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16 Non-Traditional Wedding Dresses

Bridal Wear

16 Non-Traditional Wedding Dresses

Izzy Turner-Hicks
Izzy Turner-Hicks Updated:
8th of March 2023

We're so happy to see that weddings aren't all about tradition anymore, and brides aren't afraid to break the mould and step away from the "rules". If you're looking for a way to get creative with your bridal look, then dare to be different with these fabulous non-traditional wedding dresses.

3 models relaxing together wearing a selection of wedding dresses

1). Something Blue

According to tradition, brides should wear something blue on their wedding day. Most brides choose a small blue ribbon or accessory, but why not break and honour tradition at the same time with an entirely blue wedding dress? Opt for a sumptuous navy fishtail dress, a floaty pastel blue gown or why not combine a classic dress with blue embroidery like this beautiful Romantica dress. Whatever shade of blue you choose, don't forget to have fun with this unique bridal look, with non white wedding dresses!

A wedding dress decorated with blue flowers

2). All That Glitters

Add some serious sparkle to your bridal outfit with plenty of sequins. Look like a shimmery mermaid come to life as you strut down the aisle in a glittery gown. For the colour of your dress, we love classic metallic shades of silver and gold. Why not make a statement with a feminine rose gold like this one from Cleo and Clementine?

A man and woman kissing, the woman is wearing a glittery metallic purple dress from Cleo and Clementine

Dress: Gibson Bespoke

3). Flower Power

Ideal for spring weddings, florals are a great way to instantly update your bridal look. If you want to stick with a traditional style of wedding dress, then why not play around with these pretty flowery prints?

A woman walking through the country side wearing a floral print wedding dress

Dress: Plum Pretty Sugar Couture

Photography: Jose Villa

4). The Wedding Jumpsuit

Dresses aren't your thing? Check out this stylish bridal jumpsuits. Whether you want to go girly with lace, or keep it simple with a sleek and trendy cut, you can't go wrong with these beautiful, alternative bridal outfits. To modernise this look even more, take a leaf out of Solange Knowles' book and pair your jumpsuit with a chic bridal cape.

Model wearing a bridal jump suit by Rime Arodaky

Jumpsuit: Rime Arodaky

5). Boho Babe

Perfect for woodland weddings, we love this gorgeous idea. Wear your hair in loose beachy waves, and even add a flower crown or mini braids if you want to. Let your imagination run wild with this fun bridal look.

A model wearing a Boho style wedding dress by Rue De Seine

Dress: Rue De Seine

6). Two-Piece Wedding Dresses

Two-piece bridal sets are a great way to instantly update your wedding outfit. Either keep a traditional silhouette with a fitted top and billowing tulle skirt, or try something more out of your comfort zone. However you decide to style this look, you can't go wrong with a wonderfully fashionable two-piece!

A model wearing a two piece wedding dress by Houghton NYC

Dress: Houghton NYC

7). Radiant Red

What better way to make a statement as you walk down the aisle than by adding a glamorous pop of red to your bridal look? Match this with some bold red lipstick and you're good to go!

A model wearing a red ballgown style wedding dress by Hamda Al Fahim

Dress: Hamda Al Fahim

8). Back to Black

Want something sleek, stylish and totally surprising? Why not wear a beautiful black bridal gown on your wedding day? Non-white wedding dresses are a classic look for alternative brides everywhere - we absolutely love black wedding dresses.

A model wearing a black wedding dress by Ian Stuart Le Jardin

Dress: Ian Stuart Le Jardin

9). Over the Rainbow

Want to add a subtle pop of colour to your bridal look? We're obsessed with these magical rainbow wedding dresses. If an entirely rainbow coloured dress sounds a bit full on to you, then look for a dress with blush, pastel rainbow tones like this one from Hamda El Fahim. This unexpected bridal look is wonderful for brides who want to show their fun and colourful personalities through their dresses!

A model wearing a pastel rainbow coloured wedding dress by Hamda El Fahim

10). Pretty in Print

These intricately printed gowns instantly add a touch of sophistication to any bridal look. Whether you go for a delicate floral print, or something a little more abstract like this Kate Mcleod one, we love this unique bridal look. Why not wear minimal makeup and a casual, laid-back hairstyle? Let the fantastic print do the talking!

A model wearing a floral print wedding dress by Kate Mcleod

11). Gatsby with a Twist

Get your Gatsby on with these gorgeous, bejewelled bridal gowns. Whether it's the neckline, colour or cut, why not try vintage wedding dresses and put a modern spin on a classic 1920's gown?

A model wearing a 1920's style wedding dress by Elize Jane Powell

Dress: Elize Jane Powell

12). Dip Dye Dress

If you fancy getting creative with unusual wedding dresses, why not dip dye your wedding dress yourself? However, it might be worth a quick trial run on a cheap dress before you start dipping your £3000 gown in orange dye! If you love this idea but don't want it on your wedding dress, we think this would look so pretty on your bridesmaids' dresses.

A model wearing a white and yellow dip dye wedding dress by Lucy Can't Dance

Dress: Lucy Can't Dance

13). Short and Sweet

Want to show off your legs, or a killer pair of shoes? Short wedding dresses are a wonderful way to do this. Lots of brides choose a stunning 1950's inspired T-dress, but feel free to opt for a modern, figure-hugging dress if that's more your style.

A model wearing a 1950's T-style dress from Monsoon

Dress: Monsoon

14). Elegantly Embroidered

An embroidered wedding dress is great for a bride who wants to make an impact as she walks down the aisle. This is a great opportunity to add a splash of bright colour to your bridal look - why not pick a dress with a feminine floral design?

A model wearing an embroidered wedding dress by Needle and Thread

Dress: Needle and Thread

15). The High-Low Hem

If you want to show a little leg, but still want the elegance and glamour of a floor-length gown, then this idea was made for you! These dresses come in a range of styles, so whether you're looking for a strapless, long-sleeved, or halter-neck wedding dress, you'll be able to find just what you're looking for.

A model wearing a High-Low hem wedding dress by Elizabeth Fillmore

Dress: Elizabeth Fillmore

To help you get started, check out our Pinterest 

16 Non-Traditional Wedding Dresses

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Izzy Turner-Hicks
About the author
Izzy Turner-Hicks
Izzy has been writing about weddings for nearly 10 years. Recently married, she's been able to add her own experience of the planning process to her articles. In-house editor at Guides for Brides and previously editor of top wedding magazines; Wedding Ideas and Love Our Wedding. Her specialism is bridal fashion.

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