I've Found 26 Anti-Trend Wedding Dresses for Classic Brides
Every dress purchase deserves careful consideration, but none to the same degree as your wedding dress. You'll wear it for just one day (unless you plan to rework it later on), yet it will probably be the most photographed item you ever wear. And if 1980s brides and their taffeta popcorn-sleeve dresses have taught us anything, it's that some trends can wind up feeling a little outdated.
There's something to be said for embracing the trends of an era, and you might enjoy looking back with fondness for fashion gone by. But if you're fearful of one day cringing at the dress in your wedding pictures, stick to a classic design.
At the very least, the decision to keep things simple will streamline your search—and with the overwhelming number of dress types to choose from these days, I'd imagine many brides are keen to whittle down the options.
Make no mistake: Classic doesn't mean boring. You can still embrace embellishments, be it lace or subtle sparkle, and some of the most interesting necklines have been in style since the '40s (think sweetheart). In case you need proof, we've picked out our favourite timeless wedding dress options, ranging from full-on princess frocks to elegant satin gowns. Get ready to fall in love all over again.
Shop Classic Wedding Dresses
That square neck feels quite modern—but in a way that will stand the test of time.
Reformation makes stunning sustainable dresses that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Price Upon Request
Fit-and-flare silhouettes can be really classic if the details on the dress are kept simple.
I didn't think I'd want a mini wedding dress before seeing this Bernadette number.
Emilia Wickstead's dresses come at a higher price point, but it's so worth it for the quality craftsmanship.
This strapless, silky number would be perfect for a destination wedding.
You'll make an unforgettable entrance in this sophisticated gown.
You only get one chance to wear an extravagant wedding dress, and this satin creation is certainly that.
All-over lace is a classy option you'll never regret going for.
Price Upon Request
Hello, Grace Kelly!
You'll be proudly pulling out the photo album for years to come with this Rixo design as your wedding dress.
If you can't decide between tulle, lace or satin, this dress has all three.
Lean into the simplicity, and keep your accessories to a minimum—a pair of drop earrings and strappy heels should do it.
For a subtle nod to the ’70s that doesn't feel dated, say yes to this balloon-sleeve Rotate dress.
Off-shoulder cuts can be so flattering. Case in point: this intricate Whistles dress.
The fluttery sleeves, the covered buttons—this dress is so romantic.
With those structured shoulders, this is a dress for a boss bride.
Is it just me, or does this look so much more expensive than it is?
I can see this really suiting a beach ceremony.
This dress could have been made yesterday—just look at that corseted bodice.
Next up, The Wedding Wardrobe: A Fantasy Capsule for All Brides-to-Be
Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.
A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.
In her spare time, Bébhinn enjoys perusing Edinburgh’s best vintage shops, working through her out-of-control book collection and watching dog reels on Instagram.
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