'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.
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.
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.
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.
Make like Sofia Richie and don a high-neck dress. Although it's floor length, this style has a modern appeal, thanks to the clean silhouette.
Heavenly London
The Gold Deco Dreams Earrings
You can always rely on Heavenly London to bring a touch of art deco to any occasion. These glamorous jewels will compliment all bridal looks.
Cecilie Bahnsen
Kiku Ruched Dahlia-Matelassé Clutch Bag
Cecilie Bahnsen is known for its matelassé crepe apparel and the design now extends to accessories. This clutch is granted to add a playful element to your ensemble.
Ted Baker
Tezzi Satin Bow Court Heels
The daintiest bow offering and a heel that's just high enough.
2. Buttermilk Bandeau Dress + Modern Accessories
Tove
Lauryn Ruched Stretch-Organic Cotton Midi Dress
Tove offers the perfect warm weather frock with just the right hint of pigment. Wear this with brown sandals thereafter.
COS
Knotted Pearl Earrings
Pearls have a place in every wedding and these doorknocker earrings have a fresh feel.
Porto Studio
The Pouch
A sleek accessory for the bride taking a break from ivory, ecru and white.
COS
Freshwater Pearl Hair Pin
The sweetest hairpin to tie the look together.
Gianvito Rossi
Skye 85 Leather and PVC Sandals
You may not associate these with a wedding shoe but something about it just works with the above look.
3. Ivory Blazer + Trouser Suit
Ghost
Viola Crepe Ivory Blazer
A double-breasted blazer always appears modern.
Ghost
Senna Crepe Wide-Leg Trousers
When looking for chic trousers, opt for a fluid silhouette like this.
By Comittee
Silk Satin Camisole
A made-to-measure bias cami with a subtle dip.
Anya Hindmarch
I Carry Your Heart Embroidered Recycled-Satin Clutch
Add even more sentiment to your special day with this embroidered clutch. Who's to say you can't wear it after too?
Daphine
Chris Tennis Necklace
If you wish to add a feminine lilt to your suited look.
Aeyde
Roda Leather Sandals
A pop of gold ties the jewel tones together.
4. Top + Maxi Skirt Co-ord
Safiyaa
Off-The-Shoulder Twist-Front Crepe Top
The epitome of a nice top. It is your wedding day, after all.
Clio Peppiatt
Stretch-Crepe Maxi Skirt
This clever skirt can easily be integrated into your wardrobe afterwards.
Megan Therese Couture
Rowe Clay Earrings
Made-to-measure statement earrings will compliment a sleek updo beautifully.
Manolo Blahnik
Maysale 50 Buckled Crepe De Chine Mules
Manolo Blahnik produces footwear of dreams. Just ask Carrie Bradshaw.
5. Mini Dress + Fluffy Accessories
Alex Perry
Elyse Strapless Silk-Faille Mini Dress
If you can't partake in statement dressing on your special day then when can you? The fullness is a result of the corseted style.
Jil Sander
Freshwater and Baroque Pearl Earrings
Tiered pearls look especially lovely with bandeau necklines.
Isla De Gar
Hive Bag
I've been thinking about this dreamy bag for a year.
Why not add a touch of glamour before and after the exchange of rings?
6. Off-The-Shoulder Silk Dress + Ruched Pumps
Bon Bride
Bb:20
I'm almost certain that Bon Bride will have my wedding dress of dreams.
Mango
Amelie Chain Strap
This spherical accessory will add to a classic look. Wear it with your wedding guest looks after.
Monica Vinader
Gold Vermeil Keshi Pearl Large Hoop Earrings
The iridescent sheen on these earrings is so special. It'll look different depending on the light.
Jimmy Choo
Pleated Luxe Nappa Leather Pumps
Jimmy Choo keeps every bride in mind. From OTT decorative styles to subtle ruching, you'll be sure to find something that feels like you. The ruching mimics the draping on the dress.
7. Bandeau Dress + Diamante Heels
16arlington
Blaise Feather-Trimmed Satin Strapless Gown
The textured trim brings a '20s element to this modern silhouette.
Khanums
Kemili Bag
A bejewelled pouch that's big enough to house your touch-ups. There's a touch of flapper girl to it.
Coast
Diamante Bow Detail Heel
Sophie Haboo's civil ceremony ensemble blew all wedding looks out of the water. She recently collaborated with Coast on a number of bridal prices if you're looking for special pieces at sensible price points.
8. Floral Appliqué Mini + Leather Sandals
Bernadette
Tilly Off-The-Shoulder Taffeta Mini Dress
Bernadette is right on the mark with this floral Appliqué trapeze mini. It's a jolly element that really works for bridal wear.
Gianvito Rossi
Portofino 105 Leather Sandals
The dress does all of the talking, so pair it with these classic heels courtesy of Gianvito Rossi. Wear this for the civil ceremony and beyond.
9. Fluffy Ivory Trouser Co-ord
16 Arlington
Hoku Cropped Feather-Trimmed Crepe Top
Wear this showstopping piece with jeans after the big day. It'll fit your 'very nice top' quota forever more.
Many brides opt for Loeffler Randall on their special day. The chunky sole is great for a bride who wants some added height. Then there's the uniquely pleated fabrication, which is synonymous with the brand identity.
Coutille
The Romy Midi
From summer holidays to dinner parties and indeed a wedding dress option, this is a piece that will serve you for memorable occasions and beyond.
Sleeper
Atlanta Off-The-Shoulder Shirred Linen Midi Dress
The Sleeper Atlanta dress has earnt cult status because of its versatile appeal. If you push it one step further, it'll also make for a laid-back bridal look.
Reformation
Ronda Silk Dress
When I think of modern bridal gowns, I think of svelte shaping as opposed to full ballgowns.
Norma Kamali
Diana Ruched Stretch-Jersey Maxi Dress
Minimal dresses are all the rage this summer. If you're looking for a low-maintenance dress with impact, look no further than Norma Kamali.
Dune London
Daliah
Satin goodness and a delicate reverse bow you can tie high or low.
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.