Slip dresses may have gained popularity in the 1990s during the innerwear-as-outerwear movement, but they’ve now become classic wardrobe staples that can take you from day to night with just a change of accessories. Well, the same can be said about the piece for weddings, too! Slip dresses are typically cut along the bias and made with fluid fabrics like satin, silk, and viscose (for formal wear), offering a flattering fit that hugs the body in all the right places. This makes it perfect for the chill bride who doesn’t want to be bothered with intensive wedding gown design.
Its understated appeal is its strong suit since you can literally style it any way you like. Are you more boho? Wear it with a headpiece and stacked bracelets. Do you prefer classic styling? Wear it with fine jewelry and simple stilettos. Are you into grunge? Be adventurous and pair it with boots if you’re up for it. Consider it as the foolproof, elegant base for all your bridal fancies.
Luckily, bridal designers and brands have been creating wedding slip dresses for quite some time, which means you’ve got plenty of ideas to take cues from. Here, we’ve rounded up the best ones thus far:
1. A classic cut
If you want a fuss-free design you won’t regret looking back on, choose a simple slip with a touch of unique details. This one, in particular, veers away from the typical soft, rounded neckline by going for a sharp V-neck that reminds us of the 1920s. Couple that with the subtle slit, and you’ve got a sexy yet tasteful bridal dress for keeps.
2. An asymmetrical neckline
Not a fan of spaghetti straps? A one-shouldered slip dress might be right up your alley, as it retains the slip’s classic silhouette. Plus, you can also play up its Grecian vibe by lengthening the hemline, which is great if you’re keen on wearing high heels on your big day. But if you've no qualms about wearing flats, imagine the fabulous sandal options this can be worn with.
3. Off-white dress with cut-out detailing
If you want a dress you could rewear over and over again after the ceremony, consider an off-white piece with modern details like the diamond paneling on the bodice of this design. It also features a flowy bias skirt that frays out in the bottom that’ll look great for a beach wedding!
4. Wrap detail and paneling
For those with a penchant for all things vintage or Old Hollywood, cop a slip dress that imbibes just that. Try a design that features elegant paneling, like this wrap slip dress that gently cascades over the body—it’ll look smashing down the aisle and will make you feel every bit the glamour girl that you are.
5. Strappy backless dress with a high slit
If you want something fun, daring, yet not subversive, then a strappy backless slip dress is the perfect gown for you. This ivory silk-charmeuse gown is quite the showstopper with a criss-cross strap back design and a high slit upfront that’ll swish and sway come reception partying.
6. M-slit dress with peekaboo lace inserts
In love with lace? Sneak it into the slip dress by way of inserts between slits like the gorgeous little number above. It adds more dimension to the skirt if you think that a straight-cut slip is too simple for your taste. Plus, it marries “prim and proper” with “fun and youthful,” don’t you think?
7. Backless sheath silhouette
Another glamorous gown with a modern twist is this slip dress featuring a sheath silhouette rendered in a dreamy champagne hue. It’s great for brides who prefer drama at the back, as this has buttons that elegantly trail down the bum.
8. Cowl neckline
Looking for a minimalist yet feminine take on the slip? Keep it clean and simple with a column slip dress with a cowl neckline, a timeless evening gown detail. The soft folds frame the face and decollete in a romantic way that's perfect for the occasion.
9. Flowy A-line
Not all slip dresses are made equal. While they’re often characterized by their column silhouette, there are modern takes that change certain elements. This pearly white number's A-line skirt with a slit might afford you more movement, in case you're planning a super-charged first dance or to simply let loose on the dancefloor. It's your night, afterall.
10. Tulle off-shouldered sleeves
Perhaps the most ideal beach wedding dress is one that captures the spirit of the sea and sand, like this beige slip dress replete with the dreamiest tulle sleeves that fall into romantic layers—much like dancing waves. It’s every island girl’s best formal wear.
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