Best lace wedding dress: 10 lace bridal gowns to shop in 2023

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From traditional gowns to boho maxis

Lace, forever an excellent choice for wedding dresses, has been a signifier of luxury since the 1600s. The painstaking detail and handiwork that went into this fabric meant that it was incredibly expensive, reserved only for aristocracy and royals, until the 19th century. Luckily, thanks to the Industrial Revolution and modern production methods, lace bridalwear is more readily available – not to mention affordable – without having lost any of the delicate intricacies that make is so special.

Did we mention how timeless a lace wedding dressing is, too? Frothy meringue skirts, hooping, leg-of-mutton sleeves and pie-crust collars – bridal trends come and go, but this fabric remains relevant. Still, it has seen a particularly long-reigning spike in popularity ever since the Duchess of Cambridge chose to wear a couture Leavers lace gown by Alexander McQueen to her ceremony in 2011. For something that'll stand the test of time, Kate's demure long sleeve gown is excellent inspiration – but there are also more modern ways to wear this trend.

In louche, unstructured cuts, this fabric becomes decidedly bohemian; but it can also feel Sixties' retro when teamed with an Ossie Clarke-inspired high neckline and an empire silhouette or cut into a simple shift shape. If you find all-over lace looks too fussy, try a simple trim or contrast sleeves (by sticking to something minimal, you're bound to wear it again once the wedding is over). If, however, you find this fabric too conservative or classic, go for a partial lining or 2023's favourite sheer skirt – a trend kickstarted by tastemaker Camille Charrière.

From the traditional to the on-trend, we've rounded up 10 beautiful lace wedding dresses that will make your big day special.

If anyone can give lace another layer of extravagance, it's Costarellos – the appliqué flowers, eyelash scalloping and covered buttons on this wedding dress are magnificent. The silhouette makes a quiet statement too, with a glove-like bodice that flares out to a floor-sweeping fishtail hemline.

Full lace looks too fussy for your liking? Reformation's subtle take on the trend is sure to convince you otherwise: the brand has simply trimmed its silk-charmeuse slip dress dress with the stuff. This bias-cut maxi will take you beyond the big day when teamed with oversized knits and blazers.

Defined by its vintage-inspired silhouettes and fabrics, Rixo's bridal collection is totally unique. And the affordable price point is only adds to its appeal, of course. This Fleur dress nods to the Thirties with its covered buttons, empire-line bust and leg-of-mutton sleeves. We like how its partially lined to showcase the cream corded lace.

Whistles' bridal collection is one of the best on the high street. This 1960s-inspired wedding dress is perfect for civil ceremonies or afterparties – thanks to its midi column skirt, mock neck and bell sleeves. We love how this piece is only partially lined to showcase the intricacies of the geometric floral lace.

In the Sixties, with considerable help from Mary Quant and a first wave of feminism, mini dresses, skirts and suits became a go-to for modern brides. Self-Portrait has paid homage to this cultural shift with the thigh-grazing hemline, spread collar and buckled belt on this Guipure lace shirt dress. The patch pockets and daisy pearl buttons only further this retro feel.

Camille Charrière made a case for sheer lace wedding dresses when she tied the knot in Paris in December. Unlike the influencer's risqué after-party number, this ruched Rasario gown is partially lined – enhancing the intricate florals on the skirt and sleeves. The brand's signature off-the-shoulder sash and diamanté buckle are a playful finishing touch.

Looking for designer bridalwear on a budget? The best lace wedding dresses are timeless, so there's no risk in shopping old-season or second hand. A great find from The Outnet, this Les Rêveries gown has a floor-sweeping train and is partially lined to show the delicate patterned lace. The two labels have just teamed up on a summer collaboration if you're looking for floral bridesmaid dresses, too.

From L.K. Bennett's debut bridal range, this corded lace dress is an understated alternative to wedding gowns. The ladylike puffed sleeves and grosgrain bow are balanced with a sweetheart-neck slip and sheer yoke.

For brides who want to tap into both traditional and contemporary trends, this Galvan Sevilla dress is ideal. This piece has a flowing train and long sleeves tempered by cut-out laddering and a split hem. The corded lace is made from cotton – which not only adds a relaxed feel but is altogether more breathable, so perfect for summer weddings.

Monsoon has mixed corded floral lace with circle lace and crochet trims to create a unique design reminiscent of Sixties wallpaper. Combined with the square neck, short sleeves and bias-cut skirt, this creates a retro feel – amp it up with winged eyeliner and half-up hair (we have Elaine Robinson from the 1967 film The Graduate pinned on our moodboard).

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