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Updated Mar 06, 202527 Nontraditional Wedding Dresses for a Unique Bridal Look
Prints, pops of color and two-piece gowns, right this way.
Photos, left to right: SOUCY, Hera Couture, Ines Di Santo,Design: Tiana Crispino for The Knot
There isn't one thing that defines nontraditional wedding dresses. Maybe you're looking for something simple in a color other than white, or maybe you want to stick with a classic bridal shade, but prefer an unexpected silhouette and bold, high-fashion details. Or maybe you feel that a chic bridal pantsuit or structured blazer look would suit you better. The beauty of a nontraditional wedding dress is that there aren't any rules—it's all about what feels right to you.
If you aren't sure what that is yet, we're here to help. Ahead, we're breaking down the different ways you can stray from tradition when it comes to your wedding dress. To help spark some inspiration, we're also sharing 27 of our favorite unique wedding dresses right now, including everything from affordable, ready-to-shop options to couture finds.
In this article:
- What is a Nontraditional Wedding Dress?
- How to Choose Unique Wedding Attire
- The Best Nontraditional Wedding Dresses and Bridal Looks for 2025
- Alternative Wedding Attire Ideas From Real Couples
What is a Nontraditional Wedding Dress?
A nontraditional wedding dress is one that breaks traditional bridal styling norms in some way, shape or form. This could mean going with a color other than white, whether through a bold print, interesting accent color or an entirely non-white wedding dress. It could also mean forgoing the usual wedding dress silhouettes (think A-line, mermaid or fit-and-flare) in favor of something more unique, like a billowy trapeze gown or cool two-piece set. Another way you can stray from tradition is through statement-making details like oversized floral appliqués, fringe or feathers.
FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT
While you might think that you'll need to look outside of your local bridal salon to find these characteristics, there are actually plenty of popular wedding dress designers known for their unique wedding gowns and nontraditional style. Visit The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find wedding dress shops near you and try on some looks IRL.
How to Choose Unique Wedding Attire
Research bridal designers: If NYBFW taught us anything this year, it's that more and more designers are dipping their toes into nontraditional wedding dresses. Monique Lhuillier, Ines Di Santo and Hera Couture all sprinkled color into their latest collections, while designers like Alexandra Grecco and Savage & Hunt gave classic white wedding dresses just a touch of nontraditional flair through ultra-unique silhouettes and dramatic embellishments. And then there are go-tos like WONÀ Concept, Honor and Danielle Frankel Studio, all of which are well-known for their stunningly unique bridal designs.
Look beyond bridal fashion: While today's designers have plenty of alternative wedding dresses to offer, one way to find something truly out of the box is to look beyond the bridal fashion space. Check out the latest ready-to-wear designer collections, browse your favorite retailers and visit a few vintage stores—you never know what you might find.
Consider other silhouettes: Tradition in the US states that a wedding dress is, well, a dress. Put your own spin on a bridal look with a fun and unexpected silhouette, like a jumpsuit or a blazer and matching trousers. If you want to stick with a dress, consider opting for a less traditional length like a mini or midi.
Search for stand-out details and colors: Along with unique silhouettes, keep an eye out for statement-making gown embellishments and shades. This could mean going with a dress in your favorite color, or maybe even having a high-fashion moment in a dress too over-the-top to wear for any other occasion.
The Best Nontraditional Wedding Dresses and Bridal Looks for 2025
No matter what "nontraditional" means to you, we're happy to report that there are plenty of unique wedding dress ideas for brides looking to break the mold. From breathtaking looks straight from the NYBFW runways to jumpsuits, two-pieces, minis and more, scroll on for our favorites.
1. Sébastien Luke Tia Sweetheart A-Line Appliqué Wedding Gown
Photo: Anthropologie
A billowy silhouette and dramatic, oversized chiffon blooms promise to make this strapless wedding dress one your guests will never forget. And just in case you didn't already have enough reasons to love it, there's a matching boa that effortlessly completes the look.
Size range: 0–20
2. SOUCY Flo Gown
Photo: SOUCY
A plunging neckline, voluminous sleeves and long, flowing silhouette already make this SOUCY dress a total standout, but what really takes it to the next level is the intricate gold dandelion motif. We saw this one on the runway at NYBFW, and trust us: It's even better in real life.
Size range: Made to order
3. Hera Couture Bernini Corset and Vita Skirt
Photo: Hera Couture
One of the best things about a two-piece wedding dress is that it allows for easy outfit changes over the course of the night, but Hera's Bernini Corset and Vita Skirt are such a perfect match, you might skip any additional looks. The bold black top is full of vintage charm with its strapless neckline and exposed boning, and the skirt adds a touch of playfulness with its floaty organza and embroidered polka dots.
Size range: 0–32
4. Danielle Frankel Studio Eliza Gown
Photo: Danielle Frankel Studio
Brides in search of a wedding dress with nontraditional flair will fall in love with Danielle Frankel's simple, yet statement-making gowns. The Eliza is a scoop-neck ball gown decorated with stunning hand-cut and hand-frayed bias silk wool strip fabric that beautifully cascades into a bubble-hem train.
Size range: 0–12
5. La Perle Misty Gown
Photo: La Perle
Alternative bridal dresses can still feel bridal, and this La Perle gown is proof. Its sweetheart neckline, A-line silhouette and off-the-shoulder puff sleeves give it a classic, romantic aesthetic, while its subdued blue-and-green floral print make it stand out.
Size range: 0–30
6. Willowby by Watters Colby Corset Tulle Two-Piece Wedding Gown
Photo: Anthropologie
A corseted bodice, lace-up detailing and a chic square neckline give this dress the dreamiest vintage vibes, but its two-piece silhouette makes it feel far more unique than your average wedding dress. We'd pair the top with some fun wide-leg trousers before hitting the dance floor.
Size range: 0–18W
7. LEIN Dorothy Gown
Photo: Over The Moon
Everything about this unique wedding gown from LEIN is wow worthy, from the hand-embroidered goose feathers to the elegant open back. It would feel right at home at an intimate dinner party wedding followed by a night on the dance floor.
Size range: XS–3XL
8. Christian Siriano for Azazie Jumpsuit
Photo: Azazie
Talk about multiple wedding looks in one. This jumpsuit from Christian Siriano's latest collection with Azazie comes with a lace illusion jacket and a cascading overskirt, giving you four possible outfit combos. The best part? It all rings up under $500.
Size range: 0–30; Custom
9. Ines Di Santo Fontana Gown
Photo: Ines Di Santo
The Fontana Gown is just one of the many standouts from Ines Di Santo's 2025 couture collection. It has a strapless neckline, three-dimensional flowers and a daring yet tasteful front slit, all topped off with a beautiful blush print for a unique effect.
Size range: Made to order
10. Adore by Justin Alexander Bonnie Jumpsuit
Photo: Adore by Justin Alexander
This Justin Alexander jumpsuit has a modern silhouette, a flattering V neckline and flowing wide-leg pants for a look that's equal parts stunning and easy to dance in. If you love it now, just wait until you see the lace-adorned illusion back.
Size range: 2–32
11. Claire Pettibone Tudor Rose Gown
Photo: Claire Pettibone
This unique wedding gown's gorgeous craftsmanship already makes it a standout, but the colorful embroidered florals topped with pearls, beads and sequins make it even more breathtaking. Plus, you can customize the florals with any of Claire Pettibone's silk colors for a one-of-a-kind look.
Size range: Made to order
12. Pnina Tornai Style 5135
Photo: Pnina Tornai
This alternative wedding dress has so many unique elements to offer, from the glittery printed silk to the deep-V neckline and dramatic floral detail. If you ask us, it's begging to be worn at a romantic garden party.
Size range: 2–36
13. Nadia Manjarrez Alba Gown
Photo: Nadia Manjarrez
The drop-waist bodice, the bold removable bow, the vibrant shade, the pockets—Nadia Manjarrez's Alba Gown is easily the star of her 2025 collection. If you're looking to take your "something blue" bridal moment to the next level, this might just be the way to do it.
Size range: Made to order
14. Mirror Palais Silk Ballet Russes Wedding Gown
Photo: Anthropologie
Vintage elements play a major role in this year's top wedding dress trends, and this strapless gown's Edwardian ruffle embellishments are the perfect example. To take the historical vibes even further, pair it with the designer's matching silk taffeta corset.
Size range: S–XL
15. WONÁ Concept Hartley Gown
Photo: WONÀ Concept
When it comes to nontraditional bridal gowns, WONÀ Concept has no shortage of styles to offer. This one is defined by rich feather details that frame the hemline and side slit, bringing a bold finish to an otherwise classic wedding dress silhouette.
Size range: 4–24
16. Bridal by ELOQUII Tulle Bustier Ball Gown
Photo: ELOQUII
Few things feel more bridal than a tulle ball gown. But one in black? Now that's nontraditional. This plus-size pick couldn't be more perfect for the daring bride and would look perfect paired with a black birdcage veil.
Size range: 14–32
17. Olivia Bottega Short Taffeta Wedding Dress Mariell
Photo: Olivia Bottega
Mini dresses don't always feel worthy of a wedding ceremony, but this Olivia Bottega option is certainly an exception. The puff sleeves and bubble hem add drama and volume, while the shiny taffeta makes it feel far more elevated than your average mini.
Size range: Custom
18. Danielle Frankel Studio Macie Bustier and Rory Pant
Photo: Danielle Frankel Studio
Danielle Frankel has lots of beautiful nontraditional bridal dresses to offer, but we'd be remiss if we didn't spotlight her organza petal bustier top and matching silk wool trousers with pintucked pleats. If you're more of a pants person, look no further.
Size range: 0–12
19. Grace Loves Lace Rosie Gown
Photo: Grace Loves Lace
The Rosie Gown from Grace Loves Lace channels 1920s vibes with its sheer design, delicate lace and hand-placed floral embroidery. With complimentary sleeves and built-in shapewear, your entire wedding day outfit is pretty much taken care of.
Size range: XS–3XL
20. Alexandra Grecco Frances Suit
Photo: Alexandra Grecco
The Frances Suit gets major points for its versatility. Featuring an oversized jacket and wide-leg pants in matte silk crepe, it looks just as beautiful with its waist-defining belt as it does without for a relaxed, laidback vibe.
Size range: 00–20
21. Dana Harel Helena Dress
Photo: Dana Harel
This dress's nontraditional flair comes from its ultra-sheer French polka dot lace. Dana Harel recommends wearing it over alluring lingerie for a daring look, but you could easily add more coverage with a full slip.
Size range: 0–24
22. Viktor&Rolf Volant Flower High-Low Gown
Photo: Viktor&Rolf
If you're torn between a trailing train and an itty-bitty length, Viktor&Rolf has you covered with this dramatic high-low gown. It pairs a simplistic bodice with an organza skirt adorned with handcrafted florals and a ruffle hem. Both are brought together by a waist-defining cummerband.
Size range: Made to order
23. Pnina Tornai for Kleinfeld Satin Crepe Sheath
Photo: Kleinfeld
For a more subtle take on the sheer wedding dress trend, Pnina Tornai presents this classic crepe sheath with a twist. It has a romantic cowl neckline, plunging back and asymmetrically placed floral appliques that show off just a touch of skin.
Size range: 2–36
24. Bronx and Banco Jasmine Gown
Photo: REVOLVE
Brides who are on the fence about wearing white will love this unique gown from Bronx and Banco, designed with a sheer overlay featuring hand embroidery and floral appliques. Complete with a floor-grazing hem and adjustable straps, it's a fuss-free pick you'll feel comfortable in all night long.
Size range: XS–XL
25. Monique Lhuillier Ravello Gown
Photo: Monique Lhuillier
If anyone knows how to put a modern spin on timeless bridal style, it's Monique Lhuillier. Fall 2025's collection takes inspiration from Victorian details and lush Italian gardens, which is perfectly demonstrated by the Ravello Gown's gorgeous bouquet print.
Size range: 0–20
26. Huishan Zhang Danica Gown
Photo: Over The Moon
The Danica Gown's regal floor-length cape totally eliminates the need for a veil, making this bridal look both unique and laidback. Complement the sparkling shoulder embellishment with a pair of equally eye-catching shoes.
Size range: 2–14
27. Needle & Thread Hattie Ruffle Strapless Ankle Gown
Photo: Needle & Thread
Layers of soft, floaty tulle give this strapless Needle & Thread gown an ethereal, wedding-worthy feel without the need for lots of length. Designed to hit right at the ankle, it's an effortless wedding day look you can easily dance and mingle in.
Size range: 0–14
Alternative Wedding Attire Ideas From Real Couples
Looking for more alternative wedding dresses? Check out these nontraditional wedding dresses worn by real brides to get you inspired for your own big day.
Dramatic Strapless Two-Piece Wedding Gown
This bride's two-piece look from Chosen by KYHA was the perfect choice for her relaxed yet refined celebration in Mexico.
Long-Sleeve Floral Embroidered Wedding Gown
Magenta and green florals gave this bride's white lace wedding dress an unconventional touch.
Black Strapless Sweetheart Neckline Wedding Gown
Opting for an all-black wedding dress is a great way to stray from tradition while still sporting a classic look.
One-Shoulder Bow-Detail Wedding Jumpsuit
While it may not look nontraditional at first glance, you'll change your mind once you spot the pants.
Spaghetti Strap Fringe Wedding Gown
Cascading fringe and festive silver boots combine for a look that feels unique but still oh so bridal.
Cascading Floral Wedding Gown Cape
This winter bride topped her classic white wedding gown with a colorful floral cape for a removable nontraditional touch.
Gold Bow-Shoulder Wedding Gown
Gold material and a dramatic shoulder bow make this dress just as memorable as a grand white ball gown.
Plunge-Neckline Bridal Jumpsuit With Cape
This bride made her simple white jumpsuit incredibly wedding day worthy thanks to an ethereal flowing cape.
Tiered, Short-Sleeve Midi-Length Wedding Dress
A midi-length wedding dress is a great way to add just a touch of nontradition and show off your gorgeous wedding shoes.
Knee-Length Strapless Wedding Dress With Train
Short wedding dresses can still be dramatic, and this bride has a trailing train to prove it.
