casual wedding dresses blog header image - D3636 by Essense of Australia

A Casual Wedding Dress for Every Bride

Are you a bride looking to ditch the princess-style gown and opt for something more subtle and relaxed on your special day? Are you looking for something simple yet stylish? Then look no further because casual wedding dresses provide an effortlessly chic way to express yourself on your big day.  

If you want to stay away from big ballgowns or traditional bridal designs—there are so many stylish alternatives. Our designers offer many bridal gowns that will make you look timelessly beautiful while expressing your laid-back personality. 

Whether you’re celebrating a courthouse wedding, throwing an intimate bash or dancing the night away with all your loved ones, we’ve got great ideas for every type of bride. Let’s check out how you can add a pinch of minimalistic vibes to your special day with a dreamy casual style! 

Achieving a Casual Wedding Dress Style 

A casual wedding dress style can be as beautiful and sophisticated as a traditional gown but with a more relaxed and effortless vibe—Casual wedding dresses offer a beautiful, no-fuss look! So, how do you achieve a casual wedding style? Here are some of our best tips: 

  1. Go for simple silhouettes. When searching for an informal wedding dress, go for easy breezy silhouettes like A-lines and simple column or sheath wedding gowns. Minimal trains are also ideal. You should be able to move easily without feeling restricted.  

The key to achieving a casual style is to find a wedding gown that is both comfortable and stylish. A casual dress should be easy to wear and flattering but not too tight or too loose. 

  1. Choose fuss-free fabrics. When it comes to casual wedding gowns, avoid overly stiff or heavy bridal fabrics like satin, and opt for those that are easy and comfortable to wear. Think silky fabrics, chiffon, minimally embellished laces, crepe, tulle in moderation or even cotton.  

If you dream of a more ornate or luxurious fabric, try opting for a shorter dress instead, which instantly makes your look more casual.  

  1. Opt for minimal embellishments. While a casual bridal gown can be found in most fabrics, the key is to opt for those with minimal embellishments. Choose unembellished fabrics or simpler takes on bridal trends instead of ornate beading or scrolling embroideries.  

If you do want a dress with statement-making detail, opt for one detail instead of a dress that has it all! A simple wedding gown with a statement sleeve or an oversized bow combines a casual look with bridal’s top trends, not to mention that simple wedding dresses are a trend on their own! 

  1. Understated Accessories. The right accessories can also help to give your dress a more casual look. A simple pair of pearl earrings or a delicate necklace is all you need – avoid anything too flashy or over-the-top. 

Best Time to Wear a Casual Wedding Dress? 

Great news! Casual wedding dresses can be worn in any season of the year. They are ideal for outdoor spring or summer weddings, elopements or courthouse weddings. A flowy, lightweight dress, a midi or mini style or a simple slip dress would make for a stunning informal wedding dress. 

While casual wedding dresses are versatile enough to fit with most themes, they may be less suitable for glamorous or black-tie events. For these types of occasions, it’s best to opt for a more traditional wedding dress. 

Casual Wedding Dresses 

Casual Boho Wedding Dress 

sparkling blush a-line wedding dress with slit - 1464 by Martina Liana
Martina Liana Style 1464 

Get ready to shine with the gorgeous Martina Liana Style 1464! This stunning casual boho wedding dress brings together a beautiful combination of shimmer and effortless glamour. Its flowy silhouette is ideal for dancing the night away. With a luxurious look, this gown brings to life every modern bride’s dreams. 

Plus Size Casual Wedding Dress 

boho plus size a-line wedding dress with off the shoulder long sleeves - 7573+ by Stella York
Stella York Style 7573+ 

With its romantic style and luxe lace fabric, this plus size casual wedding dress is sure to take your breath away. The corset-style boning of the allover lace bodice creates an enchanting off-the-shoulder look that highlights your natural beauty and curves. This whimsical gown is made for brides who want to add a touch of casual romance to their bridal style. 

Casual Beach Wedding Dress 

casual beach wedding dress with sweetheart neckline and textured bodice - 7642 by Stella York
Stella York Style 7642 

Say “I do” to simple elegance with Stella York Style 7642. A fabulous option for a beach wedding setting, this creative sheath silhouette is crafted in ivory crepe and 3D lace. The design is ideal for modern brides looking for a casual yet glamorous look that will make them feel effortlessly beautiful. 

Casual Country Wedding Dress 

plus size a-line wedding dress with off the shoulder long sleeve - D3636+ by Essense of Australia
Essense of Australia Style 3636+ 

Delight in the details of this casual country wedding dress! Essense of Australia Style 3636 is designed with an effortless A-line silhouette that boasts a romantic bodice and breathable layers of chiffon. This stunning gown strikes all the right country notes while keeping your laid-back bride vibes at center stage. 

Casual Spring/Summer Wedding Dress 

sparkling a-line wedding dress with plunging neckline - D3508 by Essense of Australia
Essense of Australia Style D3508 

Looking for a dreamy dress for your spring or summer wedding? Then look no further than Essense of Australia Style D3508! This stunning gown embodies free-spirited elegance with its graphic lace appliques and soft, floaty chiffon skirt. Feel beautiful, confident and glowing in this romantically simple gown! 

How do you Style a Casual Wedding Dress? 

Once you find the casual wedding dress of your dreams, it’s time to accessorize! The key to achieving this look is to focus on the details. Choose a simple yet elegant dress and style it with understated accessories and a natural hairstyle to complete the effortlessly chic vibe. Here are a few ideas to inspire your wedding day style: 

  • Jewelry: A little sparkle can go a long way! Opt for a classic pair of earrings or a necklace that won’t overwhelm your dress. A simple pair of pearl, diamond or crystal studs or a dainty necklace will do the trick! 
  • Headpiece & Veil: Casual wedding dresses can be worn without a headpiece or veil for a super laidback look, but if you want that extra touch of elegance, you can opt for a small comb, simple headband, flower crown or even a hat for a boho vibe. When it comes to veils, a shorter style in a shoulder or fingertip length will still give that bridal feeling without the fuss.  
  • Shoes: When choosing your shoes, consider the length of your dress and where your wedding will take place. A flat shoe, sandal or sneakers are a great choice for an outdoor wedding, while brides may opt for a chic kitten heel for a courthouse wedding. It all comes down to what you feel comfortable and beautiful in! 

As you can see, wearing a casual wedding dress doesn’t mean sacrificing style. The key is to find a gown that fits your vision and expresses your personality. Anything goes; the only real rule is to be confident and comfortable in whatever you choose! 

No matter your bridal style, the casual wedding dress of your dreams is waiting for you! Are you ready to find your dream gown? Find a retailer near you to get started! Happy shopping!