When it comes to planning a wedding, some brides prefer glitz and glamour while others veer towards having a relaxed celebration. There’s no wrong way to have a wedding, of course, and if a laid-back affair is calling your name, a casual wedding might be the move. Not only are these events typically more intimate and budget-friendly, but a casual dress code is often easier for guests to achieve. That said, even if your “I dos” are going to be lowkey, you’re still the bride, and finding a casual look that feels beautiful, bridal, and special is essential.
Typically, casual wedding dresses have fewer (if any) embellishments and beading, and they’re often made of more lightweight, breezy fabrics. What’s more, lots of casual brides opt to wear shorter styles to suit their bridal aesthetics. Not only are most of these gowns easy to wear after the big day, but they’re typically lower in cost, which can be a huge help if you’re trying to stick to a specific budget. And the best part is, there are tons of casual wedding dresses out there, fit for all types of celebrations.
Whether you’re having a seaside celebration, a backyard bash, or simply keeping things informal at your dream venue, there’s a laidback look for you. Sourced from the most reputable sellers with the best reviews, read on for the top casual wedding dresses fit for an easygoing day of love and laughter.
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Size Range: XXS-3X | Material: Georgette fabric | Length: Floor-length
With over 5,000 rave reviews, this ethereal gown from Lulus is a casual wedding favorite. Coming in over 15 different color options, the plunging neckline, banded waist, and full maxi skirt feel effortlessly bridal.
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Courtesy of Reformation
Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Linen | Length: Midi
A simple square neckline, single button closure, and airy linen fabric make this charming midi dress from Reformation an easy choice for laidback nuptials. The understated silhouette is perfect for informal backyard weddings or intimate elopements.
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Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Polyester | Length: Mini
Fresh and trendy, this adorable Eva Franco swing dress is exactly what any summer bride needs. The all-over floral appliques nod to the season while the halter neckline, back tie, and shorter length will keep you feeling breezy during the sunny “I dos.”
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Courtesy of Revelry
Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Tulle | Length: Maxi or midi
Whether you choose this style in maxi or midi length, Revelry’s Abigail dress is a boho bride’s dream, complete with convertible off-the-shoulder sleeves and a breezy A-line skirt. The style also comes in chiffon for an even softer aesthetic.
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Courtesy of Anthropologie
Size Range: 0-14 | Material: Lace | Length: Midi
Delicate and elegant, the Naomi Dress from V. Chapman was truly made for lovers of lace. The curve-hugging sheath wedding dress boasts a structured sweetheart neckline, lace-up back, and all-over lace detailing for a casual bridal look that’s both sweet and sultry.
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Courtesy of BHLDN
Size Range: 0-26W | Materials: Polyester, tulle | Length: Floor-length
Full of vintage charm and bygone-era beauty, BHLDN’s Katarina tulle gown feels at home in almost any casual setting. We suggest keeping your accessories simple to really allow the dainty, all-over floral embroidery to shine.
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Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester | Length: Midi
Elegant without feeling too formal, this sleeveless draped dress from Katie May seamlessly marries the bridal and casual aesthetics. The sweetheart neckline and midi length are easy to dress up or down, while the subtle polka dot pattern keeps the look contemporary.
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Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Satin | Length: Midi
Satin has become one of the most popular wedding dress fabrics, and this sleek style from Revelry is an easy bridal choice. A cowl neckline, figure-flatting ruching, and dual knee-high slits make the Skye a must-have, no matter which of the 30+ colors you select it in.
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Courtesy of Revelry
Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Velvet | Length: Floor-length
From the rich velvet material to the long sleeves and high bateau neckline, it’s clear Revelry’s Gemma dress was made with cold-weather celebrations in mind. Whichever color you select (there are 25+ hues), this gown will keep you warm while the dramatic draped back keeps the look from feeling too covered up.
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Courtesy of Reformation
Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Cotton | Length: Ankle-length
This crop top and fitted skirt ensemble can be worn together or separately, but either way, we especially love the set paired with some fresh flowers and bridal sandals. Whether you keep things simple or add a few flashy accessories, the relaxed two-piece dress will quickly become a wardrobe staple post-wedding.
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Courtesy of David’s Bridal
Size Range: 0-26W | Material: Polyester | Length: Knee-length
Chic detailing and flirty hems pair perfectly for spring weddings, and this high-neck dress from DB studio is faultless for floral-filled celebrations. The short skirt keeps the look casual while the long sleeves fight any springtime chill—plus, the all-over lace makes the design feel bridal as can be.
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Courtesy of LoveShackFancy
Size Range: 00-14 | Materials: Silk | Length: Floor-length
French-inspired, the Sicilia silk dress is perfect for fashion-forward brides who want their gowns to double as “something blue.” An elongating V-neckline and fitted waist give way to tiers of floaty ruffles in mixed blue patterns, for an eclectic and daring look.
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Courtesy of Lulus
Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, lace | Length: Midi
Coming in five different color options, Lulus’s Remarkable dress truly stands up to its name. The white lining gives the appearance of a two-piece set, while the sheer lace overlay provides coverage with a rounded neckline and short sleeves. Pair it with some statement heels for a sophisticated-meets-casual bridal look.
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Courtesy of Lulus
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Crepe | Length: Midi
If you want a clean and simple bridal look, Lulus’s Guessing Game midi is what you’ve been searching for. Thick, crepe fabric gives the gown structure while the sleek, no-frills silhouette can be worn by itself or dressed up with a belt, veil, and sparkly bridal accessories.
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Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Velvet | Length: Maxi
Fall weddings and velvet fabrics go hand-in-hand, which is why we adore Revelry’s Giselle dress for a casual autumn celebration. The glamorous faux-wrap style is elevated but not too fancy, and the short sleeves provide just enough coverage against the fall breeze. Pair it with a pretty jacket or shrug if the temps start to dip.
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Courtesy of Free People
Size Range: 00-14 | Material: Taffeta | Length: Mini
Between the exaggerated side cutouts and the oversized statement bow in the back, LoveShackFancy’s Anjanue dress is fit for a night of dancing with your family and friends post “I dos.” Whether you wear it for the ceremony or just the afterparty, this flirty mini was made to turn heads.
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Courtesy of Reformation
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Georgette fabric | Length: Midi
Casual weddings upon sandy shores require breezy gowns that nod to the natural setting, like Reformation’s Nira dress. The smocked bodice and tie straps feel beachy, the tiered skirt feels bridal, and the midi length keeps your hemline free from sand and saltwater.
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Courtesy of BHLDN
Size Range: 0-26W | Material: Cotton silk taffeta | Length: Floor-length
You don’t have to ditch your bold bridal gown vision just because you’re having a casual wedding. BHLDN’s Marina balances a relaxed style with a formal look thanks to its richly textured fabric, large-scale cutwork, puff sleeves, and sweeping train.
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Courtesy of David’s Bridal
Size Range: 2-16 | Material: Polyester | Length: Mini
With a pleated skirt and matching tiered sleeves, this playful frock from Fame and Partners was made for the most fun-loving of brides. Complete the look with sky-high stilettos or dressy bridal sneakers to keep you dancing all night long.
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Courtesy of Nordstrom
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Nylon | Length: Floor-length
Covered in fluttery floral 3D appliqués, the Sidney gown from Dress the Population is ideal for brides who lean toward dreamy silhouettes and eccentric styles. A sweeping peekaboo skirt keeps the design casual, while the high-end detailing boasts your bridal status.
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Courtesy of SuitShop
Size Range: 00-20 | Materials: Crepe and satin | Length: Mini
If you’re torn between a suit and a dress, SuitShop has you covered with a frock that blends the two wedding styles. Featuring a structured tuxedo silhouette, satin lapel, and pockets at the hips, this statement style exudes sophistication, class, and timelessness.
What to Look for in a Casual Wedding Dress
There’s no rule that says a casual wedding equals a casual wedding dress, but usually, the formality of the event will be somewhat congruent to the couple’s day-of attire. While you can wear anything you’d like on your special day, “wedding casual” doesn’t mean jeans and a t-shirt (unless that’s what you prefer, of course!). Instead, look for dresses made from lighter fabrics and without heavy detailing or embellishments. You can also consider shorter hemlines, so mini and midi dresses are completely within reason.
When sifting through options, consider your venue and the time of your event, not to mention the season. While a ball gown may sound fun, it might not mesh with your backyard event. Additionally, many casual weddings take place outdoors, and being prepared for the elements (with a jacket or fabric that can fight the breeze) is a must. Lastly, you’ll want to keep your options open. If a casual wedding means a tight dress budget, look for styles that don’t require much tailoring, can easily be worn again, and feel complimentary to your day-of vision. If you’re feeling stuck, think of it as a dress you’d wear to church, a nice brunch, or a special outing with friends.
Why Trust Us
Contributing Expert Writer Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and six years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more.
