If you’re a bride who adores the look of understated elegance, this is how you can still create maximal impact
“Elegant and classic minimalist gowns are timeless and never really go out of fashion,” says South African bridal designer Elbeth Gillis. Whilst we totally agree with the artisan renowned for her striking designs characterised by their classic allure, many brides remain hesitant to channel their inner minimalist in the fear of fading into the background. However, despite this initial assumption about simplistic gowns being the less ‘standout’ option, it’s actually the case that by wearing a minimalist gown, you can create just as much impact as a gown adorned with sequins and lace from bodice to hem: but just in a totally different way.
Take both of Meghan Markle’s bridal looks for her wedding to Prince Harry as the perfect example of the power of minimalism. Designed by Clare Waight Keller, former artistic director at Givenchy, Meghan’s ceremony gown was a true minimalist’s dream, crafted with the finest double bonded silk crepe and featuring a simple yet chic bateau neckline. Despite its notable absence of adornment of any sort, Meghan’s gown had every attendee (as well as most of the world) in awe, and was elevated even further by her breathtaking cathedral length tulle veil, decorated with intricate lace detailing and a unique scalloped edge. Meghan’s second look, designed by Stella McCartney was also understated, but equally as striking: characterised by its sophisticated fit and flare silhouette and halter neckline, this minimalistic yet show stopping number was the perfect compliment to her ceremonial gown, and went on to inspire countless future bridal ensembles.
Contemporary brides are increasingly eschewing traditional notions of extravagance in favor of something more refined. Clean lines and a focus on craftsmanship have come to define a new era of bridal style: one that places the nearlywed, rather than the dress, at the heart of the celebration. “When planning a wedding, it’s easy to become fixated on the dress as the ultimate symbol of ‘bridal’ identity. Yet a minimalist approach reminds us that the gown isn’t everything,” explains Christine Wilkes, co founder of bridalwear label Freda Bennet. “A minimalist wedding dress allows the bride themself to truly be seen. Without layers of embellishment and decoration competing for attention, your natural beauty, personality and presence take centre stage.”
When it comes to a minimalist bridal gown, the silhouette is arguably the most important factor to consider, especially if you want the gown to reflect your individuality and personal style. According to Gillis, the cut and fit is the most important part of creating an impact with a minimalist gown, as focusing on the shape can enable you to make it your own.“There needs to be something that makes the gown unique,” explains Gillis. “It might be the neckline, the skirt shape or adding an accessory like a dramatic bow to ensure that the gown has impact.” So if you’re thinking about opting for a gown with minimal detail, fear not about going bold with your silhouette: whether you’re envisioning a statement Cinderella-style ball gown fit for a fairytale or a dramatic sculpting mermaid number, your choice of silhouette can speak volumes on its own without the need of any heavy embellishment.
Once you’ve determined which shape you desire your bridal gown to take, you can then begin exploring the fabrics you are most drawn to, and deciding which will bring your understated yet striking bridal ensemble vision to life. Although many will perceive this as a simple choice of selecting between a handful of non-adorned fabrics such as crepe and satin, according to Gillis, there is actually a bit more to it than that: “With a minimalistic gown, fabric needs to be of a very high quality, as simplistic designs bring the beauty of the fabrics to the fore,” she explains. “For instance, I love using mikado and silk if my budget allows. Duchess satin or other heavy weight satins are also favourites.” When you are trying on dresses or looking through the rails at a bridal boutique, you will usually be able to feel the quality of the fabrics by their weight, texture, and how they drape: luxurious materials like silk or mikado often feel smoother and more substantial. If in doubt, run your fingers along a few different options and compare – high quality fabrics typically have a richness and density that’s hard to miss.
One of the greatest attributes of a minimalist bridal ensemble is that there is ample opportunity for accessorising. “Without elaborate beading or lace competing for attention, you gain the perfect backdrop for statement jewellery. Bold earrings, a striking necklace, or an elegant bracelet can become focal points against the clean canvas of your gown. This balance would be impossible to achieve with an already decorated dress, where additional jewellery might feel overwhelming.” says Wilkes. There are multiple ways in which you can elevate a simplistic bridal look, and the option that you choose will often depend on the style of your wedding, as well as the overall bridal aesthetic that you desire to exude on your day of course. “A beautiful detailed veil will add some drama for a more formal religious wedding setting,” explains Gillis. “If the wedding is more casual, adding a bow or some dramatic earrings can also enhance a more minimalist dress.” Plus, if you’re concerned about your bridal look appearing too ‘plain’ (although of course this doesn’t matter, as long as it feels true to you and your style), accessories are a great way to incorporate elements of embellishment into the look, without having to commit to a fully adorned gown. For instance, if you love the look of lace but aren’t quite as keen on a lace gown, you could opt for a veil decorated with a lace applique edge, or if you’re a fan of the fashion forward, editorial bridal vibe, there’s certainly nothing stopping you from completing your look with an ethereal bridal cape either.
Ultimately, minimalism in bridalwear is not about doing less: it’s about doing more with intention. A minimalist gown provides the perfect blank canvas for self-expression, and whether you choose to keep things clean and architectural or you add unique touches through statement accessories, a pared-back gown can be every bit as memorable and striking as its more embellished counterparts. If your heart leans toward simplicity, check out our round up of minimalist bridal gowns that epitomise refined elegance:
