Couples are becoming more focused on intimate wedding ceremonies in 2025 and we are excited to feature a collection of modern wedding dresses to match this trend. If you are looking to try on simple or minimalist gowns to see if these work for your big day, we have some timeless options for you!
Today’s modern bride may looking for an understated wedding dress, yet still want her own unique style to shine through. Even though the affair may be small and intimate, it is still an incredibly special day and deserves the perfect wedding gown! So what are minimalist wedding dresses?
Fabrics & Styles Of The Minimalist Bridal Look
These include easy to wear yet luxurious fabrics such as crepe and silky satin, or lightweight fabrics like chiffon and organza.
Styles tend to be those more sleek silhouettes like slim A-line or column gowns, and most often do not have elaborate or glittery beading, tiered or layered skirts, and are generally lighter weight. They are the perfect choice for a courthouse wedding, a backyard garden affair, or a modern venue with a small intimate group of wedding guests.
As with any look, however, there are always exceptions and we will show you those as well!
The chic simplicity of the dresses above show two beautiful, elegant crepe dresses with clean lines: both have a sweetheart neckline, one strapless and the other with off the shoulder long sleeves. Both give a timeless wedding vibe.
These above two plain options are anything but plain! Both are lightweight wedding dresses with off the shoulder Bishop sleeves, one from Sophia Tolli that has illusion tulle sleeves with delicate pearl, the other from Stella York in a lightweight flowy chiffon. Add some florals in any color palette and watch them turn into dreamy, romantic looks!
Other beautifully simple yet romantic bridal gowns can include those with a high neckline, open back, and a sexy look. These sleek sheath silhouettes offer a true romantic look and work for most all body types. This Essense of Australia piece is the epitome of chic casual and is the perfect dress for the modern minimalist bride with a museum venue or urban affair.
Simple Wedding Dresses Aren’t Always “Plain and Simple”
Not all minimalist wedding gowns need to be plain. Some do have detailed beading or allover lace. These beautiful details can still match a simple bridal style. Notice both dresses above are column shapes with chapel length trains, yet the square neckline looks more modern compared to the all over lace, high neck dress. With dresses like these, other details can be minimal such as a small bridal bouquet in a light color palette. It is all a matter of your personal style!
Plus Sized Minimalist Style
There are many minimalist options available in plus size wedding dresses too. The classic A-line silhouette works beautifully for any body type.
Both of these are simple a-line wedding dresses with crisp lines and a modern feel. The on-trend details like off the shoulder sleeves, plunge V neck, and pockets elevate the timeless style of these two classic looks. Again, these are blank slates to add color and accessories as you wish.
These fitted options have on-trend details like a high skirt slit and a couture cut pointed plunge sweetheart neckline, yet still each is a minimalist design for a perfect wedding day look.
There are other modern column wedding dress options as well. The one shoulder dress is an option to consider! See how the shoulder bow and gloves turn this design into the most elaborate dress while still staying true to a clean, modern aesthetic. Remove the bow and gloves for a minimalist chic look.
As you can see, there are many simple elegant wedding dresses to match the unique style of your wedding. The sleek lines of silk and crepe wedding dresses will give your bridal look one of luxe simplicity to guarantee an unforgettable entrance when those doors open!
When you are dress shopping, make sure to tell your stylist that you are going for a minimalist bridal gown and show her some photos of dresses you like. She will be able to pull similar ones for you to try. In addition, there could be a bridal shop near you that specializes in minimalist dresses for the fashion-forward bride. It is a great idea to look there (make sure they have dresses in your size and within your budget).
Most wedding dress designers will have simple options in all budget ranges. As always if you have questions, we are here to help! Text us at 215-491-8500 or contact us with your questions.