short black dress with train

Ditch the expectations! Your wedding day is all about celebrating your love story in a way that feels true to you. That goes for your dress too. If a white ball gown doesn’t resonate with your fierce individuality, then this is your guide to finding the perfect non-traditional wedding dress. Get ready to explore bold colors, fashion-forward silhouettes, and everything in between. We’re talking jumpsuits that ooze sophistication, whimsical jumpsuits, and dresses with unique details that will leave a lasting impression. So, buckle up and prepare to find the wedding dress that truly reflects your remarkable style!

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT BETWEEN TRADITIONAL VS. ALTERNATIVE WEDDING DRESSES?

Traditional wedding dresses are often white or ivory, symbolizing purity and elegance, and typically feature classic designs like ball gowns, A-lines, and lace details. These dresses have long been associated with weddings and are seen as timeless and sophisticated. 

On the other hand, alternative wedding dresses break away from these conventions, offering bold colors, vibrant patterns, and unique styles such as jumpsuits, suits, or non-traditional fabrics. This shift towards alternative wedding attire reflects a growing trend of personal expression and individuality among brides, allowing them to showcase their unique style and personality on their special day. 

Whether opting for traditional or alternative, the key is that the bride feels confident and beautiful.

OUR TOP PICKS 

CHANTEL LAUREN MAE HAND PAINTED WEDDING DRESS

The Chantel Lauren Mae hand-painted wedding dress is a stunning and unique piece that exemplifies the blend of artistry and bridal fashion. This dress stands out with its hand-painted floral designs that add a vibrant and personal touch to the traditional wedding gown. Each dress is a masterpiece, showcasing intricate details and bold colors that make it a one-of-a-kind creation. The Chantel Lauren Mae dress is perfect for brides who want to make a statement and embrace their individuality on their wedding day. The combination of classic silhouettes with modern, artistic elements allows brides to experience the best of both worlds, merging timeless elegance with contemporary flair. This dress not only highlights the bride’s personal style but also creates a memorable visual impact that will be cherished for years to come.

LILLIAN ROSE ANKLE GOWN BY NEEDLE & THREAD

The Lillian Rose Ankle Gown by Needle & Thread is an exclusive fashion statement that brings together elegance and intricate design. This beautiful dress is inspired by floral artwork found on a Victorian fan, offering a unique blend of history and modern style. It’s crafted with layers of tulle and net, creating an elaborate and textured look that’s sure to turn heads. The gown comes in a striking graphite color, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall design. This dress is available on Needle & Thread website, where they offer free shipping over $350 and accept returns within 14 days. Whether you’re attending a formal event or wanting to make a statement at a special occasion, the Lillian Rose Ankle Gown is a stunning choice that embodies timeless elegance and unique design.

ALLURE BRIDALS IRIS DRESS

The Allure Bridals Iris Dress is a breathtakingly beautiful gown designed to make any bride feel like a queen on her special day. This A-line gown boasts a strappy design that adds a modern twist to the traditional bridal look. Its most striking feature is the jaw-dropping array of jewel-toned blossoms that adorn the dress, providing vibrant, feminine accents that are sure to turn heads. Each detail of this gown has been meticulously crafted to create a stunning visual impact. The color of the dress can be customized according to the Allure Bridals’ Swatch Guide, ensuring that every bride can find the perfect shade to compliment her style. With its unique design and exquisite detailing, the Allure Bridals Iris Dress is the ultimate choice for a bride seeking a blend of modern elegance and traditional beauty.

ALDORRA BY TED BAKER

The Aldorra dress by Ted Baker is a chic and elegant addition to any wardrobe. This garment, available in a natural hue, seamlessly blends sophistication and style. It’s a midi lace dress, a timeless design that never goes out of style, suitable for any occasion. The dress is part of the brand’s Outlet collection, offering premium quality at a more accessible price point. Ted Baker provides free delivery on UK orders over £100, and there’s also the option to ‘Shop now, pay later’ with Klarna. Currently, they are offering 30% off as part of their ‘Last of the Summer Sun’ promotion. With its delicate lace detailing and refined silhouette, the Aldorra dress by Ted Baker is a must-have piece for anyone seeking to elevate their style.

MORPHINE FASHION STRAPLESS TIERED TULLE ASYMMETRIC GOWN

The Morphine Fashion Strapless Tiered Tulle Asymmetric Gown is a unique piece that will make a memorable impression at any event. This gown is not just a dress, but a one-of-a-kind creation from Morphine Fashion. It features voluminous layered-tulle tiers that dramatically cascade from the waist, making it a showstopper. The structure of the gown is enhanced with a tulle bodice that boasts a lace-up back design, adding an extra touch of elegance. The gown is made of polyester tulle and lined with polyester for comfort. One of its stand-out features is the tiered tulle skirt that presents a mini cut in the front and a maxi length in the back, creating a stylish asymmetric look. The layered tulle strapless bodice complements the overall aesthetic of the gown. This Morphine Fashion Strapless Tiered Tulle Asymmetric Gown is an absolute stunner, perfect for anyone looking to make a grand entrance.

RUBY SATIN CHARMEUSE DRESS BY BHLDN

The Ruby Satin Charmeuse Dress by BHLDN is a perfect blend of elegance and comfort. Made with beautiful satin charmeuse, the dress offers a smooth and lustrous texture that’s perfect for any special occasion or a night out. This dress offers a fashion-forward dark brown color, adding a touch of sophistication to your look. The dress is cut to fit standard sizes ranging from 0 to 16, ensuring a comfortable and flattering fit for various body types. Priced at $150 down from $220, this dress is not only stylish but also affordable. Moreover, BHLDN offers the convenience of 4 interest-free installments of $37.50, making it even more accessible. Whether you’re looking to impress at a special event or simply want to step up your fashion game, the Ruby Satin Charmeuse Dress by BHLDN is a classy and chic option that won’t disappoint.

RUE DE SEINE RHAPSODY AMBER GOWN

The Rhapsody Amber Gown by Rue De Seine is a true masterpiece for any bride seeking a blend of elegance and bohemian style. This brand new gown is a size 10 (US), never altered, and only tried on once for fitting. It features a long silhouette and a train, making it a classic choice for a wedding dress. The stunning long sleeves add a touch of sophistication and charm to the overall design. This gown was bought and never worn, meaning it’s in excellent condition, just waiting for its moment to shine. The original retail price of the dress was $4,800, but it’s currently on offer for $2,900, which means you can save 40% off the original price. This Rue De Seine Rhapsody Amber Gown is a stunning option for any bride-to-be who desires a dress that’s as unique and special as her big day.

LELLY BY TED BAKER

The Lelly Dress by Ted Baker is an elegant piece designed to make a statement. This is far from an everyday dress – it’s one that truly exudes a sense of occasion. The Lelly Dress boasts an array of stunning features that combine to create a beautifully sophisticated silhouette. The dress features a chic halter neck, a cinched waist to highlight your figure, a keyhole back detail for a touch of allure, and a side slit for added style and comfort. Available in a natural hue, it’s a versatile choice that can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Whether you’re attending a formal event or a special occasion, the Lelly Dress by Ted Baker is sure to make an impression.

ENAURA BRIDAL BEAU GOWN

The Beau gown from Enaura Bridal is an exquisite masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. This V-neck, A-line gown features a natural waist and a fully beaded bodice, with the design cascading down the skirt. Each bead, sequin, and pearl is delicately hand-sewn into lines, stylized leaves, and intricate squiggles to create a dazzling effect. This attention to detail and the intricate beadwork give the dress an extraordinary look that’s sure to turn heads. The Beau gown is priced at $4,613 and above, although the final cost may vary depending on the various fabrication and customization options offered. Whether for a wedding or a glamorous event, the Beau gown from Enaura Bridal is a stunning choice that reflects sophistication and elegance.

MYLEE TIE WAIST JUMPSUIT BY PHASE EIGHT

The Mylee Tie Waist Jumpsuit by Phase Eight is a fashion-forward piece that blends comfort and style. Inspired by the best-selling Mylee Dress, this jumpsuit features a wide-leg silhouette, giving it a relaxed yet chic look. It is designed with short sleeves and a high round neckline, adding a touch of sophistication. The jumpsuit comes with a buckle belt to cinch at the waist, accentuating your figure. This jumpsuit is versatile and can be styled in many ways. For a more edgy look, Phase Eight suggests pairing it with a black leather jacket. The Mylee Tie Waist Jumpsuit is not just a piece of clothing, it’s a style statement.

CULT GAIA CALYPSO GOWN

The Calypso Gown by Cult Gaia is a stunning piece that exudes both elegance and sophistication. This off-white gown features endlessly layered plissé fabric that cascades from the strapless neckline to the floor, ensuring you’re the center of attention wherever you go. The plissé gazar fabric is richly hued and full of texture, complementing the diagonal cut of the dress beautifully. Despite its luxurious appeal, the gown is designed to be as comfortable as it is stylish. It’s available for pre-order, with an estimated shipping date between March 7th and March 31st. If you’re looking to make a statement at your next event, the Calypso Gown is a head-turning option that won’t disappoint.

MAXI DRESS IN POWDER PINK BY LACE & BEADS 

The Maxi Dress in Powder Pink by Lace & Beads is a stunning piece that exudes elegance and sophistication. The dress is made from 100% Polyester for both the main and lining, making it a soft and sheer delight to wear. The corsage tulle maxi dress design adds a touch of romantic charm, making it perfect for special occasions. The powder pink color gives it a feminine and delicate feel, making you stand out in any crowd. This dress can be purchased at ASOS, a popular online shopping platform, where they offer free delivery and return options (subject to terms and conditions). Embrace the latest trends with this beautiful Lace & Beads Maxi Dress in Powder Pink.

MAC DUGGAL TIERED STRAPLESS TULLE A-LINE HIGH-LOW GOWN

The Mac Duggal Tiered Strapless Tulle A-Line High-Low Gown is a luxurious piece from a designer known for creating glamorous evening wear for every occasion. With over three decades of design experience, Mac Duggal is renowned for his exquisite hand-beading and flattering fits. This high-low gown is no exception, with its tiered strapless design and tulle fabric adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. In 2015, Mac’s daughter Ieena joined the family business, further enhancing the brand’s reputation in women’s fashion. Whether you’re attending a formal event or looking for a stunning outfit for a special occasion, this gown is sure to make a statement. The gown is available at Anthropologie, a popular online shopping platform.

SATIN SHEATH DRESS BY COCOMELODY

The Satin Sheath Dress by Cocomelody is a luxurious piece that guarantees to turn heads at any event. This dress features a figure-hugging sheath silhouette, accentuated with an off-the-shoulder design. The sexy split and pleating at the waist add extra elegance to the outfit, creating a flattering and sophisticated look. The floor-length skirt cascades down, adding a dramatic touch to the overall design. Made from high-quality satin, this dress ensures comfort without compromising on style. Whether you’re attending a wedding as a bridesmaid or gracing a formal event, this satin sheath dress is a stunning choice that will leave a lasting impression.

KATE ANVIN GOLDEN WEDDING DRESS

The Kate Anvin Golden Wedding Dress is an exquisite piece that features a bohemian design. This golden wedding dress also doubles as a sparkly cocktail dress, a bridesmaid dress, an evening dress, and a corset dress, making it incredibly versatile for various occasions. All dresses from Kate Anvin are exclusively designed and each one is crafted using high-quality fabrics. Hours of handwork go into each dress to ensure its uniqueness and elegance. The brand is known for following trends while preserving craftsmanship, resulting in gorgeous dresses that are not only fashionable but also well-made. The ideal fit of their garments is another highlight, promising a comfortable and flattering wear. This golden wedding dress is available on Etsy, a popular online shopping platform for handmade and vintage items.

SACHIN & BABI ARCHIE DRESS FROM BHLDN

The Archie Dress by Sachin & Babi from BHLDN is a superb marriage of fashion and elegance. Embodying a vision of modern and sophisticated aesthetics, this dress is perfect for any special occasion. Sachin & Babi is a brand known for its use of luxurious fabrics and exquisite detailing, and the Archie Dress is no exception. The dress is available for purchase at Anthropologie, an online store known for its curated mix of clothing, accessories, gifts, and home décor. Customers can read reviews and discover more product details on the Anthropologie website. This dress is sure to make a lasting impression, whether you’re attending a wedding or a formal event.

RUE DE SEINE RIDER CACTUS ROSE GOWN

The Rue De Seine Rider Cactus Rose Gown is a beautifully crafted piece that embodies the spirit of freedom and adventure. Priced at USD 4,850, this gown is designed for those who dream of exploring new terrains. The Rider gown features flared sleeves that trail as you walk, giving a sense of movement and grace. The train of the gown is inspired by floral-lined, wide-open roads, adding an element of romanticism to the design. The gown boasts a plunge neck lining that dips to show large blooms on the decolletage, creating an alluring aesthetic. The side cut-outs are cleverly designed to bring flattering lines of contour and shape to the bodice. This gown is available for purchase on the Rue De Seine website, under the Rue Icons Collection.

DORA MIDI BRIDAL WITH REMOVABLE CAPE BY MONSOON

The Dora Midi Bridal Dress with Removable Cape by Monsoon is the perfect piece for relaxed wedding settings. Designed to finish just below the knee, this dress offers a modern touch with its removable cape. The paisley-embroidered pattern on the cape adds to the elegance of the dress. Without the cape, Dora transitions into a sleeveless dress, making it ideal for the summer season. This ARTISAN piece includes intricate handwork, highlighting the brand’s commitment to traditional techniques and craftsmanship. The dress is available for purchase on the Monsoon website. Whether you’re a bride looking for a unique dress or attending a wedding as a guest, the Dora Midi Bridal Dress is a versatile and stylish choice.

INES DI SANTO CRESCENDO GOWN

The Ines Di Santo Crescendo Gown is a part of the Spring 2024 Bridal Couture Collection. Ines Di Santo is known for its luxurious bridal wear and this particular piece is no exception. Although the specific details of the Crescendo Gown are not mentioned, the designer’s signature style often includes elements such as plunging V-necks, full floral textured ballgown skirts, cathedral trains, and hand-painted appliqués. Other elements that might be seen in the Crescendo Gown include strapless basket weave bodice ball gowns with multi-tiered skirts and feminine flowing detachable streamers. Ines Di Santo’s bridal gowns are known for their ruched bodices, molded corsets and trumpet gowns that beautifully accentuate the feminine form. More details about the dress can be found on the Ines Di Santo website.

AUDREY SCATTER SEQUIN BY ASOS

The Audrey Scatter Sequin by ASOS is an exquisite wedding dress that exudes a sense of elegance and charm. Available in a delightful blush-pink, the dress is embellished with beads and sequins that add a touch of sparkle and glitz. The design features a plunge neck and blouson sleeves, creating a silhouette that is both flattering and feminine. The open back with a button neck adds a unique detail, while the zip-back fastening ensures a comfortable and secure fit. Priced at $320, the Audrey Scatter Sequin dress is a stunning choice for those seeking a memorable and distinctive wedding look. This dress is available for purchase on the ModeSens website, which offers a wide selection of fashion from over 600+ stores.

BY WATTERS MERINGUE IN POLISHED DUPIONI

The Meringue in Polished Dupioni by Watters is a bold and daring piece that is sure to make a statement. This adventurous mini dress features a daring plunge neckline and bold sleeves, which are bound to turn heads at any event. The dress also comes with a self-tie bow in the back, adding a touch of elegance to its bold design. Perfect for those who want to exude “Main Character Energy”, this dress is not just a piece of clothing, but a statement of style and personality. Whether you’re attending a formal event or a casual gathering, the Meringue in Polished Dupioni is sure to make you stand out. 

THE TAILORY NEW YORK X BHLDN WESTLAKE SUIT JACKET & SUIT PANT

The Tailory New York x BHLDN collaboration has produced the stylish Westlake Suit Jacket & Suit Pant. Priced at $450.00, this suit can be purchased in 4 interest-free installments of $112.50. The suit is available in a standard fit and comes in a classic black color that lends to its timeless appeal. The sizes available range from 0 to 10. This suit is a perfect blend of The Tailory New York’s bespoke tailoring and BHLDN’s bridal fashion expertise, making it an ideal choice for any formal occasion. It offers a modern take on traditional suiting, with a focus on fit and form. 

DIDOMINICO DESIGNS NIOBY GOWN

The Nioby Gown by DiDominico Designs is the epitome of elegance and sophistication. This gown is adorned with iridescent embellishments that add a magical touch to the overall design. It features a deep neck that exudes a sense of boldness and confidence. The beading, consisting of crystals and glass beading, enhances the dress’s glamour quotient. The gown also comes with a versatile veil, adding an extra layer of elegance and tradition to the outfit. More details about this exquisite piece can be found on the DiDominico Designs Facebook page. The Nioby Gown is a perfect choice for anyone seeking a blend of modern style and classic elegance for their special day.

CADIE SUIT JACKET & WIDE LEG TROUSERS BY PHASE EIGHT

The Cadie Suit Jacket and Wide Leg Trousers by Phase Eight epitomize the fluidity of modern occasion dressing. The wide leg trousers are designed to flatter, sitting high on the waist with pressed front creases for a sleek, formal look. Made to be paired with the corresponding jacket, this ensemble creates a polished and sophisticated outfit. Ideal for an evening event when paired with heeled sandals, this suit is a testament to Phase Eight’s commitment to creating flattering, well-designed pieces. The model wearing this suit typically wears a UK size 10 and stands 5’9″/175cm tall. This suit has a loose fit, ensuring comfort without sacrificing style.

MILLIA LONDON AZZURA GOWN

The Millia London Azzura Gown is a stunning piece that embodies elegance and sophistication. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this gown features a luxurious fabric that drapes beautifully, enhancing the wearer’s silhouette. The design boasts a flattering neckline and intricate embellishments that add a touch of glamour. Perfect for special occasions, the Azzura Gown combines timeless style with contemporary flair, making it a standout choice for those seeking to make a memorable impression. Its exquisite craftsmanship and high-quality materials ensure both comfort and durability, allowing the wearer to feel confident and radiant throughout the event. Whether attending a gala, wedding, or any formal affair, the Millia London Azzura Gown is a testament to refined fashion and impeccable taste.

MAXI DRESS WITH CAPE BY Y.A.S BRIDAL AT ASOS

The Maxi Dress with Cape by Y.A.S Bridal at ASOS is a stunning piece that perfectly blends modernity and tradition. This white maxi dress comes with a cape detail, adding a unique touch to its design. The dress is an epitome of elegance and style, ideal for any special occasion. It adheres to the latest fashion trends while retaining a sense of timeless elegance. As with most ASOS products, it comes with free delivery and returns (subject to terms and conditions). 

GALIA LAHAV JOY TULLE CORSET WEDDING GOWN WITH BALLOON SLEEVES

The Joy Tulle Corset Wedding Gown with Balloon Sleeves by Galia Lahav is a unique, made-to-order dress designed specifically based on your precise measurements. This layered tulle dress is inspired by a movie and features an unexpected cut-out bra corset top. It showcases off-the-shoulder balloon sleeves and sparkly details, making it an exquisite choice for any bride-to-be. To get more information or to schedule an appointment to try on this dress, it is suggested to contact a boutique near you. This exceptional wedding gown is a perfect blend of style and elegance, promising to make you shine on your big day.

TAFFETA PUFF SLEEVE MIDI BY SELF PORTRAIT

The Taffeta Puff Sleeve Midi by Self Portrait is a statement piece that combines classic and contemporary design elements. This dress is cut from white taffeta and is noted for its flattering square neckline and statement puff sleeves. The dress is fitted at the waist and falls into a panelled midi skirt, offering a silhouette that is both stylish and comfortable. The dress is fully lined and comes with pockets, adding to its practicality. The main composition of the dress is 100% polyester, as is the lining. This dress is perfect for any occasion where you want to make a bold, fashion-forward statement. 

KATE ANVIN TWO-PIECE WEDDING SET

The Kate Anvin Two-Piece Wedding Set is a beautifully designed ensemble that exudes both modern elegance and traditional charm. This set includes a chic crop top and a matching skirt, crafted from high-quality materials that ensure comfort and durability. The top features delicate lace detailing and a flattering neckline, while the skirt flows gracefully, offering a timeless silhouette. Ideal for contemporary brides seeking a unique look, this two-piece set allows for versatility and ease of movement. Perfect for both the ceremony and the reception, the Kate Anvin Two-Piece Wedding Set combines sophistication with a touch of playful elegance, making it a standout choice for a memorable wedding day.

ANNIE BY PHASE EIGHT

The Annie by Phase Eight is a breathtaking wedding dress defined by its intricate details and modern romantic design. This midi-length dress features an embellished mesh overlay that falls into a dramatic fishtail hem, adding a touch of classic elegance to the contemporary design. It also includes a sweetheart neckline that is beautifully framed by a sheer mesh panel and sleeves. The dress is further accented with a frilled neckline and cuffs, adding to its overall charm. The Annie by Phase Eight is the perfect wedding dress for any bride seeking a blend of modern design and timeless elegance. You can find more details about this stunning dress on the Phase Eight UK website.

CONCLUSION

We know you are modern brides and are not afraid to go out of your way. Besides the elegance of traditional wedding dresses, consider wearing a non-traditional wedding dress or a hi-lo wedding dress for your wedding. With these diverse options as inspiration, walk down the aisle and celebrate your love story in the way that feels most authentic to you.