The Non-Traditional Bride Edit: 22 Unique And Modern Wedding Dresses

Credit: Cult Gaia

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Whether it’s at the courthouse or a seaside resort, an international elopement or casual backyard affair, your wedding day is truly one-of-a-kind—a unique celebration of you and yours. And while we’re all for tradition, the point is really to make it your own. For some brides, that might mean ditching the standard white gown altogether in favor of something a little more unconventional.

From short wedding dresses to black gowns (they’re trending!) to bridal suits, consider this your definitively non-traditional bridal edit. (And don’t forget to keep scrolling for veil alternatives and unique accessories, too.)

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Wedding Dresses

Short, casual, non-white, textured, long-sleeve – these looks are proof that non-traditional dresses can be bridal, too.

Reformation

Maves Satin Dress

$348
$348
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Credit: Reformation

This off-the-shoulder number is as danceable as it is photo-worthy (read: very). Pair it on its own with crystalline heels, or a pair of black tights for a little something different.

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Cult Gaia

Shannon Mini Dress

$1,198
$1,198
Code:
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Credit: Cult Gaia

It’s your wedding day, and all eyes are on you—might as well lean all the way in. This attention-grabbing dress from Cult Gaia is the life of the party—not to mention that those feathers will photograph beautifully during golden hour.

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Carolina Herrera

Sweetheart Mini Dress

$2,590
$2,590
Code:
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Credit: Moda Operandi

Whether you’re getting married at a courthouse or in Vegas, this on-the-nose Carolina Herrera look would pair so perfectly with a veil—and let’s just say that we can also see this dress partying into the wee hours of the morning.

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Rotate

Ruched Twill Dress

$560
$560
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Credit: Moda Operandi

Got sustainability on the brain? Rest assured that this ruched mini is made with recycled fabric. (The ‘90s It girl vibe is just a sweet bonus.)

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We don't like

Marchesa Notte

Polka-Dot Ruffle Tulle Bustier Gown

$1,095
$1,095
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Credit: Neiman Marcus

It’s all in the details of this stunning Marchesa gown—from the ruffled tulle skirt to the subtly sheer corset bodice. Pair with a bouquet of roses to get the full dramatic effect.

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We don't like

Geisha Designs

Ruffled Strapless Dress

$396
$396
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Credit: Anthropologie

It’s difficult to decide on the most stunning aspect of this gown: the perfect lilac hue, the semi-sheer ruching, or the jaw-dropping price tag.

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We don't like

Nanushka

High-Neck Fringed Evening Dress

$965
$965
Code:
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Credit: Nanushka

For those who want more of a subtle shift departure from traditional white, blush, gold, and chromatic tones are a worthy alternative. (And we love the fringe detail on this silky gown from Nanushka.)

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Giambattista Valli

High-Low Floral Georgette Gown

$9,830
$9,830
Code:
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Credit: Moda Operandi

Between the sweeping high-low hem and the floral print, this gorgeous offering by Giambattista Valli breaks bridal rules in the most luxurious way possible.

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Monique Lhuillier

Corset Gown w/ Embroidered Floral Detail

$6,995
$6,995
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Credit: Neiman Marcus

Who even needs a bouquet with embroidery like this?

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Katherine Tash

Chloe Dress

$4,500
$4,500
Code:
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Katherine Tash

The 1920s and 2020s join forces in this glass beaded gown—an antique callback that still feels positively modern.

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We don't like

Rosie Assoulin

Hodge Podges Dress

$6,995
$6,995
Code:
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Credit: Over the Moon

If you ask us, this whimsical dress was made for a backyard or beach wedding.

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We don't like

Danielle Frankel

Tabitha Gown

$12,900
$12,900
Code:
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Credit: Danielle Frankel

Danielle Frankel has rapidly become the It designer for cool brides everywhere—and with this renaissance-meets-’70s gown, it’s easy to see why. (Pro tip: Order early, since these stunners can take up to 6 months to produce.)

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For Love & Lemons

Willow Bridal Gown

$618
$618
Code:
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Credit: For Love & Lemons

It’s giving rolling meadows, windblown hair, and a bouquet of wildflowers.

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Paco Rabanne

Fringed Crepe Maxi Dress

$4,790
$4,790
Code:
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Credit: Moda Operandi

For warmer season nuptials, you might opt for a faux-sleeve—à la this disco-worthy getup from Paco Rabanne.

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SIR The Label

Aries Cut Out Gown

$490
$490
Code:
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Credit: SIR The Label

The lacy, peekaboo details and low-cut back make this slip dress extra special.

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Doen

Arietta Dress

$298
$298
Code:
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Credit: Doen

Ditching heels for bare feet? This organic cotton dress was made for it.

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Bec & Bridge

The Dreamer Strapless Dress

$380
$380
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Credit: Bec & Bridge

This minimalist gown fits perfectly within that space between relaxed and formal: understated elegance that can be dressed up or down.

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Reformation
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Cult Gaia
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Carolina Herrera
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Rotate
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Marchesa Notte
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Geisha Designs
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Nanushka
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Giambattista Valli
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Monique Lhuillier
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Katherine Tash
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Rosie Assoulin
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Danielle Frankel
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For Love & Lemons
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Paco Rabanne
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SIR The Label
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Doen
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Bec & Bridge
Reformation
$348
$348
Code:
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Cult Gaia
$1,198
$1,198
Code:
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Carolina Herrera
$2,590
$2,590
Code:
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Rotate
$560
$560
Code:
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Marchesa Notte
$1,095
$1,095
Code:
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Geisha Designs
$396
$396
Code:
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Giambattista Valli
$9,830
$9,830
Code:
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Monique Lhuillier
$6,995
$6,995
Code:
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Katherine Tash
$4,500
$4,500
Code:
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Rosie Assoulin
$6,995
$6,995
Code:
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Danielle Frankel
$12,900
$12,900
Code:
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For Love & Lemons
$618
$618
Code:
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Paco Rabanne
$4,790
$4,790
Code:
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SIR The Label
$490
$490
Code:
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Doen
$298
$298
Code:
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Bec & Bridge
$380
$380
Code:
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Bridal Suiting and Separates

Feel like skipping a dress altogether? We’ve got you covered with statement-making suits and bridal separates.

Giuseppe Di Morabi

Double Twisted Canvas Blaze with Feathers

$983
$983
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Credit: Giuseppe Di Morabi

A boring suit? Never. Get the full look with this jacket’s matching shorts ($450). (Yes—shorts!)

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We don't like

The Attico

Gary Stretch Wool Balloon Pants

$1,045
$1,045
Code:
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Credit: Moda Operandi

These perfectly pleated trousers will pair with just about anything.

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We don't like

Lapointe

Cropped Ruffled Silk-Organza Bustier Top

$942
$942
Code:
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Credit: Net-a-Porter

This positively ethereal top would look equally gorgeous with a cream silk skirt or white trousers.

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We don't like

Shona Joy

La Lune High-Waist Satin Maxi Skirt

$280
$280
Code:
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Credit: Shona Joy

Look no further for that aforementioned silk skirt—this one is a showstopper. (We love the matching bustier top ($220), too.)

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We don't like

Simkhai

Fiona Crochet Top and Sally Crochet Midi Skirt

From $395
From $395
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Credit: Simkhai

We can see this set traveling to a tropical destination wedding. (And unlike many bridal ensembles, this one can definitely be recycled for future occasions.) Grab the matching sandals ($525) to complete the look.

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Veil Alternatives And Cool Bridal Accessories

A chiffon veil isn’t for everyone—and switching up your bridal headwear is a great way to differentiate your look. Let’s finish off the ensemble with a well-chosen accessory—or several.

Lelet NY

Nikki Exes Headband

$178
$178
Code:
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Credit: Lelet NY

Part headband, part jewelry. Need we say more?

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We don't like

Gigi Burris

Hailey Veiling

$405
$405
Code:
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Credit: Gigi Burris

We love the ethereal drama of this vintage-inspired birdcage veil, adorned with Swarovski opals and crystals.

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Jennifer Behr

Sierra Tiara

$1,825
$1,825
Code:
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Credit: Jennifer Behr

We don’t need to convince you to create your own royal wedding, right? Bonus: This headband can also be worn at the back of your head for a completely different look.

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Epona Valley

Saint Germaine Swarovski Bun Cage

$298
$298
Code:
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Credit: Epona Valley

An unexpected way to dress up a classic updo, this hair piece will make for a stunning over-the-shoulder photo opp.

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We don't like

Khaite

Julius Loop Earrings

$750
$750
Code:
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Credit: Khaite

An edgy rebuttal to dainty bridal jewelry.

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We don't like

Clio Peppiatt

Til Death Do Us Part Beaded Bag

$390
$390
Code:
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Credit: Moda Operandi

If you have the Kardashian-Barker nuptials on your wedding moodboard, you’re bound to find this beaded purse as endearing as we do.

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We don't like

P.A.R.O.S.H.

Crystal Embellished Mesh-Chain Bra Top

$198
$198
Code:
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Credit: Farfetch

Hear us out: This would look incredible peeking under a white suit jacket or plunging neckline.

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Lelet NY
$178
$178
Code:
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Gigi Burris
$405
$405
Code:
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Jennifer Behr
$1,825
$1,825
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Khaite
$750
$750
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Clio Peppiatt
$390
$390
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Need some wedding gift ideas? Check out our top registry picks, whether you’re a guest or the happy couple.

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Reformation
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Carolina Herrera
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Marchesa Notte
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Geisha Designs
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Nanushka
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Giambattista Valli
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Monique Lhuillier
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Katherine Tash
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Rosie Assoulin
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Danielle Frankel
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For Love & Lemons
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Paco Rabanne
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SIR The Label
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Doen
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Bec & Bridge
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Giuseppe Di Morabi
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The Attico
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Simkhai
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Lelet NY
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Gigi Burris
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Jennifer Behr
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Epona Valley
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