When shopping for wedding dresses, it seems styles are separated into two categories: beaded and not beaded. How do you pick? Well, before you jump into making any decisions, it's important to get the facts on this popular wedding dress detail. There is no denying beaded dresses are incredibly glamorous. Some of the most iconic wedding looks ever were beaded dresses. Who can forget Zoë Kravitz chic crochet and beaded mother-of-pearl dress? Or Princess Beatrice of York's diamond and bead encrusted vintage gown.
Even though celebrities and royalty have worn this style, it's a common misconception that beaded wedding dresses are super formal and very expensive. Although the bridal market is flooded with its fair share of extravagant big-ticket designs, there is plenty of more casual and affordable beaded options to choose from. It all comes down to what you want in your dress.
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, 24 beaded wedding dresses for all styles, dress codes, seasons, and budgets.
1. Best Budget Option: BHLDN Sanders Dress
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.
2. Best Modest Design: Milla Nova Aziza Gown
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.
3. Best Corset Detail: Milla Nova Evita Gown
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.
4. For a Courthouse Wedding: Marchesa Notte Arabella Dress
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.
5. Best Long Sleeve Design: Dana Harel Sasha Dress
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.
6. Best Ombre Effect: BHLDN Theia Emma Gown
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.
7. Best Back Detail: Azazie Cersei BG
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.
8. For a Cathedral Wedding: Maggie Sottero Tiffany Gown
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.
9. For the Classic Bride: Maggie Sottero Rosette Lynette Gown
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.
10. Best Fringe Detail: Lara Danika Floral Beaded Sheath Wedding Dress
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.
11. Best Two-Piece: Anna Campbell Cap Sleeve Illusion Neckline Two Piece Sheath Wedding Dress
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.
12. Best Off-the-Shoulder Option: Lulus Promised Love White Beaded Lace Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress
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.
13. Most Extravagant: Milla Nova Yuliana Gown
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.
14. Best Transparent Details: Pronovias Beaded Lace Fit and Flare Wedding Dress
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.
15. Best Mermaid Style: Tony Ward Spaghetti Strap Illusion Neckline Mermaid Wedding Dress
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.
16. For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Milla Nova Irina Gown
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.
17. Best Jumpsuit: Naeem Khan Nevada Beaded Silk-Chiffon Jumpsuit
Modern-day brides love shaking up traditions, and this jumpsuit is here to prove it. The '70s-inspired metallic beaded jumpsuit is the perfect alternative to a traditional wedding dress or a quick outfit change between the ceremony and reception. Throw on a pair of platform heels, and you'll look like a true dancing queen.
18. Best Midi Length: ML Monique Lhuillier Sequin Tie Shoulder Midi Dress
Midi dresses are all about elegance with a bit of fun. This midi from ML Monique Lhuillier hits around calf length with a side slit at the hem, plus the dainty sequin beading on the dress will have you sparkling all night long.
19. Most Romantic: Markarian Evora Pearl Beaded Lace Gown with Large Detachable Bow
Romance is a given on your big day, but this dress will make you feel like you just stepped out of a fairytale. Tiny white beads make up the delicate lace on the gown, and the back features an oversized bow that will wow as you walk down the aisle - plus, it's detachable for a quick mid-wedding outfit change.
20. Best Slit Detail: Retrofête Prima Dress
Show a little skin with this thigh-high slit beaded dress. We love the peek-a-boo halter neckline, and the geometric pattern gives this dress a modern flair.
21. Best A-Line Silhouette: Jenny Yoo Dempsey Dress
There's a reason why so many brides opt for an A-line style dress, and it's because the look is just so effortlessly stunning. The beaded tulle alone is enough to make any bride fall for this dress.
22. For the Statement-Making Bride: Georges Hobeika Bridal Spring-Summer 2022
There is nothing more striking than a dramatic train. This dress has just that, along with intricate beadwork and a sweetheart neckline that is the epitome of glamorous elegance.
23. Best Feather Detailing: Jenny Packham Bird of Paradise Feather-Trimmed Embellished Tulle Mini Dress
Get ready to hit the dance floor in this fun and flirty feather beaded dress. The short length is perfect for a post-ceremony outfit change or even a bachelorette party.
24. Best Beaded Bodice: Madison James Marilyn Dress
You'll be shimmering while walking down the aisle in this sequin and pearl beaded gown. The A-line silhouette and square neckline are also a fun and youthful touch.
What to Look for When Shopping for a Beaded Wedding Dress
During your search for the perfect beaded gown, keep in mind the style first and foremost. Yes, it's easy to get carried away in the glitz and glamour of beaded dresses, but you still want to make sure the dress is something you will be comfortable in all night long. Also, make sure that you are buying from a trusted vendor. The last thing you want on your big day is poorly secured beads falling on the ground behind you all night long. This doesn't mean you need to buy a more expensive dress. Just ensure that the dress is well made and there isn't any snagging or pulling before purchasing.
Also consider that beaded dresses tend to be on the heavier side. If your wedding is outdoors in the summer heat, consider the fact you might get a little warm wearing a head-to-toe beaded dress. In this case, opt for a gown with only a few beaded accents instead of many.
FAQ
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.