confetti shot Stephanie Butt Photography

Alternative Wedding Dresses for a Stylish, Non-Traditional Bride

Photography by Stephanie Butt Photography

When it comes to alternative bridal outfits, we’re essentially like your pushy best friend, but in a really, really great way. You’re not comfortable in a traditional wedding dress? So. What. There’s a plethora of options out there to ensure you feel your absolute best self on your wedding day. Your choice should truly showcase who you are as a person. And, if that person wants to wear a bridal separate in bright yellow, then so be it! We’re just here to give you the inspiration you need (and want) to find the perfect wedding dress for you. Now, don’t let us stop you. There’s a world of jumpsuits, coloured wedding dresses and sparkle out there… 


The best alternative wedding dresses 2024

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Whether you're a non-traditional bride and want something stand-out for your main dress, or searching for a stunning second look to enter your reception with a bang - alternative wedding dresses are becoming more popular than ever. We've accumulated our 24 favourite alternative wedding dresses and bridal looks, more generally, to show you all the possibilities out there for your big day. 

While white and off-white tones are synonymous with bridalwear, you can wear anything to your wedding - it's your special day! From gothic-esque black wedding dresses to statement sparkly numbers or elevated wedding suits - rules are out, and what you simply LOVE is totally in for 2024 (and beyond). 

Black wedding dresses

If you’re a bride looking to make a bold statement on your wedding day, a black wedding dress might be the perfect choice for an alternative bride. Black wedding dresses exude elegance and sophistication, all while adding a touch of drama - setting you apart from traditional bridal looks. Whether you opt for a sleek, modern design or a romantic, lace-adorned gown - black dresses work beautifully for evening weddings, gothic-themed ceremonies, or any bride wanting to showcase her unique style. The best thing about a black wedding dress is that they're super versatile! Whether you pair it with striking accessories or minimalist elegance - you’ll make an unforgettable impression as you walk down the aisle. 

Black mini alternative wedding dress idea by Natalescha Photography
Bride wears black wedding dress with low front and ruffled full skirt with a gothic feel by Stephanie Butt Photography
Black gothic alternative wedding dress idea by Lucie B. Photo
Black halloween alternative wedding dress idea by Olegs Samsonovs Photography
Black gothic alternative wedding dress idea by Olive Alexander Photography
Black alternative wedding dress idea with white veil by Anna Vesty Photography
Black ruffled alternative wedding dress idea by Stephanie Butt Photography
Black alternative wedding dress idea by Katy Jones Photography

METALLIC WEDDING DRESSES

Looking to sparkle your way down the aisle? Then a metallic wedding dress is for you. We’re all about the glitz and the glam, and a metallic wedding dress is sure to make you stand out in the best way possible on your wedding day. Whether you're all about the sequins or want something more industrial and metal-esque - the choices are endless! The best thing about metallic wedding dresses is that they're perfect for year-round weddings. From festival-themed affairs to party season-worthy ceremonies in the winter - you can't go wrong with some sparkle! Disclaimer: you may need sunglasses for all the shimmer.

Bride wears sequin wedding dress complete with batwing sleeves and wrap around waist with white tie
Bride wears open back batwing wedding dress with sparkling fabric whilst carrying colourful floral bouquet
Bride wears sequin embellished wedding dress for alternative bridal outfit whilst carrying dried floral bouquet
Bride wears fitted embellished white and gold wedding dress with sequins and bold green eyeshadow makeup
Bride wears sunglasses and metallic short wedding dress complete with puffed long sleeves and sits in car with her husband
Bride wears silver sequin wedding dress with long sheer full sleeves and bridal crown whilst holding colourful floral bouquet
Bride wears celestial wedding dress with sparkling silver stars and thigh split to front complete with star bridal crown
Bride wears her long blonde hair to the front in waves and gold wedding dress complete with tassels to the sleeves and front of dress

COLOURED WEDDING DRESSES

There’s a special place in our hearts for coloured wedding dresses. And whether you’re opting for bright and bold, or subtle and sweet, we’re here for whatever you decide! From gorgeous and romantic tulle pastel gowns to statement vibrant gowns in a commanding satin material - coloured wedding dresses will always be a win for brides wanting something a bit different. Whether you choose to match your dress to your wedding colour theme, trending hues or Pantone's Colour of the Year - inspo is super easy to come by! 

Bride wears off the shoulder purple tulle wedding dress complete with sweetheart neckline whilst carrying floral bouquet
Bride wears shimmering pink Emma Beaumont wedding dress with ruffled styling and bow sleeves
Bride wears high neck silky sleek red wedding dress with sheer cape complete with floral styled embellishment
Bride wears bright pink Vivienne Westwood Princess wedding dress
Bride wears princess styled ruffled light blue wedding dress with white heeled shoes
Bride wears blue pink wedding dress with fitted bodice complete with sheer fabric to the top and ruffled skirt
Bride wears full ruffled skirt pale blue wedding dress at destination wedding with groom in a tuxedo
red wedding dress Jodie DC Mitchell Photography

SHORT WEDDING DRESSES

You know we can’t resist a short wedding dress moment. We saw a huge rise in short wedding dresses alongside micro weddings, and we’re so pleased they stuck around! And short doesn’t necessarily mean above the knee - you could always opt for a tea-length gown or a high-low skirt, which adds a little something extra to your look! If you're a fan of short wedding dresses but can't quite give up the look of a traditional wedding dress, why not opt for a mini fock for your pre-wedding events, like a stylish engagement party dress? Mini gowns make for the perfect registry office wedding dresses, too!

Bride in a short wedding dress from Net a Porter with floppy hat for registry office wedding
Bride in an Alex Perry short wedding dress and white coat for a winter wedding
Alternative bride with tattoos in a strapless short wedding dress with button and belt detailing to the waist and front
Bride in a short wedding dress with puffed sleeves and bow styling to the back complete with a square neckline
Bride wears short wedding dress complete with polka dot styled Juliet veil
Bride in a short wedding dress with long sleeves and shoulder pads and yellow Manolo Blahnik pumps holding a sunflower bouquet
Bride in an extravagant ruffle mini wedding dress
Bride wears short wedding dress with statement black bow to front and colourful pink floral bouquet

BRIDAL SEPARATES & co-ords

Bridal separates are definitely making their way into the forefront of the wedding dress world, and we’re here for it. Whether you’re a boho babe or looking for a more classic look, a bridal separate could be just the thing you've been waiting for! We love the look of a sleek and sophisticated maxi skirt and crop top combo - the proportions are nothing short of stunning. Bridal separates are the perfect option for ensuring your outfit screams "bride!", while still showcasing your personality. 

Bridal separates alternative wedding dress idea from Six Stories

Skirt: shop now

Top:  shop now

Bridal separates alternative wedding dress idea from Nadine Merabi

Skirt: shop now

Top:  shop now

Bride wears high neck silk top complete with tapered and fitted white trousers beside bridesmaids in dark red bridesmaid dresses
Black bride wears ruffle layered skirt complete with lace cropped top for bridal two-piece set
Bride wears white sweetheart neckline strappy crop top with ruffled pink skirt with high-low styling and silk waistband
Bride wears lace fitted two-piece with off-the-shoulder styled top with 1/4 length sleeves
Bride wears chic buttoned blouse and tulle skirt bridal separates in neutral tones
Bride in Catherine Deane wedding dress separates with lace top and side slit skirt holding an orange dahlia wedding bouquet
Bride wears feather bridal crown complete with short sleeved fitted lace bridal separate
Bride wears tank top styled crop top with embellished full skirt for festival wedding
Lace bridal separates alternative wedding dress idea from Whistles

Co-ord: shop now

Plus size bridal separates alternative wedding dress idea from PLT

Skirt: shop now 

Top:  shop now

BRIDAL SUITS & jumpsuits

If you’re not feeling a dress at all, then a bridal suit is where it’s at. Whether you’re opting for something a little more fitted, or fancy something slightly oversized, we guarantee you’ll find something you love. While you're at it, why not consider a bridal jumpsuit? Wedding jumpsuits are really making their way through the ranks, and we're big fans! Better yet, they're super easy to style and accessorise, ensuring you showcase your individuality. 

Bridal suit alternative wedding dress idea with feather trim from Nadine Merabi

Blazer:    shop now

Trousers: shop now 

Bridal suit alternative wedding dress idea from Phase Eight

Blazer:     shop now

Trousers: shop now

Bride wears fitted bridal suit with tie to waist and tapered trousers with flared bottoms
City Chambers Edinburgh wedding with bride in a trouser and jacket suit with finger tip veil
Bride wears white bridal suit with black bandeau top beneath and floor length veil
Bride wears double breasted white suit complete with wide leg trousers and neutral heels
Marylebone wedding with bride in bridal suit complete with lace top beneath
Bride wears Nadine Merabi bridal suit with pearl embellishment and white bridal hat complete with white floral bouquet
Bride wears white suit complete with bright pink camisole top beneath for Autumnal luxe styled editorial shoot
Bride wears white suit jacket complete with wide leg trousers and white rose bouquet

Have we convinced you with our alternative wedding dresses roundup?

 

If you love the idea of alternative wedding dresses but still want to explore your options, we’ve got you covered. Head to our complete wedding dress guide for all the inspo you need on the best styles out there, or check out our guide to wedding dresses for different body types to ensure your chosen frock fits you like a glove.  It's worth noting that even though alternative wedding dresses are straying from the conventional, that doesn't mean stunning styles are hard to come by! We hope our edit of the best alternative wedding dresses, most of which are high street wedding dresses, might we add, has inspired you to go big for your special day!


Wedding Dress & Bridal Outfits