The 16 Best Whimsical Wedding Dresses of 2023 - Brides

If you've been dreaming of a magical fairytale wedding, chances are a whimsical wedding gowns is the right choice for you. This ethereal and playful style is known for its soft and feminine silhouettes, from glamorous ballgowns to retro tea-length dresses.

"I think whimsical can mean different things to different people, but to me, it's very soft and ethereal," shares wedding fashion stylist, Gabrielle Hurwitz. "It's probably not super traditional, like a silk faille or mikado, nor is it flashy with a lot of bling or sparkle. A whimsical wedding dress is typically light and airy and may include details like color, prints, or textural appliqués like 3D flowers or ruffles."

From nature-inspired details to flowy silhouettes, whimsical gowns are well suited for boho or romantic bridal styles. However, Hurwitz recommends that brides keep an open mind when it comes to dress shopping. "I do think that any silhouette can be whimsical," says the stylist. "You might not think of a mermaid or trumpet silhouette as whimsical, but if it's covered in little 3D flowers, I think it can feel more whimsical. Similarly, a ballgown with a layered or ruffled skirt can feel just as whimsical as a sheath or A-line."

If you're looking to have a fairytale moment at your wedding, keep scrolling for the best whimsical wedding dresses we're loving from designers like Alexandra Grecco and Watters.

What to Look For in a Whimsical Wedding Dress

Skirt Style

Whimsical wedding dresses come in various skirt styles. There are traditional A-line silhouettes like the Justin Alexander Charlotte Gown, mermaid skirts, fit-and-flare dresses, and empire-waist cuts—to name just a few.

Whimsy Details and Embellishments

Opting for a whimsical wedding dress provides room for you to be as classic or as playful as you want with your bridal look. For a more timeless style, stick to lace or embroidered florals, like the WTOO by Watters Tippi Gown. If you're looking for an unconventional or glam dress, go with ruffles, tulle, or pastel colors, like the petal pink Needle & Thread Araminta Lace Gown.

As with the Lulus Life of Love Floral Lace Short Sleeve Maxi Dress, you can't go wrong with all-over lace. You might also consider a dress with three-dimensional floral appliqués, like the Anne Barge Poetic Light Gown.

Bridal Accessories

When it comes to accessorizing your gown, it's helpful to think about the season your wedding will be in. "I think whimsical wedding dresses can work great for all seasons—it's all about the styling," notes Hurwitz. "For colder months, consider adding a cape, which plays up the whimsical element. For warmer months, accessorize with florals like fresh flowers in your hair or jewelry with a flower motif."

FAQ

• When it comes to the overall styling of your bridal look, it's best to follow the aesthetic of your dress. "I think the key to styling a whimsical look is keeping everything soft and romantic," says Hurwitz. "I love the idea of a statement accessory, like one of Jennifer Behr's circlets or a Lelet NY headband, atop a soft hairstyle and paired with glowy makeup. Consider picking up some of the details of your dress, like a veil with appliqués or jewelry in a similar motif. I think the key is to avoid anything too glamorous."

• You can find a whimsical wedding dress almost anywhere, and most brands will carry at least one or two styles that fall into this category. But, a few brands to consider are Alexandra Grecco, Watters, Amsale, and Mira Zwillinger.

• Since a whimsical wedding dress can be so versatile, it will work for both outdoor and indoor weddings. "When I think of a whimsical wedding dress, I think of an outdoor wedding, whether it's on a beach, in the forest, or in a garden," says Hurwitz. "But it can absolutely work indoors, too, especially if you plan to bring in elements of nature into the overall design."

Why Trust Brides

Ariana Quihuiz is a freelance writer for Brides. She is currently the content manager for wedding gown brand Lyra Vega Bridal, covering bridal fashion, bridal beauty, wedding trends, and more.

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