Fashion + Beauty //April 17, 2023
So much magic can happen outside of a white satin dress! We were recently inspired byall the love this unique gown got, and after receiving quite a few emails + DMs from readers asking us to share more unique wedding dresses, we decided it was time to gather up some of the most stand-out gowns that have stolen our hearts recently.
From vibrant designs to playful hemlines to dazzling embellishments, there are SO many stunning options for the big day — so why limit yourself to the same old cookie-cutter look?! Whether you’re planning a fun elopement, searching for a chic after-party dress, or just want to rock something all your own on the big day, prepare to fall head over heels for these unique wedding dresses!
But first, a few FAQS to help you find your wedding dress soul mate….
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Is a unique wedding dress right for you?
Do you love to take risks and stand out from the crowd? Do you want your big day to feel like a celebration of you and your partner, instead of a series of traditions? Does the idea of a classic white gown feel a little, well, boring? Then a unique wedding dress may just be “the one!”
Over the past few years, we’ve seen more and more couples trade traditional ceremonies for rad celebrations that reflect their relationship and showcase their personal styles. And unique wedding dresses have taken center stage!
After all, you want to feel like you as you walk down the aisle — and an ivory ball gown isn’t a one-size-fits-all style.
The Pros and Cons of Choosing a Unique Wedding Dress
We LOVE unique wedding dresses — but we also love the look of a timeless white gown! If you can relate and don’t know which one to choose, here are some pros and cons to make saying “yes” to the dress a little easier.
Pros:
- Unique wedding dresses give you a one-of-a-kind style for your one-of-a-kind relationship. Your love story isn’t like anyone else’s, so why should your dress be? And the same goes for your personal style. With a unique gown, you’re celebrating what makes you unique on one of the biggest days of your life.
- You have more options! When you’re not limited to white, floor-skimming dresses with classic silhouettes, the fashion world truly opens up. No need to stick to bridal boutiques or traditional designs — with unique wedding dresses, you have the pick of any designer, hue, or style!
- Similarly, you have more wallet-friendly options. Let’s face it: classic wedding dresses can be expensive. But when you’re shopping outside of the box, you can find gorgeous gowns at all price points. Looking fabulous and standing out doesn’t have to break the bank!
Cons:
- A unique wedding dress may not be as timeless as a classic gown. We’ve all seen the photos of the ruffle-filled ’80s weddings, and what was trendy then feels dated now. The same might happen with a super unique gown — especially if you’re following trends or if your style changes pretty frequently.
- Your dream unique wedding dress may also be trickier to find. With more options comes more searching, so it can take extra scrolling to narrow down your favorite picks. But that’s why we created this list — we did the internet surfing so you don’t have to!
Ultimately, your decision will come down to what feels right to you. And if you really can’t decide, why not choose both and have an iconic outfit change for your reception?! It’s your party, and you can dress how you want to.
How unique should you get with your wedding dress?
Your wedding day is about celebrating your love, so make it as unique or traditional as you want to! This also applies to your wedding dress.
Maybe you love the look of a classic fairytale gown, but want it in red instead of white. Or maybe you want to rock a fun mini hemline, but still love the traditional bridal look (veil included!).
And of course, there’s always the option of doing something totally original, like making a statement with head-to-toe saturated sequined details!
Our Favorite Spots to Score a Unique Wedding Dress
With so many STUN-NING unique wedding dresses to choose from, the hardest part will be narrowing down your favorite. To help you out, here are the best places to find your one-of-a-kind dream dress!
- Etsy: Not only does Etsy have endless options of swoon-worthy unique wedding dresses, but most of their gowns are also custom-made to your exact measurements. And created by independent designers, you also have the option to fully customize your dream dress. It doesn’t get more unique than that!
- Anthropologie Weddings: If you want to rock something super fashion-forward on the big day, Anthropologie is where it’s at for unique wedding dresses that are both trendy and timeless. Their wedding collection is to die for, and they have everything from designer gowns to mini dresses to the perfect heels to tie it all together.
- KHYA: For wedding dresses that even your Pinterest board would be jealous of, look no further than KYHA. They specialize in gorgeous luxury gowns for rule-breakers and trend-setters. Whether you want all-over sparkles or wow-worthy sleeves, they’ll deliver.
But this is just a glimpse into all the amazing gowns out there! Let’s get into the best unique wedding dresses that will have you feeling like the main character on your big day.
Our Favorite Unique Wedding Dresses For Every Style
1: Unique Blossoming Botanical Wedding Dress
A classic bridal ball gown, but with a whimsical floral twist! This unique wedding dress makes such a romantic statement, with 3D botanical appliqués that look like they’re blossoming right off the fabric. Your bouquet is about to have some serious competition!
The flowy + fluttery silhouette of this gorgeous gown will also give you the prettiest movement, whether you’re floating down the aisle or twirling on the dance floor.
Shop This Unique 3D Petal Gown
2: Shimmering Sheer Unique Wedding Dress
One word: iconic. Featuring a galaxy of twinkling beads and mirrored embellishments, this unique wedding dress will have you lighting up any room you walk into.
Complete with metallic sheer tulle, a plunging v-neck, and an alluring open back, it’s a bold gown for a bold babe!
P.S. If you don’t want to bare quite as much, this glittering gown also looks amazing styled with a long nude slip for extra coverage.
Shop This EMbellished Unique Tulle Gown
3: Old Hollywood Glam Unique Wedding Dress
You’ll look like you’re dripping with glamour thanks to this elegant + unique wedding dress. From the draped pearlescent bodice to the ultra high leg slit, it oozes Old Hollywood vibes.
And just wait until you see that statement open back! Perfect if you want to make the aisle your personal red carpet.
Complete the luminescent look with some matching pearlcore earrings and you’re pretty much golden!
Shop This Unique Beaded Bodice Gown
4: Celestial Star-Studded Unique Wedding Dress
If your love was written in the stars, then this unique celestial wedding dress is your perfect compatibility match. Like a sparkling night sky in dress form, it features hundreds of twinkling stars across the dreamy grey tulle. Safe to say we’re totally starstruck!
Plus, this enchanting gown comes in sizes 0-28 (with options for custom sizing) and features two different neckline styles.
Shop This Enchanting Grey Tulle GOwn
5: Rosy Tulle Unique Wedding Dress
For the hopeless romantics who can’t imagine wearing white on the big day, pretty in pink wedding gowns are a no brainer. And this gorgeous tulle number has to be one of our faves!
From the romantic corset bodice to the frothy tulle skirt, this gown looks like something straight out of a fairytale. Especially with those 3D rosettes, which cascade down the floaty skirt. It’s giving new meaning to the term “blushing bride!”
Shop This Fairytale Corset Bodice Tulle Gown
6: Regencycore Silky Unique Wedding Dress
Vintage meets modern with this stunning unique wedding dress. The cowl neckline feels right on trend, while the dreamy chiffon sleeves give it a regencycore flair that is simply TO DIE FOR.
And with a long train and flirty cut-out in the back, this gown is guaranteed to make a statement.
Note: weaving delicate baby’s breath flowers into your hair is not required, but it is highly recommended!
Shop This Unique + Romantic Cowl Neck Gown
7: Unique Bow Tie Mini Dress
We couldn’t create a list of unique wedding dresses without featuring at least one mini! We’re OBSESSED with the mini wedding dress trend — they’re the coolest look for elopements, non-traditional babes, and wedding outfit changes. And for anyone who wants to show off their wedding shoes on the big day!
Featuring another one of our fave 2023 bridal trends (oversized bows), this chic mini definitely takes the cake. Plus, that statement bow is removable for a sleek second look!
Shop This Trendy Bow Tie Mini Wedding Dress
Want to show off some leg on the big day? If you love the mini hemline trend as much as we do, don’t miss our round-up of the best short wedding gowns!
8: Sparkly Mermaidcore Unique Wedding Dress
It’s official: mermaidcore is taking over, and we are HERE for it. Channel the magical, iridescent look for your “I do’s” with this glittering unique wedding dress. Covered in head-to-toe sequin embellishments, it has the same vibe as light reflecting on water. Pure magic!
And with detachable sleeves, this radiant gown will give you two dresses in one. All it’s missing are those draped chandelier earrings to complete the look!
Shop This Iridescent Embellished Off-the-Shoulder Gown
9: “Something Blue” Unique Wedding Dress
Manifest clear skies on the big day with dreamy blue bridal gowns! This unique wedding dress wows, with sky-hued chiffon petals dotting romantic sheer tulle. If you’ve been on the hunt for the perfect “something blue,” look no further!
We also love the statement train on this charming gown. Wear it down for a stand-out ceremony style, then bustle it in the front for the dancing portion of the evening.
Shop This Unique Sky Hued Gown
10: Beautiful Bouquet Inspired Unique Wedding Dress
Needle & Thread is one of our favorite spots to find feminine, romantic, and super unique wedding dresses. Case in point: this beautiful botanical gown!
Dotted with itty bitty pastel bouquets, this dress makes such a sweet statement for a spring or summertime wedding. And also peep the little beaded embellishments, which give it a subtle sparkle as you move.
Paired with this matching tulle cape, it’s a whimsical dream come true!
Shop This Vintage-Inspired Tulle Gown
11: Unique ’70s-Inspired Bell Sleeve Gown
Calling all bohemian babes! Channel Stevie Nicks vibes as you tie the knot with this unique + free-spirited wedding dress. We love the intricate fabric, fitted silhouette, and sheer bodice. But the true star of the show is those ’70s-inspired, fringe-trimmed sleeves. Obsessed!
Best paired with bare feet and a blossoming flower crown.
Shop This Unique + Intricate Fitted Wedding Dress
12: Ombré Silk Unique Wedding Dress
This unique gown is a traditional ivory wedding dress on top, and a vibrant sunset-hued stunner on bottom. Talk about the best of both worlds! And made with luxurious silk satin and pleated chiffon, it’ll look AND feel like a dream.
Just picture the golden hour photos you could get with this unique gown. Swoon!
Shop This Sunset-Hued Silk Gown
13: Romantic Ruffled Unique Wedding Dress
Prepare for major ooohs and aaaahs as you make your grand entrance in this stunner! It’s bringing ALL the drama with tiers of romantic cream hued tulle ruffles, which are balanced by the ultra flattering beaded bodice.
And featuring an extra long train in the back, this unique dress should come with a swoon warning.
P.S. If you’re also on the hunt for a cute second look, this unique wedding dress has a tulle mini version that is just TOO good!
Shop This Dramatic Tiered Tulle Wedding Gown
14: Lovely Lacy + Silky Slip Dress
Your favorite slip dress just got a romantic, vintage-inspired makeover. With a floor-skimming silhouette, sweet lacy inserts, and a chic cut-out back, this unique gown looks like a gorgeous family heirloom — but with a cool girl twist!
And designed by Reformation, this unique wedding dress is sustainably made with environmentally friendly silk. Perfect for the eco-conscious babes who still want to look super stylish on the big day.
Shop This Unique Slip Style Wedding Dress
15: Secret Garden-Inspired Unique Wedding Dress
Like a whimsical secret garden in dress form, this enchanting gown is blossoming with vibrant botanicals and pretty pastel hues. We can practically smell those sweet blooms from here!
We’re suckers for embroidered gowns — especially when a flower motif is involved — and the detailing on this unique wedding dress is truly unmatched.
We especially love how the leafy blossoms frame the trendy cut-out in the front. Such a sweet + sexy touch!
Shop This Whimsical Chiffon Gown
16: Statement-Making Unique Designer Wedding Dress
Swish and sway with this gorgeously unique gown! The lightweight charmeuse fabric and tumbling ruffle hemline will make every movement one to remember.
And designed by the iconic Lanvin fashion house, it’s a must for the fashion girlies who want to rock an unforgettable designer look as they tie the knot.
Plus, the subtle high-low hemline means you have the chance to show off an amazing pair of kicks! We’d style it with these matching statement ruffle heels.
Shop This Unique Ruffle Hem Wedding Dress
17: Fun Feather-Adorned Unique Wedding Dress
We all know Cult Gaia’s famous feather mini dress (the ultimate after-party or elopement look!). But now let us introduce you to the brand’s glossy floor-skimming version!
The definition of business on top, party on the bottom, this unique wedding dress is made with a classic satin fabric that slowly transforms into a fluttery ostrich feather masterpiece. It’s glamorous, it’s fun, and it will totally stand out from the crowd.
Shop This Unique Feather Adorned Gown
18: Cottagecore Unique Off-the-Shoulder Gown
This unique wedding dress would look right at home running through meadows of wildflowers, escaping to the English countryside, and living your best nature-filled life. The ultimate look for your carefree outdoor wedding!
Featuring airy, vintage-inspired mesh, dramatic ruched sleeves, and a breezy silhouette, this gown is a stunning modern take on the cottagecore aesthetic. Safe to say we’re totally in love!
Shop This Unique Off-The-Shoulder Mesh Gown
19: Unique French Countryside Inspired Gown
The ruffle sleeves! The saturated florals! The flattering corset bodice! With so many romantic details, this unique wedding dress looks like it stepped straight out of a fairytale romance set in the French countryside. Perfect for your storybook love story!
And handmade according to your custom measurements, this gorgeous gown will be just as one-of-a-kind as your romance. Did someone say happily ever after?!
Shop This Unique Flowy Corset Bodice Gown
20: Trendy Meets Timeless Unique Beaded Gown
Can we just take a moment?! This unique wedding dress is the epitome of elegance, with so many dazzling details that make it stand out. From the dainty + sparkly pattern to the metallic trim to the all-over beading, it’s truly a work of art.
And with iridescent touches, this classy column gown is the perfect blend of trendy and timeless. That means it’ll look just as jaw-dropping now as it does in 40 years when you’re reminiscing on your wedding photos!
Shop This Unique Beaded Overlay Wedding Gown
One of our favorite recent bridal trends? Pearl-adorned gowns! Check out our round-up of all our favorite styles here.
21: Dark + Romantically Unique Wedding Dress
Elegant, edgy, and totally unexpected, black wedding gowns are SUCH a mood. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement on the big day or you just never pictured yourself in white, this unique onyx-hued wedding dress may just be your perfect match!
This statement gown is actually made up of two parts: a romantic lacy bodysuit and a dramatic tulle skirt. The result? One customizable, unforgettable, unique wedding dress that will have everyone talking.
(And if this dark hue isn’t your vibe, this stunning gown also comes in white, ivory, or almond!)
Shop This Unique Onyx Tulle Gown
22: Modern Cape-Effect Unique Wedding Dress
Bridal capes are having a serious moment right now, and we’re not mad about it!
With this unique wedding dress, you get all the drama of a flowing cape built in to the stunning design. And with such an elegant and minimal shape, that cape overlay can really have its time in the spotlight. Just imagine the soft white fabric gliding behind you as you walk down the aisle — mesmerizing!
Shop This Unique + Sophisticated Column Gown
23: Dazzling Vintage-Inspired Unique Wedding Dress with Flutter Sleeves
The sparkly pattern of this unique wedding dress was inspired by a vintage French design. Complete with the softest ruffle details, it’s the epitome of feminine romance. Trés chic!
Up the glam factor by pairing this unique wedding dress with some sparkly statement earrings, or channel non-traditional, carefree vibes by styling it with a rad wide-brim hat.
And with options for different lengths (including a mini version), you can make this glittering gown all your own!
Shop This Unique Sparkly Embellished Gown
24: Unique Rosy High-Low Wedding Dress
Can’t decide between the playfulness of a mini dress and the drama of a floor-sweeping gown? Meet: this unique high-low wedding dress!
We don’t know which dreamy detail is our favorite — the feminine rose print, the flirty bubble hem, the vintage-inspired sleeves, or the dramatic sweeping train. Aptly named “the fairytale gown,” this floaty dress will have you feeling like modern-day royalty!
Shop THis Rose Patterned Tulle Gown
25: Magical + Twinkling Unique Tulle Corset Gown
Channel golden glamour vibes with this glittering unique gown. You’ll absolutely dazzle with the sparkling sheer tulle skirt, which matches the sultry corset bodice. Perfect for a festive NYE wedding or unique + glitzy ceremony!
As much as we love a classic white look, there’s no denying the wow factor of a shimmering gold wedding gown. The metallic hue just screams celebration!!
Shop This Unique Metallic Tulle Wedding Dress
26: Free Spirited Fringe Unique Wedding Dress
Bohemian meets glam with this statement unique wedding dress. It channels Gatsby-era flapper style with draped chandelier sleeves and a chic midi hemline — and the flirty fringe detail gives it a rad free-spirited vibe. We can’t think of a better way to celebrate the Roaring 2020s!
The ultimate finishing touch to this unique look? Some chic bridal boots!
Shop This Unique Fringe-Trimmed Wedding Gown
27: Striking + Unique Plunging Neckline Gown
Go bold with this striking gown. Everything about this unique wedding dress is exaggerated in the best way, from the dramatic plunging neckline to the free-flowing ruched sleeves. It’s giving major main character energy — and what more could you ask for on your wedding day?!
And made with glossy hammered satin, it’ll give you all the shimmer + shine you could dream of as you dance the night away.
Shop THis Unique Plunging V-Neck Wedding Dress
28: Lush Ivy Patterned Unique Wedding Dress
Here at GWS, we have an affinity for all things green. And this unique wedding dress has the perfect amount of the cool, nature-inspired hue! We love love love the mix of the lush ivy appliqués with the traditional white tulle. And the olive velvet details tie the lush look together (literally!).
While we may be a little biased, we think a pair of green wedding shoes would be the perfect finishing touch to this botanical gown. Obsessed!
Shop This Unique Botanical Appliqué Gown
29: Chic + Unique Wide Leg Bridal Look
And last, but certainly not least, we wanted to leave you with one of our favorite options for a unique wedding day look: a bridal jumpsuit!
This lacy wide-leg number makes a chic statement for anyone who doesn’t want to rock a dress on the big day, but still wants those romantic bridal vibes as they say their “I do’s.” Oh, and did we mention that it’s only $89?!
Shop This Unique V-Neck Wedding Look
Plan a Wedding Like No Other With Our Curated Guides
Now that you’ve found your dream unique wedding dress, it’s time to finish planning the rest of your one-of-a-kind celebration!
To start, complete your stand-out look with our ultimate wedding shoes guide. From classic to unique, we’ve rounded up the best kicks to complement your gorgeous gown.
Next up: your gals! Check out our complete bridesmaid gown guide to find a look that matches your stunning dress and shows off their personal styles. And don’t forget to spread the love with some bridal party gifts that your “I do” crew is guaranteed to love!
Finally (and most fun), finish off your wedding day look with one of these stunning wedding bands for women. We also rounded up the best men’s wedding rings for your other half!
And if you end up rocking one of the gorgeous unique wedding dresses from this list, be sure to tag us on Instagram @greenweddingshoes, so we can see the final look!
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