For many brides that visit our North Yorkshire bridal boutique, ‘simplicity’ is the word that tops their bridal attire wishlist. As such, we’re taking a look at the key features of a minimalist gown whilst picking out some of the best simple wedding dresses from our current Little Pearl collections.
If you fall into this ‘less-is-more’ bridal camp, you’re in excellent company. For A-listers including Meghan Markle, Solange Knowles, Nicola Peltz (now Beckham), Ariana Grande, and Heidi Klum have all rocked beautifully pared-back designs for their moment in the ‘I do’ spotlight.
And, as these stylish celebrity brides go to show, low-key doesn’t necessarily mean low impact. In fact, simple wedding dress designs can still pack a hefty punch thanks to their exquisite cuts and luxe fabrics which more than deliver the wow factor.
Read on to find out what to look for in simple wedding dress designs and how to accessorise such gowns. Plus, we’ve got our pick of the best simple wedding dresses for modern brides from the fabulous designer collections we stock here at The Little Pearl.
And ladies, don’t forget, if any of these heavenly designs send you weak at the knees, you can make an appointment to try them on at our gorgeous bridal boutique in Pickering, North Yorkshire. Simply click here to book a bridal styling experience with our expert LP team.
Timeless tradition more your bridal style? Then take a look at our Top 8 Classic Wedding Dresses For The Elegant Bride blog post.
What Makes A Simple Wedding Dress?
As you’d expect, a simple wedding dress will generally feature less intricate detailing and embellishment than other types of bridal gowns.
They tend to be crafted from just one type of fabric that is luxurious in its appearance, including dreamy satin and silk, as well as rich Mikado and stretch crepe.
Silhouette-wise, simple designs range from structured ballgowns and flowing A-lines to slinky slip and figure-hugging fishtail dresses.
Minimalist gowns for modern brides also feature contemporary fabrications and on-trend design touches. In 2022/23 collections, this includes elements such as beautiful corsetry, sheer fabrics and ballgowns with high leg slits and pockets.
How To Accessorise A Simple Wedding Dress?
Going for a simpler wedding dress pretty much gives you free rein when it comes to bridal accessories. It’s a case of deciding if you want to stick to a fairly pared-back look overall or would prefer to create more impact with your finishing touches.
Some brides choose to add detail with the addition of an embellished or embroidered veil to beautifully frame their dress. Then there’s the option of a bridal belt to break up the plainness of the gown. Added interest can also come from your footwear choice, be it a coloured pair of heels or designs finished with bows, pearls (a personal fav!) or sparkling adornments.
Hair accessory-wise, those going for harmonious simplicity will want to look for small, dainty pieces such as bridal hair pins, combs or slides. Meanwhile, bold, on-trend headpieces such as a floral headband/hairvine or dazzling bridal crown will likely hit the mark for those upping the accessory ante.
Our advice on jewellery would be similar too. For that understated look, keep to lightweight, smaller pieces or make a statement with one bolder piece, such as some detailed chandelier or drop earrings. We’ve just welcomed a new range of earrings by Milane to our accessories collection that would be perfect for those wanting to go down the striking bridal jewellery route. Just be sure to keep your dress neckline in mind so you don’t end up with too much going on in one area.
Overall, it’s a case of choosing bridal accessories that will complement your gown, not compete with it, and that help achieve your dream big day vision.
For more advice on this topic, check out our Guide To Choosing Bridal Accessories.
Our Top 7 Simple Wedding Dresses For 2023
Right, dress-swooning time as we share our top simple wedding dress picks for modern brides from our current Little Pearl collections, some of which have just landed at the boutique!
The following styles are available in a full-size range and suit a whole host of body shapes, with some particularly well suited to glorious curvaceous figures. Plus, don’t forget that our in-house seamstress will ensure your gown is altered to fit you to a tee during your fitting appointments.
Clarity by Rachel Rose
Simple but oh-so striking! This incredible crepe design is perfect for brides keen to celebrate their curves with its on-trend corseted bodice providing exquisite structure and shape. The drop shoulder straps and leg split are optional, so you can choose to go for a daring or demure bridal look.
Sutton by Evie Young
If in search of a sleek, simple wedding dress with sexiness, this is it! Pared-back in appearance but fierce in attitude, Sutton has a lingerie-like corseted bodice featuring gorgeous clean contemporary lines making it a standout choice for the modern bride.
Potion by Rachel Rose
Chic femininity and fabulous fashion edge make Potion total #modernminimalist goals! Its fine chiffon balloon sleeves, plunging neckline, low cowl back, and the prettiest pearl-button detailing have got us falling hard…not to mention that incredible figure-flattering fit!
Serene by Evie Young
The epitome of simplicity making a statement; we love the elegant yet impactful appearance of Serene. Its strapless square neckline bodice with romantic drop shoulders and plunge neck is bang on trend, while its soft, free-flowing skirt brings beautiful movement and luxury.
Petal Aura by Rachel Rose
A gown of two beautiful halves, Petal Aura is a fabulous option for those wanting pared-back but not totally plain. We just love the contrast of the structured, botanical-detailed top half, featuring a layer of subtle shimmer, and the effortlessly simple bottom half emitting fluidity and chic glamour.
Sorvete by Wilowby By Watters
If we’ve said it once, we’ll say it again, pared-back does not mean boring, as the attention-grabbing Sorvete dress demonstrates with ease. The dramatic sleeves, deep-v neckline, open back, and killer leg split give this simple wedding dress some serious style!
Pearl by Rachel Rose
A fuss-free but beautifully fitted slip wedding dress is a dream for many simplicity-seeking brides. Designed in deluxe crepe and shaping the body to absolute perfection, Pearl’s pared-back nature speaks volumes for a head-turning design that delivers effortless impact.
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