When the classic white dress simply isn’t you, stun your wedding guests with a non-traditional wedding gown. Alternative wedding dresses don’t detract from the bride; if anything, they let your personality and beauty shine!
Want to wear a black ensemble? Why not?! Prefer a pantsuit? Go for it! Whether it’s a colorful dress, a short gown, or not even a dress at all, we’re all for brides pushing the fashion boundaries with their wedding attire.
We’ve compiled a list of our favorite breathtaking non-traditional wedding dresses that will tempt any alternative bride.
About Non-Traditional Wedding Dresses
Did you know that you don’t have to wear a wedding dress to get married? Just because it’s tradition to wear a long white dress doesn’t mean you have to follow suit. Unconventional brides have been charming the wedding world with their gorgeous wedding day wardrobe choices.
A non-traditional wedding dress is usually worn to complement a non-traditional wedding at which the couple decides to do things differently to showcase their personalities. Another scenario in which a bride may not wear the classic wedding gown is a second wedding. She might choose to wear a skirt and blouse, a jumpsuit, or simply a more mature dress.
What makes a wedding dress non-traditional? There can be many factors. The color and silhouette are typically what people recognize as classic or alternative; think of the standard white princess ball gown.
However, patterns, details, length, and shape can also make a wedding dress non-traditional. Some brides choose to really show off their originality and forgo a dress altogether, opting for pants and a top, a two-piece skirt ensemble, or even a swimming suit!
Just because your bridal wear isn’t conventional doesn’t mean you can’t pay homage to tradition. Wearing a veil can be a nice nod to classic wedding customs. Brides can still wear jewelry, heels, and other popular wedding accessories. You do you!
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PinWhere to Buy Non-Traditional Wedding Dresses
All the dresses featured in this article came from the online shops below — and they’re packed with amazing non-traditional options for every kind of bride. Many of the dresses we found are surprisingly affordable too, with tons of unique styles under $200.
Because listings change constantly, we’ve included the full list of shops again so you can browse the latest looks directly. Whether you’re into bold colors, dramatic silhouettes, or something that doesn’t even qualify as a dress — you’ll find something that fits your vibe.
- Sachin & Babi
- Flower Wedding Dresses
- Anna Skoblikova
- Needle & Thread
- Olivela
- Kennedy Blue
- David’s Bridal
- Floral Gowns and Long Dresses
- The Outnet
- Romantic fairytale gowns with gothic, celestial, and vintage-inspired flair
- Wolf & Badger
- Whimsical floral, boho, and princess gowns with fairytale and celestial details
- Minimalist satin bridal dresses
Non Traditional Wedding Dress Ideas
Jumpsuits
PinWho says you have to wear a dress at all? Wedding jumpsuits are sleek, modern, and let’s be honest — way easier to dance in. Whether you go for tailored and sophisticated, sequined and sparkly, or something with dramatic wide legs, a jumpsuit makes a statement that says you’re here to celebrate on your own terms.
See our favorite wedding jumpsuits for brides who’d rather skip the skirt.
Boho Wedding Dresses
PinGot a free-spirited soul and dreams of saying “I do” barefoot in a meadow? Boho wedding dresses are made for you.
Bohemian style borrows from 1960s and ’70s hippie fashion — think flowing silhouettes, romantic lace, and effortless movement. These gowns feel dreamy without trying too hard: bell sleeves, delicate embroidery, and airy fabrics that catch the breeze. The vibe? Eternally romantic with a touch of wanderlust.
Boho gowns shine brightest at outdoor venues — garden ceremonies, beach weddings, woodland settings, or converted barns. If you want to look stunning but still feel like you (and not like you’re wearing a costume), a bohemian dress might be your perfect match.
Something Blue, Head to Toe?
If those cobalt florals and cashmere blue numbers above caught your eye, you might be more of a blue bride than you realized. Blue wedding dresses have quietly become one of the most popular non-traditional choices, and honestly? We get it. There’s something about walking down the aisle in a shade that’s both classic and completely unexpected.
If you’re leaning toward this stunning color, we’ve put together an entire guide dedicated to breathtaking blue wedding dresses with our favorite picks.
PinFeeling Peachy?
If white feels too expected but you’re not quite ready to go bold, peach might be your perfect middle ground. It’s soft, romantic, and undeniably feminine — like blush’s slightly warmer, more playful sister. A peach wedding dress looks absolutely dreamy at outdoor ceremonies, garden weddings, and anywhere with golden hour lighting (trust us on this one).
Curious? We’re totally blushing over these gorgeous peach wedding dresses that are sweet without being saccharine.
PinEmbracing Your Dark Side?
Not every bride dreams of white tulle and soft pastels — some of us have always been drawn to the dramatic, the moody, the beautifully dark. Gothic wedding dresses let you channel that romantic edge with black lace, deep jewel tones, and details that feel like they belong in a Victorian love story. Whether you’re planning a Halloween wedding, a candlelit cathedral affair, or just want a gown that actually feels like you, going gothic is seriously chic.
See our favorite gothic wedding dresses for brides who love a little darkness with their happily ever after.
PinWe also have an article dedicated to Black Wedding Dresses.
Bold Enough for Red?
If you’re drawn to drama and want to make jaws actually drop, a red wedding dress might be calling your name. Red has deep roots in bridal traditions around the world — it symbolizes luck, passion, and celebration — but it’s also just undeniably stunning. Whether you go full crimson, a romantic wine, or a subtle blush-meets-berry, you’ll be unforgettable.
Ready to explore the bold side? Check out our guide to gorgeous red wedding dresses for brides who aren’t afraid to stand out.
PinMersi is pure magic for the bride who dreams in color and texture. We’re completely smitten with the cascading floral organza layered over soft off-white tulle—it’s romantic, whimsical, and totally unforgettable. The plunging V-neckline and A-line silhouette bring a touch of glamour, while the included slip adds a bit of coverage without hiding any of the artistry. If you’re planning a garden, beach, or boho-inspired wedding, this one’s your statement piece. Brand new, never worn, and bursting with personality.
Steampunk Wedding Dresses
PinIf your ideal wedding aesthetic involves Victorian elegance meets industrial edge, steampunk might be your calling. Think rich fabrics, dramatic corsetry, antique-inspired details, and yes — maybe a few well-placed gears. These dresses are for brides who love storytelling through fashion and aren’t afraid to make their ceremony feel like stepping into another world entirely.
Curious about this gorgeously unconventional style? Check out our guide to stunning steampunk wedding dresses.
Art Deco Wedding Dresses
PinThere’s something irresistible about the glamour of the Jazz Age — the geometric beading, the dramatic fringe, the way every dress looks like it was made for champagne toasts and grand entrances. Art Deco gowns bring all that Old Hollywood elegance to your modern celebration, with structured silhouettes and intricate embellishments that photograph like a dream.
Ready to channel your inner Gatsby bride? Explore our favorite art deco wedding dresses for vintage glamour with serious wow factor.
Medieval Wedding Dresses
PinFor the bride who’s always felt a little out of time — drawn to Renaissance faires, velvet capes, and dresses with sleeves that actually make a statement — medieval gowns offer serious fairy tale energy. These dresses embrace drama: think rich jewel tones, flowing fabrics, and silhouettes that feel like they belong in a castle courtyard.
See our picks for gorgeous medieval wedding dresses that blend historic romance with modern wearability.
Camo Wedding Dresses
PinFor outdoorsy brides who’d rather be in the woods than a ballroom, camo wedding dresses are a surprisingly chic option. And no, we’re not talking about costume-y prints — today’s camo gowns range from subtle accents to full-on statement pieces, all designed to feel authentic to who you actually are.
Take a look at our favorite camo wedding dresses for brides who love the great outdoors.
Tea Length Wedding Dresses
PinTea length dresses hit right around mid-calf and bring all the retro charm of a 1950s garden party. They’re playful, flattering, and let’s be real — perfect for showing off amazing shoes. If you want something that feels bridal but not overwhelming, this silhouette delivers elegance without taking itself too seriously.
See our roundup of gorgeous tea length wedding dresses for brides who like a little vintage flair.
Elopement Dresses
PinWhen it’s just the two of you (plus maybe a photographer and your best friend as witness), you don’t need a twenty-foot train — you need a dress that travels well, photographs beautifully, and actually lets you enjoy your adventure. Elopement dresses are designed for brides on the move, whether you’re saying vows on a mountaintop, a beach, or a courthouse followed by the best dinner of your life.
Find the perfect look in our guide to elopement dresses.
Second Wedding Dresses
PinSecond weddings call for something special — a dress that feels right for this chapter of your life. Maybe that means something more relaxed and intimate, or maybe it means going even bigger and bolder than the first time around. The only rule? There are no rules.
Find inspiration in our guide to second wedding dresses for brides who know exactly what they want.
Terrifically Non-Traditional Dresses
These days, an alternative bride has so many options! You have your pick of dresses that are edgy and Avante-Garde or original but with a nod to tradition. There’s something for every personality and preference, which is excellent because your big day should reflect what makes you, you! After all, your uniqueness is what drew in your fiancee.

Sarah
January 9, 2023 at 1:25 pmI love this so much! Thank you for sharing one of my dresses. Sadly, I cannot get the red gatsby fabric anymore though 🙁
Helpful ReviewJennifer Jimenez
January 9, 2023 at 4:11 pmThe link for the redy gatsby dress by SewRomanticDesigns doesn’t work. i’ve done some google searching and i found the designer site. https://www.sewromanticdesigns.com/
Helpful Review