22 Illusion Wedding Dresses for Daring Brides

By
Laura Lajiness Kaupke
laura lajiness
Laura Lajiness Kaupke
​Laura Lajiness is a writer and editor who covers fashion, accessories, beauty, and fine jewelry for Brides. Her work also appears in ELLE, InStyle, Glamour, Refinery29, POPSUGAR, Well+Good, and Barneys New York.
Brides's Editorial Guidelines
Updated on 06/06/23 10:46AM
Photo by Valorie Darling

Photo by Valorie Darling

Although sheer lace panels and tulle layers have been customary in the wedding world for quite some time, bridal designers are now offering more risqué options with the popularity of illusion wedding dresses. An illusion wedding dress is a gown that runs the gamut from ultra-sexy to subtly sheer. This style of dress is often made from see-through fabrics, skillfully adorned with glistening beadwork, appliqués, and embroidery.

Bridal designers such as Berta and Galia Lahav are known for these sheer bridal looks that are sure to turn heads. Some transparent panels create a peek-a-boo look. Other styles are semi-sheer in the bodice, along the neckline, or lower down on the skirt. Ahead, we've researched the best illusion wedding dresses that allow brides to show the illusion of skin.

01 of 22

For the Princess Bride: Justin Alexander Signature Sabrina Neckline Ball Gown Embellished with Scattered Beading

Justin Alexander Signature Sabrina Neckline Ball Gown Embellished with Scattered Beading

Justin Alexander Signature 

This mikado ballgown features an embellished bodice with an illusion Sabrina neckline adorned with scattered beading. A V-back, pockets, and buttons down the chapel train add modern details to this classic look.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Mikado and embellished tulle

02 of 22

Most Curve Hugging: Maggie Sottero Esther Dress

Maggie Sottero Esther Mermaid Style Dress

Maggie Sottero 

The Esther gown is ideal for the bride seeking a gown that will accentuate her figure. The embellished lace motifs, delicate chantilly lace, and jaw-dropping back detail just adds the perfect bridal touch.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Beaded lace motifs and chantilly lace

03 of 22

Best Off-the-Shoulder Neckline: Grace Loves Lace Peaches Wedding Dress

Grace Loves Lace Peaches Wedding Dress

Grace Loves Lace

This feminine mermaid gown is a modern take on the off-the-shoulder silhouette. Handmade with exclusive stretch rose lace over nude lining, this dress is designed to accentuate your curves. The train is hemmed with hand-placed rose motifs for a lovely extra detail.

Price at time of publish: $2,400

Size range: XS-XL | Length: Floor length | Material: Floral stretch lace

04 of 22

For the Modern Bride: Watters Style 66103B Sirena Gown

Watters Style 66103B Sirena Gown

Watters 

For the bride seeking something extraordinary, this fit-and-flare gown features a plunging illusion neckline and head-to-toe beaded lace topped with gorgeous floral cutouts. A flowing train completes this sexy and romantic look.

Price at time of publish: $4,230

Size range: 00-24W | Length: Floor length | Material: Tulle, floral lace, thicket lace, and dotted netting

05 of 22

For the Sophisticated Bride: Berta Bridal Napoli Style 20-110

Berta Bridal Napoli Style 20-110

Berta Bridal 

This allover lace fit-and-flare gown is a gorgeous blend of modesty and sexiness. The high neck and long sleeves juxtapose a wide-open back and nude lining under intricate floral lace. Figure-defining and oh-so-bridal, this illusion gown is a total stunner.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size range: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Lace

06 of 22

For a Fall Wedding: Justin Alexander Style 88049 Allover Lace Illusion Long Sleeve Fit and Flare Gown

Justin Alexander Style 88049 Allover Lace Illusion Long Sleeve Fit and Flare Gown

Justin Alexander  

Vintage-inspired with a modern flair, this long-sleeve gown with allover lace is elegant as it is bold. The illusion bodice is detailed with lovely lace that extends down the flared skirt featuring tulle godets. A sheer illusion back with buttons from the back neckline to the end of the zipper ensures drama from every angle.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size range: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Lace, tulle, and jersey knit

07 of 22

Best Leg Moment: Berta Bridal Style 18-120

Berta Bridal Style 18-120

Berta 

A combination of intricate embroidery and sheer fabric creates a stunning look that shows off all your best assets. A high neck and long sleeves contrast with a cutout illusion V-neckline and a partially sheer skirt with lace detailing at the hem.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size range: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Tulle and lace embroidery

08 of 22

Most Ethereal: Inbal Dror Look 19-7

Inbal Dror Look 19-7

Inbal Dror  

This barely-there illusion wedding gown is as bold as they come. For the whimsical bride seeking a totally sheer look, this gown features a plunging V-neck and a layered skirt adorned with floral embroidery and silver sequins.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size range: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Silver sequins and floral embroidery

09 of 22

Best Illusion Back: Allure Bridals Style 9771

Allure Bridals Style 9771

Allure Bridals  

This fitted sheath gown features just a touch of illusion detailing at the neckline and unique racerback. Nude lining under ornately beaded fabric adds a touch of modern to a classic bridal gown.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size range: 0-30 | Length: Floor length | Material: Tulle and lace

10 of 22

Most Show Stopping: Galia Lahav Florence By Night Cherry Blossom Gown

Galia Lahav Florence By Night Cherry Blossom Gown

Galia Lahav 

This gown is for the bride with nothing to hide. The column dress features a geometric cutout bodysuit and puffy shoulders atop a pair of sheer, lacy long sleeves. Cherry blossom embroidered tulle with a floral motif provide most of the coverage on this ultra-sheer gown for only the most daring.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size range: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Embroidered tulle and floral motifs

If you love this look but want more coverage, invest in a detachable overskirt with a slit, and have your seamstress sew it on. You can customize the amount of sheer underskirt still visible to your liking.

11 of 22

For a Beach Wedding: Margaux Tardits Orféo Wedding Dress

Margaux Tardits Orféo Wedding Dress

The Dress Tribe

This long-sleeve dress with a plunging neckline features a sheer tulle illusion bodice with seashell embroidery. The defining waistband is complemented by a scalloped peplum at the hips, giving way to a romantic silk chiffon skirt.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size range: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Silk chiffon and embroidered tulle

12 of 22

Most Effortless: Jenny by Jenny Yoo Elinor Deep V-Neck Lace & Illusion Wedding Gown

Jenny by Jenny Yoo Elinor Country Wedding Gown

Courtesy of BHLDN

This A-line gown features an illusion neckline and back accented with covered buttons. The deep V adds drama while the airy skirt gives way to a beautiful flowing train. Add a bejeweled belt to really define your waist and glam up this otherwise simple bridal gown.

Price at time of publish: $1,150

Size range: 0-26 | Length: Floor length | Material: Chiffon and floral embroidered tulle

13 of 22

For the Elegant Bride: Morilee by Madeline Gardner Style 3285 Sasha Wedding Dress

Morilee by Madeline Gardner Style 3285 Sasha Wedding Dress

Morilee 

This gown's sheer off-the-shoulder neckline with a deep V features frosted, embroidered appliqués that extend down the net skirt. Long sleeves add a lovely detail to this figure-defining mermaid dress.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size range: 16-32 | Length: Floor length | Material: Tulle and embroidered appliqués

14 of 22

Most Dramatic: Maggie Sottero Hamilton Dress

Maggie Sottero Hamilton Dress

Maggie Sottero 

Featuring the most exquisite back, this Maggie Sottero is for the bride who isn't afraid of a little (or a lot) of drama. From the cathedral-length train, illusion back, and beaded lace motifs over textured tulle, the Hamilton gown is a show stopper.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Beaded lace motifs, textured tulle, organza, and fabric-covered buttons

15 of 22

For the Sexy Bride: Berta Style 20-P110

Berta Style 20-P110

Vows Bridal

Intricate lace embroidery is scattered throughout a completely sheer fitted design for a subtly sexy bridal look. This jaw-dropping Berta gown is polished off with strands of pearls that drape perfectly to frame the daringly low back.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Lace-embroidered tulle and pearls

16 of 22

For a Summer Wedding: Martina Liana Style 1059-Bead

Martina Liana Style 1059-Bead

Essense Designs

We picture this beauty with a garden, seaside, or estate backdrop for a perfect summer wedding. The crepe fabric keeps it fresh and sleek, while white tonal beading complements the floating floral appliqués for an irresistibly sparkly look.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: White tonal beaded-embellished lace, tulle, and crepe

17 of 22

Most Elongating: Galia Lahav Carla Dress

Galia Lahav Carla Dress

Galia Lahav 

The V-neckline, dainty straps, and sheer panels cascading down along either side of this lace trumpet gown is a match made in heaven for the bride who wants to look long and lean. We're head over heels for the pretty lace appliqués and that train!

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Tulle and embroidered lace appliqués

18 of 22

Best Back Detail: Wtoo by Watters Philomene Lace Cap-Sleeve Wedding Gown

Wtoo by Watters Philomene Lace Cap-Sleeve Wedding Gown

Anthropologie

This corded lace gown features a fitted silhouette and the most charming scalloped trim. The illusion neckline and back allow for a dramatic skin-baring look. Did we mention those floating buttons?

Price at time of publish: $1,400

Size: 00-15 | Length: Floor length | Material: Corded lace

19 of 22

For a Garden Wedding: Oscar de la Renta SS/22 Look 6

Oscar de la Renta SS/22 Look 6

Oscar de la Renta 

We may have just saved the best for last with this dreamy Oscar de la Renta ballgown. This ultra-bridal look features a flurry of three-dimensional floral appliqués on an impeccably constructed satin gown.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor length | Material: Satin and floral appliqués

20 of 22

Most Romantic: Watters Olena Long-Sleeve Lace Wedding Gown

Watters Olena Long-Sleeve Lace Wedding Gown

Anthropologie

Calling all romantics! We’re hearing wedding bells with the gorgeous long sleeve lace details within this Olena gown. This white floral-embellished A-line gown is what bridal dreams are made of. The stunning detail of this classic long-sleeve gown appears as if it's merely floating on your skin.

Price at time of publish: $1,750

Size: 0-16 | Length: Floor length | Material: Polyester

21 of 22

Most Intricate Detail: Oleg Cassini Beaded Lace Long Sleeve Sheath Wedding Dress

Oleg Cassini Beaded Lace Long Sleeve Sheath Wedding Dress

Oleg Cassini

You can't get any more bridal than this beaded lace ball gown. The sheer illusion back has buttons for closure, and the bodice and long sleeves of this dress are adorned with romantic lace details. A thin belt detail separates the top from the dramatic full net skirt fit for a princess.

Price at time of publish: $1,199

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

22 of 22

Best Lace Gown: Sophia Tolli Glamorous Two-Piece Wedding Dress

Sophia Tolli Glamorous Two-Piece Wedding Dress

Rock this multifaceted tulle and lace gown with a fit-and-flare silhouette. Embroidered lace and corded lace appliqués overlay the lining for a sensual look. It has a sweetheart neckline, removable cape illusion lace sleeves, and a semi-cathedral train that can be removed for a more dramatic look.

Price at time of publish: Available upon request

Size: 0-32 | Length: Floor length | Material: Tulle, lace

What to Look for in an Illusion Wedding Dress

Before you race to the store for an illusion gown, there are a few key details you should look out for. To start, consider the durability of the fabric. While most wedding dresses are made from high-quality fabrics, those designed with soft tulle or English net are still delicate. And for those who plan to hit the dance floor, consider how your movements may impact your gown, as delicate illusion sleeves may not be the best choice.

Additionally, be sure that your gown offers a variety of illusion shades in order to accommodate your skin tone. "Most designers offer their illusion colors in an ivory or porcelain tone, which is slightly darker than ivory. However, there is a clear need for designers to offer more color options that will suit a variety of skin tones," shares Olivia DeAngelo, owner of VOWS Bridal. "One of our favorite designers, Essence Designs—who make Stella York, Essence of Australia, and Martina Liana gowns—offers a vast range of illusion colors that allow every bride to achieve an illusion look."

FAQ
  • What is an illusion neckline?

    "An illusion neckline is made of sheer fabric that is intended to blend with the bride's skin, thus creating the 'illusion' that nothing is there," states DeAngelo.

  • Should I line the illusion bodice of my wedding dress?

    DeAngelo explains that this is a completely personal decision. "If you want a sheer, subtly sexy look, we say keep the illusion bodice! However, if you feel it might be a bit too much, lining part of the bodice, or even all of it, is always a nice alternative for a more modest look. Some designers will actually offer both a lined option and an unlined option."

  • What undergarments should I wear under my illusion wedding dress?

    "It all depends on where the illusion is on your wedding gown. If it's located down the sides or on the back of the bodice, you won't be able to wear a bra, but instead, you can have cups sewn in," DeAngelo shares.

Why Trust Us / About the Author

Laura Lajiness Kaupke is a writer and editor with expertise in bridal fashion, accessories, and fine jewelry for both men and women. She formerly served as the senior fashion editor at The Zoe Report and POPSUGAR. Her work has been featured in ELLE, InStyle, Glamour, Refinery29, Well+Good, and Barneys New York.

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