Have you always dreamt of wearing a ball gown wedding dress to walk down the aisle?
We’ve got all of the insight, answers, and top picks to help your dreams come true.
Ball gowns are the dresses of fairytale weddings. When most little girls plan their future nuptials, they envision themselves in a dress worthy of royalty with a fitted bodice and the most voluminous skirt you’ve ever seen. And for many brides, a ball gown turns out to be their dream dress.
These gorgeous gowns have remained a favorite thanks to their classic shape and ease of customization. If you want to feel like an absolute princess on your wedding day – nay, a queen – then you deserve a stunning ball gown!
Our Favorite Ball Gown Wedding Dresses
Snowy Fairytale with Tiara
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like actual royalty, this is how you do it. A cloud of white tulle, a glittering tiara, a cozy fur capelet, and a snowy forest straight out of a storybook. The navy ribbon trailing from her winter bouquet adds just the right touch of color against all that white. This is the kind of photo that makes people ask if your wedding was real or a movie set.
See this Snowy Neuschwanstein Castle Wedding Shoot →
Scottish Castle Romance
A voluminous ball gown, a groom in a kilt, and the lush green grounds of a Scottish castle—proof that fairytales aren’t limited to snowy settings. The full skirt catches the light beautifully as they dance through the gardens, and there’s something wonderfully playful about the contrast between her sweeping white gown and his traditional tartan.
See April and Stuart’s Splendid Castle Wedding in Scotland →
Desert Princess
Who says princess dresses are only for castles? This bride brought full ball gown energy to the Arizona desert, and the result is unexpectedly stunning. Her strapless corset bodice with a beaded waistband gives way to layers of soft, tiered tulle—the kind of skirt that moves beautifully in photos. Against the sage green cacti and dusty ranch path, all that white tulle practically glows.
See Cassidy and Ryan’s Blush and Lavender Ranch Wedding in Tucson →
Classic Satin Elegance
There’s something timeless about a satin ball gown, and this Disney-inspired celebration at Orcutt Ranch delivered. The champagne-toned fabric catches the light as she walks down the petal-strewn aisle, while the beaded bodice adds just enough sparkle. Paired with a bright pink bouquet and matching petals underfoot, it’s polished and romantic without being overly formal.
See Shannon and Travis’s Disney Inspired Wedding at Orcutt Ranch →
Parisian Dream
An elopement in Paris calls for a dress that feels effortlessly romantic, and this sweetheart tulle gown with delicate lace appliqués is exactly that. The fitted bodice flows into a soft, full skirt that looks right at home against the cobblestones and iron railings of the City of Light. A bicycle leaning nearby adds to the perfectly Parisian moment.
See Susan and Olivier’s Dreamy Paris Elopement →
Garden Party Perfection
This strapless sweetheart ball gown proves that classic never goes out of style. The softly gathered tulle skirt creates that dreamy, floating effect every bride imagines, while a bouquet overflowing with pink and white peonies adds the perfect garden touch. Dappled sunlight through the trees completes the romantic outdoor setting.
See Meredith and Tommy’s Wedding →
Ethereal Cap Sleeves
The ruched sweetheart bodice paired with delicate beaded cap sleeves creates a silhouette that’s both romantic and refined. This bride’s cathedral veil adds drama without competing with the gown’s beautiful details. The soft, diffused lighting gives the whole image an ethereal quality that feels timeless.
See Jessica and Andrew’s Wedding →
Woodland Romance
A lace bodice ball gown feels right at home in a forest setting. This bride’s strapless sweetheart gown features intricate lace detail that gives way to a soft tulle skirt perfect for wandering woodland paths. Her braided blonde hair with subtle floral touches and a pastel bouquet complete the nature-inspired romantic look.
See this Rainy Spring Wedding →
Vineyard Sophistication
Clean lines and lustrous satin make this strapless ball gown a study in elegant simplicity. The sweetheart neckline is universally flattering, while the full skirt moves beautifully for those first dance photos. A bouquet of dahlias and soft white blooms adds warmth, and those charming wooden directional signs hint at the vineyard celebration to come.
See Erica and Zachary’s Wedding →
Magical Stairway Moment
Some venues just know how to frame a ball gown. This twinkle-lit wooden stairway creates a magical tunnel of light, while an ivy-covered arch awaits at the garden ceremony. Her strapless tulle ball gown with a fitted bodice is the perfect choice for such a romantic setting—full enough to make an entrance, but not so structured that it loses its dreamy quality.
See this Succulent Wedding at Lord Hill Farms →
Old Hollywood Glamour
This isn’t your typical bridal portrait, and that’s exactly the point. The classic strapless satin ball gown takes a dramatic turn with a statement black feather headpiece and a bouquet of deep red roses. Colorful Spanish tiles beneath her feet and the architectural backdrop of Balboa Park create a styled shoot that channels vintage Hollywood glamour with modern confidence.
See this Vintage Hollywood Glamour Photo Shoot →
Mountain Lodge Romance
When rustic venue meets glam bride, magic happens. This layered ruffled organza ball gown brings elegance to a mountain ski lodge ceremony. The strapless sweetheart bodice is classic and flattering, while the cascading tiers of the skirt add movement and visual interest. Her ring bearer walking alongside makes the aisle moment even sweeter.
See Rachael and Nash’s Wedding at Sundance →
First Look Magic
The first look is always a heart-stopping moment, and this heavily beaded ball gown rises to the occasion. Intricate crystal and bead embellishments cover the fitted bodice, catching the light as she approaches her groom on a sun-dappled garden path. The full ivory satin skirt with subtle pick-up details creates that quintessential bridal silhouette.
See Shannon and Travis’s Disney Inspired Wedding at Orcutt Ranch →
Getting Ready Elegance
There’s something wonderfully candid about capturing a bride in her gown before the ceremony rush begins. Here, a voluminous tulle ball gown billows around a vintage red velvet chair as the bride takes a quiet moment. The strapless sweetheart neckline is universally flattering, and the soft tulle creates that romantic, floating effect that photographs beautifully.
See Margaret and Chris’s Wedding →
Blushing Romantic
Blush isn’t just for bouquets. This stunning ball gown in soft pink features a crystal-embellished waistline that draws the eye, while the dramatic open back adds unexpected allure. The layered ruffled tulle train creates movement and depth, making this gown as captivating from behind as from the front. For brides who love romance with a twist, this is it.
See Karen and Paul’s Wedding →
French Chateau Elegance
Long lace sleeves elevate a ball gown from beautiful to breathtaking. This bride’s gown features delicate lace extending down her arms, with a full tulle skirt that spreads dramatically across the checkered floor of a rustic French chateau. The cathedral veil and exposed wooden beams create a sense of timeless European elegance that feels both grand and intimate.
See Roselina and Morten’s Wedding →
Garden Portrait Perfection
Golden hour light, a lush green garden, and a gown with a train that seems to go on forever. The strapless sweetheart bodice with delicate lace gives way to soft layers of tulle that pool beautifully behind her. A loose, romantic bouquet of white and green adds to the garden-party feel. Sometimes simple settings let the dress do all the talking.
See Tiffany and Nick’s Wedding →
Joyful Twirl
Ball gowns were made for twirling, and this bride knows it. Her layered ruffled organza skirt catches the air as she spins against a desert landscape, pure joy on her face. The beaded sweetheart bodice and satin ribbon sash keep things elegant up top while the skirt brings all the movement and drama. This is what bridal bliss looks like.
See Cassidy and Ryan’s Blush and Lavender Ranch Wedding →
Tiered Lace Masterpiece
When your dress and veil were made for each other, show them off together. This stunning tiered ball gown features row upon row of scalloped lace, each layer adding depth and romance. The matching scalloped cathedral veil creates a cohesive, luxurious look that’s both traditional and distinctive. Against a chandelier-lit backdrop, it’s pure bridal poetry.
See Madeleine and Adam’s Wedding →
Modern Two-Piece
Ball gown drama, modern twist. This two-piece number pairs a lace crop top with a full tulle skirt—and yes, those are pockets. The slight peek of midriff adds contemporary edge while maintaining bridal elegance. A bouquet of pink and peach blooms pops against the white, and that hand casually in her pocket? Pure confidence.
See Brandon and Natalie’s Wedding →
Rainy Day Romance
Rain on your wedding day? Embrace it. This couple’s umbrella kiss captures all the romance a little weather can bring. Her strapless tiered tulle ball gown maintains all its drama despite the drizzle, and those rain boots peeking out from beneath the ruffles? Practical and adorable. A white brick building provides a classic backdrop that lets the moment shine.
See Alexandra and James’s Wedding →
Winter Glamour in Chicago
A red Chicago trolley, fresh snow, and a bride in a white fur wrap—this is how you make winter look glamorous. Her strapless lace ball gown is the perfect choice for a cold-weather celebration, substantial enough to feel bridal while leaving room for cozy layers. The cathedral veil and luxe fur create a look that’s equal parts practical and princess.
See Sarah and Dale’s Wedding →
Snowy Bridal Party
Navy sequins and white fur against a snow-covered landscape—this bridal party knows how to work a winter palette. The bride’s lace ball gown with delicate cap sleeves strikes the right balance between romantic and season-appropriate, while her white fur wrap adds warmth without hiding the gorgeous details. Pink rose bouquets provide the perfect pop of color.
See Joseph and Gianna’s Wedding →
Marie Antoinette Magic
For brides who want to channel their inner queen—literal queen. This pink tulle ball gown with a heavily beaded bodice takes maximalism to new heights. The towering Marie Antoinette-inspired updo complete with feathers commits fully to the 18th-century fantasy. Pink lace gloves and a mirrored ballroom setting complete the let-them-eat-cake energy.
See this Marie Antoinette Styled Shoot →
Lakeside Dream
A weeping willow, a still lake, and a blushing bride in tiered tulle—this portrait could hang in a gallery. The V-neck beaded bodice adds sparkle while the cascading ruffled skirt in soft blush creates movement even standing still. Her loose bouquet of white and green keeps the palette soft and romantic. Some settings were made for ball gowns.
See Raechal and Gordon’s Wedding →
Enchanted Forest
A woodland setting calls for a dress that feels organic yet magical. This pale blush ball gown with delicate spaghetti straps features lace appliqués that look almost like they grew there naturally. The oversized autumnal bouquet with burgundy and blush tones and trailing greenery adds to the forest-fairy aesthetic. Sometimes the best backdrops are the ones nature provides.
See this Elegant Forest Styled Shoot →
Oak Tree Reverie
A rope swing, an ancient oak, and a ball gown built for dreaming. This bride’s lace bodice flows into a full tulle skirt that drapes beautifully over the wooden swing seat. The burgundy and blush bouquet adds rich color to the soft palette, and the dappled forest light creates that golden-hour magic photographers live for.
See Morgan and Clayton’s Wedding →
Window Light Portrait
Natural light is a lace gown’s best friend. This three-quarter sleeve ball gown features intricate lace detail that catches every ray streaming through the window. The illusion low back adds modern allure while maintaining bridal elegance. A full lace-trimmed tulle skirt completes the look—romantic, refined, and absolutely radiant.
See Kate and Bailey’s Wedding →
French-Inspired Romance
Off-shoulder cap sleeves frame the face beautifully while adding a touch of vintage romance. This blush-toned lace ball gown feels like it belongs in a French countryside, though the lake setting is just as dreamy. A delicate floral headpiece and pink rose bouquet complete the soft, feminine palette that’s romantic without veering into saccharine.
See this Outdoor French Inspired Styled Shoot →
Castle Hall Drama
Between the stone fireplace, the suits of armor, and the dramatically flowing ball gown, this image commits fully to the fairytale. The off-shoulder draped bodice creates elegant lines while a crystal belt adds sparkle at the waist. The full organza skirt catches air beautifully mid-twirl—proof that a stunning venue deserves a dress that can match its drama.
See this Beauty and the Beast Wedding Inspiration →
Bamboo Forest Serenity
The Biltmore’s bamboo forest provides an unexpected but stunning backdrop for bridal portraits. This classic strapless sweetheart ball gown with a ruched bodice lets the dramatic vertical lines of the bamboo do the talking. The full tulle skirt creates soft volume against the graphic green stalks—a study in contrast that somehow works perfectly.
See this Elegant Biltmore Wedding →
Historic Estate Elegance
An off-shoulder sweetheart neckline in lustrous satin never goes out of style. This bride chose subtle floral embroidery on her skirt that adds interest without overwhelming the classic silhouette. Against the stone walls and elegant architecture of Graylyn Estate, the gown feels perfectly at home—timeless, sophisticated, and utterly bridal.
See Elizabeth and Eric’s Wedding →
Vineyard Parasol Joy
Pure joy in motion. A white lace parasol, a flowing satin ball gown, and rolling vineyard hills create a portrait that feels both vintage and fresh. The strapless sweetheart gown features a pick-up skirt that catches the breeze as she runs, adding movement and playfulness to what could be a formal silhouette. Some of the best bridal moments are the unposed ones.
See Jennifer and Alberto’s Wedding →
Historic Stone House
Green shutters and weathered stone create the perfect backdrop for this sleeveless tulle ball gown. The beaded bodice catches the afternoon light while the full skirt spreads across the brick courtyard. Potted plants frame the doorway, and the bride’s cathedral veil adds length without competing with the architectural details. Classic Americana at its finest.
See Megan and Bryce’s Wedding →
Morning Light Getting Ready
The quiet moments before the ceremony are some of the most precious. This candid shot captures a bride adjusting her earring, her tulle ball gown with delicate short sleeves already on, perfume bottle in hand. The exposed wooden beams of the getting-ready suite and the natural morning light create an intimate glimpse into the pre-wedding ritual.
Red Barn Romance
There’s something wonderfully American about a ball gown in front of a red barn. This lace ball gown with a sweetheart neckline proves that princess dresses work just as well in rustic settings as they do in ballrooms. The groom’s navy suit and pink tie coordinate perfectly, and those iconic red barn doors provide a backdrop that’s both simple and striking.
See Jessica and David’s Wedding →
Ruffled Barn Beauty
Horizontal ruched tiers give this ball gown texture and movement even when the bride is sitting still. Posed on a vintage gold chair against weathered barn wood, the contrast between glamorous gown and rustic setting is pure styled-shoot perfection. The strapless sweetheart neckline keeps things classic while the architectural skirt brings all the visual interest.
See this Spring Barn Styled Shoot →
Garden Colonnade
Columns, columns everywhere—and a bride who knows how to work them. This strapless gathered satin gown with its elegant pick-up skirt creates movement and dimension that plays beautifully against the geometric lines of the garden walkway. A lace-trimmed veil adds softness, and the weathered columns provide that romantic, slightly overgrown estate aesthetic.
See this Garden Bridal Shoot →
Off-Shoulder Perfection
Off-shoulder lace sleeves transform a ball gown from beautiful to bridal perfection. This getting-ready moment captures a friend helping adjust the veil, the gown’s details on full display—delicate lace on the bodice and sleeves, a crystal belt at the waist, and a full tulle skirt waiting for its aisle debut. Sometimes the prep is as photo-worthy as the ceremony.
See Yuliya and Ian’s Wedding →
What is a Ball Gown Wedding Dress?
Ball gown and princess dress are relatively interchangeable terms. They both describe the same silhouette: a fitted bodice and a voluptuous, full skirt. While the form of the dress is pretty standard, these gowns can be easily customized to suit your style and personality.
The bodice of the dress can be sheer, beaded, or satiny smooth. Opt for a classic sweetheart neckline or maybe an alluring deep-V.
The skirt, the most recognizable part of a ball gown wedding dress, can consist of tulle, lace, taffeta, or other fabrics. Brides may choose to leave the layers of fabric full and billowing, or they may want to add ruffles, embellishments, or lacework. As you can see, the options are endless!
Brides and designers alike love ball gowns because the silhouette flatters most body shapes. A boned bodice provides ample support, elongates the torso, and cinches the waist. Paired with the ample skirt that lays softly over the hips and legs, this dress style is incredibly becoming.
However, a word of caution – too much skirt can quickly overwhelm petite brides. Thankfully, with a few tucks and trims, a tailor may be able to tone down the volume and make a ballgown style work for you.
Ball gown dresses work for boho brides and modern chic, modest brides, and sultry ones too! Don’t believe us? Check out the stunning collection we have put together of our favorite ball gown wedding dresses.
Ball Gown Wedding Dress FAQs
Can petite/short brides wear a ball gown wedding dress?
As we mentioned, it is easy for petite or short bride’s silhouettes to be overwhelmed by a ball gown. But these dresses are still an option. Reduce the fullness of the skirt by removing some fabric layers, add a belt to highlight the waistline, or choose a bodice that has a high waistline in the front and dips low in the back. These adjustments will help elongate the torso. Add image
How do you walk in a ball gown wedding dress?
Some ball gowns come with hoop slips under their fabric layers that hold the skirt away from your legs and feet. This makes it easier to walk, but not to sit down!. If your dress doesn’t have a hoop, a common model trick is to gently kick the front of the dress before each step.
What do I wear under a ball gown wedding dress?
Most ball gowns have a fitted bodice with boning, so they won’t require much shapewear. When it comes to the skirt, a hoop slip can make all the difference. It adds volume and shape as well as making it easier to move.
What type of shoes are best to wear with a ball gown wedding dress?
Fortunately (or unfortunately, if you have a fancy pair of pumps), your shoes won’t be very noticeable under the voluptuous skirt of a ball gown. You can still wear your favorite stilettoes or opt for a comfy pair of shoes sans guilt since they won’t be on display.
What body types look best in ball gown wedding dresses?
Ball gowns are actually one of the most universally flattering silhouettes. The fitted bodice defines the waist while the full skirt creates balance and proportion regardless of hip size. Petite brides should consider a less voluminous skirt to avoid being overwhelmed by fabric, while taller brides can carry dramatic fullness beautifully. The key is proper fit in the bodice—get that right, and the rest follows.
Are ball gown wedding dresses comfortable to wear all day?
Surprisingly, yes—with the right construction. Modern ball gowns often use lighter tulle rather than heavy satin for the skirt, making them much easier to move in than vintage styles. The fitted bodice with boning provides support, so you’re not constantly adjusting. The main consideration is navigating tight spaces, dancing, and sitting. Choose a dress with a manageable train or bustle option for the reception.
Can I wear a ball gown for an outdoor wedding?
Absolutely—and many of our favorite examples prove it. Desert landscapes, vineyard hills, forest settings, and beach destinations all provide stunning backdrops for ball gowns. Consider a lighter tulle or organza skirt rather than heavy satin for outdoor venues, and be mindful of train length if you’ll be walking on grass or sand. The contrast between a dramatic gown and natural setting often creates the most memorable photos.
What neckline works best with a ball gown silhouette?
Sweetheart necklines are the classic choice for ball gowns, creating that quintessential princess look. However, off-shoulder styles add romantic elegance, V-necks modernize the silhouette, and illusion necklines with lace create a vintage feel. The ball gown’s full skirt provides enough visual weight that almost any neckline works—it’s really about what flatters your face, bust, and personal style.
How do I bustle a ball gown for dancing?
Ball gown bustles typically use multiple pick-up points to gather the full skirt. French bustles (also called under bustles) fold the train underneath and are often less visible. American bustles attach the train to the back of the skirt with hooks. The best approach depends on your specific dress construction—discuss options with your seamstress during alterations. Practice walking, sitting, and dancing with the bustle before the wedding day.
Waltz Into Wedded Bliss with a Ball Gown
A voluminous ball gown is the dress little girls daydream of when planning their future nuptials.
Even though your fashion tastes may change, a ball gown can still be the wedding dress you always envisioned. Easily tailored, they can have voluptuous skirts with many layers or full skirts with long trains and delicate appliques. Atop each, you will find a form-fitting bodice that highlights all your best assets thanks to a variety of customizable designs and features.
We hope this list proves that there’s a ball gown out there for you, waiting for you to take it for a spin during your first dance as a married couple!
