You know the saying: sometimes, less is more. This rings true even on your wedding day! If you're currently shopping for your dream wedding dress, you might be feeling the pressure to choose a style with elaborate beading, lace, or other head-to-toe embellishments—it's your one chance in life to go all out, right? But not so fast. We're here to tell you that looking amazing doesn't need to involve glitter, tulle, or crazy ruffles (unless you want it to), because there are plenty of minimalist wedding dresses on the market to choose from.
These simple wedding dresses put fit, fabric, and structure at the core of their designs to show off your figure, and the results are stunning. Need more convincing? Look to handful of newly-married celebrities—Meghan Markle, Hilary Duff, Gina Rodriguez, Sadie Robertson, and Debby Ryan to name a few—for proof of how an embellishment-free wedding dress makes a major statement. To help you nail this look, we've hand-picked some of our favorite unfussy styles that you can expect to see in your localbridal shopsstarting in early 2020 and throughout 2021.
These chic, minimalist wedding dresses were made for stealing the spotlight.
Dress by Jenny by Jenny Yoo
Opt for a long-sleeved stretch crepe gown for regal, sophisticated style. Balance out the full coverage with a plunging v-neckline that shows a bit of skin.
Dress by Savannah Miller
This super-understated gown features a high neckline offset by a low v-back. The inverted seam under the bust is elongating and slimming—it's finished with tiny beads for a bit of texture and detail.
Dress by Jenny by Jenny Yoo
Switch up a traditional A-line silhouette by adding a fashion-forward cowl neckline (and more importantly, pockets!). Finish your bridal look with a low, sleek bun and minimal jewelry for an effortless vibe.
Dress by Justin Alexander Signature
A square neckline is a perfect fit for the minimalist wedding dress aesthetic. This neckline is both modern and timeless, and it's less common than other wedding dress necklines, which will give you a unique look.
Pantsuit by David's Bridal
If you're looking for wedding dress alternatives, allow us to introduce you to this amazing tailored pantsuit. Whether you're eloping at city hall or simply want something that totally stands out, a bridal suit is always a good idea. Choose a slim-fit style and pair it with a lace bustier top for an ultra-flattering combo.
Dress by Jenny by Jenny Yoo
This curve-hugging gown is so simple but insanely elegant. A demure bateau neckline frames your shoulders and collarbone beautifully, especially if you finish the look with your hair up.
Dress by BHLDN
Look closely, because this minimalist wedding dress is actually covered in beads! If you're opting for an embellished gown, choose one with monochromatic details (i.e. skip the silver beading or glitter tulle) that blend into the rest of the dress for the most subtle result.
Dress by Ashley Graham x Pronovias
This gorgeous fit-and-flare gown is all about structure and seams. An asymmetrical strapless neckline is just enough to give the sleek gown an ultra-high-fashion twist. The gown is from a brand-new collection designed by supermodel Ashley Graham for Barcelona-based fashion house Pronovias. The two worked together create a 16-piece collection of body-positive wedding dresses ranging in size from zero to 34.
Dress by Nouvelle Amsale
One-shoulder wedding dresses are coming back into fashion, and this barely-there strap is an easy way to get on board with the resurfacing trend.
Dress by Savannah Miller
A silk satin bias cut gown is elegant, sultry, and timeless. The pièce de résistance on this minimalist wedding dress by British designer Savannah Miller: a low cowl back.
Dress by Ines Di Santo
Love the look of a strapless wedding dress but want a little more support? This Ines Di Santo gown has super-sheer straps to keep everything in place.
Dress by Mark Zunino
If you don't want to wear a fitted wedding dress, a minimalist ball gown in a stretch silk Mikado fabric is just as stylish (and bonus: it's extremely comfortable). We're loving the deep V-neckline and spaghetti straps on this design.
Dress by Morilee by Madeline Gardner
Minimalist wedding dresses can also be super romantic, as proven by this ethereal strapless gown featuring a ruched bodice and barely-there beaded waist detail.
Dress by DB Studio
This asymmetric off-the-shoulder sheath dress from DB Studio would be perfect for an intimate wedding, elopement, or even a rehearsal dinner.
Dress by Watters
Swimsuit model Hunter McGrady wore this gown for her wedding reception (the design is inspired and named after her!), and it's a sophisticated choice for any bride in search of a curve-hugging minimalist wedding dress. The high neckline is offset by a sexy, open cowl back with subtle beading.
Dress by Rime Arodaky
Ideal for a beachy, laid-back wedding, this bridal crop top and skirt set is the perfect example of effortless style. The cap-sleeve top features an illusion lace back to show even more skin.
Dress by Alexandra Grecco
Meet the ultimate cool-girl wedding dress: a simple sheath silhouette featuring a deep v-neckline, buttons down the front, and a center slit.
Dress by Nouvelle Amsale
This fitted crepe wedding dress with a halter necklineis another way to rock illusion lace. A sheer racerback panel is finished with a line of buttons that goes all the way to the edge of the train.
Dress by Jenny by Jenny Yoo Bridal
Keep it sweet and simple in a classic ft-and-flare wedding dress with a sweetheart neckline. This specific style has a Watteau train (like a cape without the shoulders) for a hint of drama.
Dress by Danielle Frankel
Sheer puffy sleeves bring the wow factor to this otherwise minimalist wedding dress.
Dress by Kelly Faetanini
An off-the-shoulder neckline is universally flattering and is appropriate for all types of wedding venues, whether you're getting married by the water or at a swanky country club.
Dress by Rime Arodaky
For the bride who wants a truly unfussy look, a lightweight slip dress with spaghetti straps is oh-so-easy and looks incredible with or without accessories.
Dress by Sareh Nouri
Wear a structured one-shoulder wedding dress paired with a formal updo for an absolutely regal look.
Dress by Lela Rose
Try to find something more luxurious than this satin crepe slip gown, we'll wait. The vertical seaming and deep neckline give this timeless silhouette a fresh, fashion-forward feel.
Dress by Jenny by Jenny Yoo
If vintage vibes are more your speed, try a fitted halter neck wedding dress complete with a bow that ties in the back. We're picturing this stunner at an Old Hollywood-style wedding.
Dress by Nouvelle Amsale
Minimalist wedding dresses may not have fancy embellishments like other gowns, but some of them do have one very important detail: pockets! A scoop-neck ball gown is a perfect example of how to nail modern preppy wedding style.
Dress by Zac Posen for White One
It's totally possible to wear a lace dress for a minimalistic wedding—this strapless column gown is a spot-on example of how to do it.
Dress by Mark Zunino
This curve-hugging gown makes a strong case for wedding dresses with square necklines.
Dress by Amsale
Delicate off-the-shoulder sleeves add a sweet, romantic detail to this silk fit-and-flare wedding dress.
Dress by Monique Lhuillier
Bring the drama by wearing a long-sleeve wedding dress featuring a plunging neckline and equally eye-catching slit. (And don't forget to show off a fabulous pair of shoes!)
Dress by Sachin & Babi
A playful bow is the head-turning detail onthis chic column wedding dress.
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