As an older bride, choosing a wedding dress can be a tricky task; there are all kinds of outdated “rules”, like don’t wear white, cover your arms and avoid princess skirts – but we say it’s time to rip up the rule book; wedding dress for older brides can be every bit as special as the ones worn by younger brides.
Mature brides can wear whatever they like on their wedding day, be it an off the shoulder wedding dress, a simple and chic gown or an alternative wedding dress that shows off your personality – but you don’t need us to tell you that!
“Older brides have already been through the fashion disasters of their youth, and are more secure in knowing what suits them,” says Andrea of Eliza Jane Howell. “The older bride is looking for a gown that makes them stand out without being too traditionally bridal. They want to look and feel glamorous and be the best version of themselves on their wedding day.”
There’s a nonsense belief that second-time-around brides shouldn’t wear white, which we’re obviously not on board with, but if you’re superstitious and want to stick with this rule, why not wear a stylish blush pink wedding dress instead, for a totally on trend style.
Brides on their second wedding sometimes feel they should wear something demure and pared back, but there’s no reason for that to be the case. You’re still marrying someone you love, so embrace the bridal look as much as you want!
Long sleeved wedding dresses are a lovely choice for older brides if you do want to cover your arms. A boat neck wedding dress with long sleeves, like Meghan Markle wore, is a sophisticated way to embrace the style, without looking frumpy as it still shows off a hint of skin.
Give sleeved wedding dresses a 2019 update with billowing lace sleeves rather than fitted sleeves, or embrace flattering capped sleeve wedding dresses for summer weddings.
A wedding dress with a plunging neckline might not be something you’re comfortable wearing as an older bride, which is where illusion necklines come in. Illusion necklines and lace overlays are a lovely way to embrace the trend for low cut wedding dresses without going overboard on the cleavage.
If as an older bride you don’t feel quite right wearing a full skirted tulle wedding dress like the Disney princesses are famed for, opt for a slinky, fitted dress instead. For added drama, embrace a fishtail skirt.
Scroll down for our edit of the most beautiful wedding dresses for older brides, along with expert advice from the industry on how to choose your perfect wedding dress.
Short Halter Neck Wedding Dress by Valentine Avoh
The halter neck wedding dress came back with a bang after Meghan Markle wore one for her reception wedding dress; for older brides wanting to embrace the trend, opt for a short wedding dress in a stylish over sized design to bring the style up to date.
Flutter Sleeve Wedding Dress by Wendy Makin
If you want to wear short sleeves, this pretty beaded wedding dress by Wendy Makin is a lovely choice. The wrap style front and sheer flutter sleeves make it a beautifully flattering wedding dress for older brides.
Simple Wedding Dress by Alan Hannah
Some older brides want to keep it chic and simple with their wedding dress, and this elegant gown by Alan Hannah is the perfect way to embrace a sophisticated bridal look. The fabric is effortlessly classy and the cut is timeless.
Long Sleeved Wedding Dress by Savannah Miller
Long sleeves and an elegant v neck make for a very pretty combination. The cuffed sleeves are a unique and stylish addition, as is the neckline detailing. We can see this wedding dress working perfectly at a boho inspired city wedding.
Sheer Sleeved Wedding Dress by Anna Campbell
This truly special wedding dress looks gorgeous with a messy updo, allowing the pretty fluttering sleeves to shine in all their glory.
Short Wedding Dress with Cape for Older Brides by Veromia
If you want to wear a short wedding dress but aren’t comfortable showing a lot of skin, the addition of a cape could be a stylish choice.
Go for a sheer cape at summer weddings, like this Veromia number, to keep the look light and fresh.
Long Sleeved Lace Wedding Dress by Halfpenny London
If you’re getting married in the summer but still want to wear a long sleeved wedding dress, this bell sleeved lace wedding dress by Halfpenny London is a lovely way to keep cool in warm weather yet still wear a wedding dress that you feel comfortable in.
Off The Shoulder Wedding Dress by Ines Di Santo
If you like the idea of an off the shoulder wedding dress but don’t want to show too much skin, this lace dress with boat neck style off the shoulder detailing could be the one for you.
Embellished Long Sleeved Wedding Dress by Randy Fenoli
The lace applique on Randy Fenoli’s April wedding dress make this gown stand out from the crowd. The loose fitting sleeves allow you freedom of movement, while the flattering silhouette suits every figure, from petite to plus size.
Unique Wedding Dress for Older Brides by Veromia
For brides insecure about their arms, the overlay top on this dress is a lovely addition to help you feel your confident best.
Simple Wedding Dress by Caroline Castigliano
For older brides looking for a timeless and classic wedding dress, this Caroline Castigliano gown is the perfect choice.
Low Back Wedding Dress by Herve Paris
We love the waterfall detailing on this open back wedding dress.The lace embellishments give it a pretty feminine touch.
Simple Halter Neck Wedding Dress by Kelsey Rose
Go for an on trend bridal look with a halter neck wedding dress like this beauty, courtesy of Kelsey Rose. The classy fabric make it a lovely choice for more mature brides. In a light fabric it could be a little too boho, but in this heavier material it’s just right.
Classy Wedding Dress for Older Brides by Ladybird
The waist belt on this plus sized wedding dress makes it very flattering for hour glass figures. Pair with loosely tonged hair for an effortless glam wedding style.
Short Wedding Dress for Older Brides by Mooshki
We love the lace applique scatted over the body and skirt of this long sleeved short wedding dress.
“At Mooshki, a bride is a bride, regardless of age or any other factor,” says Mooshki designer Phil.
“We see brides from the age of 19 up to their eighties and what older brides in particular like about our dresses is that we can cover their arms, lift their bust and contour their figure a lot more than some other brands can.”
Chic Wedding Dress by Louise Bentley
If you’re an older bride who wants to wear a wedding dress with a full skirt, this gown by Louise Bentley could be your answer. The lace panels at the side add an interesting element to an otherwise minimal wedding gown.
Off the Shoulder Capped Sleeve Wedding Dress by Charlotte Balbier
If you’re an older bride who wants to wear an off the shoulder wedding dress but is worried about showing off too much skin, this capped sleeve dress is a lovely, demure option.
Light Wedding Dress for Older Brides by Wendy Makin
For a lightweight, loose fitting wedding dress for older brides, this floral embroidered wedding dress is a perfect choice. The scalloped edge on the sleeves makes it lovely and delicate.
Lace Wedding Dress by Lyn Ashworth
If you want a touch of lace, but feel a full lace wedding dress is a little young, this lace overlay wedding dress is a lovely option.
Wedding Dress with Tulle Cape by Randy Fenoli
Make a statement on your wedding day with the Angel dress by Randy Fenoli, complete with this applique tulle cape. It’s perfect if you’re insecure about having bare arms, and is a glamorous touch too.
Beaded Ivory Wedding Dress by Veromia
All over beading makes an ivory or cream wedding dress every bit as special as a traditional white wedding dress.
This ivory wedding dress is perfect for a winter wedding – pair with deep red flowers for a sumptuous and rich wedding look.
With your dress sorted, have a read of our expert make up advice for older brides.
