/trumpetgownfb-b7b2726809c54be8b367b06cc4e39fc0.jpg)
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best
products—learn more about
our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
PHOTO BY PORTERHOUSE LOS ANGELES/Gown by Berta
If you’ve already begun the in-person hunt for your wedding gown, you know how overwhelming it can be. However, if you have yet to step foot into a bridal boutique, allow us to shed some light on what is sure to come. It’s best to go in with a solid idea of how you want to look and feel.
Arriving with the most basic (albeit, most important) detail in mind will make the search much easier—and for us, that’s the silhouette. As one of the most influential details, the shape of your gown will determine your mobility and comfort level on the big day and surely set the tone for the overall aesthetic and bridal style that your look will exude.
What Is a Trumpet Dress?
A trumpet silhouette fits snuggly around the waist and hips then flares out around mid-thigh. The shape is different from a mermaid silhouette which flares out at or below the knee.
For brides contemplating the classic trumpet silhouette, we’ve got you! From how to distinguish the shape to logistics to dresses to buy, you’re about to be well-versed in trumpet wedding gowns. First things first: You may or may not know that a trumpet is a flared-out style that could be considered a more understated version of the mermaid.
It sits fitted at the waist, through the hips, and bells out around the mid-thigh area. Perfect for creating that hourglass figure, the silhouette makes for an ultra elongating and elegant bridal look. The well-loved style can be seen in everything from sleek satin to billowing tulle gowns with ethereal details. No matter where you may fall on the bridal style spectrum, trumpet wedding dresses are an excellent place to start your bridal shopping experience and are versatile enough for all aesthetics and brides of all sizes.
So, to help jumpstart your search, we’ve rounded up the best 22 trumpet wedding dresses you’ll want to consider for your big day.
Most Dramatic: Rivini Ophelia Dress
Size Range: 2-22 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Satin and tulle | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
There’s no doubt that all eyes will be on you as you float down the aisle in this fashion-forward trumpet gown. Brides seeking drama will love its sleek silhouette and frothy, organically textured skirt.
Best Tulle Detail: Rebecca Schoneveld Renee Gown
Size Range: 00-30 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Tulle and embroidery | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
Because of the flared-out structure, it’s not common to find a trumpet style with a tulle skirt. This silhouette’s dreamy features result in a whimsical, ethereal look.
For the Minimalist Bride: Alex Perry Eliza Satin-Crepe Gown
Size Range: UK4-UK16 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Satin-crepe | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 28 days of receipt
Oftentimes, less is certainly much more. And this satin-crepe gown from Alex Perry proves just that. While we love the simple and elegant impact it has on its own, it leaves room for accessorizing in your own personal way.
Best Backless Style: Katie May Lanai Gown
Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Material: Corded alencon lace | Return policy: Free returns accepted excluding sale items
If a backless style is currently on your bridal Pinterest board, then this corded lace gown is for you! Suspended from barely-there straps, you’ll certainly turn heads as you walk down the aisle.
For the Romantic Bride: Martina Liana Style 906 Textured Trumpet Wedding Dress
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Silk zibeline, tulle, and tonal beaded lace appliqué | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
From sleek silk zibeline to tulle and irresistible white tonal beading, this romantic trumpet gown has it all. Plus, the long, dreamy train and fabric-covered buttons seal the deal.
Best One Shoulder: Amsale Fatima Gown
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Silk faille | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
One-shoulder gowns are making a comeback and we’re here for it. Sleek and sophisticated, this Amsale gown features luxurious silk faille fabric and an impeccable fit.
For the Modern Bride: Naeem Khan Ventura Gown
Size Range: Inquire with retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Embroidery and ribbon detail | Return policy: Inquire with retailer
The all-over ribbon detailing coupled with the trumpet silhouette creates a look that feels impossibly modern and fashion-forward. Pair it with fresh and glowy makeup and a tousled updo to show off the open back.
Best Plunging Neckline: Rebecca Vallance Harper Gown
Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Crepe and lace | Return policy: Returns accepted within 7 days of purchase
Perfect for the daring bride, this deep-V neckline features a mesh insert for support and coverage. Paired with lace sleeves, this gown is an ideal blend of modern and sophisticated.
For a Formal Wedding: Sareh Nouri Emma Dress
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Italian stretch mikado | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
The diagonally draped off-the-shoulder neckline paired with covered buttons running down the cathedral-length train scream sophistication. Pair it with a polished coif for a classic, timeless look.
Best Lace Detail: Berta Style 20-P102 Trumpet Wedding Dress
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Tulle, lace, and velvet | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
Berta gowns offer an impossibly romantic, sexy, and couture look. This style’s sheer corset bodice, intricate lace design, bow detailing, and effortless tulle skirt prove to be just that.
For the Edgy Bride: Zhivago Message To Love Gown
Size Range: 2-6 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Poly and spandex blend | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 60 days of purchase
If you’re looking to make a fashion statement on your wedding day, this design is it. From the padded shoulders to the high neck, side cutout, and asymmetrical embroidery detail, this ’80s-inspired gown is one that’s sure to be remembered.
Best Strapless Style: Maggie Sottero Dover Gown
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Geometric lace | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
While this dress may look simple at first glance, it boasts sophisticated details. From the corset bodice to the removable arm sashes, this design is perfect for the bride who wants to be bold without looking too flashy.
Best Budget: Azazie Tifa BG Gown
Size Range: WD0-WD30 (custom sizes available) | Length: Floor-length | Material: Stretch crepe and lace | Return policy: Free returns accepted for standard sizes
Contrary to popular belief, a smaller budget doesn’t mean you have to skimp on style. The scoop neckline, chapel-length train, and lace detailing on the sleeve are so sophisticated, you would never guess it costs under $400.
Most Curve-Hugging: Maggie Sottero Esther Dress
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Beaded lace motifs and chantilly lace | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
Hello, curves! This gown features impeccably placed lace motifs that will frame your shape oh-so-perfectly. The chantilly lace underlay, beaded lace design, and stunning train make for an intricate look.
Best Embroidery: Galia Lahav Camilla Gown
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Silk tulle and 3D floral embroidery | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
Incredibly romantic and utterly couture, this Galia Lahav gown is a dream. We’re obsessed with the soft floral embroidery, sheer panels, detachable puff sleeves, and, of course, the impeccable fit.
For the Glam Bride: Pantora Bridal 2022 Honor Collection Look 20 Trumpet Wedding Dress
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Rhinestone beading, lace, and tulle | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
Calling all glam brides! Your search stops here with this show-stopping Pantora gown. Featuring remarkable beading and a voluminous trumpet skirt, your walk down the aisle is bound to be unforgettable.
Best Architectural Design: Allison Web Carson Gown
Size Range: 0-28 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Pearl-blended faille | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
There’s no need for beading, lace, or embroidery here! The stunning architectural design of this pearl-blended faille fabric speaks for itself. For the bride seeking a clean, timeless gown that’s not lacking any drama, this one’s for you.
Most Art-Deco Inspired: Lazaro Arabella Dress
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Tulle and beaded embroidery | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
The unbelievable Art-Deco beading on this Lazaro gown simply speaks for itself. Ideal for the bride with an eye for detail, the charming designs that make its way throughout this dramatic silhouette make it a true masterpiece.
For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Pnina Tornai Wedding Dress With Ruffle Detailing
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Soft tulle | Return policy: Inquire with Kleinfeld Bridal
There isn’t a single detail about this gown that doesn’t feel utterly fashion-forward. The soft tulle trumpet silhouette embellished with ruffled straps, a bow on the sweetheart neckline, and ruffle details along the hips and hemline are straight out of a fashionista’s dream.
Most Elaborate: Eve of Milady Amalia Style 366 Trumpet Wedding Dress
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Tulle and 3D hand-embroidered lace | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
This beautiful Eve of Milady gown is the epitome of bridal. Between its intricately crafted embroidered lace design, dramatic silhouette, classic neckline, and dreamy train, this one screams fairy tale romance.
Best Train: Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Platinum Collection DP274Jasmine Wedding Dress
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Stretch mikado, embroidery, and crystal beading | Return policy: Dependent on bridal retailer
You may never have another reason to wear a dress with a train again, so take this opportunity while you can. This gorgeous trumpet silhouette with a chapel-length lace train is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of dress.
Most Structured Fit: Pnina Tornai Style 4881PT Embroidered Trumpet Wedding Dress
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Length: Floor-length | Material: Tulle and sequin embroidery | Return policy: Inquire with Kleinfeld Bridal
The corset and boning within this Pnina Tornai gown ensure an ultra-structured fit all wedding day long. Plus, the organic design of the white sequin embroidery pops against its blush-hued backdrop. Seriously, what’s not to love?
What to Look for in a Trumpet Wedding Dress
Whether you’re set on a trumpet wedding dress or simply exploring all the silhouettes, there are a few helpful hints to keep in mind that may ultimately influence your final “say yes!” moment.
Bridal Style
If a streamlined, structured fit with elegant or dramatic details speaks to your bridal vision, a trumpet may be just perfect. However, if you’re seeking an effortless, free-flowing gown that will prioritize comfort, this may not be the silhouette for you. But remember, there are always exceptions!
Weight and Feel of Fabrics
The presence or absence of boning, or even the details throughout, will also determine the aesthetic. Where and how the gown flares out is another factor that largely impacts the look and feel of your dress. Some trumpet gowns seamlessly transcend from the fitted shape into the bell silhouette for a sleek, elegant, and elongating look.
Others feature more apparent details or an abrupt change in fabric that intentionally places the focus on where the gown flares out for an ultra-dramatic bridal look. We know, we know—this can all sound overwhelming. Ultimately, convey your vision and any concerns you may have to your stylist. Trust the professionals and the process—you’ve got this!
Why Trust Brides
With over a decade of editorial experience, contributing writer Stephanie Montes has expertise in beauty and fashion. In her previous positions, she was a beauty director at the Zoe Media Group as well as an editorial assistant for WWD. Her bylines have appeared on Elite Daily, HelloGiggles, Well + Good, MyDomaine, Elle, and Byrdie.