30 Simple Wedding Dresses for Minimalist Nearlyweds
Long sleeved, satin, short or lace - simple wedding dresses come in all shapes and sizes, and here you'll find our top picks
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Minimalist wedding dresses are a wedding day dress style that so many nearlyweds opt for on their special day, and when it comes to simple wedding dresses, we're the experts you need.
Discover the best bridalwear boutiques across the UK to discover simple wedding dresses for simple weddings, or those who prefer a more minimalist look and want to steer away from the glitz and glam.
The ‘simple’ in ‘simple wedding dresses’ can come from a number of things. These sleek bridal gowns come in a number of different silhouettes and fabrics, so every nearlywed can find the perfect fit for their special day.
And remember, just because you're after a wedding gown that's simple, doesn't mean it's not interesting or stylish! Some of the most minimalist designs can be the most trend-setting, so keep reading.
30 Simple Wedding Gowns You'll Love
Explore our take on minimal bridal dresses and prepare to fall head over heels in love with these exquisite designs. There’s something for every style and budget, with some of these high-street wedding dresses costing less than £300. Who said bargains can’t be beautiful?
1. Praiano Long Sleeve Simple Wedding Dress - Galvan
A Simple wedding dress with sleeves in the UK don't come much sleeker than this design by Galvan. The long sleeved silhouette is elegant and minimal, and works so well with the indulgent and luxurious silk fabric.
Though the shape and design are simple, there are many a detail to be admired here. We love the intricate buttons at the back of the high neckline, and the pearl detail on the cuff of the sleeve is gorgeous, too.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
- Expert Take: This dress needs very little in the form of accessories, but a pearl headband or pearl wedding shoes would work really well with the cuff detail.
2. RENÉE Neckholder Dress - Kladek Paris
Composed of soft matte crêpe, the RENÉE dress is an effortlessly simple yet utterly feminine design that cuts a striking figure on every nearlywed. With a chic back cut-out, small fabric covered buttons and a subtle train, it's perfect for a modern to-be-wed planning a sophisticated wedding.
- Sizing: UK 6 - 16
- Expert Take: For those after a Parisian style celebration, where better to find your wedding dress than in Paris?
3. Liev Off-the-Shoulder Wedding Dress - Watters
There's nothing more romantic than an off-the-shoulder fit, and the Liev design from Watters is a perfect example of this. Made from a delicate crêpe fabric, it appears to be beautifully simple from the front.
But behind, it features a stunning corseted back - perfect for nearlyweds who want a simple dress with a bit of a twist.
- Sizing: UK 6-18
- Expert Take: You might be concerned that the dropped sleeves would make this dress a challenge to keep up, but thanks to the structured corset bodice, it will stay perfectly in place whilst you enjoy your special day.
4. Lilah Simple Wedding Dress With Wrap Silhouette - Nadine Merabi
Nadine Merabi have a brilliant selection of affordable wedding dresses that still look and feel really luxurious, and Lilah is the perfect example of that. At less than £300, this is a bargain in the wedding dress world!
The simple wedding dress silhouette and relaxed fit make for a really comfortable wear and the adjustable tie on the waist means you can tweak the fit to just how you like it.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
- Expert Take: This dress is giving expensive lady of the manor on the morning of her wedding vibes and would make an equally gorgeous hen do outfit.
5. Adwen Open Back Simple Wedding Dress - Reformation
The Adwen dress from Reformation proves you can have minimal bridal dresses with sleeves, and still have a surprise in the design.
The open back detail is so fun and allows you to show off some skin whilst keeping things modest at the front.
- Sizing: UK 4 - UK 16
- Expert Take: Despite costing a fraction of most designer wedding dresses, the design is sophisticated and smart - it even has a finger loop on the end of the train so you can walk easily!
6. Augusta Off the Shoulder Wedding Dress - Aesling
Aesling are our go-to designer brand for simple classic wedding dresses that exude elegance and modernity, and the Augusta design is one of our favourites. The off the shoulder neckline means you can really embrace some stylish jewellery pieces, and we love when a bardot neckline is combined with long sleeves.
- Sizing: UK 4 - UK 30
- Expert Take: Ruched sleeves give this gown a Grecian feel, and they're detachable so you can switch between long sleeves and sleeveless throughout the day.
7. Silk Slip Dress Marley - Kladek
The Marley dress from a Parisian label, Kladek, is like butter on the skin. Made of delicate silk and featuring thin spaghetti straps, it falls like water over the body and gently hugs the waist.
Finished with a gorgeous decorative back and a wider V-neckline, it's a classic design that will never go out of style.
- Sizing: UK 2 - UK 32
- Expert Take: For a winter celebration, elevate this dress with a faux fur stole or a cosy feather jacket for a luxurious finish.
8. Emory Ivory Wedding Dress - RIXO
How gorgeous is this Emory style from RIXO? The ivory gown is bursting with chic details that we adore, from slightly ballooned sleeves with buttoned cuff detail, to the V-neckline with a cinched waist - this minimal bridal dress has just so much to offer.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
- Expert Take: We can see this minimalist wedding dress looking fabulous at a chic registry office ceremony, before an intimate celebration.
9. EMMIE Silk Organza Top - UNBRIDLED STUDIOS
For the ultimate wedding dress separate, consider the EMMIE top from UNBRIDLED STUDIOS.
Made from luxurious silk organza, it's the perfect way to elevate a simple wedding dress with a timeless accessory - and it totally transforms the look.
- Sizing: Upon Request
- Expert Take: A puff sleeve is very on trend this season, and we love the way this dress incorporates that into the design.
10. Double Leg Split Beach Wedding Dress - Daughters of Simone
If you're after simple beach wedding dresses in the UK, don't discount designers like Daughters of Simone from overseas. The brand ship worldwide and have a flagship store here in the UK for you to go and try on dresses in person.
The double leg slit detail on this particular gown creates effortless movement, making it perfect for wearing at a beach wedding.
- Sizing: XS - 5XL
- Expert Take: The sizing is extremely inclusive at Daughters of Simone, and if you're unsure of your size, you can send the brand your measurements and they can advise you.
11. Cowl Neck Simple Beach Wedding Dress - Rat & Boa
Love wedding dresses that are simple, elegant and sexy too? If so, consider Ophelia, a cowl neck wedding dress from Rat and Boa.
The brand are famous for their sexy, slinky dresses and this one is perfect for a beach wedding in Ibiza or somewhere similar.
- Sizing: XXS - XXL
- Expert Take: The cowl neck at the front is mirrored at the back, and the adjustable shoulder straps mean you can wear them as tight or loose as you like.
12. Palm Ombre Pink Wedding Dress - Rue de Seine
Bohemian wedding dresses don't have to be covered in layers upon layers of crochet or lace to feel boho - and the Palm dress from Rue de Seine proves just that.
The designers have taken a plain and simple beach wedding dress and added a dreamy pink ombre to make it stand out.
The halter neckline and backless silhouette make it feel beachy and whimsical.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 24
- Expert Take: If you're not a fan of pink, it's also available in off-white too!
13. Valentina Draped Satin Wedding Dress - Grace Loves Lace
The simplicity of this satin dress is in the gorgeous fabric. The way the satin is draped across the Valentina dress from Grace Loves Lace creates the prettiest silhouette, perfect for modern and stylish nearlyweds. The spaghetti straps are dainty and we love how the thick belt detail cinches in at the waist.
- Sizing: S - XL
- Expert Take: This is one of those simple wedding dresses that actually has quite a lot of detail and design aspects, but the simplicity of the fabric makes it feel minimalist.
14. Tia Backless Simple Wedding Dress - Grace Loves Lace
Those seeking a sexy wedding dress without all the bells and whistles will love the Tia dress from Grace Loves Lace. The plunging neckline is flattering and sultry and is held up by dainty spaghetti straps. The silhouette is a soft fit and flare and isn’t too fitted which will allow comfort and movement on your wedding day.
- Sizing: S -XL
- Expert Take: Simple wedding dresses really don't come more elegant and classy than this Grace Loves Lace design.
15. Suki Wedding Dress With Cowl Neck - Grace Loves Lace
We are obsessed with the sheen on this gown - we just adore simple wedding dresses made from satin. The Suki style from Grace Loves Lace has so many pretty details from the dramatic cowl neck, to the leg slit and long train - there’s so much to love here.
- Sizing: S - XL
- Expert Take: It's not often you find simple wedding dresses in the UK that have such unique details - the cowl neck is so stylish and offers a unique spin on more traditional gowns.
16. Halterneck Grecian Wedding Dress - Halfpenny London
How stunning is the Twirl dress from Halfpenny London? This simple and elegant wedding gown features a flattering centre split, while the bodice is adorned with draped silk and a unique halter neckline.
- Sizing: XS - XXL
- Expert Take: The back of this dress is just as intricate as the front, with draping and pleated fabric there too.
17. Fitted Marion Wedding Dress With Bishop Sleeves - Aesling
When it comes to simple elegant wedding dresses, they don't come much prettier than the Marion gown from Aesling. This V-neck satin gown has thick sleeves and a fitted silhouette, but our favourite detail has to be the bishop sleeves. So beautiful!
- Sizing: UK 4 - UK 30
- Expert Take: As gorgeous as these sleeves are, not everyone wants to wear long sleeves all day. The good news is, these sleeves are detachable so you can pop them on and off whenever you like.
18. Denley Bardot Simple Wedding Dress With Button Detail - Justin Alexander
A regal beauty, the Denley dress from Justin Alexander is everything and more. The pleated skirt adds volume at the back of the dress and the buttons carry through from the back of the dress all the way to the end of that beautiful train.
- Sizing: UK 2 - UK 32
- Expert Take: Buttons can make all the difference. Simple wedding dresses only need small details like that to tie a look together.
19. Estelle Strapless Satin Wedding Dress - Justin Alexander
Simple and chic, this strapless wedding dress from Justin Alexander is truly breath-taking. The Estelle dress has a strapless, curved neckline which softly feeds into the full skirt and ball gown silhouette. The simplicity of the satin means the silhouette can be the real star of the show.
- Sizing: UK 2 - UK 32
- Expert Take: The high apex on this simple wedding dress means even those with a bigger bust will feel supported.
20. Joan Simple Wedding Dress With Full Skirt - Justin Alexander Signature
The Joan dress is part of the signature collection by Justin Alexander. The strapless sweetheart neckline gives a flattering shape and transcends nicely into the
- Sizing: UK 2 - UK 32
- Expert Take: There's something really regal about this ball gown, making it truly fit for royalty.
21. Mikado Simple Satin Wedding Dress - Olivia Bottega
Elegant and beautiful, this satin wedding dress by Olivia Bottega is a vision. The ruched material on the Mikado dress adds a delightful texture to this gown and the sheen finish on the satin will photograph beautifully on your wedding day.
- Sizing: UK 4 - UK 34
- Expert Take: Simple elegant wedding dresses in the UK can set you back quite a bit, but we reckon you'll be pleasantly surprised by Olivia Bottega's price point.
22. Lumi Simple Lace Wedding Dress With Leg Split - Grace Loves Lace
The lace dream continues with Lumi from Grace Loves Lace.
This simple lace wedding dress is breath-taking. The bodycon fit is sultry and luxurious, whilst the all-over lace detail and scalloped lace edges are full of romance and elegance.
- Sizing: XS - XL
- Expert Take: Lace wedding dresses aren't often considered simple, but this one is simply gorgeous and completely timeless. You'll look back at pictures in decades to come and still obsess over this design.
23. FARAH Bow Detail Wedding Dress - UNBRIDLED STUDIOS
Simple wedding dresses really don’t come more elegant than FARAH by UNBRIDLED STUDIOS.
The bow details down the bodice are so beautiful - we love how the rest of the dress is perfectly minimalist, and the cinched waist also adds a striking silhouette.
- Sizing: Upon request
- Expert Take: Bows are so in this season, and this dress is a great way to incorporate the trend into your big day.
24. Jeany Silk Dress - Reformation
For silk lovers, the Jeany dress from Reformation may be the sleek wedding dress for you.
The simple silhouette in a champagne shade is versatile and easy to style, but the real star of the show here is the sleek halterneck design - we love the way it’s cuts a striking silhouette.
- Sizing: Dependent on Stockists
- Expert Take: This style is the perfect example of how a simple wedding dress can really be brought to life by a subtle detail.
25. Satin Fishtail Maxi Dress - Coast
How elegant is satin fishtail strapless dress from Coast? The fold over panel detail is so unique and adds something extra to the simplistic design. This wedding dress is so elegant, the silhouette is timeless and will never go out of style.
- Sizing: 8 - 18
- Expert Take: Some may think the fold over is restrictive, but the the satin fabric mean movement is still nice and easy.
26. Nadia Wedding Dress With Illusion Panel - Justin Alexander
We’re kick-starting our round up of simple wedding dresses with one of the most beautiful gowns in the edit.
The Nadia dress from designer Justin Alexander has a fit and flare silhouette and we love the illusion mesh panels at the back and around the bust.
- Sizing: UK 2 - UK 32
- Expert Take: The illusion panel adds an extra layer of modesty for those who want a sexy wedding dress that still feels secure when it’s worn.
27. Seraphine Strapless Simple Wedding Dress With Ruching - Elysee
If a strapless simple wedding dress is what you’re after, consider the Seraphine X Edition style from Elysee.
The ruched fabric is beautifully done and we love the scoop neckline - it’s modern and stylish and perfect for those who want a flattering neckline without opting for a full V-neck.
- Sizing: Dependent on Stockists
- Expert Take: If you want a plain wedding dress that showcases your figure, this is a great pick.
28. Plunge Neck Cowl Waist With Pockets Wedding Dress - Coast
Simple and beautiful, this plunge neck dress from Coast is an exquisite plain wedding gown.
This minimalist gown showcases a cowl waist, a plunging neck and even has pocket features for extra comfort. And as a perfect finishing touch, a small bow around the waist completes the look.
- Sizing: Dependent on Stockists
- Expert Take: This dress has a structured feel with a touch of girlish charm, which we love.
29. ELLE Satin Flare Dress - Kladek
For a luxurious look consider the ELLE gown from Kladek. This minimalist, strapless wedding dress made of duchess satin has a bustier cut and an internal corset for added support.
- Sizing: 6-16
- Expert Take: The silhouette is figure-hugging and flattering, making it ideal for those who want something that will make a statement without too much detail.
30. CLARA Bias Satin Bridal Gown - UNBRIDLED STUDIO
For something effortlessly chic and totally timeless, consider the CLARA dress from UNBRIDLED STUDIO. The slinky nature of this simply beautiful gown gives off a minimalist feel, and there's something youthful about its simplicity.
- Sizing: Upon request
- Expert Take: A square neckline is an elegant way to elevate a simple wedding dress.
How to Style a Simple Wedding Dress? Expert Advice
To help us answer the age-old question "how to dress up a simple wedding dress", we've enlisted help from the experts. Here to answer your burning simple wedding dress questions is Caroline from Evelie Bridal Boutique, and Frida Hoffman-Clark - the Founder and Designer at Kladek.
What is a Simple Wedding Dress?
Caroline says: “A simple wedding dress has a very minimalist style. The fabric is usually plain with no or little lace or beaded embellishments. Most simple wedding dresses will have a key design or stand out feature that is highlighted by the simple cut and style of the dress.
That key feature can be the design and shape of the dress, or how the fabric is cut on the neckline, bodice, under the arm, on the back or on the skirt. Even though the overall design is simple and minimalistic, one key design feature on a simple wedding dress can still stand out in a very understated way.”
Meanwhile, Frida shares: "A minimal wedding dress is all about clean lines, refined silhouettes, and luxurious fabrics that speak for themselves.
"At Kladek, refined simplicity is a form of sophistication rooted in craftsmanship."
How to Glam Up a Simple Wedding Dress?
Caroline shares her styling tips on how to perfectly style a simple wedding dress. She says: “For a simple wedding dress the accessory options are endless and if you want to add more to your look, you can really go wild with accessories. Choose from a statement veil, headpiece, earrings or amazing shoes.
Accessorising With Veils:
A simple wedding dress is perfect for a detailed or embellished veil. The detail on the veil can be very subtle or really detailed. For example here are seven different veil styles I get a nearlyweds to try when they try veils:
- Raw cut edge veil - this is a barely there veil where the look is very very subtle.
- Corded or stitched cut edge veil - this is still subtle but the edging helps frame the dress and train.
- Braided cut edge veil - this works well with a matte or crepe dress.
- Scattered pearl veil - this style is soft, dreamy and romantic.
- Minimal lace edge veil - pops of lace will really help to frame the dress.
- Detailed lace veil - statement dolce vita style veil which have edging all around the veil are great for making a statement.
- Floral lace veil - this creates a romantic style with soft floral lace dotted around the edge of the veil.
Accessorising With a Headpiece:
If you aren’t going to wear a veil, a wedding headband or headpiece is a great alternative. A headpiece can be worn from the ceremony right through to the evening party and will really complement a minimalist look by having just one stand out statement piece
Accessorising with Statement Earrings:
If you don't like the idea of a headpiece or a veil then you can make it all about amazing statement earrings or amazing wedding jewellery. Statement wedding earrings can be worn for the ceremony or added in the evening to change your look from day to the night.
Meanwhile, Frida's top tip is: "We love using separates to transform a look.
"The beauty of separates is that you can layer them to suit different moments of your wedding day, effortlessly transitioning from ceremony to reception while staying true to your personal style.”
How to Make a Simple Wedding Dress Stand Out?
Simple wedding dresses will stand out, simply for being so chic and minimalist. Here are Anna's final words of wisdom on how to make a simple wedding dress stand out:
"Our collection offers brides a lot of scope for styling and personalisation and our gowns were designed with this in mind.
"The marriage of our minimalist bridal silhouettes with our bridal separates and accessories allows brides to build something that feels unique to them making the whole styling process a very dynamic experience.
"Our studio also allows us to evolve and alter designs to make them specific to the individual and our more minimalist gowns are the perfect foundation for this. Our pieces are designed to be as ‘at home’ in a country manor as are at a chic city ceremony and have the ability to work across different contexts depending on the styling."
And as final words of wisdom, Frida advises “It's all in the details, the quality of the fabrics and the fit.”
But if you think you need something more, we've included a handy video below advising how to make sure your wedding dress stands out. You can also look for a sparkly belt to add some glitz to your plain wedding dress.
Now you have your perfect simple wedding dress, it's time to decide on a natural makeup look to go with.
