If you’re a bride-to-be that values both comfortable fabrics and sleek silhouettes, then a modern bridal gown is the perfect choice for you. These gowns typically boast a more tailored fit with clean lines and little embellishments.
Whether you’re looking to make a statement or keep things simple, there are plenty of feminine and elegant designs to choose from. We know you’ll love these more contemporary styles as much as we do. Check out some of our absolute favorite designs we’re loving at the moment.
Helena – Justin Alexander
Credit: Justin Alexander
A satin wedding dress is one of the best ways to achieve the clean, simple aesthetic your heart dreams about. The stunning gown, named Helena, has a classic look with a modern twist.
The figure-hugging fit-and-flare silhouette will accentuate your curves while the cuffed off-the-shoulder neckline is a sexy touch. The show-stopping, low illusion back features exposed boning for a surprise factor—which we just had to show above. For final touches, couture seaming on the bodice and buttons along the back down toward the gentle sweeping train.
We adore the sculptural statement this gown is making and it definitely works well for a bold bride. Although it doesn’t feature any sparkly embellishments, the gown is still giving us Old Hollywood glam vibes.
Lillian – Karen Willis Holmes
Credit: Karen Willis Holmes
This next fashion-forward design is definitely on trend for more reasons than one. The Lillian wedding gown, by designer Karen Willis Holmes, is both timeless and modern.
Luxurious crepe fabric shapes the fit-and-flare silhouette, hugging your curves in all the right places. The chapel-length train adds romantic flair to this otherwise simple yet timeless bridal look.
Our favorite part of the gown is the stunning one-shoulder strap—it’s totally versatile. You can wear it sleeveless or customize it with a fitted statement sleeve. We personally love pairing the asymmetrical neckline with a contemporary bridal trend: the large tailored bow.
Eloise – Galia Lahav
Credit: Galia Lahav
Say hello to Eloise, the fun and flirty tulle mini dress that’s perfect for so many wedding occasions. The design, by couture designer Galia Lahav, features beautiful ivory silk tulle that’s hand-draped over a corseted crepe dress.
Want even more dreamy silk? You’ve got it! The dress features a long silk train, asymmetrical silk tulle straps and is fully lined in soft silk satin. And don’t worry about needing extra support—the internal structure is fully boned and boasts an underwired corset and cups.
This gown would be a super cute elopement dress or works as a reception or send-off dress. If it’s not part of your bridal vision, we love it as a bachelorette party option.
Nyx – Azazie
Credit: Azazie
We’re going totally sexy for this next modern design. The satin-and-lace mermaid gown is ultra glam. The stretch satin fabric hugs the bride’s curves perfectly, while asymmetrical pleating wraps the waist and sits above the sensual skirt slit.
The bodice features an illusion v-neckline with hand-sewn beaded lace and an eyelash trim. Hand-beaded tulle spaghetti straps drape over the shoulder and join the illusion back. Crystal buttons follow down from the neckline to the drop waist and along the chapel-length hem.
The movement of this gown belongs on the beach, with a stunning sunset behind the bride and groom. Opt for a pair of comfortable open-toe heels so you can dance the night away with your crew.
AI10012927 – David’s Bridal
Credit: David’s Bridal
If you love a blush-colored wedding dress like we do, then you have to check out this stunning ball gown from David’s Bridal.
The off-the-shoulder detail with the small v-neckline is romantic and sexy all in one. We also love the exquisite floral beading that covers the bride from head to toe. For a modern touch—beloved pockets, making this gown both fun and functional. It’s a total dream.
This gown definitely gives sophisticated princess vibes and is really elegant. We love the bride’s simple waves adding softness to the feminine gown.
Savvy – Wtoo
Credit: Wtoo
We’re ramping up the drama for this next wedding gown. From designer Wtoo, part of the Texas-based Watters brand, the Savvy gown is sleek and chic.
The strapless satin gown features a classic fit-and-flare skirt and sweeping train but the giant, show-stopping ribbon bow in the back extends the train even further. The illusion deep-V bodice is a sensual nod to the overall clean aesthetic.
This gown doesn’t have any embellishments, and it really doesn’t need any, but a pair of statement earrings and a matching bracelet would be perfect accessories to add. Bonus: this style is also available in plus, petite and extra tall to fit every type of bride.
D3570 – Essense of Australia
Credit: Essense of Australia
For something even more sexy, turn your gaze towards this ultra-glam Essense of Australia ball gown. Made of luxe matte Mikado, this bold yet romantic wedding dress is perfect for the fashion-forward bride. We love the smooth, silk one shoulder paired with the pleated sweetheart bodice.
The super-high slit in the skirt just takes our breath away. Fabric-covered buttons lead to the regal royal train. The whole design is truly modern elegance at its finest.
This is another great option for a destination wedding and could work for a number of themes. Our minds jump to a luxe garden wedding on the terrace of a Spanish villa in Barcelona.
M2459 – Mikaella
Credit: Mikaella
We have serious heart eyes for this last wedding gown, especially if you’re wanting to channel a modern-day princess.
The sleeveless gown by designer Mikaella is lined with nude Italian tulle. The bodice is adorned with Guipure lace and sequined tulle while the plunging neckline features crepe bias and a stunning low open back.
To accentuate the bride’s natural curves, a fabric belt cinches the waist. For a romantic element, the fit-and-flare crepe skirt is oh-so dreamy. This design is definitely one of our favorite gowns that blend contemporary style with classic accents.
