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Updated Oct 14, 2024These 25 Simple Wedding Dresses Prove Less Actually is More
Simply put, sleek = chic
Less is more. At least that's what I've always been told. When it came to fashion, however, I believed the opposite to be true. I always gravitated towards maximalist looks and was never one to turn down a sparkly accessory. That all changed when I saw simple wedding dresses dominate the runway at New York Bridal Fashion Week. From satin slips to A-line dresses and even ball gowns, these wedding dresses proved that there is beauty in simplicity. I now know that when a silhouette speaks for itself, sometimes added details aren't necessary, and I'm here to convince you of the same. So, stick with me as I share some of my favorite simple wedding dress styles for 2025, plus expert advice to help you shop.
10 Best Simple Wedding Dresses for 2025
In a hurry? These 10 styles are a great place to start. Browse the gowns that I'm calling "the best of the best" below.
- Best Overall: Jenny by Jenny Yoo Portia Gown, $1,195
- Best A-Line: Vow'd Garnet Gown, $1,400
- Best Fit-and-Flare: Jenny Yoo Dawson Dress, $995
- Best Mermaid: Lulus Exceptional Romance Dress, $118
- Best Strapless: Park & Fifth Lydia Gown, $695
- Best Long-Sleeve: Jenny Yoo Louise Gown, $1,200
- Best for Petites: DB Studio Long Billow Sleeve Wedding Dress, $400
- Best Plus-Size: Justin Alexander Plus-Size Stretch Mikado Dress, Price Varies
- Best Affordable: Meshki Esther Dress, $135
- Best Splurge: Pronovias Rosamund Gown, $2,690
In this article:
- 10 Best Simple Wedding Dresses for 2025
- What Is a Simple Wedding Dress?
- Where to Find Simple Wedding Dresses
- 25 Elegant Simple Wedding Dresses for Every Budget
What Is a Simple Wedding Dress?
So, what exactly makes a wedding dress "simple"? Well, in general, I use the term to describe gowns that are free of heavy embellishments or intricate details. The reality, however, is that everyone has a different idea of what they consider simple. Below, I've broken down a few different ways to identify this type of dress.
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Simple Wedding Dress Styles
According to Yuliia Lobachova, founder of Yuliia Lobachova and Ricca Sposa, "when it comes to simple elegant wedding dresses the cut of the dress is just as important as the fabric." Here are a few examples of dress styles and cuts that can be considered simple:
- Wedding dresses for a simple wedding: If you're skipping the big wedding and opting for a civil ceremony, you may be looking for a simple courthouse wedding dress that feels appropriate for the venue and your overall wedding budget. In this case, a tea-length wedding dress or even a sundress might fit your definition of 'simple'.
- Modern minimalist wedding dresses: According to Lobachova, geometric shapes, asymmetrical necklines and other unexpected details can add dimension to an unadorned look. Modern wedding dresses often incorporate these intricate elements as opposed to embellishments and other add-ons.
- Plain or basic wedding dresses: Sometimes a stunning silhouette is all you need to create an eye-catching look. Plain wedding dresses are a testament to that, as they often feature more intricate shapes rather than sequins and shine.
Simple Wedding Dress Fabrics
Since plain bridal gowns typically don't have any embellishments, there is a greater focus placed on their fabric. "For those seeking sophistication and lightness, satin and silk are timeless fabric options," says Lobachova. "Thanks to their natural luster, these materials can add depth and texture to a look without the need for embellishments." For more playful and romantic looks, Lobachova believes organza and tulle gowns are the way to go. "The lightness and airiness of these fabrics are perfect for creating multilayered dresses," she explains. For a sleek and simple look that will stand the test of time, you can't go wrong with crepe fabrics.
Do Simple Wedding Dresses Cost Less?
It makes sense that, generally, the more embellishments and add-ons a wedding dress has, the more it costs. But does that mean simple wedding dresses cost less than more intricate ones? Well, not necessarily. There are a number of other factors that can influence the cost of wedding attire. For example, simple bridal gowns can be made from luxe fabrics, like silk and taffeta, which typically cost a bit more.
Now, that's not to say you won't be able to find an affordable wedding dress that reasonably fits your wedding dress budget. There are unadorned options in every price range (check out our roundup below if you don't believe me). Be sure to set a budget for your bridal gown prior to making your purchase. Psst: Our free and easy-to-use tool, The Knot Budget Advisor, can help you do just that.
Where to Find Simple Wedding Dresses
Did you really think I would feed your simple wedding dress obsession and not tell you where to buy them? Nonsense. Follow these tips below for a seamless shopping experience.
Simple Wedding Dresses Near Me
One of the best places to shop for a simple wedding dress is at your local bridal salon. Here, trained consultants can guide you through the process of finding a dress. You'll also be able to get up close and personal with various styles and try them on for size.
Simple Wedding Dress Designers to Know
Some wedding dress designers specialize in simple wedding dress styles. If you have a brand in mind that you like, you can head directly to their store or website to browse. Jenny Yoo, Justin Alexander and Watters Designs are few of our favorite places to find simple wedding dresses.
Simple Wedding Dresses Online
If you're in a hurry, or prefer the ease of online shopping, there are a number of places to shop for wedding dresses online. Lulus and Azazie not only carry a wide selection of simple wedding dresses, but they also offer quick shipping straight to your door. Plus, on their sites you can read through hundreds of reviews from real brides to give you greater confidence in your purchase.
25 Elegant Simple Wedding Dresses for Every Budget
Enough with the chit-chat. Let's get to shopping! Here are 25 of my favorite simple wedding dresses for 2025 brides.
Jenny by Jenny Yoo Portia Square-Neck Fit & Flare Crepe Wedding Gown
Photo: Anthropologie
A little bit of lace goes a long way, and this simple wedding dress proves it. From the front, it's just about as classic as you can get. Once you start walking down the aisle, however, your guests' eyes will be drawn to the stunning floral lace details that trim its low scoop back.
Size range: 0–26
Lulus Polished Perfection White Satin Sleeveless Mermaid Maxi Dress
Photo: Lulus
Whether you're having a chic rooftop ceremony or a classy restaurant reception, this sleeveless satin pick is sure to blow your guests away. With elegant details like a V-shaped neckline and back, no one will believe it cost less than $130.
Size range: XS–XL
Jenny Yoo Dawson Gown
Photo: Jenny Yoo
For a minimalist look with maximum wow-factor, we love this gown from Jenny Yoo. It has a halter neckline that gives way to a plunging open back. Plus, its princess-seamed bodice was designed to offer serious waist-snatching action.
Size range: 0–18
Watters Hyde Bateau-Neck Low-Back Trumpet Wedding Gown
Photo: Anthropologie
Simple wedding dresses are known to stand the test of time and this one is certainly no exception. Its boat neckline and trumpet silhouette make for a classic look you'll love for years to come.
Size range: 0–18W
Azazie Marlin Gown
Photo: Azazie
If you loved Meghan Markle's wedding dress, boy do we have the look for you. With an off-the-shoulder neckline and a streamlined silhouette, the Marlin gown exudes the same effortless elegance as the Duchess of Sussex's custom number.
Size range: 0–30 (Custom sizing available)
Lulus Extraordinary Vow White Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress with Pockets
Photo: Lulus
Simple wedding dresses don't have to feel outdated. In fact, this A-line gown is anything but. With off-the-shoulder sleeves, a princess-seamed bodice and an airy skirt, its equal parts timeless and modern. Use the code "THEKNOT20" for 20% off first-time purchases.
Size range: XS–XL
Park & Fifth Lydia Gown
Photo: Park & Fifth
This simple wedding dress doesn't sacrifice on style. Its classic fit-and-flare silhouette is made modern by a unique half moon shaped seam on the skirt. You can wear it as-is or top off your look with a sparky bridal belt for a subtle touch of glam.
Size range: XS–XXL
Justin Alexander Plus-Size Stretch Mikado A-Line Dress With Pockets
Photo: Justin Alexander
You can't even tell that there are pockets blended into the silhouette of this classic simple wedding dress (which is a major win in our eyes). The plus-size gown also has an inset cummerbund on the waist that's meant to flatter your figure.
Size range: Custom
Jenny by Jenny Yoo Angelina Sweetheart Satin Wedding Gown
Photo: Anthropologie
This modern wedding dress proves that understated is never overrated. Though simple in design, its cat eye neckline and gathered waist offer a unique look you're sure to love. Pair it with an embroidered veil for an ultra-trendy ensemble.
Size range: 0–26W
Oleg Cassini Draped Satin Sculpted Neckline Ball Gown
Photo: David's Bridal
A sweetheart neckline is a sexy way to upgrade any simple wedding dress, and this dress is proof. Made from soft satin fabric and featuring a breezy ball gown silhouette, it will have you ready to take on the dance floor in style.
Size range: 0–30W
Watters Bonnie Fit & Flare Crepe Wedding Gown
Photo: Anthropologie
This basic wedding gown offers everything you need and nothing you don't. Its sleek silhouette with thin spaghetti straps makes it a minimalist bride's dream. Finish off your look with some simple accessories like a dainty bridal necklace or bracelet.
Size range: 0–26W
Meshki Esther Dress
Photo: Meshki
At under $150, this wedding dress offers a look of luxury for less (we'll toast to that). Its halter neckline and dramatic open back make it a festive option for your wedding day or the after-party.
Size range: XXS–3XL
Justin Alexander Gemma Gown
Photo: Justin Alexander
Classic in the front; Party in the back. This wedding dress offers the best of both worlds. The long-sleeved look features an intricate appliquéd design on the back that's guaranteed to "wow" as you walk down the wedding aisle.
Size range: 0–30
Jenny Yoo Bellamy Gown
Photo: Jenny Yoo
The streamlined design of this strapless wedding dress allows you to accessorize it how you please. You can go bold with lots of embellished add-ons or let its stunning mermaid silhouette speak for itself.
Size range: 0–18
Pronovias Rosamund Gown
Photo: Pronovias
We're undoubtedly obsessed with this simple-yet-elegant ball gown. Between its square neckline and full circle skirt, you'll feel like royalty while wearing it. All you'll need is a sparkly bridal tiara to top off your look with.
Size range: 0–28
Avery Austin Long-Sleeve Simple Chiffon Mermaid Wedding Dress
Photo: Avery Austin
We just can't get enough of simple long-sleeve wedding dresses, especially when they look as good as this one. Guests will be in awe once they lay eyes on this captivating chiffon gown with a high neckline and bold open back.
Size range: 0–30
Essence of Australia Luxe Spaghetti Strap Column Gown
Photo: Essence
Looking for the perfect beach wedding dress? We've got you covered. This lightweight satin option is sure to glisten in the sun. As an elevated take on a classic slip dress, it features a cowl neckline, a thigh-high leg slit and chapel-length train.
Size range: Custom
Pronovias Souleye Gown
Photo: Pronovias
Here's a modest wedding dress option we adore. The Souleye gown's mermaid silhouette, long sleeves, and high neckline offer the perfect amount of coverage for your church or temple wedding ceremony.
Size range: 0–32
Jenny Yoo Louise Gown
Photo: Jenny Yoo
Whether you're planning a winter wedding, or simply prefer a bit more coverage on the arms, you can't go wrong with this long-sleeve wedding dress. It's made from lightweight chiffon fabric which will keep you cool and comfortable as you dance the night away.
Size range: 0–26
Vow'd Garnet Gown
Photo: Vow'd
If you're looking for a simple wedding gown with a supportive bodice, consider this classic white ball gown. Its timeless design features a strapless neckline, low-cut back and full-circle skirt with pockets (yes, please!).
Size range: 0–24
Lulus Exceptional Romance White Off-the-Shoulder Mermaid Maxi Dress
Photo: Lulus
Here's a look that proves you don't need intricate details to wow on your wedding day. With an off-shoulder neckline, figure-sculpting bodice, and mermaid silhouette, this gown makes simple look stunning.
Size range: XS–XL
Allure Bridals 9965
Photo: Allure Bridals
This minimalist wedding dress is oh-so romantic. It's made from crepe fabric and has a comfortable and classic silhouette. An oversized bow decal on the back ties the whole look together (pun intended).
Size range: 0–30
Birdy Grey Kira Dress in Matte Satin White
Photo: Birdy Grey
At under $100, the Kira dress is one of the most affordable options on this list. It's also one of the most stylish, thanks to its modern asymmetric neckline and thigh-high leg slit. It's available in both matte and shiny satin and an array of different color options.
Size range: XS–3XL
Park & Fifth Davenport Gown
Photo: Park & Fifth
As an elevated take on a classic slip dress, this simple satin wedding gown is ideal for the bride looking to prioritize comfort on their big day. It has a relaxed silhouette with barely-there straps and an adjustable tie on the back.
Size range: XS–XL
DB Studio Long Billow Sleeve Chiffon A-Line Wedding Dress
Photo: David's Bridal
This simple long wedding gown checks off all our boxes. It has a classic A-line silhouette with long billowed sleeves and a flattering pleated waistline. It's also available in standard, petite and plus sizes.
Size range: 0P–30W
