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From sequins and crystals to beads and gems, there are plenty of ways to add a bit of sparkle to your wedding day look—but one style you may not have considered is a metallic bridal gown. A metallic dress constitutes as any ensemble made of shiny metal colors, such as silver, gold, bronze, copper, or even mirror embroidery. While it may not be a traditional option, it is a modern and statement-making look for brides wanting to take their wedding day fashions to the next level. It also gives off a sparkling, luxe look without having to worry about delicate embellishments falling off or getting caught.
Metallic-colored fabric is most often referred to as lamé, but you may also see shades in brocade, chiffon, silk, or viscose fabrics. Also, just because you are interested in a metallic dress element doesn’t mean it needs to be the focus of your entire look. You have the ability to incorporate metallics into your gown through thread work or simple patterns.
If you have fallen for the idea of a metallic wedding dress, we gathered up a few of our favorites for you to peruse. Scroll on for 20 gorgeous options for every style, silhouette, and budget.
For the Edgy Bride: Mango Metallic Gown
Size: 0-10 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Ankle-length
If you’re looking to put a modern twist on your bridal look, consider this edgy metallic gown from Mango. Not only is it a stylish and sleek option, but it’s also under $100.
For a Beach Wedding: Rococo Sand Elia Long Dress
Size: XXS-XXL | Materials: Viscose, metallic | Length: Floor-length
For beachside nuptials, we cannot think of a better metallic option than this flowy maxi dress. The silvery coloring will glisten under the sun, while the laid-back silhouette and tie shoulders add a touch of effortlessness to the look.
For the Glam Bride: Sabrina Musayev Pacific Dress
Size: XS-XL | Materials: Poly, metallic | Length: Floor-length
This glittering metallic gown from Sabrina Musayev is for the bride looking for an extra dose of sparkle on the big day. The gold foil fabric and multi-color detailing give this look a ’70s-inspired feeling that’s perfect for hitting the dance floor with your partner.
For a Spring Wedding: Retrofete Yesi Metallic Wrap Bodice Gown
Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Length: Floor-length
Wrap dresses always make for a flattering and timeless silhouette. We love how this option from Retrofete is made in a baby pink shade, which is sure to stun at an outdoor spring wedding.
Best Mini: Cucculelli Shaheen White Frange De Sirne Dress
Size: Contact retailer| Materials: Silk chiffon, silk georgette, microbeads, crystals, and fringe | Length: Mini
Mini dresses are more popular than ever for a second (or even third) bridal look. This sumptuous option by Cucculelli Shaheen is incredibly chic, and can likely be worn again for any future formal event.
Best Allover Sparkle: Leena for Mac Duggal Metallic Sequin Plunge Neck Gown
Size: 0-12 | Materials: Polyester, sequins | Length: Floor-length
There’s no doubt you’ll be shining in this allover sequin, metallic gown from Leena for Mac Duggal. The plunging illusion V-neck and thigh-high slit break up the sparkles and show a bit more skin.
Best Ballgown: Mac Duggal Metallic Sweetheart Ballgown
Size: 0-20 | Materials: Viscose | Length: Floor-length
For a formal or black-tie wedding, opt for this metallic ballgown from Mac Duggal. The waist features glittering rhinestone detailing, and the neckline is a romantic sweetheart style.
For a Backyard Wedding: J. Crew Double Tie-Back Metallic Linen Dress
Size: 00-16 | Materials: Viscose, linen, poly | Length: Midi
Made from linen material, this metallic midi is perfect for a summertime backyard wedding. Style the look with gold block heels and a pair of statement earrings.
For the After Party: Herve Leger Silver Metallic Coated Bandage Mini Dress
Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Rayon, nylon, elastane | Length: Mini
The party never ends in this Herve Leger metallic mini dress. We can see this number being a show-stopping look for after the reception festivities.
Most Unexpected: Markarian Evora Strapless Mirror Gown
Size: 0-16 | Materials: Mirror embellishments | Length: Floor-length
One way to absolutely stand out on your wedding day is by donning a fully mirrored gown. This strapless column number will be an unexpected, showstopping piece everyone will remember for years to come.
For a Fairytale Wedding: Marchesa Strapless Crystal Embellished Metallic Chiffon Gown
Size: 4-12 | Materials: Silk, nylon, spandex | Length: Floor-length
Your wedding day should feel like a fairytale, so it only makes sense to wear a gown fit for a princess. This sparkling metallic dress features ornate threadwork throughout, and a strapless sweetheart neckline.
For the Playful Bride: Self Portrait Embroidered Embellished Maxi Dress
Size: 0-12 | Materials: Polyester, polyamide, metallic | Length: Floor-length
This sweet and whimsical tiered gown features metallic floral embroidery that would fit perfectly at a garden wedding. The diamanté embellished belt adds an extra touch of sparkle to this already eye-catching dress.
Best Budget: Rachel Zoe Metallic One Shoulder Tie Waist Maxi Dress
Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length
Searching for the luxe look of a metallic wedding dress without breaking the bank? We love this under-$200 option from Rachel Zoe. The top is draped into a one-shoulder neckline, while the waist features a flattering tie to give the dress shape.
Best Drop-Waist: Rochas Metallic-Panelled Drop-Waist Dress
Size: IT 36-40 | Materials: Rayon, silk, polyester | Length: Ankle-length
What is chicer than a drop-waist wedding dress? This Rochas look gives Grecian goddess vibes while still remaining understated and timeless.
Best A-Line: Naeem Khan Metallic Ribbon A-Line Gown
Size: 4-12 | Materials: Rayon | Length: Floor-length
You can never go wrong with an A-line cut, but this Naeem Khan ensemble brings the classic silhouette to the next level. The intricate metallic weaving covers this sheer-backed gown.
Best Square Neckline: The Vampire’s Wife Midnight Garden Metallic Wool-Blend Midi Dress
Size: 2-14 | Materials: Wool, metalized yarn, silk | Length: Midi
This square-neck midi dress is undeniably stylish and timeless. We love it for a rehearsal dinner look, or even a modern-style dress to walk down the aisle in.
Best Blush Option: Bronx and Banco Zoe Billowy Sleeve V-Neck Gown
Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Length: Floor-length
Metallics can be more than silvers and golds, and if you’re looking for a nontraditional, statement-making bridal look, we suggest this blush number from Bronx and Banco. Style with silver heels, and soft hair and makeup.
Best Bow: Mac Duggal One-Shoulder Metallic Ballgown
Size: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length
We can’t help but fall for exaggerated, statement-making details on wedding dresses like this oversized shoulder bow. This elegant ballgown features a sweeping full skirt for you to twirl the evening away in with your partner.
For a Courthouse Wedding: Sachin & Babi Melina Dress
Size: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi
Keep things luxe and laid back with this metallic brocade midi dress that we love for a courthouse wedding. Style with an oversized bridal hat or a simple birdcage veil.
Most Statement-Making: Carolina Herrera Bow-Strap Metallic Jacquard Tiered Gown
Size: 2-14 | Materials: Acetate, polyester, polyamide | Length: Floor-length
Be prepared for jaws to drop when you step down the aisle in this metallic ballgown from Carolina Herrera. Add to the drama with a statement clutch and a sleek pulled-back hairstyle.
What to Look for in a Metallic Wedding Dress
Metallic dresses are a unique and chic alternative to a traditional white wedding gown, but there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for “the one”. If you love the idea of a metallic dress, but you’re not sure it fits your bridal aesthetic, consider all the different ways metallic can be incorporated into your look.
A shiny metallic dress may be a great option for the more modern, non-traditional bride, but if you want a classic look, opt for subtle metallic threading or a matte metallic look. Also, keep in mind which shade of metallic is best for the time of year. Silver and pewter are often associated with the winter, while gold and bronze will sparkle under the sun in the spring or summer.
Why Trust Brides
Contributing writer Melony Forcier is a recent graduate starting her career path in beauty and fashion journalism. Before graduating, she interned with both Boston Magazine and Foundation PR. Additionally, she served as a fashion editor for Boston University’s lifestyle magazine, The Buzz.