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Let’s be honest, when it comes to your wedding dress, you’ve likely spent every last minute picking out the perfect gown. And while a look for the big day is certainly the most important outfit to keep in mind, you’ll likely be searching for a few other ensembles during your wedding journey—one being the bridal shower dress. After your engagement party, this is likely the second (or third) wedding festivity you’ll glam up for and is a time to explore your bridal fashion and see what you’d like your style to look like. Will you be leaning more formal with a sophisticated dress, or embrace a boho chic vibe? Perhaps you’re looking for a more trendy and statement-making look?
For brides who’d prefer to cover up a bit, and would like to opt for sleeves over spaghetti straps or strapless silhouettes, there are plenty of options for you. While this design element may seem like a small detail, it can actually add to the overall vibe of your dress. For example, bell sleeves can make your outfit more mod or ‘70s, while puff sleeves can add a whimsical element to your dress.
If you are searching for a bridal shower dress with sleeves, we’ve put together some of our favorite looks for your consideration. Scroll on to shop our selections now.
Size: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Length: Mini
If you’re planning a bridal shower on the beach, we love this mini dress from Rococo Sand. Pair with sandals and gold jewelry for a glam touch.
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Size: 0-14 | Materials: Silk, polyester, elastane | Length: Mini
This silk mini dress from Jason Wu is the perfect “something blue” for your bridal shower. The dress has a unique ruffle trim around the neckline and hemline for a feminine look.
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Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Cotton, elastane | Length: Mini
Try this short and sweet mini dress if your bridal shower has a more laid-back vibe. The eyelet fabric is adorable for a spring or summer celebrations.
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Size: XS-XL | Materials: Nylon, spandex, poly | Length: Maxi
If you are leaning towards a sleeve look but don’t want to commit fully, try out a sheer off-the-shoulder style. This fishtail dress gives of major bridal vibes and is perfect for an evening bridal shower event.
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Size: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose, nylon, polyester, elastane | Length: Mini
For a more minimalist bridal shower look, we love this simple shift dress from Amanda Uprichard. The romantic bell sleeves finish off the sleek ensemble.
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Size: 4-14 | Materials: Polyester, cotton | Length: Mini
This flouncy dress from Aje is truly a head-turner. The airy organza fabric is for the bride planning a fairytale-style affair.
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Size: XS-3X | Materials: Cotton | Length: Mini
For a pop of color, consider this light pink J.Crew mini dress. The color is a romantic alternative to a white bridal shower dress.
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Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Silk Noil | Length: Midi
Channel cottage-core vibes with this boho midi dress. Style with cowboy boots and subtle jewelry for a laid-back, summery touch.
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Size: 0-16 | Materials: Poly, tulle | Length: Maxi
Springtime bridal showers call for a light and airy floral dress, like this one from Mac Duggal. We especially love the side cut-out for an unexpected sexy touch.
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Size: XXS-XXL | Materials: Cotton | Length: Midi
For a summertime bridal shower, you can’t go wrong with a sundress. This option from Doen is inspired by Regency-era styles and features blouson sleeves and organic poplin-cotton fabric.
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Size: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose, Polyester | Length: Mini
Pair your long sleeve bridal shower dress with a sweetheart neckline that accentuates your decolletage. Style with statement shoes and earrings to add a splash of color and dimension.
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Size: XS-XL | Materials: Cotton blend | Length: Mini
This modern Jonathan Simkhai option is a fit for the fashion-forward bride. The lightweight gauze fabric and cold shoulder design are perfect for warmer weather events.
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Size: 0-12 | Materials: Metallic jersey with a foil finish | Length: Midi
Calling all bold brides! We are loving this one-sleeve, high-neck midi available for those who’d like to make a statement. Between the gunmetal hue, ruched design, and side slit, this dress is one of our top picks.
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Size: 2-14 | Materials: Viscose, polyamide, elastane, polyester | Length: Knee-length
For a more formal bridal shower, we suggest this elegant dress. The showstopping balloon sleeves are our favorite part, which remains sophisticated with an interesting twist.
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Size: XXS-XXL | Materials: Polyester, rayon, spandex | Length: Mini
Sometimes less is more, and that couldn’t be more true with this simple and sweet square neckline dress. It’s a silhouette that will never go out of style and it also works for all seasons, from summer to winter.
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Size: 2-12 | Materials: Silk touch | Length: Maxi
Go bold with this eye-catching and chic dress from Shona Joy. The back features a lace-up design that’ll make a statement at any bridal shower.
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Size: XS-L | Materials: Non-stretch woven fabric | Length: Mini
We cannot stop thinking about this lacey bodycon dress from Reiss. It’s a stunning option for a more formal wintertime bridal shower.
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Size: 2-12 | Materials: Cotton-jacquard | Length: Mini
Cutout detailing is a popular trend right now, so why not incorporate this style into your bridal shower dress? This option is made from a cotton-jacquard fabric and features a cutout on the bodice of the dress.
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Size: FR 34-44 | Materials: Acetate, viscose | Length: Mini
This elegant and romantic mini dress is made in a ‘60s mod style silhouette. The blouson sleeves and high neckline add a boho-inspired touch to this minimalist design.
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Size: 00-14 | Materials: Cotton | Length: Mini
Love will most definitely be in the air when you slip into this cotton lace dress from LoveShackFancy. The sheer paneling and ruffled skirt add a whimsical flair to this mini.
What to Look for in a Bridal Shower Dress with Sleeves
Searching for a bridal shower dress should be a fun and stress-free experience, but as mentioned before, it can also be an exciting introduction to your bridal style. When shopping for your outfit, think about which style best fits your personality.
Puff sleeves and sheer sleeves are a unique twist that can function as a statement element to your dress. You can also opt for looks with cap sleeves, one-shoulder sleeves, and even draped sleeves. Use this design element as a way to heighten your ensemble, in a similar fashion to how you’d style your look with accessories.
About the Author
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.