The Fairytale Gown from Selkie definitely looks like something out of a modern fairytale, but with a chic twist. It features a square neckline, puff sleeves with cinched cuffs, and a flowy silhouette that comes to two distinct hemlines; it's essentially a mini meets a maxi. The ruffle hems and floral print complete the dreamy aesthetic. It comes in sizes XXS through 6XL for a size inclusive fit.
Size Range: XXS–6XL | Length: High-low | Material: Polyester
Best Pants
Fleur Du Mal Tuxedo Pants
For an androgynous wedding look that echoes the look of a sleek suit, we love these tailored tuxedo pants from Fleur Du Mal. Made from 100% silk, these ivory dress pants feature a side button closure with satin cuffed hems. Pair with the Hamptons Bustier with structured cups for a cinched in waist that gives off a sexy, monochromatic look.
Size Range: 0–10 | Length: Ankle | Material: Silk
Best Holographic
Batsheva May Dress in Ballerina Pink
Toast to your future in this futuristic holographic dress by Batsheva. It features puff-sleeves, a midi length, and a ballerina pink holographic fabric that has just enough stretch for comfort. With a V-shaped ruffle in front for added detailing, the full skirt with ruffle at bottom hem completes the look. It comes in sizes 0-20.
Size Range: 0–20 | Length: Midi | Material: Polyester
Best for An Artistic Flair
Mara Hoffman Luisa Dress
This bold column dress is fit for the bride with an artistic eye. It features a contrast cord appliqué that looks hand drawn, statement flared and rounded sleeves, a center front slit, and a strong v-neckline. It's made from breathable cotton and linen materials, perfect for a warm weather wedding.
Size Range: 00–20 | Length: Midi | Material: Linen, organic cotton
For a Disco Theme
Nadine Merabi Celina Gold Dress
Throwing a wedding disco? This sequined mini dress is the perfect show-stopping piece to get the party started. It features a structured one-shoulder design with an asymmetric floor-sweeping drape, and has shoulder pads to balance out the silhouette. It comes in black and pink, if you're feeling even more daring.
Size Range: XS–XXL | Length: Mini | Material: Sequins
Best for a Barbie-Theme
Bronx and Banco Maraya Mini Dress
"Brides are tuning to trending colors like hot pink to emulate Barbiecore," says Lloyd. For a Barbie-inspired option, this hot pink number features a mini length, back lace-up and zipper closure, and boning at the bust for added structure. The pleated fabric and tonal sequin details throughout complete the bright and playful wedding look.
Size Range: XS–XL | Length: Mini | Material: Polyester
Best '20s-Inspired
Mac Duggal Hand Embellished Scallop Detailed High Low Hem Gown
For a roaring '20s-style event with a modern twist, this gorgeous high-low dress from Mac Duggal is an excellent pick. It's fully lined through the body with a scoop neckline and criss-cross back detailing. The all-over intricate beading brings out that '20s style glitz and glamor, accented by jewel encrusted embellishments for even more pazazz.
Size Range: 2–14 | Length: High-low | Material: Mesh, polyester
Best Bold Print
Agua Bendita Clare Dress
"Something blue" goes tropical with this maxi dress—it's perfect for the bold bride who's not afraid of a vibrant pattern. Featuring short balloon sleeves, a square back, and a midriff-baring front knot, this dress is ideal for a tropical destination wedding.
Size Range: S–L | Length: Maxi | Material: Polyester, elastane
Best Black Dress
Amsale Strapless Satin Gown
"Last year we saw a surge in black wedding dresses," says LLoyd. For a striking black dress option, we love playing with a classic, traditional bridal silhouette in a non-traditional colorway. This sculptural dress features a strapless neckline that comes to a point, functional pockets, and a voluminous skirt featuring a high-low hem. Note that it runs small, so size up for a comfortable fit!
Size Range: 2–12 | Length: High-low | Material: Polyester
Best Jumpsuit
Khanum’s Kmora Jumpsuit
A modern jumpsuit is a great alternative to a fancy wedding dress. The Kmora jumpsuit is daring, sexy, and cool, with a hint of '70s nostalgia. Made from glossy stretch-lycra, it features cutouts at the bodice to show a little skin, with gold tone buckle ring embellishments and flared sleeves.
Size Range: XXS–XXL | Length: Full | Material: Lycra
Best Animal-Inspired
Stella McCartney Sequined Midi Dress
This high neck, form-fitting dress features an elevated animal print that's perfect for a non-traditional wedding venue. It has a bold cut out at the bodice, midi length, and allover sequins throughout for added flair.
Size Range: 0–10 | Length: Midi | Material: Silk, cotton, polyamide
For the Whimsy Bride
Zimmerman Luminosity Splice Lace Dress
If your vibe is playful, laid-back, and maybe a little boho, you'll love this whimsical number from Zimmerman. The Luminosity Dress features a swishy skirt with a high-low cut, a sleeveless bodice with an open back, and spliced lace panels throughout.
Size Range: 4–12 | Length: High-low | Material: Linen, silk, cotton, polyamide
Best With Train
JJ's House A-line Sweep Train Chiffon Lace Evening Dress
When it comes to weddings, it's ok to throw some traditions out the window—and lean into others that speak to you. For instance, you might rock a dress with a train, but forgo white for an unexpected color. Available in over 30 hues, this regal-inspired evening gown has a cape that cascades down into the flowing train while sequins and lace highlight the bodice.
Size Range: 0–26 | Length: Floor | Material: Chiffon, lace
Best Midi
Monique Lhuillier Noir Embroidered Lace Midi Dress
Not into floor-length gowns? Consider a midi dress, like this stunning fit-and-flare design from Monique Lhuillier. It features a tulle overlay with all-over floral appliqué detailing, a sweetheart neckline with ultra-delicate spaghetti straps, and a soft silk slip underneath.
Size Range: 2–14 | Length: Midi | Material: Tulle, silk
What to Look For in a Non-Traditional Wedding Dress
"When looking for the perfect non-traditional wedding dress, the most important aspect to focus on is the fit and size," says Lloyd. "No matter how non-traditional a bride's wedding look is, making sure it's appropriately tailored is key."
There are a few key touchstones to think about when deciding on a dress: style, season, and venue.
- Style: "I encourage brides to embrace a wedding-day look that speaks to their individuality and reflects their personal style—don't shy away from features like intricate patterns, bright colors, or unconventional silhouettes if it makes you feel like you," says Lloyd. For example, you might opt for a black dress with a high-low hem, like the Amsale Strapless Satin Gown, or an '80s-inspired sequin mini dress with padded shoulders.
- Season: No matter how non-traditional you want to go with your wedding day look, the season and weather will undoubtedly play a key role in your overall look. Sure, you can rock a long sleeve in July if you'd like, but in that case, you might want to go for something made of a more lightweight, breathable fabric, like the Quince 100% Organic Cotton Tiered Maxi Dress.
- Venue: The venue plays into the overall aesthetic and tone your wedding creates, and an outfit that embodies that atmosphere will help the event feel cohesive and intentional. If you're having a wedding at a non-traditional location, like an art gallery, museum, warehouse, or zoo, try to incorporate some design elements into your wedding look to tie it all together. For instance, you might rock zebra print at a zoo or a sequin number for a disco-themed warehouse party, such as the Nadine Merabi Celina Gold Dress.
Why Trust Brides
Chelsea Frank has been a comedy and lifestyle writer for nearly 10 years. She's contributed to dozens of online publications, researching and writing on a number of topics from clean beauty and fashion to travel and wellness. She's also an anxious soon-to-be bride, and on the hunt for the perfect dress.
- Alicia Lloyd is a styling supervisor at Stitch Fix. She has worked in retail for 20 years and is inspired by making personal connections and continuously improve the styling experience.