21 Elegant Black Wedding Dresses For Unconventional Brides 

The black wedding dress is having its moment and is worn to empower women in breaking traditional marriage norms. So kiss conventional white wedding dresses goodbye and opt for beautiful black wedding dresses. A black wedding dress makes an elegant option for courageous, brisk fashionistas and darling brides. The timeless color exudes style and sophistication no matter the setting.

Black wedding dresses have been around for decades, but they have never become popular until now. Many celebrities have tied the knot in black bridal gowns. Celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker, Shanea Beech, Christine Quinn, Chloë Sevigny, Avril Lavigne, Ellen Pompeo, Tina Turner, and so many more have sported black wedding dresses on their big day.

From ceremony-worthy ball gowns to sleek after-party slips, the elegant black wedding dresses below are perfect for your big day. Available in every silhouette and fabric imaginable, there's something for every non-traditional bride (and every wedding dress budget). Just be sure to order well in advance to allow time for tailoring and shoe shopping.

Brides Tip

Unlike traditional white gowns, black wedding dresses are very versatile. You can wear black gowns and black dresses again and again long after you say "I do."

21 Beautiful Black Wedding Dresses And Gowns for Alternative Brides

Minimalist brides will love this Catarina Crepe Maxi dress from BHLDN. Reimagined in the brand's new and improved crepe fabric, it drapes effortlessly over your curves while providing a bit of support. A square neckline and thigh-high side slit bring an elevated level of sophistication and sexiness to the timeless dress. Styled with a black birdcage veil and black heels, it makes the perfect wedding look for the modern, minimalist bride.

For his latest evening wear collection, Jason Wu found inspiration in 1950s fashion illustrations. His Moire Faille Strapless Tiered Gown features a rounded strapless neckline, cinched waist, and voluminous skirt reminiscent of mid-century evening wear styles. A full, tiered skirt gives it that quintessential bridal feel without the uninteresting color.

When it comes to black wedding dresses, you can't go wrong with black lace gowns. Oscar de la Renta's Floral Embroidered Velvet Black Lace Gown brings the right kind of drama to your wedding day. Its effortless silhouette and intricate lace design make a fitting choice for an edgy, boho bride. Layered over an airy silk lining, the embroidered velvet lace guipure creates a nude illusion. Fitted long sleeves bring balance to the plunging scoop neckline and sexy fabrication.

Turn the fairytale wedding of your dreams into a reality with La Femme's Floral Embroidered Tulle Ballgown. Sparkling floral lace covers the fitted bodice and tulle ballgown skirt to bring a truly magical quality. A plunging illusion neckline, open back, and thigh-high slit adds a modern sexiness to the traditional silhouette. Now, all you need is your Prince Charming!

For brides who feel more comfortable in a suit than a puffy ball gown, there's Aiden by Aiden Mattox's Strapless Tuxedo Gown. The tailored black dress features a sweetheart neckline with folded lapels, a sexy front slit, and an ankle-length hem—style with a pair of classic black pumps for a timeless look that's impossible not to love.

Show off your unique sense of style with BCBGMAXAZRIA's Tulle Corset Essential Black Gown. It's sexy, sophisticated, and surprisingly easy to wear. A slightly-stretchy corset bodice features exposed boning and a straight neckline. A flirty tulle skirt adds movement while keeping a light, airy feel. This chic dress makes the perfect wedding dress as well as any event.

Shopping for a beach wedding? Break tradition with this Zion Silk Dress from Retrofete! Cut from fully sheer black silk, it features a built-in bodysuit that prevents wardrobe malfunctions and adds an easy-going feel. If the plunging neckline and thigh-high slit feel too revealing, have your tailor stitch in a little extra coverage for added peace of mind. You'll also want them to adjust the hemline so you can go barefoot for your beachside ceremony.

It's easy to say "I do" to this Jewel-Neck Open-Back Black Gown from Alfred Sung. The twill satin gown features a fitted silhouette with a dramatic front slit and an open back for a bit of sexiness. A timeless jewel neck brings a bit of elegance too. But according to customer reviews, it runs small. Order one size larger than your standard dress size and get it tailored for the perfect fit.

How stunning is this Waist-Knot Silk Trumpet Gown from Carolina Herrera's Icon Collection? Its strapless neckline and close-fitting trumpet silhouette put your curves on full display without feeling overly sexy. Cut from luxurious silk, it's sensual, elegant, and reminiscent of old Hollywood glamor. A dramatic knotted waist detail adds a feminine finishing touch.

Sau Lee's Heather Tulle Dress is for brides who want to march down the aisle (our courthouse steps) to the beat of their own drum. It's playful, easy-going, and totally unexpected for a wedding look. Sheer tulle fabric with glitter polka dot details throughout shows off your legs— and your stand-out personal style. A pleated bodice with a flocked velvet waistband adds shape while still allowing for stick-on cups or pasties.

Romona Keveza's Plunging Sequin-Embroidered Gown makes a stunning bridal look for a spooky celebration. The dramatic black lace wedding dress is cut with a sexy trumpet skirt with a floor-sweeping hem. All-over sequin embroidery catches the light from every angle as you dance the night away. The plunging neckline and open back boast hidden mesh for added coverage with a seamless appearance.

Wow, your wedding guests with this Embellished V-Neck Wedding Dress from Gatti Nolli Couture before your reception. Intricate lace, sequin beading, and feather embellishments transform the simple A-line silhouette into something spectacular. A thigh-high slit and sweeping train make for one unforgettable look that's ready to hit the dancefloor!

Fame and Partners' Emery Black Wedding Dress is the epitome of elegance. The black wedding dress features a timeless A-line silhouette with a v-neckline, gathered bodice, and low triangle back. The full skirt can be customized with different hem lengths to cut costs on tailoring. At less than $400, it's a beautiful choice for budget-conscious brides who aren't willing to sacrifice quality or style.

For casual brides, there's this romantic Marian Gown from Cinq a Sept. The unexpected wedding look begins with a fitted tank dress cut from Ponte jersey fabric. A 100% silk overlay draped effortlessly across brings an elevated touch without feeling overly formal. Gathered at the side, it flatters your figure with a feminine cinch. Finish your look with a short black veil and a pair of crystal-embellished heels.

Sexy doesn't have to mean showing a ton of skin. And this Long-Sleeve Lace Trumpet Gown from Mac Duggal is proof. Its long sleeves and a floor-length hem balance the ultra-sexy body-con fit and nude illusion. The black floral lace overlay is intricately stitched with shimmering sequins and decorative black trim. Flattering on every body type, it's an effortless option for any non-traditional bride.

Kay May's Surreal Gown strikes the perfect balance between sexiness and sophistication. The sleek black gown boasts a draped neckline and dramatic low back with a lace inset. Adjustable shoulder straps ensure a flattering fit on every cup size. Cut from stretchy black fabric, it's comfortable enough for any no-fuss bride. Sport a black lace cathedral veil for added drama that makes for stunning wedding photos.

Going against tradition has never looked so chic! Norma Kamali's Maria Satin Gown is draped from silky crepe satin that flows effortlessly over your curves into a trumpet skirt. Pair with a short black veil for a city hall ceremony or a dramatic cathedral veil for more conventional settings. Simple and timeless, it looks gorgeous on brides of all ages.

How gorgeous is this Penelope Gown from Sau Lee? Its high-sheen satin fabric looks stunning as it floats down the aisle and twirls around the dancefloor. A low open back and halter neck back tie closure give wedding guests an added dose of drama while you say, "I do." Asymmetrical button accents and a side seam slit bring interest and movement to this timeless halterneck gown.

You'll feel like a princess in this Gwen Crystal Embellished Gown from Sachin & Babi. Besides its jet black hue, it's got all the elements of a modern bridal gown. Its fit-and-flare cut features a fitted, scoop-neck bodice and a full, floor-length skirt with subtle pleats. Side seam pockets and crystal embellishments along the spaghetti straps set it apart from the rest. A pair of crystal-embellished heels add the perfect finishing touch to your wedding day attire.

This Katie May Ellee Dress may just be for you if you are very unconventional. Perfect as a black wedding dress or to change into for your wedding after-party. The black wedding dress offers a short hemline, and the bold color feels unexpected after a dramatic ceremony gown. Cut from voluminous tulle fabric, it's cinched at the waist into an exaggerated hourglass shape. A non-slip silicone band along the strapless neckline ensures it won't slip down while you dance the night away. Now all you need are some great accessories!

Vera Wang designed her Diane Sleeveless Fit-And-Flare Gown with modern brides in mind. Its effortless fit-and-flare silhouette features a plunging scoop back, chic square neck, and practical side seam pockets. A concealed back zipper and simple spaghetti straps can easily be altered to your exact bust and waist size, just like any white wedding gown. The statement-making black wedding dress is available exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue.