Having a Civil Ceremony? 9 Modern-Bridal Outfits That Have Totally Floored Us

'Tis the season for weddings, weddings and more weddings. It seems to be that time of year when "what to wear to a wedding?" is a question on everyone's lips and an even bigger task at hand if you're the bride. Over the last few years, I’ve paid attention to the evolution of bridal dresses and the transition from ‘princess’ dressing to modern looks, which often takes place at the registry site. The bridal aesthetic has come on leaps and bounds and it’s inspired many jolly looks. As civil ceremonies are a dialled-down version of the big day, it gives brides the opportunity to be entirely creative. There are myriad styles of dressing that will suit everyone and some of these may be unexpected pairings that you wouldn't necessarily assign to bridal.

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(Image credit: @lucywilliams02)

Fashion influencer Lucy Williams wore a long-sleeved midi dress by 16arlington to her civil ceremony and a Danielle Frankel dress to her white wedding.

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(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Marilyn wears a Jill Sandar blazer and skirt duo, demonstrating how two separate pieces can make the freshest look. Pair this with mules and you'll be ceremony ready.

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(Image credit: @_marisamartins_)

Marisa dons this ethereal Essen frock in a light cotton fabrication. Notice the barely-there splice that lends it a modern feel.

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(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

Add a hint of drama with the oversized floral detail courtesy of Magda Butrym.

Although white and ivory looks are the most traditional elements of bridal wear, don't be afraid to throw the rule book out in place of something that feels like the most 'you'. The same goes for shaping and the type of garment you pick. Instead of the familiar frothy dresses and veils, expect to see tailored suits, sleek separates, jumpsuits and dresses you can wear well past the big day. While there are no rules for what to wear, you'll want to feel amazing in a memorable ensemble. Keep scrolling to see the best bridal outfit ideas for a civil ceremony. 

1. The Modest Maxi + Satin Slingbacks

2. Buttermilk Bandeau Dress + Modern Accessories

3. Ivory Blazer + Trouser Suit 

4. Top + Maxi Skirt Co-ord

5. Mini Dress + Fluffy Accessories

6. Off-The-Shoulder Silk Dress + Ruched Pumps

7. Bandeau Dress + Diamante Heels

8. Floral Appliqué Mini + Leather Sandals

9. Fluffy Ivory Trouser Co-ord

Shop More Modern Bridal Pieces:

Next up: Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Chic Wedding, According to Editors

Freelance Fashion Editor

Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities. She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications,Best Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK and Stylist. Avalon also provides copywriting services, creative consultancy, and visual media for independent businesses, including travel guides, interviews, press releases and blog posts. Her work has been featured on Lush, Contiki, Youswim and Ohne. She spends her days writing to her heart’s content for business and pleasure, shooting on film and dreaming of residing a stone’s throw away from the ocean with her love and a pup (clad in a sweeping frock, of course). She’s currently penning ideas for a book of personal essays and free verse poetry on love, life and the stages in between.