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Courtesy of Eisen-Stein
When shopping for wedding dresses, it seems styles are separated into two categories: Beaded and not beaded. But before you jump into making any decisions, it’s important to get the facts on this popular wedding dress detail.
It’s a common misconception that beaded wedding dresses are both super formal and very expensive. Although the bridal market is flooded with its fair share of extravagant big-ticket designs, there are plenty of more casual and affordable beaded options to choose from too.
Whether you’re positive you want to walk down the aisle in an embellished style, or you’re still on the fence, we’re here to help! Ahead, 18 beaded wedding dresses for all styles, dress codes, seasons, and budgets.
Best Budget Option: BHLDN Sanders Dress
Courtesy of Anthropologie
The opulent beading and pattern on this dress are reminiscent of The Great Gatsby, sans the price tag. The delicate cap sleeve and a body-skimming silhouette add to the vintage feel.
Best Modest Design: Milla Nova Aziza Gown
Courtesy of Milla Nova
This high-neck design is both elegant and modest, without looking the slightest bit boring. A combination of the turtleneck, long sleeve, and maxi skirt makes it appropriate for church weddings, while the back cutout and pearl appliques make it feel wedding-day special.
Best Corset Detail: Milla Nova Evita Gown
Courtesy of Milla Nova
If the word ethereal comes to mind when thinking of your dream wedding dress, consider this the design you need IRL. The full beaded tulle skirt with a delicate train is only rivaled by the sheer corset bodice and see-through off-the-shoulder sleeve.
For a Courthouse Wedding: Marchesa Notte Arabella Dress
Courtesy of BHLDN
Get the romantic aesthetics without feeling overdressed for your intimate nuptials with this Marchesa look. The delicate embroidery and fluttering flowers throughout are just what you need for a courthouse wedding.
Best Long Sleeve Design: Dana Harel Sasha Dress
Courtesy of Dana Harel
If you’re going to opt for long sleeves, it truly doesn’t get more fabulous than these crystal-encrusted semi-transparent ones. Paired with a low-back and train, this beaded gown is sure to wow your guests.
Best Ombre Effect: BHLDN Theia Emma Gown
Courtesy of BHLDN
We’ve fantasized about a pink ombre wedding dress since Gwen Stefani walked down the aisle in a similar style back in 2002. Pair the dip dye effect with beading throughout, and you have yourself a timeless design that’s sure to look just as stylish when your children flip through your wedding day album.
Best Back Detail: Azazie Cersei BG
Courtesy of Azazie
As you walk the aisle, the back of your dress should make just as much of a statement as the front. This flowy chiffon A-Line gown features a hand-beaded pearl button back and chapel-length train, making for a stunner even when you walk away.
For a Cathedral Wedding: Maggie Sottero Tiffany Gown
Courtesy of Maggie Sottero
Most little girls dream of their princess wedding—this dress was created for those cathedral-type dream nuptials. The royal A-line silhouette, paired with shimmering beaded lace motifs, fits in with formal settings.
For the Classic Bride: Maggie Sottero Rosette Lynette Gown
Courtesy of Maggie Sottero
This ball gown, featuring a sweetheart neckline, sheer sleeves, and pearl beading, is perfect for the bride that admires classic details. Pair it with glowy skin and a cat eye for a timeless look.
Best Fringe Detail: Lara Danika Floral Beaded Sheath Wedding Dress
Courtesy of David’s Bridal
Made for the bride that appreciates details, this gown features art-deco embroidery and beaded fringe throughout. From the fit-and-flare silhouette to the illusion V-neckline, this statement gown is a gorgeous choice for your wedding day, the reception, or formal rehearsal dinner.
Best Slit Detail: Rime Arodaky Joni Swiss-Dot Tulle and Crepe Gown
Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
If your heart is set on a thigh-high slit, but you still want to keep it semi-modest, this gown features a tulle overlay to provide just the right amount of coverage. What’s more? The embellished dots on the delicate, sheer tulle add the touch of glam you need on your wedding day.
Best Beaded Bodice: Allison Webb Beaded Straight Neckline Fit and Flare Wedding Dress
Courtesy of Kleinfeld Bridal
As if this pearl-encrusted bodice isn’t stunning enough on its own, the asymmetric sculptural design that falls into a trumpet skirt, with a chapel-length train, screams black-tie affair.
Best Two-Piece: Anna Campbell Cap Sleeve Illusion Neckline Two Piece Sheath Wedding Dress
Courtesy of Kleinfeld Bridal
It’s not often you come across bridal two-pieces, but this skirt and top duo is perfect for the modern bride. The sleek figure-hugging skirt with a train feels classic, while the hand-embellished sequin and pearl top, featuring a fluttering open back, adds an unexpected sparkle.
Best Off-the-Shoulder Option: Lulus Promised Love White Beaded Lace Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress
Courtesy of Lulus
We love an affordable fashion find, and wedding dresses are no exception to the rule. This under $300 beaded lace off-the-shoulder gown is proof that you can boast expensive taste without the price tag.
Most Extravagant: Milla Nova Yuliana Gown
Courtesy of Milla Nova
This beaded ball gown is appropriate for the most royal of bridal events. It features a turtleneck, a semi-transparent bodice, and a full sequin skirt with a cathedral-length train.
Best Transparent Details: Pronovias Beaded Lace Fit and Flare Wedding Dress
Courtesy of Kleinfeld Bridal
This thread-embroidered and beaded design, over transparent fabric, creates the illusion of cutouts while remaining wedding-day modest. Pull your hair back to show off the intricate details and deep-V neckline.
Best Mermaid Style: Tony Ward Spaghetti Strap Illusion Neckline Mermaid Wedding Dress
Courtesy of Kleinfeld Bridal
Our favorite part of this dress? It’s a tie between the mermaid silhouette, the beaded fabric, and the train that drapes from the waist.
For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Milla Nova Irina Gown
Courtesy of Milla Nova
A bit of an ’80s-inspired silhouette, this turtleneck and structured-shoulder style is perfect for the fashion-forward bride. It even comes with a detachable overskirt for a wardrobe change only a fashionista can pull off.
Shopping FAQs
Searching for a gown bedazzled in beads? We’ve answered three common questions brides have when shopping for beaded wedding dresses.
- Are beaded wedding dresses more expensive? Beaded wedding dresses may sometimes come with a higher price tag—especially if the beading is done by hand. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly beaded wedding dresses out there that look just as luxurious as other expensive brands.
- Are beaded wedding dresses appropriate for black-tie weddings? Definitely! Embellished dresses are perfect for all dress codes and every season.
- How should I style a beaded wedding dress? Since beaded wedding dresses can be quite sparkly, a bride may want to keep accessories simple and let the dress do all the talking. However, if you prefer a more glamourous look, add shimmering statement earrings or a pair of embellished heels to your ensemble.