25 Stunning Black Wedding Dresses for the Untraditional Bride

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Published Aug 4, 2021

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Black wedding dresses are not for the faint of heart. We’re so used to brides wearing white on their wedding day that the thought of a black wedding dress can be jarring. The trend may be rare, but it sparks quite the conversation; remember Sarah Jessica Parker’s black wedding dress? Of course you do. Thinking out-of-the-box for your wedding day outfit is daring because we are so used to seeing brides in all white or ivory. All in all, deciding on a black wedding dress means that you know exactly what you want and aren’t afraid to turn a few heads along the way.

If you’ve ever considered wearing a black wedding dress, you may have asked yourself these few questions before making that decision.

Do You Have To Wear White On Your Wedding Day?

In short, nope. Let’s step back and focus on the key words of that sentence: “your wedding day.” It’s your day, which means you can wear whatever you would like. While a white wedding dress is tradition, there are plenty of traditions that couples are choosing to leave behind like the garter toss, dessert tables instead of five-tiered wedding cake or in-person gift registries.

White wedding dresses stem from the idea that brides are innocent, pure, virgins and a number of other quite sexist standards for women. While the trend of white stands, the symbolism behind it is pretty much behind us. If a white dress just doesn’t feel like you, you can and should follow your gut and wear whatever will make you feel beautiful.

What Is The Meaning Behind A Black Wedding Dress?

Like the tradition behind white dresses, if symbolism is your thing, a black dress obviously represents the exact opposite of a white one. Black is a color that evokes sexuality, sophistication, wealth and other powerful meanings. You know yourself better than anyone, and a black dress shows that you are not afraid to be yourself in any setting regardless of expectations and traditions. Let’s also not forget, it’s incredibly chic.

How To Accessorize A Black Wedding Dress

Black wedding dresses are a statement by themselves, but accessories that will complement the dress without taking away from the boldness are key to properly accessorizing. Simple earrings and a bracelet should do the trick. The neckline will determine the right earring length for you. For example, if you have a high neck dress, larger studs will accent your dress really nicely. If you are wearing a strapless sweetheart, don’t be afraid to go for some long teardrops. Instead of a necklace, try adding some highlighter or shimmery body oil to your chest and collar bones to accentuate your décolletage naturally.

As far as shoes go, we like the idea of a monochromatic choice for your black wedding dress or, switching it up with a bright pop of color. A pair of black wedding shoes will round out your look in a very sleek and classy way. But, if you prefer a dash of brightness for your feet, try a pair of hot pink or red pumps to spice up your ensemble. Being bold on your wedding day is not wrong or unbecoming and if it’s something you want to do for yourself, you may as well go all out.

Without further ado, these are the 25 epic black wedding dresses are to wear on your big day if you want something different from tradition.

David's Bridal

1. david’s Bridal Collection Off The Shoulder Satin Ball Gown

This classy full skirt gown has a sultry and sweet look to balance out your wedding day beauty. You also get free shipping if you order it online, but you can always try it on in-stores if you prefer the more personal experience.

Buy It ($599)

David's Bridal

2. db Studio Plunge Mermaid Satin Wedding Dress

A subtle fit and flare gown is the perfect way to encompass the power and sensuality that the black dress represents. We love the deep neckline and button detailing down the back for an extra dash of class.

Buy It ($599)

Lulus

3. lulus On The Guest List Satin One-shoulder Maxi Dress

This simple satin number is a chic and stunning take on the black wedding dress trend. Whether you’re having a big event with hundreds of guests or an intimate ceremony, this dress fits almost any venue.

Buy It ($88)

Saks Fifth Avenue

4. alex Maria Silk Faille Bow-back Jumpsuit

A jumpsuit with a detachable overskirt is the type of drama we are looking for in a black wedding dress. We love the bow on the back that adds a sweet detail to the overall look.

Buy It ($1,339)

Saks Fifth Avenue

5. black Halo Lena Cut-out Jumpsuit

Speaking of jumpsuits, this one is begging to be your second outfit to your reception. The wide pants give clean lines and sleek dimension to this otherwise simple one-piece. It has satin details on the bodice and down the sides to add a bit of elegance.

Buy It ($415)

Nordstrom

6. la Femme Flutter Slit Trumpet Gown

The slit lined with ruffles makes this gown fancy and romantic all in one. This one would fit well with an outdoor venue or as a beautiful second dress for the night.

Buy It ($358)

Nordstrom

7. mac Duggal Bow Shoulder V-neck Gown

If you’re having a barn or garden wedding, this dress will match the vibes perfectly. The clean lines with the bow make for a simple, sophisticated and flirty style.

Buy It ($298)

Amazon

8. berydress Elegant Halter Neck Wedding Dress

Bells and whistles on dresses aren’t for everyone. This basic black gown will accentuate your waist and the high neck is as classy as it gets.

$37 at Amazon

David's Bridal

9. galina Signature Illusion Sequin Floral Applique Wedding Dress

Unlike the last dress, if bling and glam are your best friends, this ornate gown checks all of the boxes. It has a nude base with black overlay that makes the dress look more neutral.

Buy It ($1,399)

Nordstrom

10. la Femme Off The Shoulder Evening Gown

This dress is strikingly stunning for a more formal wedding. The bodice has a metallic sheen delivering the pizazz we never knew we needed. The layered tulle skirt is romantic and soft which balances out the ornate top.

Buy It ($398)

ASOS

11. asos Design Cami Maxi Dress

Looking for something a bit more casual? This A-line cut dress is a comfortable choice, and the ruched bodice adds some elegance to make it more formal.

Buy It ($119; $36)

Nordstrom

12. la Femme Long Sleeve Ruched Jersey Gown

Winter weddings in chilly climates can definitely use a long-sleeved dress. This one is super comfy and it hugs your curves in all the right places.

Buy It ($338)

David's Bridal

13. db Studio Strapless Plus Size Satin Wedding Dress

The front slit adds a sultry feature to this classic gown. We love the straight neckline and the fact that there are pockets (hallelujah).

Buy It ($599)

Lulus

14. lulus After Hours Black Strapless Ruffled Maxi Dress

Throwing a microwedding? This dress is just as sexy as it is minimal. Pair with some black heels or pink for a pop of color to complete your wedding day look.

Buy It ($68)

Saks Fifth Avenue

15. rene Ruiz Collection Metallic Embellished Off-the-shoulder Gown

This luxurious gown is perfect for your glam ballroom wedding. Besides the fact that you’re the bride, the metallic embellishments will ensure that all eyes are on you and your ensemble.

Buy It ($1,695)

David's Bridal

16. galina Soft Lace Wedding Dress

The black lacey overlay on the nude base of this dress is sexy and sophisticated for any kind of wedding. We love how the subtle train adds a romantic element to this unique gown.

Buy it ($449)

Lulus

17. lulus Stylish Splendor Midi Dress

If you’re headed to the courthouse for your nuptials, this midi is the way to go. It has a short slit with an open back creating a sultry look that pairs perfectly with the high neck and ruffle sleeves.

Buy It ($58)

Nordstrom

18. mac Duggal Beaded Halter Neck Trumpet Gown

This sleek and classy fitted gown would look perfect at your over-the-top ballroom wedding. The gold fringe at the back of the neckline is a stunning detail that will act as your jewelry for the night (besides the rock on your finger).

Buy It ($398; $299)

Nordstrom

19. la Femme Strapless Two-piece Trumpet Gown

A two-piece ensemble is a great second dress choice for a sexy and chic outfit to dance the night away at your reception.

Buy It ($298)

Nordstrom

20. mac Duggal Beaded Angel Sleeve Chiffon Gown

This delicate, feminine gown is a quirky option if you want something even more unique than a black wedding dress. If your theme is more whimsical, this dress is up your alley.

Buy It ($698)

Nordstrom

21. ieena For Mac Duggal Floral Print Tiered Gown

Beach weddings deserve a flirty and flowy dress that will catch the wind while you recite your vows. This multi-tiered floral gown is a beautiful choice for a sunny outdoor wedding.

Buy IT ($398)

Saks Fifth Avenue

22. carolina Herrera Strapless Sweetheart Ball Gown

This luxe gown will have you looking like a queen while you walk down the aisle. The black polka dots on the skirt give the already luxe gown an even fancier look.

Buy It ($4,690)

Saks Fifth Avenue

23. fame And Partners Emerie Satin Slip Dress

Simple and sexy satin is a hot trend this wedding season. If you prefer something without the glitz and glam, this represents romance without the frills.

Buy It ($369)

Nordstrom

24. la Femme Velvet Column Gown

Pair a fur shawl or coat over top of this gown for a late fall or winter wedding. The column style will hug your curves and cinch your waist in the right places for a chic and sexy look.

Buy It ($198)

Verishop

25. dress The Population Sharon Gown

Black and nude are a perfect match for a non-traditional wedding gown. The sequin appliques on this one makes it super glam for an indoor wedding setting.

Buy It ($328; $230)

Olivia Dubyak

Commerce Editor

Covers commerce content, including personal and collaborative reviews and product roundups across beauty, home, fashion and family verticals
More than 5 years of professional experience in journalism
Studied journalism at Duquesne University

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