18 Effortlessly Chic Off-the-Shoulder Wedding Dresses

When it comes to wedding attire, there are many looks we consider to be truly timeless, but few stand out quite like off-the-shoulder wedding dresses. Let's rewind a bit, shall we? Shoulder-baring styles first came onto the scene during the Regency era, but rose to popularity in the 1960's, with style icon, Brigitte Barott, at the head of their resurgence (hence why they're often called 'Bardot dresses'). Since then, countless brides, including Michelle Obama, Anne Hathaway, and Emmy Rossum, have chosen to be wed in an off-the-shoulder wedding dress. Even social media's it-girl, Hailey Bieber, showed off her shoulders in a custom gown designed by Virgil Abloh back in 2019.

All that to say, off-the-shoulder styles aren't going away anytime soon. So, if you're looking for a wedding gown that will stand the test of time, they're the perfect choice. But don't take our word for it. Keep scrolling to browse 18 of our favorite shoppable styles for 2024, and discover why Bardot dresses have been beloved for centuries. Then, read up on some of the best hairstyles to wear with an off-the-shoulder wedding dress, according to our editors.

In this article…

• The Best Off-the-Shoulder Wedding Dresses for 2024
• FAQs About Choosing an Off-the-Shoulder Wedding Dress

The Best Off-the-Shoulder Wedding Dresses for 2024

To help you start your search, we've rounded up 18 seriously stylish off-the-shoulder wedding dresses you'll want to consider for your big day. Once you've found a look you love, you can head to The Knot's Vendor Marketplace to locate a bridal salon near you where you can try it on in person. Happy shopping!

Jenny by Jenny Yoo Cassie Off-The-Shoulder A-Line Taffeta Wedding Gown

Photo: Anthropologie

This taffeta gown's detachable off-the-shoulder sleeves allow you to seamlessly switch up your look throughout the night. In other words, you get two looks for the price of one. Who can say no to that?

Size Range: 0 - 18

Olivia Bottega Mermaid Wedding Dress Jacqueline

Photo: Olivia Bottega

We think you'll agree with us when we say that this simple wedding dress makes a serious statement. Its mermaid silhouette, made from luxe mikado material, is designed to flatter your figure in all the right ways.

Size Range: 0 - 24; Custom

Lulus Beautifully Beloved White Mesh Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress

Photo: Lulus

We've got major heart eyes for this look (and not just because of its price tag). The streamlined sheath silhouette comes perfectly ready to accessorize, and the mesh long sleeves are so romantic.

Size Range: XXS - XL

Wtoo by Watters Keala Ruched Corset Wedding Gown

Photo: The Anthropologie

Did you hear? Bridal is going boudoir. Embrace the 2024 wedding dress trend with this stylish pick. A corset bodice with exposed boning and delicately ruched fabric gives it a sweet yet seductive vibe.

Size Range: 0 - 18W

Azazie Florentina Dress

Photo: Azazie

Bring your cottagecore dreams to life with this whimsical gown. A structured bustier bodice, drapey sleeves and sequin lace are just a few of the charming details we love.

Size Range: 0 - 30; Custom

Justin Alexander Signature Reverie Gown

Photo: The Knot

With an off-the-shoulder neckline and an A-line silhouette, the Reverie Gown is reminiscent of Belle's dress in Beauty and the Beast. It's the perfect fairytale-inspired look for your 'happily ever after' moment.

Size Range: 0 - 30

Justin Alexander Signature Pax Gown

Photo: The Knot

A little bit of detail goes a long way on this off-the-shoulder wedding dress. Its sweetheart neckline, adorned in 3-dimensional floral appliqués, takes its streamlined fit-and-flare silhouette to the next level.

Size Range: 0 - 30

Jenny by Jenny Yoo Kate Fit-and-Flare Gown With Removable Sleeves

Photo: Anthropologie

This convertible wedding dress will take you from the ceremony to the reception in style. Remove the detachable puff sleeves from its fit-and-flare silhouette to reveal a second look that's just as stylish as the first.

Size Range: 0 - 26

Justin Alexander Carlee Gown

Photo: The Knot

With a sweetheart necklace, floral appliqué bodice, and full tulle skirt, the Carlee gown checks off all our boxes. Seriously, what's not to love about this classic wedding gown?

Size Range: 2 - 32

Justin Alexander Deidra Gown

Photo: The Knot

Having trouble deciding between a fitted dress or a ball gown? This off-the-shoulder pick offers the best of both worlds. A detachable overskirt allows you to switch up your style between the ceremony and reception.

Size Range: 0 - 30

Wtoo by Watters Ivy Strapless Sweetheart Wedding Gown

Photo: Anthropologie

Boho brides: We found the dress for you. With embroidered lace fabric and off-the-shoulder, removable puff sleeves, the Ivy offers a laid-back vibe you're sure to love. Pair it with a bouquet of wildflowers and a rustic outdoor setting.

Size Range: 0 - 18W

Lulus Loveliest Aura White Off-the-Shoulder Mermaid Maxi Dress

Photo: Lulus

Stylish? Check. Comfortable? Check. Affordable? Double check. At under $100, this simple off-the-shoulder wedding dress from Lulus has it all (and not to mention, it looks like a total splurge).

Size Range: XS - 3X

Stella York Timeless Plus Size A-Line Wedding Dress

Photo: The Knot

You're guaranteed to feel like royalty in this off-the-shoulder wedding gown. Top off your regal ensemble with a bridal tiara or an embellished belt for even more glam, or wear it as-is to keep all the focus on you.

Size Range: Custom

Watters Glimpse Long-Sleeve Off-The-Shoulder Corset Wedding Gown

Photo: Anthropologie

This shimmering off-the-shoulder number from Anthropologie is the perfect pick for your wedding ceremony (or the after-party). With head-to-toe sequined embellishments, it's guaranteed to turn heads for all the right reasons.

Size Range: 0 - 26W

Essence Of Australia Whimsical Plus Size Tulle Ball Gown

Photo: The Knot

ICYMI: Floral appliqués are one of the top wedding dress trends for 2024. This ball gown, featuring cascading 3D florals offers a bold way to embrace the trending style on your wedding day.

Size Range: Custom

Jenny Yoo Briar Gown

Photo: Jenny Yoo

This stunning silhouette speaks for itself. Between its off-the-shoulder neckline, long sleeve, streamlined skirt, and button detailing down the back, we're simply obsessed (and we think you will be too).

Size Range: 00 - 32

Rebecca Schoneveld Arya Gown

Photo: Rebecca Schonevald

The wedding aisle will feel like your own personal catwalk when you step down it in this fashion-forward gown. Its figure-flattering silhouette features a ruched waistline, a thigh-high leg slit and detachable sleeves.

Size Range: 00 - 30

Allure Bridals C520 Gown

Photo: Allure Bridals

Here's a classic bridal style that's anything but dated. Its A-line silhouette is made modern by an off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline, delicately woven lace fabric and all-over floral appliqués. Swoon.

Size Range: 0 - 30

FAQs About Choosing an Off-the-Shoulder Wedding Dress

Can you move your arms in an off-the-shoulder wedding dress?

It's no secret that wedding gowns have come a long way since the Regency era. While off-the-shoulder wedding dresses may have once been deemed restricting, that's all changing. Wedding dress designers are constantly finding new and innovative ways to make their gowns more comfortable for brides. Today, you'll find an abundance of off-the-shoulder styles that are not only stylish but also comfortable to dance in. Many of the gowns above feature gently draped sleeves, that are designed to move with you as you shimmy and shake. Others feature detachable sleeves that you can remove entirely to free up your arms for dancing. You can always practice a few of your moves during your bridal salon fitting to get an idea of how the dress will feel on the big day.

How do I keep an off-the-shoulder dress from falling down?

Unlike your everyday dresses, wedding gowns get their support from their internal corseting, rather than from sleeves or straps. The bodice of each gown is designed to hold everything in place so you can walk down the aisle (and hit the dance floor) with ease. That being said, your gown must fit perfectly to your unique proportions. If the bodice or cups are too large, you may find yourself constantly pulling up your dress throughout the night. Book an appointment with a wedding dress tailor to discuss your ideal fit.

Additional market work by Kate Boswell