ashley and justin bride wedding dress ivory spaghetti strap

Not every bride dreams of walking down the aisle in an embellished, intricate gown. In fact, plenty of brides prefer something much more minimal to walk down the aisle in – and if this sounds like familiar, there are plenty of beautiful simple wedding dresses out there to suit your style.

Those who fall firmly in the fuss-free camp when it comes to bridal dressing are not alone – celebrity brides from Audrey Hepburn to Megan Markle and Lauren Conrad all kept things sleek and pared-back on their big days, and their wedding dresses are upheld as among the most beautiful of all time.

Of course, simple doesn't have to mean no details or embellishments at all. While designers will always interpret the brief in their own unique way, typically it means means classic silhouettes, effortlessly elegant fabrics and subtle accents that enhance the wow-factor of the finished look. Scroll on to browse our pick of the best simple wedding dresses for 2021, from bridal boutique hits to surprisingly expensive-looking high street gems.

NB: We have included third party products to help you navigate and enjoy life's biggest moments. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission.

4 Top Tips for Rocking a Simple Wedding Dress

Morilee by Madeline Gardner

1. Shapewear

Simple dresses are often crafted from fabrics such as satin or silk, so look to seam-free underwear or shapewear to give you the smooth silhouette you're visualising.

2. Your Veil

If the dress is understated, then you might want to use your wedding accessories to make a statement. We love the idea of teaming a simple wedding dress with a full-length veil or sparkling tiara.

3. Your Hair

Whether you want a pretty half-up-half-down hairstyle or a sweeping bridal up-do, simple dresses are usually complemented best by equally unfussy hair.

4. Your Shoes

This is where you can have some fun! Consider some sparkly heels, something designer (check out our favourite designer wedding shoes which are worth blowing the budget for), or a pair with a pop of colour. Something blue, perhaps?

READ MORE: The Best Lace Wedding Dresses

The 50 Best Simple Wedding Dresses

1. Bianca – Pronovias

The Bianca gown by Barcelona-based bridal fashion house Pronovias shows simple style at its best.

This gown is made from a clean, crisp crepe fabric and features a feminine V-neck and court train. We're huge fans of long sleeved wedding dresses at the moment, so the long, slim sleeves on this piece have really caught our eyes.

This dress would be just as perfect at a winter wedding as it would be at a destination wedding.

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2. Brooke Dress and Tilde Belt - Charlie Brear

Charlie Brear certainly brought her A-game when it came to designing simple wedding dresses with serious wow-factor.

Featuring a bias cut scoop neck dress in luxe crepe and spaghetti straps, the Brooke dress is simple and sleek, modern and cool - plus how good does it look with that lacy belt.

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READ MORE: The Wedding Dress Sample Sales You Need to Put in Your Diary ASAP

3. Short Dress – Kate Edmondson Bridal Couture

A full-length wedding dress isn't for everyone and we reckon that if anything's going to tempt you over to the short side, it'll be this beaut from Kate Edmondson.

Featuring puff sleeves (SO on-trend right now), with a deep V-neckline, wrap-around and button detailing, we think this is the ideal registry office wedding dress.

A short dress really allows you to show off your dream shoes, so make sure you pick out a pair that will dazzle your guests!

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4. Penelope – Wilderly Bride

How beautiful is the Penelope dress by Allure Bridals? We're head over heels in love.

The front is simple and demure, where clean lines will give you the simplicity you want. Meanwhile, the stunning twist detailing on the back adds a glamorous edge to the dress which will wow your guests as you walk down the aisle.

What's more, if you've got a larger bust, the straps and V-neck on this dress will have you feeling both comfortable and sexy. It's an all-round winner.

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READ MORE: Alternative Wedding Dresses for Brides Who Want to Break Tradition

5. Josie Dress – Rebecca Ingram

Exquisite and demure are the two words which pop into our minds when we look at the Josie dress by Rebecca Ingram.

It features a sweetheart neckline with off-the-shoulder sleeves and covered buttons which trail the entire way down the train. This dress would look beautiful at a church wedding.

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6. Clo – Grace Loves Lace

If you're after a classic gown with a sexy feel then Clo by Grace Loves Lace could be the dress for you.

Featuring a fishtail silhouette with a low back and cinched details, this gown is perfect for confident brides keen to make a statement on their way up and down the aisle.

Wear with killer heels and an undone up-do for a look guaranteed to wow.

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READ MORE: The Prettiest Short Wedding Dresses

7. Frankie Dress – Amsale New York

Wow. How gorgeous is the Frankie dress by Amsale New York!

This piece has a chic, form-fitting silhouette, and the simple V-neck gown turns to reveal a gorgeous open back and delicate bow. This dress is understated with a capital 'U' – we love it.

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8. Riley Jacquard Wrap Dress - Kitri

Speaking of city weddings, if you're planning a day with bit of walking between the ceremony and reception, Kitri's Riley dress is the ultimate pretty-meets-practical choice.

The ivory rose jacquard fabric makes the biggest statement, while the long sleeves and tie waistline will have you looking lovely and feeling comfy all day. As the hem only hits your mid-shin, this is also a great opportunity to show off some stunning bridal shoes.

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9. Mia Square Neck Wedding Dress – Whistles

Don't overlook the high street when it comes to searching for your dream simple wedding dress. Mid-priced brands like Whistles have array of ready-to-wear wedding dresses that you'd never know were off the rack.

The Mia boasts a square neckline, seams down the bodice and a subtle train with covered buttons that flow down the low open back – it's a chic, timeless choice that would be ideal for a city wedding.

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10. Bermudas - La Sposa

Say hello to the Bermudas gown by La Sposa, a gorgeous cap-sleeved wedding dress with a V-shaped back and chapel-length train.

It is crafted from a crisp ivory crepe fabric, and the lace detailing on the sleeves adds a welcome touch of glamour.

If you're a smaller-busted bride, this gown will flatter your figure beautifully.

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11. Palermo Bridal Dress - Galvan

Fitted bodice, ultra-sleek floor length skirt, delicate spaghetti straps – the satin Galvan Palermo dress ticks all of our simple wedding dress boxes and then some.

The best thing about this dress? The almost corseted top half includes a built-in bra, so if you've got a smaller bust, you could probably get away with not wearing one at all.

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READ MORE: Our Favourite Elegant Wedding Dresses

12. 9656 Dress – Allure

This simple gown by Allure is timeless and classic, with a full skirt and cathedral-length train.

The chic, crossover panel is the focal point of this off-the-shoulder wedding dress, which would look stunning teamed with a sparkling tiara. This would be perfect at your fairytale-themed wedding.

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13. Sienna Dress - Lisou

Lisou doesn't have a dedicated bridalwear edit, but when as soon as we laid eyes on the romantic 1930s-inspired Sienna, we knew we couldn't leave it off this lift.

Crafted from 100% silk and set off with an oversized collar and three-quarter length sleeves, this is the perfect wedding dress for any vintage-obsessed bride.

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14. D3225 - Essense of Australia

This timeless ruched gown makes a statement without any glitz or sparkle. The ruching gives it a truly flattering silhouette and one-shoulder bow detail amplifies its fashion-forward look. It's a super soft, easy-to-wear gown that you'll want to spend all day in.

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15. Mariam – Charlie Brear

The ultimate in simplicity, the Mariam gown from Charlie Brear is our top minimalist choice.

From the short raglan sleeves to the pretty bias cut skirt in luxe crepe, this dress is simple, sophisticated and made for a fuss-free bride.

This dress is easy to change up from day to night using bridal accessories. Let the gown shine during the ceremony and add a headpiece, sparkling belt or show-stopping earrings for the evening do.

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16. MJ624 Dress – Madison James

We're in love with everything by Madison James, but this dress has got to be one of our favourites. It ticks every box when it comes to simple wedding dresses – elegant, demure, chic and stylish.

The figure-hugging shape is sure to turn heads and the fit and flare floaty skirt makes for a romantic, delicate touch.

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READ MORE: These Sexy Wedding Dresses Are Sure to Get Pulses Racing

17. 3256 Dress – Allure Romance

Gowns in the Allure Romance collection are endlessly soft and timeless, and the 3256 style is certainly no exception.

It takes inspiration from Meghan Markle's wedding dress, where a boat-neckline sets the design apart from others. It also has a low back and an elegant string of buttons which run right the way to the end of the skirt. This dress is beautiful.

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18. D2653 Style – Essense of Australia

If you want something simple and stylish but you can't resist a bit of sparkle, then take a look at this gorgeous dress from Essense of Australia.

The visible, curved seaming across the gown gives a gorgeous silhouette and promises to enhance your curves. There is a lovely V-neckline and a subtle fishtail, and for added glitz, a sparkling waist belt. What's not to love?

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19. Albane - St Patrick

St Patrick are a huge fan of a cowl neckline and back, and this dress includes the design feature on both.

It also has some beautiful embellishment on the tops of the shoulders, and an elegant chapel train.

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20. 2717 Dress – Essense of Australia

A sexy update to our favourite royal-inspired wedding dress, this simple sheath dress by Essense of Australia will look just as great walking down the aisle as it will dancing the night away.

The off-the-shoulder, banded neckline gives the gown a sophisticated look, accentuated by the fabric belt which highlights the waist.

Visible seaming curves through the sides of the body, creating an enviable shape. Style your hair in a simple up-do if this is the dress you choose, and let the gown do all the talking.

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READ MORE: The Best Wedding Dresses with Pockets

21. Ainsley Dress – Maggie Sottero

How gorgeous is the Ainsley dress from Maggie Sottero? It's got us all flustered here at Hitched HQ.

It is cut from Chardon crepe in a sheath silhouette. Soft ruffles create an off-the-shoulder neckline and sleeves glide into an illusion back. Beaded floral lace motifs add a hint of shimmer to an otherwise fuss-free design. This dress is finished with beautiful crystal buttons.

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READ MORE: The Most Beautiful Off-The-Shoulder Wedding Dresses

22. D3080 - Essense of Australia

We're head over heels in love with this dove satin ballgown that's minimalist, modern and chic.

It has a deep curved V-neckline which is effortlessly elegant, and the luxuriously heavy fabric makes it look endlessly more expensive than it is. Did we mention it also has pockets?

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23. Rosa Dress – Nouvelle Bridal

Up next is a beautifully simple dress by Nouvelle Bridal. This time, we have the Rosa dress, a simple gown with a fit and flare silhouette.

We love the asymmetric bow detail on the skirt – it adds a little something to the design at the same time as being understated enough to keep the dress fuss-free.

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24. Bellerose Dress - Ghost

A Ghost bridal piece that's firmly on our simple wedding dress radar is the off-the-shoulder Bellerose Dress. Made from satin back crepe the contemporary shape and deep frill show off just enough skin while still leaving plenty to the imagination.

It's versatile enough to work for any type of venue, and can be jazzed up with jewellery or left to do the talking on its own. Your hair could make or break the finished look with this one, so make sure you wear a similar Bardot neckline to your trial with your stylist.

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25. Selena Dress - Maggie Sottero

This ball gown wedding dress is perfect for a bride who wants something simple but that still makes a statement.

It's cut in a classic silhouette and features a scoop neckline with wide straps which extend into a square back. We're huge fans of the Mikado silk skirt which has that perfect level of shine.

Oh, and the best part? This skirt features pockets, which are super handy for storing your wedding day essentials.

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26. Satin Panelled Wedding Dress with Fishtail - ASOS EDITION

No, your eyes are not deceiving you – that caption above really does say ASOS, and this breathtaking satin dress with a tailored, panelled bodice is (whisper it) less than £100.

Once you've had time to let that knowledge settle in, you can focus on the heavenly oyster colour, plunging V-neck and floor-sweeping hemline. Veil or no veil, this one will have everyone oohing and ahhing as you enter the room.

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27. Estrella Cap Sleeve Bridal Dress - Galvan

Who says a simple wedding dress can't have sequins? Certainly not us.

The cap sleeves and close-fitting silhouette of Galvan's Estrella dress absolutely work for an understated vibe, teaming translucent palettes with metallic tulle for a look that's somehow minimalist and maximalist all at once.

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28. 9662 Dress – Allure

We're huge fans of the 9662 dress by Allure Bridals, a simply-cut A-line gown with flattering panelling and a sexy V-neckline.

The star of the show is definitely the back of this dress, where luxurious lace is intricately beaded for a little added glamour. We love this dress for summer brides, and it would look stunning teamed with a pair of designer wedding shoes.

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READ MORE: 31 Ways to Make the Most of a Summer Wedding

29. 69411 Dress – Ronald Joyce

This dress by Ronald Joyce proves you can still have fun with a simple design. It is clean-cut and fuss-free, with a sexy keyhole cut-out and halter-neckline. We're obsessed with the sparkling waist belt which will really flatter your figure.

If that wasn't enough, this dress has a cape. Since capes are taking over from veils as one of the hottest bridalwear trends of 2021, we're pretty obsessed.

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30. Roxy Charmeuse Maxi Dress - Galvan

A favourite of fashion editors and influencers alike, Galvan's designs never disappoint, and this is particularly true of its bridal-style dresses.

This elegant silver satin dress totally exudes effortless cool and you can tie in coordinating earrings and hair accessories. It's a simple wedding dress, sure, but it could definitely never be called boring.

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31. Arlo Dress – Grace Loves Lace

As you can probably tell, Australian wedding dress label Grace Loves Lace has been a long-time favourite here in the Hitched office.

Don't let the name deceive you – not all of the brand's dresses are covered head-to-toe in intricate lace. The Arlo dress would be a beautiful choice if you're after a simple wedding dress.

This gown has a flattering and soft V-neckline, thin silk straps and adjustable gold hardware. How about teaming it with a veil? Grace Loves Lace has some beautiful choices in their ELIXIR collection.

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32. Leyden - BHLDN

Up next we have a midi gown, perfect for registry office weddings or simply brides who want to show off their shoes!

We think Leyden is ideal for older brides looking for something low key. Don't get us wrong, though, low key doesn't mean dull. In fact, with the on-trend puff sleeves and beautifully fitted silhouette, this gown will earn you plenty of style points.

A pair of stunning shoes are a must with short and midi styles and with this gown priced at just $198 (approx. £150), we reckon you can totally afford to splash out on some extra-special heels.

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READ MORE: 28 of the Best Cheap Wedding Dresses from High Street Stores

33. Magnolia Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress - Emilia Wickstead

Emilia Wickstead's dresses are a favourite of the Duchess of Cambridge, so if you fancy channelling royalty as you tie the knot, the Magnolia is the simple wedding dress for you.

The floor-length cloqué crepe dress is enhanced by the addition of a quirky gathered neckline and puff sleeves for an incredibly ethereal, elegant finish. With a gown this opulent, your accessories can be a lavish or low-key as you wish.

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34. Laurel Dress - Ghost

Ghost's wedding dresses are unbelievable for the price point, starting from around the £295 mark, and there's plenty of simple options in the mix.

The high-necked Laurel dress looks super demure from the front, but the diamond shaped cut-out and keyhole detail on the back keep things interesting. The bias cut fit will skim your hips without clinging, shapewear or no shapewear.

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35. Lynette - Watters at BHLDN

If you love the 50s-style tea-length designs but aren't mad about the lace and embellishments that often come with them, Lynette could offer the perfect solution.

Made with subtly spotted tulle, this dress gives off chic and simple vibes with a hint of ballerina style.

Team this gown with cute strappy shoes and get ready to wow.

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36. Silk Gown – Michael Lo Sordo

This dress will look so elegant on your special day. It is made from smooth silk-satin and has a deep V-neckline and back.

It is fully lined and thanks to its amazing structured straps, drapes beautifully to an ankle-grazing hem.

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37. Blake - House of Mooshki

A simple dress doesn't mean it can't have huge impact. This monochrome ballgown has a statement black asymmetric bodice with a pretty bow. Underneath is an ivory satin skirt and there's a detachable tulle overskirt so you can add more or less drama depending on your vibe.

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READ MORE: The Best Wedding Dresses with Pockets

38. Madison Crepe Gown – Safiyaa

When it comes to simple bridal gowns made from high quality fabrics and cut in the most flattering silhouettes, Safiyaa is the place to go.

We adore the off-the-shoulder style of Madison, and the thigh split gives it a casual cool vibe that would look right at home anywhere from a swanky hotel to a beachside resort.

Team with some show-stopping earrings and you're good to go.

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39. Livvy – Catherine Deane

The slim-fit Livvy from Catherine Deane is simple and modest from the front with a show-stopping ribbon tie back that will look stunning as you stand at the altar.

We'd keep this look simple and let the back grab all the attention by sticking to an up-do and teaming it with some classic pearl drop earrings.

But It Now

40. Rita – Catherine Deane

Perfect for a beach wedding, Rita is made from stretch crepe and features detachable straps.

The versatile gown can be worn alone or paired with a bridal jacket that can then be removed for an evening reception. The simplicity and clean lines of the design also leave plenty of room for dazzling accessories.

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41. Daphine - Charlie Brear

We love the twisted V-neck and 3/4 circle skirt on this silky satin gown. Thick straps make it great for those with a large chest as you can hide a supportive bra underneath.

We love how it's styled here with some dazzling dangly earrings and a pair of killer heels.

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42. Olsen - Constellation Âme

Wrap-around styles are universally flattering and the Olsen gown from Constellation Âme is no exception.

This gown comes with a choice of necklines, so you can take the plunge or keep totally covered - it's yours to customise!

Lined with poly crepe and made from a heavy-weight luxury silk, this gown will feel as luxurious as it looks.

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43. Rebecca – ASOS

Seriously simple yet totally aisle-worthy, we love Rebecca from ASOS.

The plunge neckline and keyhole back show just the right amount of skin while the skirt offers a romantic train.

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44. Dress with Detachable Train – Justin Alexander

Show off your shape in this sleek fit and flare dress by Justin Alexander.

It will have you feeling confident and sexy with the plunging neckline in the front and a deep-V back. How about pairing this dress with a detachable chapel-length train for your ceremony?

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45. Ball Gown with Cuffed Neckline – Justin Alexander

This striking yet simple gown is made for a modern princess.

It features a cuffed neckline and cut-out illusion V in the middle of the bodice. With a full skirt and delicate buttoning down the back, it has everything you need for your big day.

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46. Pleated Trumpet Gown – Justin Alexander

Brides with an hourglass figure will love to show off their shape in this off-the-shoulder wedding dress.

It features asymmetrical pleating on the bodice and trumpet detailing on the skirt. The stretch Mikado fabric will have you feeling comfortable and confident to dance the night away.

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47. 6758 Dress – Stella York

Simply beautiful, this royal-inspired wedding dress is as timeless as love itself.

It is perfect for the classic bride, and is made from a matte Mikado fabric. A small pleat allows the ball gown skirt to keep its stunning shape, while fabric covered buttons and the square-shaped back are two details we can't help but adore.

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48. Bariano – ASOS

If you're loving the halter-neck trend but fancy going more casual then the high-low skirted Bariano gown from ASOS is perfect for you.

With a subtle keyhole back, this gown is perfect for destination weddings - it'll keep you cool while looking super-elegant.

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49. Victoriana Bridal Jumpsuit - Phase Eight

Wedding jumpsuits aren't as unusual as they once were, with more and more of those who love simple style turning to them for a quirky, comfortable take on bridal dressing – if you're on the hunt for a simple wedding dress, you might surprise yourself and end up with your heart set on a jumpsuit too.

This Phase Eight Victoriana style keeps things super feminine with frilled sleeves, a V-back and a belt with a razzle dazzle art deco feel. Even if you're set on wearing a gown to exchange our vows, this could be a brilliant outfit swap for the reception…

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50. Bailey Wedding Dress - Morilee

Classic and understated, this strapless satin gown features a sweetheart neckline and covered buttons cascading down to the hemline.

It's perhaps as simple as they get yet truly makes a statement.

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READ MORE: Our Favourite Transformable Wedding Dresses

Keeping your nuptials low-key? Check out these cute wedding dresses for a garden wedding.

ashley and justin bride wedding dress ivory spaghetti strap

Source: https://www.hitched.co.uk/wedding-planning/bridalwear-articles/simple-wedding-dresses/

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