Chic, Simple, Stunning: Casual Gowns for the Modern Bride

Dresses | July 30, 2025

Planning a laid-back celebration that’s more champagne on the beach than ballroom waltz? You’re in the right place. Casual wedding dresses are the ultimate match for the bride who wants to feel like herself, just elevated. Whether you’re eloping in the mountains, saying “I do” barefoot in the sand, or throwing the chicest backyard bash your hometown has ever seen, these effortlessly stylish gowns prove that low-key can still be totally iconic. 

Not sure where to start? Take our Style Quiz to find a dress that fits your vibe. 

What Makes a Wedding Dress “Casual?” 

Let’s break it down, casual doesn’t mean boring, and it definitely doesn’t mean basic. A casual wedding dress is all about ease, comfort, and that effortlessly cool “I just threw this on and still look stunning” energy. Think lightweight fabrics like chiffon or crepe, minimal embellishments (or just enough sparkle), and silhouettes that let you move, twirl, and dance without a care in the world. 

These dresses ditch the heavy trains and structured corsets in favor of flowy skirts, relaxed fits, and dreamy details that feel natural in any setting, whether you’re under the stars, on a sandy shore, or twirling through your favorite garden venue. It’s bridal but make it you

Top Casual Wedding Dresses for Every Type of Bride  

Top Casual Wedding Dresses for Every Type of Bride  

Casual wedding dresses come in all styles to match your vibe. Boho babes might lean into lace, bishop sleeves, and dreamy silhouettes perfect for forest elopements. Modern minimalists will love clean lines, crepe fabrics, and square necklines for a sleek, unfussy look. If sweet and simple is more your thing, soft chiffon A-lines with dainty straps or a subtle bow feel effortlessly romantic. Beachy brides can opt for lightweight gowns with slits and breezy trains that catch the ocean breeze just right. The dress you choose is the one that speaks to you, and it will match your vibe perfectly.

Napa by Maggie Sottero 

Front view of a minimalist ivory sheath wedding dress with delicate straps, soft scoop neckline, and gentle flare at the hem, styled with sparkly pointed-toe heels.
Bride wearing a sleek ivory crepe wedding dress with a dramatic low scoop back, covered button detailing trailing down the train, and a figure-hugging silhouette.

Napa is the ultimate blend of sexy and effortless. Crafted from luxe crepe and lined with stretch jersey, this gown is made for dancing the night away in comfort and style. It’s sleek, it’s striking, and it’s guaranteed to turn heads. 

Francesca by Rebecca Ingram 

Front view of a strapless A-line wedding dress featuring a ruched sweetheart neckline and soft draped chiffon skirt, styled with a pearl choker and holding a white floral bouquet.
Bride wearing a strapless chiffon A-line wedding dress with ruching on the bodice, fabric-covered buttons down the back, and a flowing chapel-length train.

If you’ve ever dreamed of channeling Ancient Grecian royalty, Francesca is your moment. With a soft scoop neckline and layers of luxe chiffon that float like a dream, this gown is practically poetry in motion. It moves with every step, twirls like a dream, and will absolutely leave your partner speechless. 

Wren Leigh by Maggie Sottero 

Bride wearing a crepe sheath wedding dress with a scalloped scoop neckline, lace-embellished illusion sleeves, and a dramatic chapel train, holding a soft pastel bouquet.
Close-up of a long sleeve wedding dress featuring a scoop neckline, floral lace appliqués on illusion sleeves, and textured embroidery on the bodice.

Modest babes, this one’s for you. Wren Leigh is proof that demure can still drop jaws. With unembellished floral lace for a touch of timeless elegance and Talin stretch crepe that hugs in all the right places, this gown is the definition of modest meets sexy. And don’t even get us started on those buttons trailing from back to hem…absolutely éblouissante! 

Jazzy by Rebecca Ingram 

Front view of a minimalist sheath wedding gown with a square neckline and fitted bodice, styled with loose curls and a small white bouquet.
Bride wearing a sheath wedding dress with a low lace-trimmed back, soft chiffon bow at the waist, and fabric-covered buttons trailing down the train.

Can we take a moment for Jazzy? This vintage-inspired stunner seals the deal with its show-stopping lace and bow detail at the back. Not a ‘party in the back’ kind of bride? Flip the bow to the front for a little extra flair. With a stretch jersey lining, Jazzy is as comfy as it is chic. One thing’s for sure, you’re going to look unforgettable, and yes, people will be talking. 

Casual Wedding Dresses for Every Setting 

Casual can work in any setting when worn with confidence. Whether you’re celebrating in your backyard, saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, or jetting off to Italy to marry in the dreamy fields of Val d’Orcia, there’s a dress for you. Here are a few styles guaranteed to make your heart flutter. 

Chic Simplicity for Your Backyard “I Do” 

Oakley by Rebecca Ingram 

Bride wearing a slinky satin sheath wedding dress with a cowl neckline, double spaghetti straps, and soft sweeping train, styled with loose curls and statement earrings.
Close-up of a bride in a satin wedding dress with double spaghetti straps and a draped cowl neckline, showcasing a sleek fit and soft romantic details.

Oakley is timeless beauty with a modern twist. With sleek satin, delicate straps, and a draped cowl neckline, this gown gives total Marilyn energy as you float down the aisle. It moves effortlessly with each step, hugs in all the right places, and brings just the right amount of glam to a laid-back celebration. Perfect for creating those cherished backyard wedding memories. 

Pilar Leigh by Rebecca Ingram 

Bride wearing a fit-and-flare wedding dress with a puff-sleeve lace bodice, high scoop neckline, and sleek crepe skirt with a gentle train, holding a modern tropical bouquet.
Back view of a crepe fit-and-flare gown featuring puff sleeves, a square lace back, and a soft chapel-length train for an elegant, vintage-inspired look.

Pilar Leigh is inspired by nature and made for the modern boho bride. With a stunning lace bodice and sleek Aldora stretch crepe skirt, this gown blends softness and structure in all the right ways. It’s modest, it’s comfortable, and it’s made to move…aka, the ultimate dress for dancing the night away. 

Georgianna by Rebacca Ingram 

Bride wearing a romantic ballgown wedding dress with a sheer floral lace bodice, beaded spaghetti straps, and a soft tulle skirt adorned with scattered lace appliqués, holding a small pastel bouquet.
Close-up of a sheer bodice ballgown featuring 3D floral lace, beaded straps, and layered tulle skirt, styled with gold statement earrings and loose waves.

This dress? It speaks for itself. Just picture golden hour, a warm breeze, and you in Georgianna. The 3-D floral appliqués add a touch of whimsical romance, while the airy tulle skirt is made for twirling under backyard string lights. It’s soft, sophisticated, and it gives main character energy. This gown is the moment, and we’re so here for it. 

Salt in the Air, Style Everywhere 

Hope by Rebecca Ingram  

Bride wearing a minimalist sheath wedding dress with a high bateau neckline, side illusion cutouts, and soft crepe fabric, styled with loose curls and white roses.
Back view of a modern crepe wedding gown with a dramatic low open back, thin spaghetti straps, and a row of buttons trailing down the train.

Cue the gasps. Hope is serving sexy and sophisticated, and we are obsessed. The plunge illusion V-back paired with a soft scoop bateau neckline and sheer side insets? Absolutely modern, absolutely stunning. Crafted with Jenday stretch jersey, this gown was made for sandy toes and sunset vows. Honestly, even the seagulls will be left speechless with this gown. 

Kelsey by Rebecca Ingram 

Front view of a crepe sheath wedding gown featuring a plunging V-neckline, cutout sides, and sleek silhouette, styled with soft curls and long statement earrings.
Bride wearing a modern sheath wedding dress with a low open back, wide waistband strap, and fabric-covered buttons cascading down the skirt and chapel train.

This is not your mother’s wedding dress. Kelsey is here to turn heads and set new standards. With bold cutouts and sleek crepe, she’s effortlessly chic, unapologetically sexy, and basically the definition of couture cool. Beach brides, this one’s your mic drop. 

Francine by Rebecca Ingram 

Front view of a strapless crepe wedding gown with a straight neckline and figure-hugging silhouette, styled with layered necklaces and loose curls on a beachside boardwalk.
Bride wearing a strapless crepe sheath wedding dress with a soft scoop back, fabric-covered buttons trailing down the train, photographed on a sandy beach at sunset.

Francine is where daring meets timeless. That strapless banded cuff neckline? Classic. The figure-hugging Future stretch crepe? Total modern romance. It’s equal parts elegant and ooh la la, aka, your dream dress with a little edge. 

Carry-On Friendly and Camera-Ready 

Portia by Rebecca Ingram 

Front view of a modern satin wedding gown with an asymmetrical draped bodice, high neckline, and front skirt slit, styled with geometric earrings and a soft updo.
Bride wearing a satin sheath wedding dress with a high neckline, keyhole back accented by a dramatic bow, and fabric-covered buttons trailing down the train.

Portia is the ultimate elevated casual vibe. Easy to pack, dreamy to wear, and made for your “just landed in paradise” moment. The stretch jersey keeps things comfy, while the satin tie-back bow adds that perfect pop of shimmer. Effortless, elegant, and totally destination wedding goals. 

Fernanda by Maggie Sottero 

Front view of a minimalist sheath wedding dress with a deep V-neckline and wide straps, paired with a dramatic circular train and ornate tiara for a modern royal look.
Bride wearing a classic crepe sheath wedding gown with a scoop back, thick straps, and buttons trailing down an extended chapel train, styled with a regal jeweled crown.

Fernanda is all the proof you need that minimalist = majorly chic. Crafted in Talin stretch crepe, it’s sleek, stylish, and ready for your passport moment. Just picture saying “oui” under the twinkling Parisian lights; Fernanda understood the assignment. 

Iliana by Rebecca Ingram 

Front view of a sleek fit-and-flare wedding gown featuring a scoop neckline, subtle front cutout, and wide straps, styled with a long sheer veil and gold earrings.
Bride wearing a fit-and-flare crepe wedding dress with a deep V-back and fabric-covered buttons trailing down a soft chapel-length train.

Iliana is simplicity, perfected. The keyhole bodice and deep V-back add just the right touch of edge, while the trailing covered buttons serve up timeless elegance. With comfy satin and structured tank straps, this no-fuss beauty is made for jet-set elopements and chic, stress-free “I do’s.” 

Styling Tips for Casual Wedding Dresses 

Just because your dress is casual doesn’t mean your look has to be! One of our favorite things about a laid-back gown is how versatile it is. You can keep it sleek and simple, or style it up with accessories that show off your personality. Think of it as your blank canvas for bridal magic. 

Craving a little sparkle or drama? Add a detachable train or an overskirt for that effortlessly glam “Wow, she did that” moment. Want to add some romance? A floaty veil or delicate shoulder wrap instantly softens the look and brings that bridal feel to a more casual silhouette. 

Even the most minimalist gown can turn heads with the right finishing touches, and yes, we’ve got plenty to play with. Our wedding dress accessories consist of everything from modern jackets and sleeves to ethereal veils, statement bows, and dreamy capes. Whether you’re looking for a subtle upgrade or a total transformation, there’s something to elevate every casual vibe into your own signature style. 

Because casual doesn’t mean boring. It means confident, cool, and totally you. 

Real Brides who Rocked Casual Gowns 

Need a little inspo from brides who nailed the casual-chic vibe? We’ve got you covered. From backyard “I do’s” to beachside elopements and destination celebrations, these real Maggie brides prove that relaxed and radiant go hand in hand. Scroll through their gorgeous photos, get styling ideas, and see how they made their gowns totally their own.

Mitchell Marie by Maggie Sottero

Bride and groom smile at each other while standing on a white bridge in a garden setting. The bride wears a sleek strapless mermaid wedding dress with a long train, and the groom wears a black tuxedo with a boutonniere.

Valerie is serving timeless elegance in this stunning shot by Studio 27 Photography. She’s wearing Mitchell Marie by Maggie Sottero, a simple strapless gown in luxe Felicity Mikado. Featuring a chic banded neckline and covered buttons trailing down the back, this look proves that simplicity can be seriously striking.

Talitha by Sottero and Midgley

Bride and groom share a kiss outdoors beneath string lights, with the bride wearing a tiered satin ballgown and long veil while holding a white rose bouquet, and the groom dressed in a classic black tuxedo.

Taylor is glowing in Talitha by Sottero and Midgley, captured beautifully by Michael Gallitelli. This modern ballgown stuns in Cartago satin, featuring a sweetheart neckline, topstitched corset bodice, and scoop back. The self-tie tank straps add a playful twist, while the covered buttons and inner corset closure bring the structure. Minimalism with just the right touch of drama.

Moon by Maggie Sottero 

Bride and groom share a romantic moment indoors with the intricate facade of a European cathedral visible through tall windows. The bride wears a sleek satin gown with spaghetti straps, matching gloves, and a floral-embroidered veil, holding a bouquet of white and green flowers. The groom wears a classic black suit and tie.

Jane is the definition of modern elegance in our Moon gown, proof that simplicity can be seriously stunning. Captured beautifully by Marius Migles, she styles her look with sheer gloves, a pearl choker, and a soft tulle veil edged in lace. It’s timeless, elevated, and a masterclass in dressing up a minimalist moment. 

Casual Doesn’t Mean Boring 

Let’s be real…casual doesn’t mean boring. It means effortless, comfortable, and totally you. Whether you’re getting hitched in your backyard, on a beach, or somewhere in between, there’s a gown that fits your vibe without the fuss. 

Ready to find the perfect look for your low-key “I do”? 

Browse our collection of casual wedding dresses or visit an Authorized Boutique near you to try on your dream dress IRL. 

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How To Style Simple Wedding Dresses | Maggie Sottero 

Everything You Need to Know About Crepe Fabric Wedding Gowns 

Casual Beach Wedding Inspo | Maggie Sottero 

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