- Wedding Dresses
By
Taylor Lane
Taylor Lane
Taylor Lane is a beauty and fashion expert with over five years of experience. Her work has appeared on W, Women’s Health, Aedit, The Zoe Report, The Sunday Edit, and Self.
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Updated on 02/22/22
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It's no secret that shopping for a wedding dress can be a stressful process. After all, there are seemingly endless styles and silhouettes to choose from. But if you can't help but picture yourself walking down the aisle in a gown that's soft, ethereal, and feminine,then a romantic wedding dress is the perfect style for you. So, what makes a romantic wedding dress, well, romantic? We asked the experts. Meet the Expert “A romantic dress will always have details that evoke lightness or fluidity such as a lace edge, delicate fabric-covered buttons down the back, and floral embroidered tulle," says Valentine Avoh, the designer behind her eponymous label. According to Yemi Osunkoya, founder and designer of Kosibah, romantic wedding dresses usually have a soft fullness in the skirt often achieved by layers of transparent or opaque fabrics. However, Osunkoya notes that one of the most striking details of a romantic dress is the train. "Romantic dresses usually have a train of some sort from puddle and chapel lengths to dramatic cathedral lengths,” he tells Brides. While still dreamy and feminine, many of today's romantic wedding gowns have evolved to appeal to all bridal styles from laidback to modern. “Romantic silhouettes have become more unique and playful. In the past, romantic silhouettes were often considered to be bohemian, however, the trend has now gained respect by the industry, with designers finding different ways to express romanticism,” Stephanie White, founder and creative director of Odylyne The Ceremony tells Brides. “I have always considered my designs to embody romanticism but have been typecast as either not modern or fashion-forward enough, and that is changing as the years progress!” she adds. If you’re dreaming of walking down the aisle in a romantic wedding dress, read on for the best romantic wedding dresses. The Whitney dress is handmade with a unique color mix. The dress has draped silk and a buttoned lace back detailing. The back and the font both contain a plunging V neck that creates more draping along with the dress's silhouette. The Ivory mesh wedding dress has multiple layers of fabric that provide plenty of movement. The bodice contains handcrafted embroidered florals. The 'Kalie' gown by Willowby by Watters is a stunning feminine dress. The floral lace covers the bodice and the tulle skirt. The back is exposed, which creates a subtle neckline. This handcrafted romantic skirt contains a satin waistband and floor-length tulle. The dress is simplistic yet stunning when you walk in it. 17 Best Bridal Separates Sets of 2022 This utterly romantic dress is for the bride who appreciates subtle details like lace-cap sleeves, a décolletage-baring neckline, and a gentle train. Perhaps the epitome of what a romantic wedding dress should look like, this gown by Kosibah gives you a romantic look. It has an organza overlay and a corset with lace appliqué touches. Avoh says don’t get too stuck on the exact fit of a romantic dress. Although the fit is typically focused on the gown’s fullness, it does not always have to stay within those classifications. The fit “doesn’t really matter as long as it moves with the body. A tight bias cut dress can be as romantic as a flowy silk tulle skirt,” Avoh says. Osunkoya’s design process? “I create a design that aligns with all the elements above that have all or most of the features that I think to encapsulate the ideal romantic gown,” he says. This dress is a manifestation of the design vision. It has cap sleeves and a tulle, full skirt that gives the dress a full romantic look. The dress also has a cathedral train for added drama. Another tulle option is a more modern version of a floor-length skirt. It’s shorter, yet romantic. It comes in various colors if you’re looking to make a colorful statement on your big day. Pair a corset or sild bodice with the tulle skirt for a complete. This gown has a high neck and is full of lace detailing. On the back, you will find keyhole details for a modern romantic take. The long sleeves are carefully crafted, and the bodice remains sheer but with coverage over your chest. The train is the real statement piece and also has lace motifs throughout the entire length. This romantic dress offers a plunging neckline that transitions into a pink-tinted underskirt. At the waist, there are crystal details that give the dress an added touch. This dress wraps all of the romantic wedding dress elements into one. The bodice is a strapless, sweetheart necklace that melts into a dramatic off the shoulder look. The sleeves are voluminous with French tulle, and the entire gown consists of lace and light beading details. This dress is very Bridgerton- reminiscent and contains duchess-satin through the entire gown. The bodice had a sweetheart neckline that adds a feminine silhouette. The skirt has pleats which keep the skirt full and voluminous even when it falls to the floor once you put it on. The Prescott dress is a stunning and modest romantic wedding dress selection. There are delicate lace details and a flattering skirt. 17 Best Modest Wedding Dresses of 2022 With cascading blooms and sweet blush, this Marchesa Notte gown could not get more romantic. Poet sleeves add just the right touch of romance for those with love in their eyes. “A romantic dress should embody personal details that the bride loves and finds endearing. It should provide elements of something that makes them feel the exact emotions they have always dreamed about,” White notes. 21 Best Ruffle Wedding Dresses of 2022 Corseting details on the back and sleeves make this off-the-shoulder gown prime for those who long for a storybook romance. Featuring chapel train and lace detailing every subtle detail of this wallet-friendly gown is on point, including the stellar reviews! 16 Best Wedding Dresses Under $1,000 Featuring double puff sleeves, exposed boning and layers of tulle scattered with starry embroidery, this BHLDN gown is just the right mix of bohemian and sultry. Making it the ideal romantic wedding dress. 20 Best Starry Wedding Dresses of 2022 It's all in the details when it comes to romantic wedding dresses. Special touches like intricate lace, full skirts, ruffled necklines, and poet sleeves instantly transform a simple, classic silhouette into a romantic one. When shopping for your wedding dress, if you are unsure about where to start, keep this in mind: “I suggest looking for something with delicate lace detail, like a see-through lace back, lace cap sleeves, or a lace edge highlighting your décolleté. If you are not a fan of lace, I suggest going for silk mousseline or silk tulle,” adds Avoh. FAQ Are romantic lace wedding dresses more expensive? It depends on the amount of time that goes into creating the lace. There are many affordable lace dress options out there and you can definitely find something that suits every budget. Is a romantic wedding dress modern? Call it the modern renaissance but romantic styles are definitely having a moment, which makes it a very modern choice. What should I wear to a vineyard wedding? We love a bohemian lace dress, or even a modern jumpsuit. It's really up to your taste and style, anything goes and you shouldn't worry about matching the dress to the venue. Taylor Lane loves all things beauty and began her career in the editorial industry as a fashion assistant at Glamour. From 2018 to 2019, Taylor was a beauty writer at The Zoe Report. During that time, she was also contributing beauty and fashion stories to a variety of publications including W, Women’s Health, Aedit, The Zoe Report, The Sunday Edit, and Self. In June 2021, she became an e-commerce writer at Instyle and Shape. 18 Best Vintage-Inspired Wedding Dresses of 2022 Best Back: Mywony Bridal 'Whitney' Dress
Best Sheer Bodice: Mywony Bridal Ivory Mesh Wedding Dress
Best Floral Lace: Willowby by Watters 'Kalie' Gown
Best Separates: The Lotus Bloom Co. Ivory Maxi Tulle Skirt
Best Lace Details: Valentine Avoh 'Jackie' Dress
Best Corset Bodice: Kosibah 'Ophelia' Dress
Most Unique: Valentine Avoh 'Grace' Dress
Best Cathedral-Length Train: Kosibah 'Melpomene' Dress
Most Whimsical: The Lotus Bloom Co. Midi Tulle Skirt
Most Regal: Martina Liana Luxe High-Neck Ball Gown
Best Long Sleeves: Galina Signature Illusion Sleeve Plunging Ball Gown
Most Versatile: Martina Liana Luxe Sheer Voluminous Sleeves Gown
Most Dramatic: Emilia Wickstead Diamond Duchesse Satin Gown
Most Modest: Maggie Sottero Prescott Dress
Best Embellishments: Marchesa Notte 'Tish' Gown
Best Ruffle Detail: Gwendolyn Dress by Odylyne The Ceremony
Best Budget: Azazie Chapel Train Dress
Best Celestial-Inspired: BHLDN 'Katia Dress
What to Look For in a Romantic Wedding Dress
Why Trust Brides
FAQs
How much is a wedding dress in 2022? ›
In short, the average cost of the wedding dress is $1,251 and $227 for accessories according to data from our partners at The Wedding Report. The average doesn't mean that that's what your budget should be. In reality, wedding dresses run anywhere between $500 to $25,000 and up.
What should I wear to a wedding in March 2022? ›Yellow, pink, and green dresses are all great options to wear. Dresses with patterns and floral designs also work well for the spring season—just be sure you aren't wearing the same color as the bride's bridal party, and of course, stay away from white!
What is the most popular wedding dress? ›What is the most popular wedding dress? Ball gown wedding dress. If you've ever dreamed of having your own fairytale moment, then this is the silhouette for you. Ball gowns are one of the most classic wedding dress shapes and will instantly give you the Cinderella effect on the big day.
Are veils in or out 2022? ›In 2022, pearl detailing on veils will continue to reign supreme.” Crystals, however, are also on the horizon, which Scott believes will become increasingly popular—particularly as “embellished shoes and accessories dominate the runway”.
Who pays for the wedding dress? ›Dresses and Suits
Oftentimes the bride's mom will help pay for her dress and accessories. The groom should handle any costs associated with their suit. When you are planning for these costs, remember to include shoes, jewelry, and a veil if you plan on wearing one.
You might be aware that the bride's family is expected to cover the majority of the wedding day costs, while the groom's family pays for a variety of extra activities, like the rehearsal dinner and the honeymoon.
How much does a 100 person wedding cost? ›Most receptions for 100 people cost between $5,000 - $10,000, with $7,000 being the average cost. Here's a general estimate of what you can expect to pay for food, service/staffing, alcohol, and rentals for a wedding of this size.
Which type of gown is best for wedding? ›As you prepare for your bridal appointment, keep these general rules in mind. A fitted sheath, mermaid, or trumpet gown will accentuate your curves (or create the illusion of them). Pleats or gathers around the waist can magnify it. A well-fitted high-waist and loose skirt will combat this.
How do you pick a wedding dress for your body? ›- Ball gown – most suited to a pear-shaped body, a ball gown helps accentuate the waist and cover the lower half of your body.
- Empire – an empire gown has a raised waistline from which the dress flows outwards. ...
- A-line – this gown shape suits many different body shapes.
Embrace a warm palette of cold-weather colors such as olive green, midnight blue, or burgundy for a seasonally appropriate outfit. But don't feel limited to traditionally winter hues, either! A minty green or dark floral pattern can also work well for a ceremony held in the colder months of the year, too.
What do you wear to a summer 2022 wedding? ›
What should guests wear to a summer wedding? Dresses in floral prints and bright colors are always a stylish and fun choice for warm-weather weddings. For summer weddings with a formal dress code, guests should consider wearing mid-length to floor-length gowns in light and breathable fabrics.
Should I wear pantyhose to a wedding 2022? ›Whether you are the mother-of-the-groom, a bridesmaid, or a guest, the answer is – yes, you should wear stockings to a wedding. For the most part, weddings are formal events, and stockings are perfect for special occasions.
What are the current fashion trends 2022? ›- Wider, looser jeans. ...
- Loafers with attitude. ...
- A wear-with-boots dress. ...
- A leather or suede skirt. ...
- A blue sweater. ...
- A chic shirt-jacket. ...
- A leggings replacement. ...
- Real pants.
In a perfect world, you should begin your wedding dress shopping experience one year before your wedding date. Your wedding dress order may come in early, or it may arrive late. There is a lot of dress shopping advice that says that six to eight months before your wedding is a good time to order your dress.
What are the 2023 wedding trends? ›Pearl Detailing
Pearls are set to be the breakout wedding star of 2023 - with searches for 'pearl wedding dress' climbing almost a quarter¹ (23%) in the past year, and Pinterest reporting that searches for the term have doubled on their website.
Just ask shoppers in Germany, South Korea, and the US, where sales of fascinators grew by 86%, 56% and 45% year over year, respectively, in February 2022. In the UK, between January and March of this year, sales of fascinators were up 115% compared to 2021.
Are black wedding dresses in Style 2022? ›Top Black Wedding Dress Design Trends for 2022
One of the hottest design trends for black wedding dresses is an abundance of lace. From lace underlays to an overflow of appliqués, black lace wedding dresses are romantic, gothic, and truly stunning. Galadriel, a black lace wedding dress, is dark and dreamy!
An anti-bride is someone who chooses to follow their own path in regards to wedding trends and traditions. For some, it may be that they are planning a wedding in under three months. For others, it may be their second wedding. It could mean that they choose to have a wedding on a campsite instead of a ballroom.
Are veils still popular? ›"Today wedding veils are widely accepted as a bridal accessory that adds a perfect finishing touch to the overall bridal look," says Stark. "Modern brides use the wedding veil as a way to show the bride's personal style with a nod to tradition." Because this is most likely the first (and only!)
What did Harper's Bazaar predict will be the leading trend for wedding dresses in 2022? ›Underwear as outerwear is making its way to the aisle, but this time it's less sexy and more regal than ever before. New non-boudoir, Bridgerton-inspired corsetry is paired with sheer tulle, gossamer laces, and embroidery for a royal wedding-worthy feel—but with a sexy edge.
What does it mean when the bride wears a black dress? ›
But black wedding dresses are here and they are here to stay. Black can also be a color of elegance or class (such as a black-tie only event, and black evening gowns). Black also represents power, sexuality, sophistication, formality, wealth, mystery, depth, and best of all, sheer style.
What does a black wedding dress symbolize? ›Like a black tie dress code, black dresses are a symbol of elegance, sophistication, and formality. As wedding traditions have evolved, black wedding dresses have also come to represent individuality and empowerment. They symbolize a break from convention and a new era for bridal fashion.
What does it mean to get married in a blue dress? ›Blue. Traditionally the colour of good luck, blue signifies peace and purity. The bride who wears blue is just like calm water, life giving, and stable and endlessly loyal.
How do you plan a wedding when you don't want one? ›- Be Open About Your Expectations. ...
- Get Your Family on Board With What You Want. ...
- Don't Feel Pressure to Expand Your Guest List. ...
- Prepare For Last-Minute Disasters.
Usually, the father of the bride, or the person who escorts the bride, lifts the bridal veil just after the bride arrives beside the groom. Alternatively, the groom may lift the veil at the moment before the marriage kiss is exchanged.
Why does a bride carry a bouquet? ›Sending good wishes to a newly married couple has always been the proper thing to do. The ancient Romans thought so too and incorporated flowers into wedding ceremonies because they were known as symbols of fertility, fidelity, and new beginnings.
How long does it take to get a wedding dress in 2022? ›Wedding dresses take on average six to eight months to order, depending on the designer and manufacturer. In a perfect world, you should begin your wedding dress shopping experience one year before your wedding date. Your wedding dress order may come in early, or it may arrive late.
Are mermaid dresses out of style? ›With its timeless beauty, adaptability, and natural charm, it's definitely safe to say that the mermaid silhouette wedding dress will not be going out of style anytime soon! If you are a lover of romance, timeless fashion, and elegance, you will love any of our mermaid wedding dresses.
What should men wear to a wedding 2022? ›If no dress code has been set, you can't really go amiss with a charcoal grey or navy suit. These work for both day and evening and the accessories you choose can help them fit the venue, the wedding couple's style, season and formality.”