9 Editor-Approved Beach Wedding Dresses

Growing up in coastal Connecticut, I’ve always been fond of the beach. Spending summer after summer on the water, I often dreamed of seaside nuptials—what’s not to love about an ocean breeze, lapping waves, and soft sand as the background to your big day? Plus, I’ve never wanted a traditional gown or a black-tie dress code, so the laid-back nature of the beach makes it dreamy in my mind. However, steering clear of a classic church ceremony can make the hunt for the perfect dress more strenuous, but nothing that a shopping expert like myself can’t handle.

From gowns with nautical details to classic options that feel perfectly beach-appropriate, these are my ideal beach wedding dresses. My editor-approved picks are ahead.

Pearls on the halter neck of this gorgeous gown make it perfect for a seaside ceremony. A satin construction gives it a subtle sheen that will look amazing in photos. I love this one for minimalists who want to pay homage to the sea in a tasteful way.

Plissé is always a good idea—Gabriela Hearst understands that. This plissé-adorned gown is made from silk, so it feels breathable if your beach wedding is in a hot climate, and has tassel details on the back that give it a nautical look.

Sometimes a simple dress is best, especially if you’re more excited about accessorizing than anything else. While I think The Row has never made a bad piece of clothing, I’m obsessed with this one in particular for the way it would look against a perfectly blue ocean and flowing in a sea breeze.

The sculptural details of this gown are beautiful in any setting, but they feel even more perfect at beachside nuptials, given their seashell-like appearance. Even more tasteful on this dress are the subtly sexy cutouts that can also keep you cooler on a hot beach.

Speaking of keeping cool, this backless Proenza Schouler number is sure to prevent sweat and look beautiful on your big day, especially if you want a more laid-back vibe. The front is simple but the twisted back detail down the spine makes a major statement.

Brides craving something unique for their beachside wedding will obsess over the Jasmin Gown from Cult Gaia. Made from stunning, breathable silk and fashioned with tasteful cutouts, exaggerated, cape-like sleeves, and a backless design, this option is perfect for brides who want the most memorable dress this year.

There’s something about this plissé halter gown that feels equally elegant without being too over-the-top—perfect for something by the water. The train also feels aligned with a mermaid-esque look (Mermaidcore, anyone?) that makes sense for this occasion.

Not all weddings by the water take place in tropical climates. Any coastal occasions with a little more than just a subtle sea breeze require covering up a bit more, like with this Jil Sander dress. The cape detail is elegant but still does the job of protecting your chilly shoulders.

For a bride who wants to have the most fun with her look, consider this Oscar de la Renta option. Beautifully crocheted with unique orchid motifs (also crocheted!), it’s the perfect nontraditional dress for a beach wedding.