The Best Black Wedding Dresses

Whether you’re planning a wedding in the month of Halloween, hosting a gothic-themed affair or simply after something a bit more ‘different’ or alternative - black wedding dresses are more popular than ever.

From stunning lace gowns fit for a gothic wedding to chic and sophisticated styles, perfect for a luxe black-tie wedding, black wedding dresses truly come in all shapes and sizes.

While opting for a black wedding dress means straying far from conventional hues, more and more brides are choosing something darker to help them tie the knot on their special day.

Traditionally, black wedding dresses tended to be the go-to in Spanish, Scottish and Finnish cultures, with white only becoming the more popular choice in Western countries around 1840 when Queen Victoria chose to wear a white wedding dress. So, black wedding dresses are nothing new! 

What does the black wedding dress symbolise?

While some brides gravitate towards a wedding dress depending on how it looks and feels on their body, and how it aligns with their style or works for their wedding aesthetic and vibe, others might take a more spiritual approach to uncovering their dream dress. If you didn’t already know, a white wedding dress traditionally symbolises purity and innocence, while a black wedding dress evokes feelings of elegance, power, mystery and individuality. For many, their wedding day is a chance to present themselves in their truest form, beginning their marriage in a way they mean to go on - so if a black wedding dress appeals to you, your wedding is the day to do it! 

The 16 Best Black Wedding Dresses and Bridal Outfits for Alternative Brides

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From beautiful black ballgowns to lacey gothic numbers, an array of stunning embellishments, and a whole lot of tulle and ruffles - we’ve found the 16 best black wedding dresses and bridal outfits for brides who want to stand out in the best way possible. Some of our favourite online retailers for black wedding dresses include Wolf & Badger, Revolve, Mac Duggal and ASOS, so if you’re unsure where to start your search for a more alternative gown, Rock My Wedding’s fashion editors have you covered. 

Wolf & Badger Black Wedding Dresses

Whether you’re hunting for a wedding dress that resembles a traditional gown, just black instead, or something that entirely breaks the bounds of bridal fashion, Wolf & Badger has a stunning range of black wedding dresses that suit every style. While the stunning Bliss Dress is a ballgown fit for a princess, the Zendaya dress promises a memorable moment. 

Revolve Black Wedding Dresses

Revolve is known and loved for stocking a wide range of designer brands and clothing, making the high-end easily accessible to those who can’t say no to online shopping. With some of the best designer brands available, it’s super easy to browse luxe gowns for special occasions - your wedding day included! If you’re searching for a black wedding dress, likely, tradition isn’t your thing, which is why these dresses are perfect. While the Sabrina Gown by SAU LEE offers the effortless elegance attached to a floor-length wedding dress, high-low silhouettes, like this For Love & Lemons bustier gown, are something we can’t get enough of. When paired with corsets and lace, we know you’ve been paying attention to bridal fashion week runways! 

Mac Duggal Black Wedding Dresses

For the closest options we’re recommending to traditional wedding dresses, head to Mac Duggal. While these dresses follow a typical silhouette and style, they have a whole lot more flair - only possible when you opt for a black wedding dress. From the Strapless Tiered Ruffle Ballgown which promises to steal the show, and the Pearl Beaded High Low Gown - you won’t have to worry about not feeling bridal in your black wedding dress. 

Short Black Wedding Dresses

If you’re already straying away from typical bridal picks when choosing the colour of your wedding dress, why not open up to the possibility of a shorter-length wedding dress, too? Gone are the days when short wedding dresses were only appropriate for second looks and wedding receptions, as more and more brides are tying the knot in a stylish mini number. There’s nothing better than a short wedding dress with a puffy tulle skirt, and both dresses from ASOS and Wolf & Badger are stunning options. Whether you want a standout neckline or something more classic and pearl-embellished, these mini black wedding dresses are perfect if you love to party.  

Club L London Black Wedding Dresses

Black wedding dresses don’t mean you have to rebuke tradition altogether, and these Club L London gowns prove just that. While Club L London is known for being a leading provider of trendy party dresses and eveningwear, it’s clear that they know a thing or two about wedding-worthy gowns. This lace gown with a 3d floral hem is beautifully unique, just like the kind of bride who would love a black wedding dress, while the black and cream Bardot maxi dress shows us that there’s no need to be restricted to one colour! Can’t decide between a black or traditional bridal colour palette? Have both! 

ASOS Black Wedding Dresses

ASOS is the perfect option for wedding dress shopping if you’re looking for an affordable, budget or high-street option. The best thing about black wedding dresses is that they’re easier to re-wear and re-love for many other occasions after your wedding day than a typical bridal gown, and these ASOS dresses are perfect examples. If you want your special day to feel not so much like a gothic affair, but a luxe black-tie gala instead, you might also be keen on the idea of a black wedding dress. From sparkly floor-sweeping skirts to all-over lacey ruffles - these dresses are perfect for weddings with cocktail dress codes. 

Nadine Merabi Black Wedding Dress

If you’re looking for timeless and classy options for your big day, Nadine Merabi is the place to be. Whether mini or midi dresses tend to be your vibe, both are perfect for a refined, luxe, yet laidback look - the Em and Emily black wedding dresses are both in a gorgeous soft velvet with pearl accents, ideal for everything from classic wedding ceremonies to all your pre and post wedding events. 

Alternative Black Wedding Outfits: Bridal Suits & Jumpsuits

For those exploring alternative wedding outfit options, you may decide that a dress altogether isn’t for you, and that’s okay! Whether you’re considering a sleek and stylish bridal suit or wedding jumpsuit, both are stunning options for your big day - especially if you go for black! Finding the balance between an alternative wedding outfit that still feels bridal is key, and details that are big in wedding trends, such as floral detailing - seen on this Nadine Merabi suit, and feather trims like on this Club L London jumpsuit are the way to go. 

Black Wedding Dresses? A Big Yes from Us! 

Have we convinced you to consider a black wedding dress? We’re definitely sold on them. Whether you’re simply exploring your options now engaged, traditional wedding dresses don’t appeal to you, or looking for something that works perfectly with your gothic or Halloween wedding theme - we’re here to help! Shop our 16 favourite black wedding dresses today to ensure you stand out in the best way possible on your special day. 

Want to continue the black theme? Explore the best black bridesmaid dresses for the ultimate cohesive look!