Bridal Stylist’s Guide To Wedding Dress Shopping
7 min

Bridal Stylist’s Guide To Wedding Dress Shopping

Say yes to the dress without stress! Wedding dress shopping can be one of the most exciting and overwhelming parts of getting married – so we brought in backup. Wedding Wingmen Monica and Tori, stylists at Platinum Bridal, are here to share how they have helped hundreds of brides pick a wedding dress. In addition to their wedding dress shopping tips, stay tuned to learn about lead and alteration times and when to start wedding dress shopping.

Meet Your Wedding Wingman!

Monica & Tori are the sister team behind Platinum Bridal. The wedding planners-turned-bridal stylists enjoy being a part of the most important event in a couple’s life. They joined Wed Mayhem to educate brides on how to shop with confidence for a dress that complements their unique style, personality, and silhouette.

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9 min

20 Destination Wedding Dresses Under $1000

Destination wedding

Your destination wedding is calling you and you must go! When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, your venue’s location and how far you have to travel for it are important factors to consider. Make sure to do some research such as looking at the typical weather during the season of your wedding and what the venue has in store for you. Do you need a dress suitable for walking down the aisle on the beach or an elopement wedding dress you can hike through the mountains in? Remember, it’s your wedding your way, so if you fall in love with the dress, it’s meant to be. Say “I do” to these 15 wedding dresses ranging from $92 to $995 for your destination wedding. 

01

Feather Cap Sleeve Pearl Embellished Satin Dress

Feather Cap Sleeve Pearl Embellished Satin Dress
Courtesy: Dillard’s

Picture satin as a whisper against your skin, the very essence of elegance. The illusion square neckline frames your collarbones like a delicate frame around a masterpiece. Feathered cap sleeves flutter like celestial wings, ready to carry you into a night of enchantment. And then there are the pearls—stardust sewn into fabric. Each one holds a secret, a story whispered across time. As you move, they catch the light, casting a soft glow. This gown isn’t just attire; it’s a memory waiting to be made. Imagine stepping onto the dance floor under chandeliers, the room hushed, eyes following your every move. You’re not just wearing a dress; you’re weaving a tale—a moonlit soirée where you’re the star. Slip into its embrace and let the night unfold.

02

Mesh Embroidered Sleeveless Maxi Dress

Mesh Embroidered Sleeveless Maxi Dress
Courtesy: Lulus

Waltz through your special day looking beyond dreamy in the Lulus Sweetest Beloved White Mesh Embroidered Sleeveless Maxi Dress! This floor-length dress features delicate mesh embroidery and multiple layers of tulle underneath. The A-line silhouette is perfect for a beach or destination wedding, and the fitted waist ensures a flattering look. Plus, it’s easy to transport, making it an ideal choice for brides who want elegance without the hassle. The dress is fully lined and has no stretch in the fabric, so it maintains its shape beautifully. Whether you’re saying “I do” on a sandy shore or in a picturesque garden, this dress will make you feel like a true bridal beauty!

03

Embroidered Puff Sleeve Empire Waist Wedding Dress 

Courtesy: BHLDN

This dress is perfect for the garden goddess bride getting married in a beautiful outdoor venue. Romantic floral embroidery trails down the wedding dress featuring sheer puff sleeves, an empire bodice, and layered tulle skirt. For those looking for a plus-size wedding dress, you can find this dress in sizes 0-30… LOVE!  

04

White Strapless Bow Midi Dress

White Strapless Bow Midi Dress, destination wedding dress
Courtesy: Revolve

The Fabulous Phenomenon White Strapless Bow Midi Dress is an exquisite choice for the destination-bound bride seeking a blend of elegance and convenience. Its thicker material ensures a luxurious feel while remaining wrinkle-resistant, ideal for travel. The dress’s statement bow adds a touch of sophistication, and despite its weight, it contributes to the garment’s overall charm. Customers have praised the dress for its flattering fit and versatile style, making it a perfect reception or rehearsal dinner outfit. With its easy-to-transport design, this dress promises to be a stunning and practical addition to your special day.

05

Azazie A-line Wedding Dress

beach wedding dress
Courtesy: Azazie

Beaches are one of the most common destination wedding locations, so make sure to check out our blog 20 Beach Wedding Dresses for Every Type of Bride. This enchanting gown combines tulle and lace, creating a harmonious blend of romance and practicality. The A-line silhouette flatters all body types, while the halter neckline adds a touch of sophistication. The sequins delicately shimmer, catching the light as you move. Whether you’re saying your vows on a sun-kissed beach or in a picturesque garden, this dress adapts effortlessly. Plus, it’s available in a full size range (WD0-WD30) and custom sizing at Azazie. Say “I do” with grace and convenience in the Dysis Wedding Dress! 

06

Bailey Off-The-Shoulder Sweetheart Neck Cap Sleeve Sheath Dress 

Bailey Off-The-Shoulder Sweetheart Neck Cap Sleeve Sheath Dress
Courtesy: Dillard’s

Sometimes a destination wedding lends itself to more casual attire. While we wouldn’t necessarily call this dress casual in any category besides bridal, its shorter hem makes it easy to pack away in a suitcase and still gives a classic bridal vibe perfect for a modest church wedding and more! We love the off-the-shoulder cap sleeves paired with the sweetheart neckline. We love that this dress is machine washable and definitely something you’ll be able to wear again! 

07

Ronda Silk Dress

Ronda Silk Dress
Courtesy: Reformation

This slinky number is absolutely perfect for the altar, no matter the location. We’re obsessed with the one-shoulder look, and the unique asymmetrical neckline. The cowl neck detailing also just adds the perfect amount of drama to make this dress look effortlessly cool. We love that the simplicity of this dress makes it great for other fancy occasions. Bonus points for being sustainable! 

08

Ivory Cape Sheath Dress

cape sheath wedding dress
Courtesy: Adrianna Papell

For the modern bride seeking a blend of elegance and convenience, the structured cape sheath dress in ivory is a perfect choice. This sophisticated cocktail dress features a sleek silhouette complemented by a stylish cape, ensuring you look stunning throughout your special day. The crepe fabric offers both comfort and ease of transport, making it ideal for destination weddings. Its subtle back zip closure adds to the seamless design, allowing you to transition effortlessly from ceremony to celebration. With its unique combination of fashion-forward appeal and practicality, this dress promises to be a memorable addition to your wedding festivities. 

09

Sleeveless Square-Neck Mini Dress

destinations  wedding dress
Courtesy: Reformation

For the bride seeking a destination wedding dress that combines effortless elegance with travel-friendly design, the Helsi Rory Sleeveless Square-Neck Mini Dress is an impeccable choice. This stunning piece features a dazzling sequin embellishment over a stretch velvet fabric, offering both a radiant shine and comfortable fit. The body-con silhouette, complemented by a square neckline and sleeveless cut, creates a modern and sophisticated look. Its compact size and resilient fabric make it ideal for packing without the worry of wrinkles, ensuring you look picture-perfect for your special day. With its easy-care instructions and made-in-the-USA quality, this dress is a standout selection for any bride’s destination wedding wardrobe.

10

One-Shoulder Cut-Out Side Gathered Dress

one-shoulder destinations wedding
Courtesy: Bergdorf Goodman

The A.L.C. Delfina dress is a stunning choice for a destination wedding, embodying both elegance and ease of transport. This one-shoulder, cut-out side gathered dress features a flowing silhouette with an asymmetric hem that gracefully moves with you. Its lightweight and wrinkle-resistant fabric make it an ideal travel companion, ensuring you look effortlessly chic on your special day. The dress’s unique design, combining modern style with bohemian charm, is perfect for a bride seeking a dress that is as unforgettable as the wedding itself. Whether you’re saying “I do” on a sun-drenched beach or a quaint European village, the A.L.C. Delfina dress will make you feel like the most beautiful bride in the world.

11

Florence Strapeless A-Line Midi

Courtesy: Anthropology

Introducing the Helsi Florence Dress, perfect for the bride dreaming of a destination wedding. This unforgettable midi dress features a strapless neckline with stunning scallop details and a peekaboo circle skirt that radiates feminine charm. Crafted with an abundance of 3D leaf appliques, it offers unmatched dimension and elegance. The fitted bodice with boning detail ensures a flattering silhouette, while the invisible side zipper provides a seamless finish. Made from high-quality polyester, nylon, and elastane, this dress is both comfortable and stylish. Embrace your special day with confidence and grace in the Helsi Florence Dress. Professionally clean. Imported.

12

Zenni Dress

Courtesy: Anthropologie

This romantic two-piece set is perfect for packing! The ruffled top is such a fun textural element paired with a skirt featuring curved tiers of pleated layers waterfall from a fitted waistband. While this set is a bit on the pricey side, you’ll get your money’s worth by being able to wear each piece individually time and time again. We can already picture the top being dressed down and paired with jeans for brunch! 

13

Romantic Wedding Dress Tveisiya With Puffy Sleeves 

Romantic Wedding Dress Tveisiya With Puffy Sleeves
Courtesy: Olivia Bottega

Embrace your childhood dreams of becoming a princess in this dress! The gorgeous a-line silhouette features a satin bodice with a deep v and an open back. We love long sleeves for a winter wedding as these puffy sleeves add a beautiful texture element. We can totally see this dress being worn for a wedding at a European castle. While you might need an extra suitcase for this dress, it will be worth it to keep you warm!

14

Crepe Strapless Floral Detail Convertible Sheath Wedding Dress

Courtesy: BHLDN

They say elegance can’t be bought, but this dress may be the exception! This dress features off-the-shoulder beautiful draping detail. Besides taking our breath away, we choose this dress as it’s made of crepe, which again is notable for being wrinkle-resistant.

16

Jenny Yoo Scoop-Neck Column Wedding Gown

Jenny by Jenny Yoo Olivia Long-Sleeve Off-The-Shoulder Scoop-Neck Column Wedding Gown, elopement wedding gown, destination wedding dress
Courtesy: Anthropologie

Introducing the Jenny by Jenny Yoo Olivia Wedding Gown, perfect for the bride seeking destination wedding elegance. This gown blends modern style with old Hollywood glamour, featuring delicate illusion tulle sleeves that gracefully offset the shoulders and collarbone. The soft scoop neckline adds a relaxed touch, while the column skirt flatters your curves. The removable tulle train brings a dramatic flair, ideal for making a grand entrance. Crafted from luxurious polyester satin with a fit & flare design, this gown ensures both comfort and sophistication. Embrace your special day with timeless beauty in the Olivia Wedding Gown. Professionally clean. Imported. Since the dress has a clean and modern shape, bring the party to the back with the cutout and opt for a veil like this one to mimic a train. Then you have the option of taking it off after your ceremony!

17

Pearl Bridal Dress 

Pearl Floral Lace Gown, wedding dress, destination wedding, elopement
Courtesy: Nordstrom

Introducing a dress that perfectly balances sweet and sultry: this exclusive piece features lacy blooms that elegantly skim every curve. The underwire bustier bodice and strappy back add a touch of allure, while the sweetheart neckline and adjustable straps ensure a perfect fit. A hidden side-zip closure and back slit enhance its sophisticated design. Made from a blend of polyester, cotton, nylon, and elastane, this dress offers both comfort and style. Fully lined and easy to care for with dry cleaning, it’s an ideal choice for any special occasion.

18

Boss Lady Dress

Courtesy: Revolve

For the bride-to-be dreaming of a destination wedding, the Boss Lady Dress by Katie May is a stunning choice. This mini blazer dress, crafted from a blend of polyester and spandex, features a chic cape detail, making it perfect for both daytime events and cocktail parties. With its padded shoulders and front button closure, it offers a sophisticated yet modern look. Fully lined for comfort and made in the USA, this dress ensures you’ll feel confident and stylish on your special day. Embrace elegance and make a statement with the Boss Lady Dress.. Pair with a show-stopping updo for a chic look. 

19

True Love White Beaded Rhinestone Maxi Dress

True Love White Beaded Rhinestone Maxi Dress
Courtesy: Lulus

This lovely dress is perfect for a wedding at an art gallery as it’s truly a work of art!  The skinny mesh straps keep the attention on the plunging bodice decorated with rhinestones, sequins, and iridescent beads. Hidden in the sheer mesh are lightly padded molded cups to keep you secure. This dress also comes with a storage and protection bag. 

20

Feeling of Forever White Long Sleeve Mermaid Maxi Dress

Feeling of Forever White Long Sleeve Mermaid Maxi Dress
Courtesy: Lulus

You can’t go wrong with a mermaid cut! This flattering dress is again made of our favorite stretchy crepe packable material and features a v-neckline, a princess seamed bodice, and a faux button accent along the back. The long sleeves make this dress perfect for a winter wonderland whether it’s simply on its own for an elopement in the Colorado mountains or paired with a faux fur jacket for wedding photos outside a beautiful lodge in Canada. 

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