Your wedding day is undoubtedly one of the most important days of your life. But when it comes to finding the perfect dress, it can also be incredibly stressful. Luckily, we’re here to help. From romantic bohemian dresses to high-low gowns, we’ve got it all. Here are the best casual wedding dresses for carefree brides.
Types of Casual Wedding Dresses
1. Beach Dresses
When selecting a wedding dress for a beach ceremony, we recommend that you opt for something plain and understated. Given the surroundings, it should also be comfortable and easy to move in. With this in mind, a lace, satin or sheer wedding dress can make a stunning option. Not only are they romantic, sexy, and feminine, but they can also be airy and lightweight. When it comes to accessories, try to keep it as low-key as possible.
2. Country Dresses
Perfect for the laid-back bride, a country wedding is not only low-key but also incredibly beautiful and low-cost. For this type of wedding, a gorgeous design in vintage lace will be perfect. Look for details such as elegant ruffles to really nail the country look. Finish the ensemble with a flower crown and simple, classic jewelry.
3. Bohemian Dresses
Bohemian wedding dresses come in various styles. But what they all have in common is a feminine aesthetic with an airy twist. This style makes the perfect choice for low-key, casual outdoor ceremonies. They are especially ideal for weddings held during summer as well as trendy, backyard receptions. They can also suit rustic weddings, such as those held in a barn or on a farm. Crochet and lace fabrics are synonymous with the bohemian style, making them an ideal choice. Of course, not just any lace dress will suit the boho aesthetic. To nail the look, opt for a long, flowing style.
4. Vintage Dresses
Wish you could go back in time? Get your blast from the past with a vintage-inspired wedding dress! No matter your desired era, these designs are a great alternative to modern gowns. We recommend opting for something adorned with pearls, beads, or crystals. Just be sure to avoid anything too over the top. You want something plain but luxurious that will complement the vibe of your ceremony. Think sweetheart necklines, lace, and frills.
5. Dresses with Sleeves
Looking to add an elegant, ladylike touch to your bridal ensemble? Why not try a wedding dress with sleeves! This style is an ideal choice for women who love a classic, romantic look. In particular, we think a minimal design with lace detail will make a stunning option for your special day. Through the decades, it’s one of the only wedding day styles that has remained timeless!
6. High-Low Dresses
A high-low wedding gown features an asymmetrical design, which is short at the front and long at the back, creating a contrast between high and low. They achieve a lovely, graceful appearance without making it difficult to walk down the aisle. As well as this, high-low dresses also allow you to show off your legs and shoes. Although a non-traditional choice for brides, high-low wedding gowns have been around for quite some time now. Today, there are countless different designs to choose from. While some have a sharp contrast in length between the back and the front, others are more subtle. Whichever style you choose, a high-low wedding dress is sure to make you stand out on your special day.
Casual Wedding Dresses for Winter
When dressing for a cold, winter wedding, it’s important to select a gown that suits the season. Luckily, staying warm doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! The most obvious way to add some warmth to your outfit is sleeves. Another option for winter brides to add that little bit of extra coverage in layers. Don’t forget that outerwear is always an option should the weather be extra chilly.
5. Casual Wedding Dresses for Summer
When it comes to a summer wedding, it’s a good idea to select a gown that’s breezy and comfortable. Opt for a breathable and lightweight fabric like silk or chiffon to help you stay cool. For extra relief from the heat, a strapless, halter-neck, or spaghetti-strap style will appear particularly sexy and feminine while also keeping your upper body cool. The best thing about weddings held in warmer weather is that you have so many styles to choose from!
Sexy Casual Wedding Dresses
Want to turn heads on your special day? A sexy wedding dress is a perfect choice for confident brides who wish to make a lasting impression. To nail the look, consider choosing a fitted design that shows off your figure. Alternatively, a low-cut neckline is both elegant and alluring, making it a great alternative to your more traditional gowns. As for materials, lace or silk designs make a particularly romantic choice.
Plus Size Casual Wedding Dresses
Casual wedding dresses make a stunning option for plus size brides. With a variety of styles and shapes available, they can be perfect for highlighting curves. In particular, a mermaid gown can appear especially attractive to plus-size ladies. This style is a great choice for brides with an hourglass figure, as it works to accentuate your hips. An A-line style can be another very flattering choice, especially if you’re after a little more coverage.
Casual Wedding-Guest Dresses
The casual wedding dress code for guests is the most laidback of them all, giving you the freedom to wear something that you feel comfortable in. To nail the look, be sure to keep your ensemble stylish yet laid-back. Opt for a sundress in a casual fabric or a plain midi. When it comes to footwear, keep things relaxed with a pair of strappy sandals.
How to Wear a Casual Wedding Dress
- Look for dresses that are comfortable and easy to wear. Fabrics like silk and lace are ideal.
- To keep things simple, try to steer clear of excessive embellishments and accessories.
- Opt for a dress that is suitable for your surroundings.
- When it comes to footwear, choose something comfortable and easy to walk in. Strappy sandals or wedges are a great choice.
Casual Wedding Dress FAQs
Where to buy a casual wedding dress?
If you want a more laid-back feel to your wedding or are holding it on the beach or in a barn, you may want a casual design. You can find many simple, minimalist dresses at bridal boutiques, or you can shop online. A few websites to remember include ASOS, Nordstrom, Reformation, BHLDN, David's Bridal, and Etsy.
What is a casual wedding dress?
A casual wedding dress is usually defined as something more laid-back in appearance. Perhaps it is a romantic bohemian dress that you want or a very simple A-line; there are many choices to choose from. The casual style also considers the fabric and detailing, and although it should be of good quality, it is usually devoid of intricate details such as beadwork and lace.
Do casual wedding dresses come in plus sizes?
Casual wedding dresses come in a wide range of fabrics, silhouettes, and sizes. There is something for every bride, from petite to plus-size. That said, not all boutiques and online shops stock a good variety of sizes, so if you are a plus-size bride, you may benefit from familiarizing yourself with brands that focus specifically on creating great garments in your size.
What venue is good for a casual wedding dress?
Casual dresses are great for more laid-back venues. This could be a rustic barn wedding, a backyard party, a courthouse ceremony, or a beach celebration. That said, it is your day, and no matter where you intend to hold your wedding, you should dress in something that makes you feel beautiful.
Alexandra Feiam is an experienced fashion writer who holds a degree in journalism. She has an impressive portfolio and expertise working as the Editor at Power Retail and Commercial Content Editor at Newscorp. Ally has been writing for The TrendSpotter since 2018, and her work has been featured in notable publications such as The Herald Sun, Arirang TV South Korea, Kidspot, The House of Wellness, and The Daily Telegraph.
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