20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (2024)

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Nicole Kliest

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (1)

Nicole Kliest

Nicole Kliest is a freelance fashion and travel writer based in New York City. Her work has appeared on sites including Who What Wear, The Zoe Report, Popsugar, Harper's Bazaar, and Elle.

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Updated on 06/08/23 12:36PM

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20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (2)

For many brides-to-be, a top priority is finding a wedding dress that feels timeless but still speaks to their personality. A classic gown that nods to one's unique style is the most reliable way to ensure you'll feel confident on the big day. One silhouette that consistently checks off these boxes is the long-sleeve wedding dress.

Gowns with long, fitted sleeves have been a favorite for centuries thanks to their versatility and elegance, with many celebrities adopting the look for outdoor weddings in particular, including Beanie Feldstein. And while you may consider a dress that covers up your arms as a more conservative look, many fashion brands have proven that long sleeves can be equally sexy and on-trend—like minimalist and bohemian styles or architectural and Victorian-inspired gowns.

From intricate lace sleeves to ethereal tulle to sleek satin—there is an abundance of long-sleeve choices for every style and body type. To help narrow down your search, we've researched and selected the best options, keeping materials, price point, style, and overall quality in mind.

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  • What to Look For

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Best Under $150

Lulus Wedding Dress

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (3)

Lace sleeves (as opposed to solid silk) add a textural element to a wedding dress. This Lulus gown feels romantic and delicate—and the lace-crafted sleeves add a touch of old-world charm. Plus, it retails for under $150 making it budget-friendly to boot.

Silhouette: Mermaid | Materials: 40% cotton, 30% polyester, 30% nylon shell; 100% polyester lining | Sizes: XS-XL

Call off the search, minimalist brides—your dream wedding dress has been found. This exquisite gown is structured yet fluid and is bound to leave a lasting impression thanks to the unique off-the-shoulder neckline and liquid-like fabric.

Silhouette: Trumpet | Materials: Wool and silk-blend charmeuse | Sizes: US 0-18

Best Off-the-Shoulder

Wtoo by Watters Wedding Dress

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (5)

If you want a long-sleeved look but also want to show off a little more skin, an off-the-shoulder silhouette is the way to go. This ethereal pick is alluring and universally flattering. We can picture this at a boho garden or beachside wedding.

Silhouette: A-line | Materials: Nylon, polyester, mesh sleeves | Sizes: 00-15, 16-26

Most Ethereal

Willowby by Watters Tiered-Sleeve Off-Shoulder Mesh Column Wedding Gown

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (6)

It would be impossible to not feel elated walking down the aisle in this striking long-sleeved lace gown from Willowby by Watters. With an off-the-shoulder neckline, exaggerated puff sleeves, and a flowing skirt, this gown is equal parts dramatic and ethereal.

Silhouette: A-line | Materials: Polyester | Sizes: 0-15, 16-26

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For a Chic City Wedding

Rime Arodaky Tulle and Crepe Gown

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (7)

For a bold aesthetic, go for this striking gown featuring delicate swiss-dot tulle, slightly flared sleeves, and a dramatic front slit. It's a design that works with a range of wedding decor styles, but we can't help but envision it at a chic city wedding.

Silhouette: Column | Materials: 83% acetate, 17% viscose, 100% polyamide outer lining; 100% polyester lining | Sizes: FR 34-44

Best Plunging Neckline

BHLDN Wedding Dress

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (8)

If you’re going for the unabashedly romantic aesthetic, this long-sleeved lace dress should do the trick. The feminine puff sleeves are offset by the sexy and modern plunging neckline. We can't help but picture this style at a gorgeous garden soirée.

Silhouette: Trumpet | Materials: Viscose, polyester lining | Sizes: US 0-16

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Retro Yet Timeless

Rebecca Vallance Wedding Gown

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (9)

If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, try this gorgeous gown with a square neckline and puff sleeves. It has a slightly retro vibe, but at the same time is effortlessly timeless. Plus, the back bow offers a real 'wow' moment thanks to the oversized bow.

Silhouette: Column | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Sizes: US 0-14

Most Romantic

Galia Lahav A-Line Wedding Dress

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (10)

Featuring 3-D embellishments, this whimsical gown checks off all the boxes. Both the plunging neckline and striking back offer extra wow moments, while the romantic floral pattern adds a beautiful and feminine touch.

Silhouette: A-line

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Lean into an old-world look with this ruffle-neck, fluted-sleeve gown. Victorian-inspired brides, get excited. Accentuate the aesthetic with pearl drop earrings and a delicate tennis bracelet.

Silhouette: A-line | Materials: Silk organza, grosgrain | Sizes: UK 6-20

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Most Unique

Dana Harel Design Wedding Gown

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (12)

Not for the faint of heart, this show-stopping gown features a plunging neckline and matching front slits that reveal a lace mini hemline. This design is perfect for the boho bride who also loves to make a statement.

Silhouette: A-line

Best Square Neckline

Chana Marelus Wedding Gown

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (13)

Exquisite beading and a delicately scalloped neckline are just a couple of the many breathtaking details on this wedding dress. The dainty, long sleeves seal the deal.

Silhouette: Sheath

Crafted in a comfortable and sculpting jersey, this dress boasts clean lines and a flattering silhouette. The open back silhouetted with faux pearls also offers a unique twist and will look stunning from every angle.

Silhouette: Slip | Materials: 78% viscose, 18% polyamide, 4% elastane | Sizes: XS-XL

Most Eye-Catching

Self-Portrait White Grid Sequin Maxi Dress

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (15)

The perfect combination of glitz and more conservative style, this is a top-notch pick for traditional brides who also love a bit of pizazz. The intricate detailing and flattering silhouette create a unique and eye-catching bridal look.

Silhouette: A-line | Materials: 100% cotton embroidery, 100% polyester lining: 100% polyester belt: 100% cotton | Sizes: UK 4-16

Best Tulle

Grace + Ivory Kefira Dress

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (16)

If you’re here for the fairytale vibe, this full skirt crafted in tulle is a dream find. The fitted lace sleeves create a royal and elegant addition to an already stunning silhouette.

Silhouette: Ballgown | Sizes: Custom

Most Versatile

Lulus White Mesh Ruched Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (17)

This simple yet beautiful gown is an easy, effortless option for the bride who wants a gown that feels low-key. Still, the sheer sleeves and ruched bodice add an intricate element. Wear your hair naturally and add in a pair of strappy sandals for a minimalist look.

Silhouette: Sheath | Materials: 95% polyester, 5% spandex, 100% polyester lining, 82% nylon, 18% spandex contrast | Sizes: XS-XL

Best Slit

Lulus duch*ess Ivory Lace Bell Sleeve Maxi Dress

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (18)

Brides who love retro fashion will go crazy for this '70s-inspired gown featuring bold bell sleeves. The lace fabric, deep-V neckline, and high slit create a subtly sexy silhouette that's sure to turn heads as you glide down the aisle.

Silhouette: Mermaid | Materials: 100% polyester | Sizes: XXS-XXXL

Best Boho Style

Markarian Aphrodite White Lace Gown

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (19)

A peplum silhouette may not be on your wedding dress list of priorities—but it probably is now. This gown feels fashionable and fun for brides who love bold boho styles. Just add a soft lip color and simple heels to keep the look fresh.

Silhouette: Peplum | Materials: 100% nylon | Sizes: US 0-16

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Best Midi

Shona Joy Frill Cuff Bias Midi Dress

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (20)

This Bridgerton-like slip dress is ideal for courthouse weddings or fall garden nuptials, as it delivers understated beauty and grace. We especially love the faux front buttons and the flutter sleeves. Plus, the sheen satin material adds an eye-catching element.

Silhouette: Slip | Materials: 58% viscose, 42% cellulose, 100% polyester lining | Sizes: US 2-8

Best for Plus-Sized Brides

True Violet Plus Bridal Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (21)

The beauty is in the details in this understated, sheath-style gown by an ASOS in-house label. With an open back, bow detail, and subtle darting along the bodice, this figure-skimming dress is a classic choice for indoor and outdoor weddings. It's available in sizes US 14-24.

Silhouette: Sheath | Materials: 92% polyester, 8% elastane, 100% polyester lining | Sizes: US 14-24

Best Pastel

Frock and Frill Plus Bridesmaid Plunge Front Maxi with Embellishment in Dusty Mauve

20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (22)

In a pale mauve shade with plenty of sparkle, this embellished dress has a plunge neck and wrap style for an effortless, party-ready look. The gauzy sleeves give it a romantic feel, while the relaxed fit keeps it laid-back for a number of different ceremony and reception venues.

Silhouette: A-line | Materials: Polyester, mesh | Sizes: US 14-24

What to Look For in a Long Sleeve Wedding Dress

Materials

If you're looking for something a little more fashion-forward and statement-making, consider dramatic bishop sleeves or styles with all-over embellishments. And for brides who prefer a more modest silhouette, long sleeve gowns with high necklines and floor-length hems have you covered.

Long sleeve wedding dresses are a great choice for winter nuptials or for brides who are looking for a silhouette with more coverage. While long sleeve dresses are a smart pick for the colder months, they're actually highly versatile and can be worn year-round. For spring and summer weddings, opt for sleeves crafted from sheer tulle or lightweight lace.

Style and Silhouette

From traditional sleeves, like on the True Violet Plus Bridal Long Sleeve Maxi Dress, to a bell sleeve or lace sleeve, your options for a long-sleeved wedding dress run the gamut. Billowy sleeves give a boho or romantic feeling, while bell or off-the-shoulder sleeves add unexpected charm to an otherwise simple silhouette. Also consider the overall silhouette you're looking for, whether it's an a-line or ballgown or sheath or slip style, as a few examples.

Fit and Comfort

Be sure to consider how comfortable the dress and sleeves are for your venue and activity level. Sleeves that are too constricting or tight may not be the best fit for a summer garden wedding, for example, while loose, billowy sleeves tend to keep you cool and comfortable. Many gowns have mesh or gauze sleeves that feel light and breezy.

FAQ

  • Can I wear a long sleeve wedding dress in the summer?

    Absolutely! Wedding dresses with lightweight sleeves cut from breathable fabrics like tulle, chiffon, and lace are all great options for warm-weather nuptials—we love the Wtoo by Watters Miles V-Neck Mesh Wedding Gown and the Lulus Elegant Eternity White Mesh Maxi Dress.

  • Do long sleeve wedding dresses work for all body types?

    Long sleeve wedding dresses work well for all shapes and sizes and come in a wide range of figure-flattering silhouettes. The key is to try on a variety of styles and choose whichever one makes you feel like your most beautiful and confident self!

  • Are long sleeve wedding dresses comfortable?

    Long sleeves wedding dresses can be very comfortable but keep in mind that some fabrics are more structured than others and may limit your range of motion. Certain fabrics may also feel rough or scratchy if you have sensitive skin.

  • Where can I buy a long-sleeved wedding dress?

    Retailers like Anthropologie, David's Bridal, and Olivia Bottega have plentiful options for long-sleeved gowns. In general, wedding shops with a boho or romantic feel are good places to search for long-sleeved gowns, as many fit this aesthetic.

Why Trust Brides

Nicole Kliest is a fashion, travel, and food & wine writer based in New York City. With over nine years of experience in the digital publishing industry, her work has appeared on sites includingWho What Wear, The Zoe Report, Cools, Popsugar, Harper's Bazaar, Elle.

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20 Best Long-Sleeved Wedding Dresses That Will Steal the Show (2024)

FAQs

What are the most worn wedding dresses? ›

A-line and ball gown silhouettes are widely popular wedding dress styles due to their universally flattering nature as well as their equally traditional and grand appearance. The silhouette cinches at the natural waistline before flaring outwards.

How many dresses do most brides try on? ›

On average, brides try on about 4–7 dresses, but we recommend no more than 10. The more wedding gowns you try on, the more confusing things may get. When the bridal gown selection is too big, brides tend to get overwhelmed and struggle to remember what the first gown they tried on looked like.

What the older bride should wear? ›

Every bride, regardless of her age, should wear something that makes her feel confident and comfortable on her special day. Whether it's a traditional white wedding dress, a chic trouser suit or a vintage tea-length dress, the key is to choose an outfit that reflects your unique style and personality.

What is an illusion wedding dress? ›

What is an Illusion Wedding Dress? An illusion wedding dress features a sheer fabric, often tulle or lace, that covers all or part of the bride's décolletage. In some cases, the illusion fabric reaches the bride's neck.

What are brides wearing in 2024? ›

Delicate lace, sheer fabrics, corsetry, and bodices reminiscent of lingerie styles are being incorporated into wedding dresses in 2024. Slip dresses and silk fabrics are also gaining popularity, offering a simple yet elegant look while staying on-trend. These styles showcase the bride's figure subtly and tastefully.

Which dress is trending now for marriage? ›

Designer Drape Lehengas

This type of fusion lehenga is one of the latest Indian wedding outfits that is trending and it features a choli, a lehenga skirt, and an attached pleated dupatta that one needs to wear over the shoulder to get the look of a saree.

What size are most brides? ›

Bridal sizing isn't like typical street wear sizing. While you might be a size 4-6 in jeans, you're in fact a bridal size 8-10, and if you're a size 14-16, you're likely a 18-20. Don't worry about it–sizing is just a number! You'll likely see most of our samples in a bridal size 8, 10, 12, 18, 20 or 22 to try on.

What makes a wedding dress look cheap? ›

This happens with wedding dresses too, especially when they're mass produced. Poor assembly leads to a low-quality look. It's generally the result of a machine that wasn't calibrated properly, an unskilled laborer, or using a machine for a task that requires handcrafting.

Who usually buys the brides dress? ›

While this responsibility can vary from culture to culture, historically the bride's family will pay for her wedding dress and accessories. This includes everything from the dress itself to the veil and shoes.

What should a 65 year old bride wear? ›

You can't go wrong with classic tea length wedding dress for older brides, and this lacy modern design is a prime example. With a gently flared skirt and vintage touches, it may just be the icing on the cake for your bridal look.

What should a 50 year old bride wear? ›

While some older brides may feel restricted to more mature wedding dress styles, we believe that personal style trumps all and you should wear what makes you feel your best, regardless of age. Whether that's a more conservative gown or a sparkly mini dress, you get to make the rules for your wedding day.

What should a 60 year old wear to a wedding? ›

Midi length is the preferred length for many women who want dresses to attend formal or semi-formal events. Maxi Length – Maxi dresses can be flattering if you are over 60 because it makes sure that everything is safely covered. It is elegant and suitable for fancier occasions.

What is the meaning of getting married in a black dress? ›

The black gown symbolized ensured her loyalty to the bride's devotion to her husband until death. Nowadays, black wedding gowns are the first choice for women who want to wear an unusual yet intense look. They are seen as fashionable and symbolize elegance, power, sensuality, mysteriousness, and Intellect.

What makes a wedding dress look expensive? ›

Things like hand-beaded designs or delicate lace take hours to create. Premium fabrics come with premium prices. While white crinoline runs about $2 a yard, higher quality fabrics can cost up to $100 a yard. These are all features that feed into the higher pricing found in designer boutiques.

What is a mermaid style wedding dress? ›

The mermaid dress gets its name from its characteristic flared-out bottom, which resembles a mermaid fin. This style is designed to accentuate the curves of the female body by hugging the waist and chest and flaring out at the bottom, creating an hourglass figure or a “mermaid silhouette.”

What is the most popular wedding dress code? ›

Semi-Formal or co*cktail

This attire is one of the most popular dress codes, and for a good reason. It fits in with almost any wedding venue and is relatively easy for guests to follow. A semi-formal dress code calls for suits for men and co*cktail dresses for ladies.

What is the most common wedding dress color? ›

What are the Most Popular Wedding Dress Colors? The most popular wedding dress colors are shades of off-white and ivory, which are more universally flattering. However, we've also noticed that many brides opt for a gown with a lining in a shade of blush or nude to allow the details on their dresses to pop!

What is the most common color to wear to a wedding? ›

If you're looking for something classic and timeless, dark colors like navy blue or black are always appropriate. For a more glamorous look, pastels such as lavender, light pink, or pale blue will add a touch of elegance to your outfit.

What color are most wedding dresses? ›

It is very traditional for brides to wear white on their wedding day. When you start looking at wedding dresses online or at a bridal shop, you will see wedding dresses labeled with many different color names, from white to ivory to off-white to diamond white to cream and many color names and shades in between.

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