Wedding dress alternatives for the non-traditional bride
Have you always dreamed of your wedding day but in that picture you weren’t in a white floor-length gown? You’re not alone! The big white wedding dress just isn’t for everyone – and that’s okay!
Whether you’re looking for something modern, comfortable, or just uniquely you, there are plenty of stylish alternatives that still feel bridal. From sleek suits to trendy jumpsuits, here are some fabulous options for your big day. We’ve narrowed down the best wedding dress alternatives for a bride who’s a little less traditional.
Our top six wedding dress alternatives:
Wedding dress alternatives: a mood board.
The wedding suit
They don’t call it a ‘power suit’ for no reason – you definitely feel powerful. It’s a bold statement; we think it’s the ultimate power move. Sleek, sophisticated, a nod to a bygone era – a well-tailored suit exudes confidence whilst offering comfort and practicality. There are also endless options with a suit: a modern tuxedo, a crisp white suit, or perhaps a soft pastel ensemble for a touch of colour.
A suit transitions seamlessly from ceremony to reception, providing complete freedom and lots of movement – if you’re planning on dancing the night away, is there anything more practical than a pair of pants?
If you’re wanting to add a feminine twist, pair your suit with the same delicate bridal accessories you would to a dress: statement earrings, a sheer lace blouse, a pop of lingerie.
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Blazer over the dress
The mercury is starting to drop in Australia, and the summer brides have retired their dancing shoes. Income the autumn and winter brides, who are daring a cooler wedding. Australian winters can be some of the most incredible weather, with warmer days than those over the pond but cooler nights. If you’re expecting the temps to drop with the sunset, a blazer over your dress could be a solution to staying warm (and stylish!).
Whether you choose a tailored, fitted blazer to go for the sleek and polished look, or you go down the path of a uniquely patterned and unexpected fabric blazer for contracts, this is a chic and bold choice to make regardless. You can opt for a minimalist crepe or satin blazer for a clean, understated look, or go all out with embellishments like pearl buttons, lace details, or even feathered cuffs for extra drama.
Paired with a flowing gown, a sleek slip dress, or a short wedding mini, a wedding blazer is the perfect addition for the modern bride who wants to blend sophistication with an unexpected edge.
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Two-piece
The two-piece is a fun and versatile option for fashion-forward brides looking for a wedding dress alternative. Whether you’re in a delicate lace crop with a flowing tulle skirt or a structured corset paired with tailored tuxedo trousers, the two-piece just says modern sophistication.
The beauty of a two-piece wedding outfit lies in its versatility – you can mix and match different fabrics, silhouettes, and styles to create a look that feels uniquely you. For the bohemian bride, soft, romantic chiffon skirts can be paired with intricate beaded tops. If you’re after a more minimal approach, a satin high-waisted skirt with a minimalist strappy top could be your approach. Whether you’re drawn to modern minimalism, vintage romance, or edgy couture, a two-piece wedding ensemble allows you to craft a wedding look that’s effortlessly stylish, non-traditional, and uniquely yours.
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Pants and a cute top
You’ve heard it before to the question, “What are you wearing tonight?” Jeans and a cute top, of course! Well, it’s not just for a night out; swap the jeans for some pants you’ve got yourself an effortlessly stylish wedding look. Wedding pants paired with a statement top create a modern bridal aesthetic that’s both comfortable and undeniably chic.
With this two-piece look, the magic happens in the top: beaded bodices, off-the-shoulder blouses, dramatic puff sleeves, or even a lace corset — depending on your personal style. If you want something minimalist and modern, a satin or silk camisole with delicate detailing can be effortlessly elegant, while a high-neck, long-sleeve lace top can add a vintage-inspired feel.
It doesn’t matter if you’re embracing a sleek and modern aesthetic or aiming for a more boho, whimsical vibe, wedding pants with a statement top allow you to break tradition in the most fashionable way possible while still feeling like a radiant bride.
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Mini-dress
If you’re looking for a youthful, playful and fashion-forward dress, you might consider a wedding mini-dress. It’s a party vibe for the fun and festive bride whose wedding will be a bit of a rager! A shorter dress allows for ease of movement while exuding confidence, style, and a touch of modern glamour. Whether you’re drawn to a sleek satin mini with clean lines for a minimalist aesthetic, a whimsical feather-trimmed number for a touch of drama, or a delicate lace mini for a romantic, vintage-inspired feel, the mini dress offers endless possibilities to match your unique bridal personality.
A popular style for city hall weddings, second marriages, elopements and destination weddings, it’s best for those who feel that a full-length gown might feel either too formal or a little impractical.
Whether you go for a modern asymmetric design, a 60s-inspired mod dress, or a sparkling beaded number, a wedding mini dress is a bold, fresh take on bridal fashion that proves you don’t need a floor-length gown to make a memorable statement.
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Jumpsuit
Make a statement without the gown! A jumpsuit is the ultimate blend of style, comfort, and contemporary elegance. Effortlessly chic, it’s a modern silhouette ideal for minimalist brides who want to turn heads.
The beauty of a jumpsuit lies in its ability to be both sophisticated and functional—no worries about tripping over a train, adjusting a heavy skirt, or struggling with multiple layers of fabric. It’s also a fantastic choice for various wedding settings, from a stylish city hall ceremony to a destination wedding or even a second look for the reception. Brides looking for a bit of drama can choose a jumpsuit with a detachable overskirt, a dramatic cape, or statement sleeves for an added touch of grandeur.
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