The 20 Best Vow Renewal Dresses to Shop Now
Commemorating years of marriage is certainly a reason to celebrate. And like any celebration, you'll need an outfit to fit the occasion. Deciding between vow renewal dresses can be tricky— you may not have the desire to go all out with another formal wedding gown, but at the same time, you may want to avoid dressing overly casual. The good news is that there are plenty of stunning options that sit somewhere in the middle. If you're looking for a dress that says "I still do", you've come to the right place. We're sharing our best advice on how to find the perfect dress to renew your vows in, plus 25 of our favorite looks that you can shop online right now.
In this article:
- What Do You Wear When You Renew Your Vows?
- The Best Vow Renewal Dresses You Can Shop Now
- Where to Buy Vow Renewal Dresses
- How to Choose the Right Vow Renewal Dress for You
What Do You Wear When You Renew Your Vows?
The short answer: Anything you want! Your vow renewals are about celebrating the love you and your partner have shared over the years, and the details of the event should reflect your own unique love story. While there are no hard and fast rules where vow renewal attire is concerned, there are certainly some trends we've observed amongst many recent vow renewal events. Below, we're breaking down some of these trends, as well as the most frequently asked questions about vow renewal dresses.
Can you wear a wedding dress to renew your vows?
Of course! Your vow renewal is the perfect opportunity to break out your wedding dress and reminisce on that special day. Some people have even converted their old dress into a shorter style or used the fabric to make an entirely new look. Others have used their vow renewals as a chance to mix things up and wear a different style of wedding dress than they did originally. However, if you do plan on purchasing a brand-new look for the occasion, don't feel limited to just wedding gowns. Short and midi-length dresses, as well as jumpsuits, rompers, and pantsuits, are all great options for a vow renewal ceremony as well.
What color dress do you wear for your vow renewal?
While wearing white is certainly not required for your vow renewal (or even a wedding for that matter), we have seen many people embrace white dresses, rompers, and pantsuits as a way to tap into those wedding day feels. Wearing white can be the perfect way to bring back all those fond memories from your time as a bride. Of course, if you went the traditional route on your wedding day, you may be interested in switching things up this time around. For this special day, any color scheme is perfectly acceptable. For a cohesive look at the altar, we recommend coordinating colors between your dress and your partner's attire.
The Best Vow Renewal Dresses You Can Shop Now
If you consider your wedding dress to be the most important dress you've ever worn, we hope one of these vow renewal dresses might just land second place. With a bit less pressure than the first go-round, it's a great opportunity to reflect on what you did (or didn't) like about your bridal look and perhaps try something different. Keep reading to discover our favorite shoppable looks for vow renewal ceremonies, including size-inclusive options for petite, plus, and tall.
Tuckernuck Daphne Dress
A little white dress with a big back bow, this '60s-inspired number from Tuckerneck is a steal. Given the abbreviated hemline (and all the money you'll save) you may want to splash out on some designer shoes.
Size range: XXS-XXXL
Ralph Lauren Embroidered Eyelet Linen Dress
Renewing your vows in a beachy locale? Ralph Lauren's breezy, eyelet number will not only suit the climate but flutter beautifully thanks to its fit-and-flare silhouette.
Size range: 00-18
Banana Republic Lexia Lace Maxi Dress
Yes, that Banana Republic. If you've not checked out the brand lately, we highly recommend you do. We love this modern, more geometric riff on lace and the fact that the retailer offers a wide range of petite and tall sizing.
Size range: XXS-XL
Bridal by ELOQUII Corseted Tiered Dress
The Sophia Loren vibes are strong with this one and we're into it. A tiered skirt creates movement and balances out a corseted bodice to create the most flattering silhouette.
Size range: 14-28
Sachin & Babi Vivi Dress
Tiny tonal paillettes add a subtle shimmer to this maxi-length dress while artfully-placed cutouts lend a modern edge. Perfect for an evening event as it will shine beautifully in candlelight.
Size range: 0-14
Amanda Uprichard Mesha Dress
Borrowed from the boys but better thanks to short sleeves and a pleated skirt. The slight vintage appeal of this little number reminds me of Karl Lagerfeld muse Ines de la Fressange's tailored separates for her own nuptials.
Size range: XS-L
Reformation Zaire Dress
On the fence about whether or not to sport a mini dress? Reformation to the rescue with a partially transparent skirt that stops just short of revealing all.
Size range: 0-12
Banana Republic Astral Silk Maxi Dress
We love silk charmeuse for its satin-like sheen. Coupled with a flattering ruched bodice and bias-cut skirt, this deceptively simple dress is about as flattering as they come.
Size range: 0-20
Bridal by ELOQUII Flare Sleeve Jumpsuit
If you wore a dress for your wedding, your vow renewal ceremony is the perfect opportunity to try something different. A cowl neck frames your face while stretch satin resists wrinkles and allows for dancing with ease.
Size range: 14-28
Reformation Elvira Dress
Audrey Hepburn vibes in the front and a party in the back. Reformation can always be relied upon to make a classic just a little bit extra.
Size range: 0-12
Sachin & Babi Camila Dress
Finally, a mermaid silhouette that isn't restricting. Sachin & Babi clearly know what they're doing and cut this one above the knee to allow for ease of movement. Puff sleeves add an additional dose of whimsy while a tonal belt brings it all together.
Size range: 0-22W
For Love & Lemonds Ellis Mini Dress
Right on trend with a bit of boudoir drama, expect to make a statement in this corseted lace frock. A petite blue bow is a welcome nod to tradition.
Size range: XXS-XL
Cynthia Rowley Lace-Trimmed Silk Charmeuse Maxi Dress
Into vintage? Good look finding a pristine white or ivory number. Fortunately, Cynthia Rowley brings us all the charm of antique nightwear without the frailty or need for a complete restoration.
Size range: 0-10
Reformation Evangeline Silk Dress
What's not to love about covered buttons? With a fitted bodice and a flared skirt (check out that slit), this one was made for dancing after you've renewed those vows.
Size range: 0-12
Massimo Dutti Long Knit Bandeau Neckline Dress
While knits aren't something one sees to often in the bridal sphere, we think this simple column by Massimo Dutti is damn chic—and looks way more expensive than it is.
Size range: S-L
Birdy Grey Summer Embroidered Dress
Floral embellishments make this easy, breezy frock perfect for garden vow renewal ceremonies. Chances of re-wearing: high.
Size range: XS-XXL
Staud Cadence Pearl-Embellished Satin Maxi Slip Dress
Yes, another slipdress. But did you check the flattering halter neckline with baroque pearl straps? Obsessed, and now you needn't fret about finding a necklace.
Size range: 00-12
Emilia Wickstead Sharon Dress in Champagne Metallic Seersucker
Evening vow renewal ceremonies can always benefit from a little extra sparkle. We love the '90s red carpet vibes of this dress by a favorite designer of Kate Middleton's.
Size range: 6-18
Alejandra Alonso Rojas Blue Fitted Silk Slip Dress With Pearls
We thought we'd throw in a little something blue for variety. Alejandra Alonso Rojas elevates the timeless slip dress by embellishing it with real pearls. Be sure to check out the Spanish designer's new bridal collection, which launches this month.
Size range: 0-12
Birdy Grey Alyssa Tulle Mini Dress
Not exactly a train, we're loving the high-low hem of this tulle confection. It's your chance to channel Stephanie Seymour in the November Rain video.
Size range: XS-XXL
Where to Buy Vow Renewal Dresses
Many of your favorite retailers offer ready-to-wear looks that are perfect for a vow renewal. To help streamline the process of finding them, we recommend looking for a "Shop by Occasion" tab on their websites. Here, you'll find a section of the brand's website dedicated to attire for wedding-related events. Not sure where to begin your search? We've got you covered with three of our favorite places to find shoppable vow renewal dresses in all different styles.
Sachin & Babi: This online retailer offers a wide variety of fashion-forward looks that are perfect for any kind of occasion. In their virtual wedding shop, you'll find sections for all different wedding-related events, colors, and themes, making it easy to sort through options. We love that Sachin & Babi carries options for every age range, and they're a great place to find modest looks that don't sacrifice style.
Adrianna Papell: Looking for a 'little white dress'? Chances are, Adrianna Papell has got what you need—and more. Their wide array of bridal looks includes made-to-order and ready-to-wear options for both formal and semi-formal events. Adrianna Papell is also one of our go-to destinations to find stylish dress alternatives like rompers and jumpsuits. Bonus: Receive $25 off your order with our exclusive code, "THEKNOT25."
ELOQUII: You may know ELOQUII for their abundant plus-size options for everyday wear, but did you know that they now offer bridal looks as well? Bridal by ELOQUII is one of the best places to shop trendy and affordable wedding gowns in sizes 14 through 28. Not only will you love their dreamy dresses, but chances are, you won't be able to resist their unique wedding dress alternatives either, including pantsuits and matching two-piece sets.
How to Choose the Right Vow Renewal Dress for You
Similarly to picking out a wedding dress, there are certain factors you'll want to consider when picking out a look for your vow renewal, with the first being personal preference, of course. Your vow renewal look should feel uniquely you no matter what. Additional factors, such as the weather, location, and dress code, can also help narrow down your decision.
Consider the Season
Like picking out any outfit, the season should be one of the first things to consider. If you're planning a vow renewal in the spring or summer months, opt for a lightweight look that will keep you cool throughout the day. Dresses made from linen, organza, chiffon, and crepe are all great options for warmer weather. For cold weather, consider opting for thicker fabrics and dresses with long sleeves. Satin and velvet are popular fabric choices for the fall and winter seasons.
Consider Location
Factors like location can also help you narrow down your search for the perfect vow renewal dress. There will be plenty of photo-ops throughout the day, and you'll want your outfit to fit seamlessly into your setting in order to get the best shots. We love the look of minimalist gowns against a busy city background, or whimsical bohemian looks in a beach or garden setting.
Choose Casual vs. Formal
The formality of the event should also be a factor to consider throughout your shopping journey. If you're planning to host a formal event, an elegant gown might be the way to go. Midi and tea-length dresses can also offer a distinct bridal look that's not quite as formal as say a full-length gown, making them perfect options for a semi-formal event. For a casual dress code, you can't go wrong with a classic sundress or romper.