From classic rock to bumpin' new pop songs, here's a curated list of crowd-pleasers.
Updated Mar 06, 202521 Unique Bridesmaid Dresses That Pop in Photos
Walk down the aisle in something no one else has before.
Photos, left to right: Park & Fifth, Altar'd State, Mint Velvet
More and more lately, brides are giving their wedding parties free rein to choose their own attire rather than a strict dress code to follow or even an exact dress to wear. We're fully on board with this bridesmaid trend: Unique bridesmaid dresses allow each bridesmaid to showcase her own personal style and, most importantly, to feel comfortable and confident on the big day. Plus, uniformity is so over. The variety created when each bridesmaid's dress is unique adds layers of texture and color to the photos that make the wedding photography pop. The concept is a win-win across the board. And yet, where does one begin? Without guidelines or limitations, the options are quite literally endless. Chat with the couple about themes or color palettes they have in mind for decor, consider seasonality and what florals you might be carrying, and try on different silhouettes to decipher what suits you best. To kick off your search, we've rounded up 21 unique bridesmaid dress styles below and pegged some of our go-to retailers.
21 Unique Bridesmaid Dresses for Nontraditional Weddings
Even though choosing your own bridesmaid attire is probably preferred, it can be daunting—we get it! Here, we've rounded up 21 styles in various colors, patterns, silhouettes and lengths to spark some inspiration. (And keep reading beyond our list to learn where to find unique bridesmaid dresses.)
1. Unique Fringed Bridesmaid Dress
Photo: Mint Velvet
Fringe is a fun pick for bridesmaid dresses thanks to the way it swishes and sways on the dance floor. This pink frock gives the look a unique twist with thick strands of fringe created from embroidered discs that cover the entire dress. We could see this at a wedding with mod geometric details.
FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT
Size Range: 2-14
2. Floral Dress
Photo: Revolve
V. Chapman is a favorite label for bridesmaids' dresses, though some of her designs are more classic than others. This one stands out as unique not just for the poppy pink tapestry print but also for its additional design details: lace-edged tiers on the full skirt, visible boning in the corset top and flutter sleeves, among others. There's a lot going on, so keep jewelry to a minimum: A pair of large stud earrings or simple hoops would be just right.
Size Range: 0-12
3. Sleeved Satin Dress
Photo: Wolf & Badger
The Victorian era gets a fashion-forward update in this Vasiliki Atelier stunner, which we love for late fall garden weddings. The bodice is beautifully draped to reflect the ripples of florals, and the skirt is cut into an angled high-low. Stretch luxe satin makes the sleeves flexible enough for dancing, too.
Size Range: XXS-L
4. Seashell-Inspired Separates
Photo: Neiman Marcus
Rather than a unique bridesmaid dress, try separates. We love this two-piece for seaside weddings: The pleated satin strapless top is reminiscent of a seashell, and its dusty rose hue provides a pop of color. Pair it with matching pleated satin wide-leg trousers for a cohesive wedding look; post-event, don the top with white shorts or even jeans at summer outings.
Size Range: 2-12
5. Tiered Metallics
Photo: Revolve
This Line & Dot bridesmaid dress gives off celestial vibes (we love it for a twilit ceremony or planetarium reception) and is sure to be the star of the wedding party. The two-toned metallic material is tiered through the skirt and features a halter neck and low back.
Size Range: XS-L
6. Something Blue, Something New
Photo: Reformation
This dusty blue hue is a classic bridesmaid dress shade, but the silhouette says "something new." A straight satin band holds the dress up while breezy, lightweight georgette drapes to the floor. We can see this with flats or sandals for a beach wedding; pair it with a pretty diamond necklace for a fancier vibe, or ocean-inspired saltwater pearls.
Size Range: 0-12
7. Flower Power
Photo: Lovers and Friends
Floral prints are classic—but you can more fully embrace botanical themes by wearing one on your chest, such as with this satin halter bridesmaid dress. The lavender hue is springy and chic, and the ankle-length hem makes it wedding-ready, but the Eve-inspired floral bodice is cheeky and fun.
Size Range: XXS-XL
8. Ombre Hues
Photo: Dillard's
You'll be a literal ray of sunshine at your bestie's wedding in this fresh Antonio Melani ombre dress. The full A-line skirt is appropriate for more formal weddings that call for a pop of uniqueness, and the V-neck and back are flattering and pretty details. Accessorize with even more color: turquoise earrings or a poppy heel.
Size Range: 0-18
9. White on White
Photo: Altar'd State
There's something so interesting about bridesmaids all in white along with the bride; it's a unique and fresh trend we're seeing, and especially pretty at spring and summer weddings. Opt for styles that differ from the bride's—if her dress is heavily embellished, go sleek and smooth; if she's clean and classic, choose gowns with texture. This fitted maxi dress has eyelet detailing and strings of 3D florals; a slit at the back makes that walk down the aisle even easier.
Size Range: XS-XXL
10. A Sheer Masterpiece
Photo: Anthropologie
Sheer dresses aren't always wedding-appropriate, but this vibrant BHLDN style proves they can actually be the perfect choice. A short sleeve organza overlay tops a knee-length slip dress for the perfect midi masterpiece, and a bow detail and ruffle hem add whimsy. Pair it with chunky gold jewelry and wedges for a summertime affair.
Size Range: XXS-XXL
11. A Crocheted Maxi Bridesmaid Dress
Photo: STAUD
Lean into the boho vibes at beach weddings with a crocheted bridesmaid dress. We love this one in black: It has an uneven scalloped hem, high neck and low back and features floral and geometric detailing. Pair it with low-heeled mules and lots of jewelry for an evening beach wedding or sandals and bangles for a daytime ceremony in the sand.
Size Range: Two sizes (XS/S and M/L)
12. A Colorful Pantsuit
Photo: White House Black Market
The most unique type of bridesmaid dress might not be a dress at all, but a pantsuit. The look doesn't have to be boring though, and can still fit into the wedding color palette as traditional bridesmaid dresses do. This tangerine blazer and pants can be worn over a tank or—for a sultry yet elevated look—with no shirt and a stack of chain necklaces (be sure to get approval from the bride first!).
Size Range: 00-18, regular, petite or long
13. A Floral Jumpsuit
Photo: AW Bridal
Who doesn't love a bridesmaid jumpsuit? This airy chiffon version is a unique choice for bridesmaids and gets an even fresher upgrade in Blue Botanical Floral. It's a nod to trending chinoiserie decor details and is perfect for weddings with a blue color palette. Pair it with strappy white sandals.
Size Range: 0-30
14. Ethereal Glam
Photo: Sachin & Babi
A new and unique take on the trending Grecian goddess bridesmaid aesthetic, this off-the-shoulder dress is airy and ethereal and yet somehow still ultra glamorous. It can be dressed way up or down to fit any wedding dress code, and the shimmery silk lamé radiates both gold and silver hues, so you can go either way with jewelry. We recommend a pair of statement drop earrings.
Size Range: XS-XL
15. Black-Tie Two-Piece
Photo: Sachin & Babi
Bare your midriff—yes, we said it!—even in black-tie attire with this stunning two-piece, an updated take on the classic black bridesmaid dress. The Dupioni silk fabrication, glamorous bow detail and full maxi skirt are ultra-elevated details that dress this up for the most formal occasions; add statement earrings or a fistful of cocktail rings.
Size Range: 0-8
16. Destination Cutout
Photo: Farm Rio
We're all for leaning into a theme, especially for tropical destination weddings. This palm-tree midi does just that without veering into cheesy territory. (Psst, we also love this as a welcome party look for destination brides!)
Size Range: XXS-XL
17. Moody Floral Dress
Photo: Park & Fifth
Moody decor is having a moment in weddings: Couples are opting for darker-hued florals, lots of candlelight and draping that makes spaces feel more intimate and mysterious. This affordable unique bridesmaid dress in the pattern dubbed Penny fits the vibe with a midnight blue base and dark copper florals. Plus, the silhouette is modern and chic.
Size Range: XXS-XL
18. Vintage-Inspired Piece
Photo: Rent the Runway
Drop waists are everywhere in bridal right now—so why not for bridesmaids, too? The vintage silhouette gets a modern update in this vibrant orange Hutch dress at Rent the Runway. Renting is a great option for mix-and-match bridal parties or wedding parties where each girl can choose her own style. We envision this one in a tropical setting or with a wedding party made up of jewel tones.
Size Range: 0-16
19. Mini Bridesmaid Dress
Photo: Lulus
Midi and full-length dresses are the most common bridesmaid lengths, but for more casual or daytime weddings, a mini is a fresh and unique pick. Keep it classy by choosing something structured or with pretty detailing. This Lulus dress has a square neckline with wide tapered straps and a pretty tone-on-tone floral that adds a touch of texture.
Size Range: XS-XXL
20. Sequined Maxi Bridesmaid Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
Bridesmaids will radiate in a column gown covered in sequins—but the style isn't only for formal black-tie. We love this all-over sequin maxi for the way it can be dressed up or down—its minty green hue says daytime garden wedding while the light-catching embellishments are high glam. (Plus, the straight neckline and spaghetti straps are Gen Z-approved.)
Size Range: XS-XL
21. Bridesmaid Tuxedo
Photo: Birdy Grey
For mixed-gender bridal parties or groomswomen, we love a sleek tuxedo. This one by SuitShop is crafted to perfection with a single-button jacket and tapered pants with side slits. Get creative with pops of color in your accessories, like a hot pink shoe or sapphire jewelry.
Size Range: 0-20, short, regular or long
Where to Buy Unique Bridesmaid Dresses
When looking for a unique bridesmaid dress, you aren't limited to brands and retailers traditionally known for bridesmaids or even wedding attire. You can shop, well, anywhere. Our search—and the resulting list above—included a huge variety of retailers, but a few stood out in the crowd for their stellar selections of what could be considered unique bridesmaid attire.
- Sachin & Babi: The label makes dresses that run the gamut from casual daytime to fancy black-tie—but despite the range in colors, fabrications and styles, they all have one thing in common: quality. Most options here may be a bit of a splurge for a unique bridesmaid dress (though they do offer a selection of gowns under $300), but chances are you'll be able to wear it again as a wedding guest or for other special occasions.
- Revolve: One of our top picks for wedding guest attire, Revolve is also where to find unique bridesmaid dresses. The online retailer carries some classic bridesmaid brands such as V.Chapman (a fave for florals and corested styles!) but also more off-the-beaten-path labels. Prices vary quite a bit—you'll be able to splurge or find an affordable yet unique bridesmaid dress.
- Farm Rio: This is our pick for unique bridesmaid dresses for tropical or destination weddings. While the label does offer some pretty solid styles, most dresses feature playful patterns and bold color palettes. They're not for the faint of heart, but for weddings with bold design or unique themes there are some truly stunning pieces. Search the "maxi dresses" category in particular.
- Lulus: For affordable unique bridesmaid dresses, Lulus has something for just about everyone and every style. (Particularly if you don't plan to rewear a bridesmaid dress, it's nice to spend a little less.) The Lulus Weddings shop has dozens of lovely styles geared directly at bridesmaids that veer more traditional, but shop around the rest of the site for more unique finds.
