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Calling all princess brides! If you’re currently in the process of planning the wedding of your dreams, we highly suggest that you consider wearing a fairy-tale wedding dress. That’s because this specific bridal style is both timeless and whimsical, and gives off a romantic aura that will leave a smile on your face when looking back at photos and videos in the years to come.
The best part? Whether you’re going for an enchanted forest vibe or sparkles galore, there’s a fairy-tale wedding dress that was made just for you. What’s more, from silky fabrics to tulle overlays and flowy chiffon, this versatile style is perfect for brides with magical and royal-inspired aesthetics, and is also a lovely option for a wide range of heights, body shapes, and sizes.
Ahead, we put together a list of some of our absolute favorite fairy-tale wedding dresses, with gowns from top designers and bridal fashion houses like Justin Alexander and Amsale. Keep reading below to find a look that’ll help make your fairy-tale dreams come true.
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There’s something about sweep trains that scream fairy tales, and this gown from Willowby by Watters accomplishes just that. With lace, off-the-shoulder sleeves, and a stunning low-back, you’ll feel like a true princess when wearing this look.
Price at time of publish: $1,795
Size Range: 00-24 | Material: Tulle, lace | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $50
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Shopping for a whimsical princess dress on a budget? Look no further than Selkie’s ivory flower gown. This style features a square neckline, puff sleeves, and ruffles galore, details made to be worn to a fairy-tale-inspired celebration.
Price at time of publish: $599
Size Range: XXS-6X | Material: Polyester | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $350
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Strapless gowns that stay in place are hard to come by, but this dress from Justin Alexander was crafted to perfection. The sweetheart neckline and lace details make for one feminine look, and we especially love the exposed corset bodice for an added touch of drama.
Price at time of publish: Inquire with retailer
Size Range: Inquire with retailer | Material: Sequins, lace, net, tulle | Shipping: Inquire with retailer
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For the bride who wants to frolic through flower fields, we can’t think of a better dress than Azazie’s Vendela. You’ll look like a dreamy princess in this ethereal gown that boasts a chapel train and exaggerated off-the-shoulder sleeves.
Price at time of publish: $499
Size Range: 0-30 | Material: Tulle, lace | Shipping: Free shipping
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Tulle is a must when it comes to fairy-tale wedding dresses, and the Koa dress by Amsale features layers upon layers of this romantic material. The tiered mushroom pleated bodice paired with matching sleeves also makes for one feminine style.
Price at time of publish: $5,995
Size Range: Inquire with designer | Material: Tulle | Shipping: Inquire with designer
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Go back in time and opt for a full-on princess ensemble with this Cinderella-inspired wedding dress. With transparent organza sleeves and a deep V-neck that features beads and sequins, this storybook look will look stunning when worn on your special day.
Price at time of publish: $1,099
Size Range: 4-24 or made-to-order | Material: Organza, tulle | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $300
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Fairy-tale wedding dresses don’t always have to be in your face, which is why we love this modern and pared-back option from For Love & Lemon. Between the long bishop sleeves and side slit, there’s so much to love about this contemporary style.
Price at time of publish: $618
Size Range: XXS-XL | Material: Silk, spandex | Shipping: Free shipping
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Sleek and lustrous in design, Amsale’s Marisol gown shows off hand-beaded organza flowers atop a silk crepe material. More specifically, the tulle backing and fit-to-flare style are perfect for fairy-tale brides.
Price at time of publish: $8,595
Size Range: Inquire with designer | Material: Silk crepe, tulle | Shipping: Inquire with designer
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Opt for a classic off-the-shoulder neckline in the form of this dress from Eloquii. Between the corseted bodice and wrap-style silhouette, this striking gown will certainly hug you in all of the right places.
Price at time of publish: $499
Size Range: 14-28 | Material: Polyester | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $125
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With a high neck and floral embroidery atop sheer sleeves, this Oleg Cassini wedding dress is idyllic in the best way. The sweep train, layered lace, and tulle skirt also allow for the perfect amount of movement.
Price at time of publish: $999
Size Range: 0-30 | Material: Lace, tulle | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $120
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This fairy-esque wedding dress from Galia Lahav features unique lantern sleeves and large floral detailing, fit for any boho bride. We can picture it being worn to a garden ceremony or a glamorous outdoor celebration.
Price at time of publish: Inquire with retailer
Size Range: Inquire with retailer | Material: Tulle | Shipping: Inquire with retailer
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One-shoulder wedding dresses aren’t common, but if you want to stand apart, we think this option from Galina Signature is the way to go. The beading throughout the gown, in addition to the thigh-high slit, is both eccentric and romantic.
Price at time of publish: $1,189.30
Size Range: 0-30 | Material: Nylon, lace | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $120
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Selkie is known for its puff sleeves and ruffles, and we love how these two components come hand-in-hand in the form of this bridal gown. Featuring a voluminous skirt and ruffle accents, this is the perfect look to wear when on the dance floor.
Price at time of publish: $1,800
Size Range: XXS-6X | Material: Silk satin organza | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $350
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Whether you love everything folklore or simply want to have a Taylor Swift moment at your wedding, this garden-inspired gown from Jenny by Jenny Yoo is an excellent choice. This dress offers tons of dimension from the lace to the removable sleeves and floral motifs.
Price at time of publish: $1,695
Size Range: 0-26 | Material: Lace | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $50
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If you want to create the illusion of a narrow waist and wider hips, you need to get your hands on an A-line dress, like this one from Azazie. We can’t get over the sheer sleeves and hand-appliqued lace, a true example of a princess-inspired gown.
Price at time of publish: $529
Size Range: 0-30 | Material: Lace, tulle | Shipping: Free shipping
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Affordable and fit for the casual bride, this trendy Mac Duggal gown shows off delicate ruffle straps and a sexy cutout bodice. Style yours with chandelier earrings and ankle-strap sandals to complete the look.
Price at time of publish: $598
Size Range: 0-16 | Material: Chiffon | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $100
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Shine bright like a diamond in this grand ball gown from Olivia Bottega! The sparkly tulle skirt is full of tons of layers and looks superb with matching straps that can be worn off the shoulder.
Price at time of publish: $870
Size Range: 4-26 or made-to-order | Material: Tulle, sequins, lace | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $300
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Amsale’s Eloise dress comes complete with a matching cape we can’t help but obsess over. Made with the pixie bride in mind, this silk gown with floral embroidery is a dream come true for any fairy-tale wedding.
Price at time of publish: $6,795
Size Range: Inquire with designer | Material: Silk | Shipping: Inquire with designer
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Whether you’re taking the casual route or want a shorter dress for the after-party, this ruffled mini from Club L London will suit all of your dancing needs. With a strapless style and layers of ruffles to adore, this ultra-feminine frock is bound to make a statement at any celebration.
Price at time of publish: $270
Size Range: 2-12 | Material: Premium cotton blend | Shipping: Shipping rates vary
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Simply sweet and demure in style, Willowby by Watters offers a stunning option for the unassuming bride. With delicate floral embroidery and sheer puff sleeves, this fairy-tale wedding dress is what dreams are made of.
Price at time of publish: $1,495
Size Range: 00-26 | Material: Polyester | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $50
What to Look for in a Fairy-Tale Wedding Dress
Romantic Silhouettes
In general, fairy-tale wedding dresses call for romantic silhouettes, such as A-line skirts and cinched waists. According to Manon Martin, founder of the avant-garde bridal tech company Les Aimants, brides should look out for ensembles with “A high-waisted bustier combined with an A-line skirt, [as that] creates a flattering silhouette that elongates the legs, thanks to the slightly elevated waist placement,” says Martin. “For added allure, the bustier can feature an arched back with a button closure at the center back, positioned below the scooped neckline, adding a charming element to the design.”
Dreamy Fabrics
When it comes to the fabric of your fairy-tale wedding dress, go for something “dreamy” like satin duchesse or shiny charmeuse. “While we adore the structured bustier, crafted from satin duchesse or shiny charmeuse for a radiant glow, I recommend complementing it with a lighter and ethereal touch,” adds Martin. “Opting for an ivory chiffon skirt will introduce a sense of fluidity and graceful movement to the overall gown. The sheer quality of the chiffon enhances the flow and adds a delicate, romantic element that beautifully contrasts with the structured bustier. This combination of textures creates a romantic and dreamy bridal ensemble.”
Princess Details
A fairy-tale wedding dress is something a princess would wear, so look for fun details like sequins and even three-dimensional enhancements. “A gown embroidered with delicate translucent sequins, subtly concentrated below the cup through the waistline, is perfect for a fairy-tale wedding dress,” shares Martin. “A whimsical touch can be added with the inclusion of 3D flowers, cascading from the waist down to the hem, lending romance to the overall design.”
Why Trust Brides
Contributing writer Taylor Augustin is a freelance writer who covers fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Her work can be found in Teen Vogue, Byrdie, Popsugar, and more.