Whether you dream of a long, flowing gown, a short Charli XCX-inspired number, or a classic suit, finding the perfect wedding dress can be both exciting and overwhelming. As someone planning a wedding next year, I know the struggle of choosing between traditional and modern styles, white or alternative colours, and long or short hemlines. Remember, it's your day and your dress—choose what makes you feel amazing.
Here are 20 of the best wedding-style dresses and outfits for every bride, with tips to help you say 'I do' in style.
The Best Wedding Dresses and Outfits
Omnes Jai Jacquard Dress in Bleached Mauve
£125 at Omnes. The high neckline is complemented by an open crossover back, available in several sorbet colours.
Nobody's Child Bridal Ivory Satin Bandeau Eira Maxi Dress
From £250 at Nobody's Child and Anthropologie. A full-skirted bandeau column maxi dress that is modern and perfect for any body shape.
Phase Eight Imani Midi Dress
From £186.75 at Phase Eight and Debenhams. A vintage-inspired A-line silhouette, elegant with flat pointed pumps.
Nigel Preston Soho Wrap Midi Dress
£328 at Free People. Boho style, ideal with a long drop necklace, transitioning into autumn with a jumper.
Reformation Frankie Dress
£348 at Reformation. Sequins for a wedding are unexpected yet ethereal and fun, with flower detailing on spaghetti straps.
The Fold Clever Crepe Suit
Blazer £325, trousers £195 at The Fold. A classic ivory suit that is double-breasted without being boxy.
Asos Design Curve Satin Off Shoulder Mini Dress in Ivory
£120 at Asos. Channel your inner Charli XCX with an off-the-shoulder short style, add a veil for rock star effect.
Needle & Thread Meadow Ditsy Sweetheart Ankle Gown
£550 at Needle & Thread. A fairytale style with great coverage and delicate details.
Rixo Maybelle Satin Dress
£495 at Rixo. Loose and floaty with lace trim, designed to allow wearing a bra.
Nadine Merabi Marni Pink Suit
Blazer £295, trousers £245 at Nadine Merabi. Style with red shoes for full-on romance.
Me+Em 2-in-1 Lace Crochet Dress
£295 at Me+Em. Wear with a slip underneath, then repurpose on holiday with a bikini.
Faithfull Milana Midi Dress Dolce Broderie White
£340 at Faithfull. Broderie is very 2026, with a V-shaped corset top for a vintage countryside look.
Reiss Gigi Cotton Cut-Out Belted Midi Dress in Cream
From £298 at Reiss and John Lewis. Affordable high street find; swap the ivory belt for a gold chain.
Georgia Hardinge Torrent Dress Floor Length
£475 at Georgia Hardinge. Sculptural pleated floor-length dress with easy softness.
Mint Velvet Cream Sculpted Jacket and Tailored Wide-Leg Trousers
Jacket £175, trousers £160 at Mint Velvet. A fitted jacket solves blazer proportions, hugging the body.
Monsoon Cali Embellished Cape Sleeve Wedding Dress Ivory
From £330 at Monsoon and John Lewis. Empire line with floaty sleeves and subtle beading.
Aje Cleo Gown
£539 at Aje. Ruffled dress, forgiving style in barely-there lemon, making an impact.
Rat & Boa Olympia Sequin Dress
£450 at Rat & Boa. Slightly sheer sequin dress; wear a slip and add gold accessories.
Posse Darya Dress
£475 at Posse. Vintage-inspired linen dress ideal for hot summer nuptials.
Dôen Coraline Corded Lace-Trimmed Silk-Satin Midi Dress
£600 at Net-a-Porter. Classic shape with a tie belt to cinch the waist for added glamour.
How to Buy a Wedding Dress
Stick to your budget—there are great high street options without spending thousands. Don't get overwhelmed by choice; choose what makes you comfortable. Add personality with accessories like fun earrings or quirky shoes. Underwear is key; get a bra fitting beforehand. Bring your own steamer for the big day.
For more, read Jess Cartner-Morley's 52 women's summer wardrobe updates for under £100.
Melanie Wilkinson is the Guardian's styling editor.
