The unofficial start to weddings season is still a few weeks away, but bridal fashion week just wrapped up. If you’re shopping for a dress or just enjoy gawking at pretty gowns, there are plenty of options for every bride. For fans of Meghan Markle’s simple yet elegant Givenchy creation, several designers offered their own interpretations. For something less traditional, jumpsuits and trousers are becoming even more popular. And for brides who want to make a dramatic entrance, there are a few stunning, over-the-top creations that your wedding guests are sure to remember.
Scroll ahead to see our favorites.
Fernando Garcia and Laura Kim know how to make a dramatic gown, but they also cater to a cool woman who doesn’t want a traditional dress. Their latest collection featured flirty feather minis and swishy fringe-trimmed numbers, but the real standout was this trouser combo. With the dramatic bow in the back, who needs a train?
The duchess of Sussex would never get away with wearing such a low neckline, but that doesn’t mean you can’t. Creative director Wes Gordon created many stunning gowns for his second bridal season at the brand, but this modern interpretation of a classic, conservative silhouette was a hit.
There’s no one more synonymous with memorable wedding gowns than Vera Wang, and her latest floral-filled collection was especially stunning. The layers of tulle coupled with oversize rosettes look like nothing else out there, and that’s precisely the point.
Photo: Stockton Johnson
Did you save ten images of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s iconic Narciso Rodriguez gown? If so, you’ll love this Cushnie dress. It’s just as sleek and body-hugging, with an added train for drama.
The genius of this gown is that the skirt comes in two pieces. See the satin band at the waist? It unclasps and the voluminous gown transforms into a slinky number made for dancing.
If the idea of lace and rhinestones gives you anxiety, this sleek gown is the antidote. Add a chignon and dramatic earrings for a classic photo that you won’t regret in ten years’ time.
Photo: ©DAN AND CORINA LECCA/©DAN AND CORINA LECCA
Looking for something less traditional but still bridal? A pale-blush gown with delicate organza overlay will fit those requirements.
Photo: Randy Brooke/2019 Randy Brooke
Layers of accordion pleating are just as dramatic as lace and embroidery, and they look weightless.
Photo: Benjamin Wheeler/Benjamin Wheeler
Comfortable yet striking, this jumpsuit would be ideal for a City Hall wedding followed by fun dance party.
Photo: Taylor Jewell
With layers of lace, the high neck, and corset waist, this dress could be straight out of Pride and Prejudice — Mr. Darcy not included.
Consider this lacy mermaid number as the best of both worlds: the curve-hugging bodice is exceedingly flattering, while the flared skirt has all the drama you’d expect in a ball gown.
Dreamy, delicate, and especially stunning for a summer affair.
Monique Lhuillier can do a classic lacy gown like no one else, but her foray into softer, floral dresses really stood out this season. Now all you need is a fancy Tuscany estate.
Photo: Sebastian Graetz
Red is an especially striking color, and it represents good fortune in many East Asian cultures.
The elaborately beaded back is asking for an updo … and a Great Gatsby–themed party to match.
Naked dresses are still popular, and if you want something that’s not quite as revealing, this one is a great choice. With the sheer skirt and cutouts at the waist, you’ll flash just enough skin.
Photo: KVC
Viktor & Rolf aren’t afraid to go big with their gowns (see their meme-able couture dresses), but this sleek number stood out. The illusion netting across the chest coupled with a line of bows dotting the back have a sweet, retro feel — especially when paired with a short veil.
Layers upon layers make for a dreamy, glamorous gown that’ll look equally stunning decades from now.