40 Alternative Wedding Dresses For Cool Nearlyweds
From stylish two-pieces to wedding shorts, here are the most sought-after looks for the unusual, non-traditional nearlyweds in 2024
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Much as we love classic bridal looks, we know not everyone wants to go traditional. If you're keen to do something different on your big day, there are some amazing alternative wedding dresses - we've rounded up our favourites.
Whether you want to take to the aisle in a colour other than white, go totally relaxed with a boho wedding dress or rock a unique silhouette, we have a look for you. There are vintage-inspired styles as well as ultra-contemporary, straight-from-the-catwalk dresses. We've also found wedding dresses that allow plenty of customisation, so you can create a unique gown.
When it comes to wedding day style, there really are no rules - unless of course you're having a religious ceremony that requires dressing in a particular way. If that's the case, you can always have a different wedding reception dress, to switch up your look into party mode.
Whatever your personal aesthetic, there's an alternative wedding dress out there for you. Happy shopping!
- Alternative Wedding Dresses
- Non-White Colourful Dresses
- Unusual Wedding Jumpsuits
- Stylish Wedding Tailoring
- Mix & Match Pieces
- Sustainable Wedding Dresses
Alternative Wedding Dresses
These looks from the coolest brands will make a real statement, thanks to their distinctive fashion-led details. Perfect for non-traditional nearylweds hunting for unusual wedding dresses or alternative wedding dresses in the UK, these modern and striking designs will make any nearlywed look like they've just walked off the runway and down the aisle.
1. Interactive Elliot Dress - Cimone
Cimone's aesthetic is based around 'disruptive luxury' - high-end looks with unexpected, playful elements. The Elliot dress sums that up perfectly. The hem is filled with polyester balls that create a static charge as they move, giving the dress an ever-changing silhouette. If you're a fashion adventurer, prepare to add this to your virtual basket.
- Price: $1,524 approx. £1,174
- Sizing: Custom
2. BB: 06 - Bon Bridé
The overall elements of a classic wedding dress are here - maxi length, white. But it's the cool design details of this Bon Bidé gown that make it alternative, from the cut-out waist to the roll neck. Utterly chic, utterly current.
- Price: £2,760 - £3,360
- Sizing: UK 6-16
3. Leia - Rita Colson
What makes Rita Colson's designs so special is that she knows exactly how to interpret trends to create wedding looks that are precision-engineered to make nearlyweds feel amazing. This Leia dress is a prime example. It has beautiful movement, and a bodice design you won't see anywhere else.
- Price: Upon Request
- Sizing: Upon Request
4. Style HB6639 - Saja
We don't often see a racer back on a wedding gown - but this Saja dress has got us thinking it's a feature we'd like to see more. The look is cool and sophisticated, particularly against the clean silhouette of the dress.
- Price: $90 approx. £69
- Sizing: UK 4-18
5. Ada - Eliza Jane Howell
If you're into a vintage look, you need to know about Eliza Jane Howell's Roaring Twenties collection. This features glamorous gowns inspired by - you guessed it - the Jazz Age. Ada is one of our favourites for that Art Deco neckline detailing and the flapper-esque fringing.
- Price: Upon Request
- Sizing: Upon Request
6. Eleanora Embroidered Tulle & Crepe Mini Dress - Rime Arodaky at Net-A-Porter
Rime Arodaky is our go-to brand for sexy wedding dresses - like the Eleanora mini dress. The flower-bedecked tulle bodice is just so pretty, and we love the hint of lace in the skirt.
- Price: £831.60
- Sizing: UK 6-14
7. The Siara Dress - Solace London
Sometimes simplicity speaks louder than a show-stopping design. Just take the Siara dress. There's no sparkle, no embellishment - just luxe fabric and a wonderful silhouette and single sleeve.
- Price: $570 approx. £439
- Sizing: 4-14
8. Ermen - KATYA KATYA
Edwardian meets boho in KATYA KATYA'S fabulous Ermen dress. Romantic ruffles, a Swarovski crystal-embellished waist and that floral high neck combine to elegant effect. Match this with floral bridesmaid dresses.
- Price: £3,300
- Sizing: 6-16
9. Siren Dress - Jessica Choay
The bodice of this Jessica Choay dress is a cool twist on classic lace, and it pairs beautifully with the fluid skirt. Discover more simple wedding dresses here, if you want a classic take.
- Price: $3,032 approx. £2,336
- Sizing: Made to measure
10. Look 5 Spring - Oscar de la Renta
Switch out a traditional wedding veil for this Oscar de la Renta gown which features a built-in cape giving a similar affect. It's a lovely alternative to a longer train.
- Price: Upon request
- Sizing: Upon request
Non-White Colourful Dresses
If you are looking for a truly alternative wedding dress then a black wedding dress could be perfect for you!
11. Genevieve Ruffle Gown - Needle & Thread
Who says you have to wear white? A bridal outfit is all about making you feel special, and the frothy layers of romantic pastel pink in this Genevieve dress are more than worthy of a walk down the aisle.
- Price: £480
- Sizing: UK 4-18
12. Zander – Sottero & Midgley
The Zanda dress by Sottero & Midgley is a statement choice and perfect for nearlyweds who want to step away from the norm. Contrasting lace and tulle are layered together to create a stunning look, and 3D floral motifs are used throughout the dress to add a textured finish.
- Price: Upon request
- Sizing: UK 4-32
13. Pulp Fiction Dress - Lucy Can't Dance
It's easy to see why Pulp Fiction is one of the most popular designs at cool British design studio Lucy Can't Dance. The silhouette is stunning, and the dress is customisable - you can choose the colour of the dip dye and the style of lace top - giving you a unique wedding gown.
- Price: £2,800
- Sizing: Made to measure
14. Emmy Dress - Sweet Caroline
Looking for a showstopper? This Sweet Caroline gown is it. Sparkling sequins meet a plunging neckline and high thigh slit to an utterly dazzling effect.
- Price: $1,300 approx. £1,001
- Sizing: Made to measure
15. Gardenia - House of Mooshki
You will definitely make an entrance in House of Mooshki's showstopping floral ballgown and cape. It's a gloriously pretty look, but if you don't feel up to a four-metre cape, you can just buy the beautiful, flower-strewn lace-tulle dress, which makes plenty of impact on its own.
- Price: Upon request
- Sizing: Made to measure
16. Maeve - E&W Couture
Nothing makes a statement like this 3D, embroidered lace floral design filled with rich, vibrant colours from top to toe. With heavier detailing on the hemline and a lighter touch on the bodice, the Maeve comes with multiple sleeve options and the back is left open for added detail with button closure. For more classic nearlyweds, this style also comes in a cream colourway.
- Price: £1750-£2250
- Sizing: Made to measure
Unusual Wedding Jumpsuits
Fun wedding dresses and non-traditional bridal dresses are great, but for alternative wedding clothes that don't come with a skirt, a jumpsuit is just the ticket. Not only are they effortlessly chic and fashionable, they're also incredibly easy to style and wear. Here are a few of the most sought-after wedding jumpsuits that we love for 2024/2025 nearlyweds.
17. Ryo Jumpsuit - Catherine Deane
If you looking for a figure-flattering, sleek fit that will take you from the aisle to the dancefloor, look no further than the Ryo jumpsuit from Catherine Deane. Designed with high-waisted cut trousers, box pleats and a waist-cinching belt - it's even got pockets!
- Price: £645
- Sizing: UK 4-18
18. Fluid Satin Jumpsuit - MaxMara
Made from luxurious satin, this sleeveless jumpsuit from MaxMara provides a fluid silhouette and a crew neck bodice embellished with a delicate fringe motif for a textured finish. Simple and structured, it's a timeless choice for the unconventional nearlyweds.
- Price: £1,140
- Sizing: 2-18
19. Jamie Jumpsuit - E&W Couture
The wide-legged Jamie Jumpsuit comes with pockets, a super low back and a removable floral crop top so you can switch up two different looks throughout the celebration. Perfect for those who want to style a more classic look for the ceremony, but add a bohemian twist for the reception.
- Price: £750-£1250
- Sizing: Made to measure
20. Vanessa White Jumpsuit - Nadine Merabi
Available in two colourways, the Vanessa jumpsuit boasts a tuxedo-inspired style crafted from exclusively designed crepe with a deep V-neckline and a structure lap over the bust. Complete with a corseted bodice and long-length tailored trousers, it's a sleek and simple look that will never go out of style.
- Price: £395
- Sizing: 6-18
21. Ellie Bridal Jumpsuit - ByMalina
For a clean and elegant look, the Ellie Bridal Jumpsuit from ByMalina achieves a graceful finish through a classic v-neckline, keyhole back and long belle sleeves finished with a self-tie waistband to tie the look together.
- Price: £480
- Sizing: UK 6-16
22. Murphy Wide-Leg Jumpsuit - A.L.C
An overlapping halter neckline is always a flattering feature, and the precise silhouette of this wide-leg Murphy jumpsuit from A.L.C creates a clean, streamline finish. Complete with a belted waist, it's guaranteed to make you feel your most confident on your special day.
- Price: £720
- Sizing: UK 4-16
23. Amadeus - Marylise Bridal
Lovers of lace, rejoice. This sleek, detailed Amadeus design features wide-leg trousers, a detailed lace waist and a key-hole back with cap sleeves - the ultimate look for a relaxed summer nearlyweds.
- Price: Upon request
- Sizing: Upon request
Stylish Wedding Tailoring
Over the past few years, registry office weddings and city hall ceremonies have become the staple of a chic city wedding. And every urban nearlywed needs a sleek piece of tailoring to mark the special day. From statement blazers to sleek separates, we love the fact that wedding tailoring provides nearlyweds with beautiful pieces that they can rewear time and time again.
24. Charlotte White Blazer - Nadine Merabi
This wedding season, we're seeing pearls make a comeback in a very big way. So, if you're a fan of this styling trend, why not opt for this modern White Charlotte Blazer crafted from Nadine Merabi's exclusive crepe fabric and satin mix fabric. With pearl detailing down the shoulders and contrast satin details, it's guaranteed to make an entrance.
Ideal for styling with their Charlotte White Trousers for a bold look, or slipping on over your dress after the ceremony, it's a versatile piece that you'll love for years to come.
- Price: £236
- Sizing: UK 6-18
25. Adeline Silk Top - RIXO
Rixo is usually known as the reigning queen of wedding guest dressing - but it's recently ventured into wedding attire for the happy couple, and this Adeline Silk Top is a staple of this new collection. Featuring a vintage-inspired design, it offers a structured waist and signature rouleau-button cuffs for an elegant finish. Pair with the Joan Midi Skirt for a beautiful final look.
- Price: £375
- Sizing: UK 6-20
26. Andie Wedding Blazer - Whistles
You can never go wrong with a good piece of tailoring, and nothing says 'modern' like this Andie Blazer from Whistles. Designed to have a timeless fit with a single-breasted design and a sharp cut, it's perfect when paired with the Andie Wedding Trouser or worn over a wedding gown.
- Price: £299
- Sizing: UK 4-20
27. Arlene Blazer - Safiyaa
When it comes to wedding tailoring, a classic white blazer is your bread and butter. The Arlene ivory jacket is one of the more luxurious options available to suit a modern nearlywed, with a cinched waist to create an elongated silhouette and sharp details for a striking finish.
- Price: £1,295
- Sizing: UK 6-20
28. The Classic Relaxed Linen Blazer - Reformation
Available in three natural colourways, Reformation's Classic Linen Blazer in white is a relaxed interpretation of wedding tailoring that fits every bohemian spouse-to-be. Ideal for a garden wedding or a beach ceremony, it would look perfect paired with a floaty dress or the matching Gia Linen Skirt.
- Price: £298
- Sizing: UK 6-16
29. Lori Halter Waistcoat - Reiss
Summery nearlyweds will adore this light-weight, linen blend Lori Waistcoat from Reiss. Perfect for styling on a hen-do, the night before the wedding, or even on the big day, it can be dressed up and down to suit the occasion.
- Price: £140
- Sizing: UK 4-18
Mix & Match Pieces
If you're going down the non-traditional route for your wedding look, then why not consider a style that you can mix up and wear again later on? After all, celebrities re-wear their wedding looks, so why can't you? Mix & match two pieces can be worn separately or together, so you can get the most wear out of something you love for years to come. After all, when something looks that good, why just wear it once?
30. Beau Crêpe Trousers & Fynn Satin Jacket - Kladek
Kladek is a luxurious wedding attire brand based in Paris, specialising in handmade garments that can be effortlessly mix-and-matched depending on your style. For a sophisticated civil ceremony look, we think that the Beau Trousers paired with the Fynn Jacket would make a perfect pair.
- Price: Trousers €890 approx. £748, Jacket €1,490 approx. £748
- Sizing: UK 6-16
31. Megan Two Piece Set - Bronx and Banco at Revolve
For an Italian-inspired, sexier two-piece option, why not consider this Megan Two Piece Set from Bronx and Banco? Designed with wide eyelet lace straps, and a sheer tiered skirt, it could make a striking evening look to change into during a coastal wedding.
- Price: £680
- Sizing: UK 4-14
32. Amelia Bodice - Catherine Deane
Perfect for pairing with skirts or trousers, the Amelia Bodice from Catherine Deane is made from the softest silk satin, and features a snug fit that is enhanced with built-in bust cups and boning. The soft, low square neckline is highlighted by adjustable shoulder bows, and has the potential to be worn in so many ways beyond a wedding day.
- Price: £395
- Sizing: UK 4-18
33. Florere High Rise Pleated Shorts Set - Reiss
You've heard of wedding trousers, jumpsuits, and skirts - but wedding shorts are the latest trend rocking the wedding season this year, and we can see why! This tailored pair of Florere High Rise Shorts from Reiss creates an elegantly sculpted look that matches perfectly with a matching waistcoat for a polished finish.
- Price: £98
- Sizing: UK 8-16
Sustainable Wedding Dresses
Weddings have a reputation for being glamorous, decorative events - but that doesn't mean that they need to be unsustainable. There are plenty of ways to make your wedding more eco-friendly, and your dress is just one of them!
From researching the brand's environmental policies to opting for clothing made from recyclable materials, these small steps can make a big difference to reducing the carbon footprint of your special day.
Here are some of our favourite wedding dresses from more sustainable fashion brands to inspire you.
34. Kairo Dress - Reformation
Reformation have been celebrated in the past for lowering its carbon footprint and considering the planet across all of their designs. This wedding season, oversized bows are going nowhere - and we love how they're used in this ultra-feminine design. Complete with back smoking, tie straps and a square neckline, the Kairo Dress from Reformation is a sweet and simple look that's effortlessly stylish and uncomplicated.
- Price: £348
- Sizing: UK 4-16
35. Sia Dress - Wear Your Love
Made in Northern California, Wear Your Love is a sustainable wedding dress brand that prides itself on creating ethnically-made designs that don't compromise on luxury. Their Sia Dress is effortlessly romantic, and as each one is made to order it can be tailored to your taste - from the train-length to the style of the back, each nearlywed can customise their dress.
- Price: £2,341
- Sizing: Made to measure
36. Theodora Dress - Kamperett
Kamperett's garments are sustainably made in California using all natural fibres, which is why we think this brand is perfect for weddings leaning towards a more bohemian style. Their Theodora dress is composed of a silk crepe fabric, achieving a clean, sleek silhouette and a unique fit.
- Price: £1,032
- Sizing: UK 6-16
37. M.15 Aura - Medusa London
Each piece from Medusa London is handmade in London using the finest organic silks, so when it comes to sustainable luxury, look no further. Their M.15 Aura Design is perfect for the unconventional nearlywed who wants to wear something a little more flirty, yet still traditional.
- Price: £1195
- Sizing: UK 6-18
38. The Kumihimo Dress - Rolling in Roses
This sleek, silky Kumihimo design from Rolling in Roses is made using satin derived from renewable wood sources, and lined with fabric made from organic bamboo. Finished with organic cotton thread, this dress doesn't just have beauty at its heart - it also has the planet.
- Price: Enquire with stockist
- Sizing: Enquire with stockist
39. Ronda Dress - Reformation
Another classic design from the eco-conscious brand, Reformation, the Ronda dress is a rich and luxurious option for those tying the knot in a stately home or a historic building. Made from 100% silk, it drapes the body and hugs the curves in the most beautiful way.
- Price: £748
- Sizing: UK 4-16
40. Calla Dress - WED Studio
Committed to to the three C's of cut, craftsmanship and creating consciously, WED Studio is a unique designer that has given couture wedding dresses a new, sustainable lens. The Calla Dress is an ivory design that is made of a silk blend fabric, and is built to fit the wearer perfectly.
- Price: £6,200
- Sizing: Made to measure
Where To Buy An Alternative Wedding Dress?
If you're after a wedding dress that is full of personality there are some amazing bridalwear designers that offer stylish and unique designs that are still totally wedding-appropriate. Check out Lucy Can't Dance for impressive ombre styles, Charlie Brear for out-of-this-world celestial separates and Needle & Thread for romantic and whimsical frocks.
You can also find alternative wedding dresses on the high street with brands such as Coast and Karen Millen stocking collections of affordable and quirky pieces.
Looking for another way to put a twist on tradition? Check out the best wedding dresses with secret messages
