If you're planning a wedding that calls for a dress that's a bit more casual that the traditional full-skirted, floor-length white wedding gown, you're in luck. There are lots of beautiful dresses out there that are flattering to full figures and perfectly appropriate for a beach wedding, barbeque, or other less formal affair. The key is knowing what you like and where to buy it.
Six Gorgeous Casual Wedding Dress Styles
From shorter hemlines to flowing fabrics, there are several ways your gown can be casual and beautiful at the same time. You can even choose non-traditional colors and silhouettes for this type of wedding. Consider some of these lovely options.
1. Flattering High-Low Hem
A high-low hem is a great way to give your gown a casual vibe, and it's also an opportunity to show off tanned legs. This pretty style of gown will look gorgeous for any casual wedding, but it would be perfect for a garden party event.
Retailer IGIGI knows how to make the most of fuller-figured women's assets, and the Ever After Plus Size Wedding Gown is no exception. This stunning sleeveless design has a beautiful scalloped V-neck to frame your face and chest, a waist-whittling wide belt out of satin and lace, and plenty of beading to give it sparkle. It comes in sizes 12 through 30/32 and retails for $525.
2. Convertible Design
Another great choice is a convertible dress. This type of gown is ideal for the bride who wants to wear her dress again, since the casual style is practical for a variety of situations. It's also perfect if you want to leave your style options open, because you can wear the dress several different ways.
The Eternity Convertible Maxi dress from Sealed with a Kiss comes in bright white and would make a great wedding gown. It features a long full skirt and 10-foot ties that you can wear as sleeves, straps, or a sash. The raw hem and knit fabric make it very casual, but the length and styling are appropriate for your wedding. The retailer recommends wearing a slip under the dress, since the white fabric is quite sheer. It comes in sizes 1X through 6X and retails for about $90.
3. Your Favorite Shade
White is a traditional choice for your wedding, but if your event is going to be casual, there's no reason to limit yourself. Consider a gown in your favorite color, whether it's a pastel shade or a fun, bright tone. This type of dress will stand out anywhere, whether you're saying your vows at a park, in a museum, in your own home, or any other venue.
The beautiful Starburst Gown from Sydney's Closet is an excellent choice. This best seller comes in six colors, including traditional white, black, navy, brilliant blue, deep purple, and vibrant red. The sweetheart neckline is accented with a rhinestone starburst and supported with narrow spaghetti straps. A long chiffon skirt falls from the flattering empire waist. It comes in sizes 14 through 40 and retails for about $300.
4. Vintage Styling
Wearing a dress reminiscent of another era allows you to incorporate some vintage romance into your casual event. This type of gown is perfect for a wedding held at a museum or historic site, but it will work for any setting.
The Aurora Lace Wedding Dress from Kiyonna has the classic styling of the early 1960s and will flatter any curvy bride. The stretch lace and ruched waistline will skim over your curves and keep you feeling comfortable. This design has 3/4 sleeves and all-over lace. A nude lining preserves your modesty while still being stylish. The knee-length skirt is fun an flirty. This gown comes in sizes 0X through 4X and retails for about $240.
5. Simple Sheath
A simple sheath can look classic and sophisticated for a less formal wedding, especially if your event is held indoors at your favorite museum or restaurant. Adding sleeves gives you coverage to compensate for a shorter hemline.
The Jessica Howard Women's Plus Size 3/4 Sleeve Circle Lace Shift Dress from Amazon will flatter your figure and show off your legs. The above-knee hem is cute but tasteful, and the sheer lace sleeves add a pretty touch. This simple design will look great on anyone. It comes in ivory and a pretty pink shade. Available in sizes 14 through 24, this dress retails for about $100.
6. Casual Princess
A casual wedding doesn't always mean a simple gown. A shorter skirt can allow you to flaunt your inner princess and still be perfectly appropriate for your event.
Custom wedding gown retailer Tulle & Chantilly offers the exquisite Dazzling Beaded Wedding Dress. This short gown has a layered tutu-style skirt and a strapless beaded bodice. A pretty fabric rose draws the eye to your hips, and a slightly dropped waist is beautiful and slimming. It comes in champagne, ivory, or white and is available with a lace-up back or a zipper. This gown comes in sizes up to 28, or you can have it custom made to your measurements. It retails for about $300.
All Kinds of Options
A casual wedding opens up all kinds of options when it comes to your choice of gown. Whether you want an antique lace wedding gown or a funky print number that will attract attention, you'll find the gown of your dreams out there. Take your time looking at the options and trying on your favorites. Choose a dress that matches your pesonality an you'll be sure to look stunning for your special day.
