18 Elegant Slip Wedding Dresses for the Minimalist Bride (2024)

18 Elegant Slip Wedding Dresses for the Minimalist Bride (1)

Few silhouettes are more elegant than a simple slip dress. These pared-back designs are effortlessly sophisticated and have graced the aisles of many iconic celebrity weddings (hello, Carolyn Bessette!). Whether you’re donning this classic silhouette for your ceremony, reception, or after-party, there are scores of chic and minimalist slip wedding dresses on the market.

Because slip dresses tend to be free of embellishments, the quality of the fabric, the cut, and the fit is even more important for creating an elevated look for your wedding. We spoke to celebrity fashion stylist Kim Appelt for advice on how to pick and style slip wedding dresses. With her advice, we looked for designs in a range of prices, aesthetics, and silhouettes.

Since slip dresses hug your body, consider wearing seamless underwear or shapewear. Sheer and unlined options can also be paired with a bodysuit or taken to the tailor to add a lining.

Read on for the best slip dresses for every style, body type, and budget.

Our Top Picks

Best for a Formal Wedding:

Elliat Aisle Dress at Revolve ($190)

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Best for a Formal Wedding

Elliat Aisle Dress

18 Elegant Slip Wedding Dresses for the Minimalist Bride (2)

Size Range: XS-XXL | Material(s): Satin fabric (polyester) | Color(s): White | Length: Floor-length

With its elegant silhouette and eye-catching high-low hemline, this dress was made for formal events. It's constructed from satin polyester fabric for a luminous and luxe look. The flattering draped neckline, criss-cross back, and fabric-covered buttons on the lower back are stylish details that set this dress apart from the rest. Style your hair in a loose bun to spotlight your shoulders and back.

Best Champagne

Lulus Champagne Satin Maxi Dress

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Size Range:XS-XL | Material(s):Polyester | Color(s):Champagne | Length:Floor Length

This dress proves you don't need embellishments to make a gown look special. The sleek woven satin creates a smooth and seamless line down your body. A scoop neckline feels elegant while the darted bodice adds some definition to your chest. The thick tank style straps lead into a scoop and a back that's completed by a train. Coming in champagne, it's a slight variation from traditional white.

Size Range:2-12 | Material(s):Natural silk chiffon, satin | Color(s):Light ivory | Length:Floor-length

Soft and ethereal, this ivory slip features an alluring open back and detachable train. This versatile style would be right at home at a backyard or destination wedding. The illusion top adds a whimsical touch and has lace and beading embellishments if you want something a little more glamorous. The plunging necklines on the front and back add some drama, while the maxi length feels breezy and effortless.

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Best Plunging Neckline

Reformation Maysen Silk Dress

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Size Range:0-12 | Material(s):Silk | Color(s):Fior Di Latte, Green | Length: Floor-length

Simple but certainly not boring, this Reformation gown strikes the perfect balance between sexy and sleek. The deep-V neckline coupled with lace lining offers a flattering and lightly structured fit while the body-skimming skirt adds shape to the simple silhouette. Lace details make the open back even more special.

Best Asymmetrical Hem

Lulus Asymmetrical Slip Midi Dress

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Size Range:XS-XL | Material(s):Polyester, spandex | Color(s):Ivory | Length:Midi-length

With a bias-cut silhouette, flouncy tier, and an asymmetrical hem, this dress is ideal for the simple yet bold bride. It's crafted from silky polyester and elastane with a full lining for a soft and opaque fit. The midi dress provides some extra movement, and it has hidden closures for a seamless look. Style it with a pair of embellished pumps for a formal wedding or a pair of block-heel sandals for a garden wedding.

Best Budget

ShineWithMeGifts Silk Cami Strap Slip Dress

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Size Range:XS-XL | Material(s):Silk, polyester | Color(s):White, Black, Purple | Length:Midi

If you're opting to say "I do" at city hall, this silk midi dress is an impossibly chic choice for your intimate ceremony. The cowl neck is super flattering, and it's crafted from lightweight satin polyester for a breathable and luxurious feel. Even better? At under $80, this dress is a budget-friendly option, to boot!

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Best for a Seaside Wedding

NoireBrand Eleanor White Wedding Slip Dress

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Size Range:XS-XL, custom | Material(s):Silk-blend | Color(s):13 | Length:Floor-length

We can't help but picture this diaphanous white gown at a chic and casual seaside wedding. Its open back is insanely elegant and makes for an eye-catching entrance. It's made from shiny silk viscose and comes equipped with a full lining. The thin, delicate straps are adjustable for a custom fit, and the A-line silhouette is universally flattering. Available in over 10 colors, the Eleanor dress is also a lovely option for bridal party dresses.

Best Midi-Length

TheSerenityWear Cowl Neck Silk Slip Dress

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Size Range:XS-XL | Material(s): Silk charmeuse| Color(s):7 | Length:Midi

This boudoir-inspired slip is sultry and sophisticated and looks like liquid silk on the body. The cowl neckline feels especially trendy, while the low back adds a sexy flair. The midi length makes it ideal for laid-back weddings or a second look for your reception. We also love that it comes in several colors if you want to pick something other than the traditional white. Wear yours with delicate personal jewelry and velvet mules or elegant kitten heels.

Best Plus Size

BHLDN Cali Satin Midi Dress

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Size Range:Plus: 16W-26W | Material(s):Satin (polyester) | Color(s):11 | Length:Midi

This thoughtfully designed and size-inclusive gown features a flattering cowl neckline, empire bust seam, and barely-there spaghetti straps. It comes in over 10 colors and has a side slit for a dramatic and sexy flair. The midi silhouette makes it particularly great for a second reception look–especially if you plan to do a lot of dancing. It's made with satin polyester and has a full lining, so you'll feel comfortable and cool all day. Pair yours with a simple veil for a timeless look.

Best for a Black Tie Wedding

Jenny by Jenny Yoo Marnie Gown

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Size Range:0-26 | Material(s): Polyester | Color(s):Off White | Length: Floor Length

Fitted through the hips with a flared silhouetteand an open back, this figure-celebrating gown is both flattering and sexy. Style with a pair of statement-making earrings to highlight your shoulders and neckline.

Most Effortless

Show Me Your Mumu Faith Maxi Dress

18 Elegant Slip Wedding Dresses for the Minimalist Bride (12)

Size Range:XXS-XXL | Material(s):Luxe satin (polyester) | Color(s):18 | Length:Floor-length

Effortlessly elegant and endlessly romantic, this simple slip dress from Show Me Your Mumu is a minimalist bride's dream. It's crafted from luxe lustrous satin fabric and has a dreamy maxi silhouette. The fitted bodice adds some structure to the overall look, and the v-neckline is elongating and alluring. We love the adjustable straps and full lining for a comfortable and seamless fit. Even better, it's available in over 10 colors if you want to get creative with your wedding day look. Pair yours with simple accessories and a wildflower bouquet.

Best Ruching

Shona Joy Lace Back Maxi Dress

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Size Range:0-12 | Material(s):Polyester | Color(s):Cream, Rose, Blue | Length:Floor-length

We love this pretty slip dress for the unfussy bride. It's perfect for summer or destination weddings and can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. The barely-there spaghetti straps are adjustable, and it comes fully lined for a quality fit and feel. The cowl neckline is especially fashionable and the flared maxi length is timeless. Made from polyester, it's soft and breathable—ideal for all-day wear. Style it with block heels for a finished look.

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Best Mini

Saint Laurent Open-Back Silk-Satin Mini Dress

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Size Range:FR34-FR42 | Material(s):Silk | Color(s):Chalk, Black | Length:Mini

No wedding wardrobe is complete without a party-ready mini dress. This Saint Laurent design is simple yet striking and has a total ‘90s model vibe to it à la Kate Moss. Wear it with everything from black velvet mules to sparkly sandals.

For the After-Party

Show Me Your Mumu Bling Mini Dress

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Size Range:XS-XXL | Material(s):Stretch crepe | Color(s):White, Black | Length:Mini

Short and sparkly and aptly named the ‘Bling’ mini dress, this slip was made to grace the after-party dance floor. Play up the bedazzled straps with matching sparkly shoes and a bold red lip.

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Best Feathered

Bridal by Eloquii Feather Hem Slip Dress

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Size Range:XXS-XXL | Material(s): Polyester | Color(s):Off White | Length:Mini

A feathered slip dress scream after-party. With no embellishments or hardware, this dress will be extremely comfortable as you dance the night away. You just want to sleep in it.

Best Sheer

French Connection Satin Maxi Cami Dress

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Size Range:2-10 | Material(s): Polyester | Color(s):Off White | Length: Floor Length

For a slightly sexy look, we love this slip dress made with sheer panels. The sheer panels are strategically placed to show some leg and midsection without being too revealing. Adjustable straps let you find the best fit for your chest. Coming from French Connection, the style looks exactly like what a French cool girl would wear.

Best One Shoulder

Watters Mirall Cowl-Neck Button-Slit Satin Sheath Wedding Gown

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Size Range:0-18 | Material(s): Polyester | Color(s):Ivory | Length: Floor Length

This Watters one-shoulder slip dress fits like a dream. The satin fabric is heavyweight for a smoother drape, and the one shoulder strap drapes down into a cowl neck and back. Covered buttons along the side and a high slit add some vintage glamour. With a flared skirt, this maxi silhouette is sleek and sophisticated.

Best Back Detail

Retrofête Electra Dress

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Size Range:XXS-XXL | Material(s):Acetate, polyester | Color(s):White | Length:Ankle-length

Make an exit as stunning as your entrance in this jaw-dropping gown by Retrofête. It features an elegant square neckline and an unexpected low back dripping in pearls. This seductive silhouette is sure to turn heads and leave a lasting impression.

Meet the Expert

Kim Appeltis a celebrity fashion stylist and author ofStyle for Everybody, a book about curating a wardrobe that works for you.

What to Look for in a Slip Wedding Dress

Fabric

The fabric you choose will influence how formal a slip wedding dress is. "Luxurious and structured fabrics like silk satin or lace elevate the dress for more formal settings," says Appelt. "Lighter and more casual fabrics like chiffon or cotton will be perfect in a more casual setting." Embellishment like pearls, beading, and lace also make a slip dress feel more formal. Feathers, like in Eloquii Feather Hem Slip Dress, add a playful touch that's perfect for an after-party look.

If you want the silky look and are deciding between true silk or polyester, there a few things to keep in mind. While real silk, like Reformation's Maysen Dress, tends to be more expensive than polyester, it offers a luxurious look and excellent breathability, making it a great choice for weddings in hot climates.

"Polyester is much less conducive to breathability," says Appelt. "If it's going to be hot, and you tend to be on the sweatier side of the spectrum, go for silk!'

Silk is also more delicate and prone to snagging, so if you prefer a durable, affordable dress, polyester may be the way to go.

Length

The length of a slip dress can change how formal it is and decide if it's better suited for the ceremony or after party. "A longer floor-length or a sweeping train, will be stunning and really suit a formal wedding," says Appelt. "Shorter lengths, like midi or above-the-knee, will feel more casual and will look to be perfectly suited for the beach, winery, or backyard wedding." We also love the idea of slipping into a mini slip, like Show Me Your Mumu Bling Mini Dress, for the after-party.

Silhouette

Slip dresses can be cut in many stunning silhouettes. "A slimmer silhouette, like a sheath or mermaid, will feel more formal and glamorous, while an A-line silhouette feels softer and more romantic depending on the setting," says Appelt. With its A-line skirt, Noire Brand Slip Dress is our pick for a beach wedding.

FAQ

  • What is a slip wedding dress?

    Unlike slips that are worn as lingerie or undergarments, slip wedding dresses are designed to be seen and worn on their own. These simple dresses usually feature bias-cut silhouettes and spaghetti straps. Slip wedding dresses come in many different iterations and can run the gamut from clean and minimalist to embellished and glamorous. "Slip wedding dresses are so versatile and one of my favorite styles of wedding dress," says Appelt.

  • What do I wear under my slip dress?

    Finding the right undergarments for a slip dress can be tricky, as the smooth fabric tends to show all. Appelt recommends seamless, smooth cup strapless bras in your skintone for extra support without the straps. If your dress has a low back, you might want to try an adhesive bra or nipple covers.

    For the bottom, Appelt recommends seamless underwear or shapewear if you are looking for extra smoothing. "Look for a smooth and thin fabric to avoid visible underwear lines," says Appelt. "Thongs, boyshorts, or seamless briefs can all work depending on what you feel most comfortable in. Some of my favorites are Commando and Skims."

  • How do I style a slip wedding dress?

    Since slip dresses offer a simple and clean aesthetic, the styling options are endless! But it's a good idea to consider the venue, dress code, and overall vibe of your wedding when choosing your accessories. If you're throwing a formal winter wedding, you might layer your slip dress with an elegant fur coat or a floor-length jacket after the ceremony for an ultra-glamorous look. Want something simple and sleek? Dainty jewelry and strappy heels are the way to go.

    Style your hair according to the details of the neckline and back of your slip wedding dress. If it has an open back or a unique cowl neck design, an up-do or loose low bun is an elegant choice that will show off your gown. "If you choose more casual accessories, like simple pearls or diamond studs, leave your hair loose and wavy, add flowers and flat shoes you can create a relaxed beachy, outdoorsy feel," says Appelt.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writerSophie Mooreis a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, wedding parties, and more. Slip dresses happen to be one of Sophie's favorite wedding dress silhouettes due to their simple design and effortless elegance.

Emily Cieslak is an associate commerce editor at Brides, covering all things beauty and fashion.

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18 Elegant Slip Wedding Dresses for the Minimalist Bride (2024)
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