While white is obviously the most common choice for brides, it’s not for everyone. More brides are thinking outside of the box when it comes to their wedding day attire and ditching a white or ivory gown for something different. Surprisingly, black is another popular choice when it comes to wedding gowns – undeniably formal, sophisticated, and timeless. Whether you’re planning a gothic wedding, or you just want to wow with a look that’s dark and dramatic, black wedding gowns are worth exploring.
From grand black ball gowns to sleek black sheaths, we’ve pulled together the best black wedding dresses we could find for you to shop. Check them out below.
1. Women’s Double V-neck Tulle Gowns
Don’t let the idea of ordering a dress online dissuade you from ordering this amazing bridal gown. You can scroll through the photos from past purchasers to see just how lovely it looks in person, which is truly impressive given the affordable price. The dress features a beautiful V-neck design with gorgeous embellishments, both on the skirt and bodice. If you’re not a fan of the sheer fabric at the neckline, it’s easily removable. The full tulle skirt gives this dress the dramatic touch it needs to work well as a bridal gown. Prefer the more traditional route? You can order this gown in ivory here.
Price: $66.99
Buy this black wedding dress here.
2. HALSTON HERITAGE Women’s Tulip Evening Gown
HALSTON HERITAGE has a ton of black evening gowns, but we’re most drawn to the ones with full ball gown skirts for brides in black. This dress is made with beautiful high quality black fabric and fits extremely well, hugging close to the body in all the right areas. The heavier material helps it to lay perfectly, avoiding wrinkles and offering tons of support through the bodice. Showcase the beautiful scoop neckline with an up-do and some fabulous earrings.
Price: $354.99 – $725
Buy this black wedding dress here.
3. Black 3/4 Sleeve Beaded Bridal Gown
The 3/4 sleeve design on this dress makes it an awesome option for fall or winter weddings, when covering up is necessary. If sleeveless gowns are too revealing for your taste, this is also a great choice. Don’t worry if you’re between sizes. This dress can easily be made custom to your precise measurements, something that can’t be said for all wedding gowns. Not only will you be able to avoid expensive trips to the tailor for alternations, but you’ll feel confident in a dress that was made just for you. The custom dress making process takes about 2-3 weeks total, which is very reasonable given the custom nature of the gown.
Price: $85.90 – 99.90 depending on size
Buy this black wedding dress here.
4. Adrianna Papell Women’s High Low Arcadia Ball Gown
Many top dress designers have gorgeous black gowns available, which can easily translate to a black wedding gown. This option is sleek, simple, and sophisticated, with a fitted bodice and a trendy hi-lo skirt that shoes off just a peak of your shoes underneath. Think outside of the box with your choice of shoes and opt for something with some visual interest. We love these muted black floral pumps from Sam Edelman.
Price: $199.99
Buy this black wedding dress here.
5. Adrianna Papell Off Shoulder Sequin Dress
Between the full skirt, the off the shoulder neckline, and the sparkly sequined bodice, this dress was made for a bride who wants to wear black. It also has the most darling bow that ties at the waist, creating a slimming silhouette and adding femininity to the dress. Since there’s already a lot going on with this dress, accessories should be kept to a minimum. Simple jewelry, a classic pump, and natural makeup are the way to go.
Price: $225.39 – $259
Buy this black wedding dress here.
6. Adrianna Papell Women’s Lace & Taffeta Ball Gown
Black lace and a gothic inspired style go hand in hand. If you’re looking for a gothic inspired wedding dress, this is one of our top choices given the structured full length skirt, the black lacy bodice, and the embellished silk belt. The skirt is on the longer side, so even with high heels, you’ll probably have to get it slightly altered. Even with a few minor alterations, it’s worth it for the gothic look. We also love this option for fall or winter weddings, where having a bit more coverage will go a long way in keeping you warm. Need an extra layer? Grab this black faux fur stole.
Price: $112.99 – $249
Buy this black wedding dress here.
7. Vera Wang Women’s Sleeveless Lace Gown With Overlay
Vera Wang is known for her gorgeous line of bridal gowns (many of which are black). While this one is priced considerably less (because it isn’t technically a bridal gown), it still has many of the same design elements that you would expect from a designer bridal gown. The dress is made with a delicate lace base and completed with a simple tulle overlay. The sweetheart neckline showcases peek-a-boo lace detailing at the top, and a thicker strap which allows you to wear a standard bra for optimal support. If this design isn’t quite right, check out these alternative black Vera Wang gowns.
Price: $388
Buy this black wedding dress here.
8. HALSTON HERITAGE Cap-Sleeve V-Neck Silk Faille Gown
Volume is a key factor when it comes to wedding dresses and this one delivers. The design is simple and sleek, perfect for a bride who likes a very tailored look. Since the fabric is made of 80% cotton and only 20% silk, it’s more breathable than an entirely silk dress, but still maintains the formality of a silk design. Since the dress is very simple on its own, dress it up with your favorite accessories to make the look your own.
Price: $319.43 – $604.07
Buy this black wedding dress here.
9. HALSTON HERITAGE Women’s One-Shoulder Jacquard Evening Gown
With a very unique design, this dress will stand out among the rest and is perfect for a gothic bride who wants a black dress. The gown is structured, featuring a one shoulder design, a reptile texture, and mermaid silhouette. It’s fitted through the bodice with an hour glass shape that will accentuate your curves and make you feel outstanding on your big day. We love this look for a coordinating gothic bridesmaid dress.
Price: $406.76 – $695
Buy this black wedding dress here.
10. GRACE KARIN Chiffon Gown With Beading
This high quality dress allows for some extra coverage with a sheer illusion sweetheart neckline. The dress is floor length, with a belted waistline and beaded applique throughout the bodice, including the bust, waist, shoulders and back, giving it a romantic and elegant look. The A-line skirt and banded waist are both figure flattering details, making this dress one that any bride would feel comfortable in. Looking for a coordinating black veil? Check out this inexpensive option.
Price: $35.98 – $89.99 depending on size
Buy this black wedding dress here.