There’s an increasing number of women these days who are choosing to live modestly. They find modest practices to be a source of joy, whether based on spiritual beliefs or personal conviction. One of the most common and appreciated aspects of modest living is clothing style.
This shouldn’t come as a surprise because favorite royal personalities who are also seen as style inspirations typically wear modest styles. You have the Duchess of Cambridge, who seems to have a penchant for long and soft wrap dresses, as well as midi-dresses with a closed neckline and long sleeves. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden is another royal who does modest fashion truly well. She opts for long-sleeved midi and maxi dresses most of the time.
Plus, the fashion scene has also made room for modest fashion intended for conservative Christians and Muslims to wear. Indeed, it is a wonderful time to dress modestly, considering all the amazing styles designers are coming out with.
So, if you are a soon-to-be bride and you are deep in the modesty movement, delight in all the options available to you because even high-end brands are creating extensive lines of bridal dresses that reflect your values. And, if you need some ideas on beautiful and modest styles to consider for your big day, here are seven to help you out.
1. Tea-Length High-Neck Sheath Dress
Badgley Mischka has this style of dress sleeveless, and it’s conservative enough for big fans of modest dressing. No cleavage shows and the skirt falls right on or below the knees; the only elements of sexy with this dress are the display of the arms (which can also be concealed with a lace bolero) and the slim-fitted silhouette.
This dress is perfect for an intimate civil service or outdoor wedding and if you are tall and slender.
2. Beaded Long-Sleeved V-Neck Trumpet Dress
Another modest dress that is also figure-flattering is a beaded long-sleeved V-neck trumpet dress. Monique Lhuillier scored a winner with this particular wedding dress style, which she made even more sophisticated by creating a high cinched waist and combining delicate lace and silk.
This style works on all body types because it emphasizes a slim waist but can also create the illusion of a tight midsection for women with a rectangular or round body shape.
3. Asymmetrical A-line Dress
An asymmetrical neckline can make any wedding dress automatically high-fashion yet still conservative. You have the option to go for a single-sleeve asymmetrical neckline or a single drop shoulder neckline.
Meanwhile, an A-line skirt is known to create an hour-glass figure, which is why it was the ideal cut for the famous Middleton sisters who both have long, lean, and athletic frames. The Duchess of Cambridge’s dress was by Sarah Burton, while Pippa Middleton’s was by Giles Deacon.
4. Princess Dress With Capped Sleeves
When it comes to modest wedding dress styles, this has long been a favorite. Everything is appropriately covered with this particular dress style, but don’t be fooled into thinking that it will make you look frumpy. A careful selection of fine details will truly make you look like a princess.
However, if you’re petite, this style of a wedding dress can overwhelm your height and figure. But a perfectly fitted top and a delicate fabric can make all the difference.
For a gorgeous example of a capped sleeve wedding dress, you’ll have to go back to Pippa Middleton’s Giles Deacon dress. As for a stunning princess waistline dress, an ideal example is the heavily ruffled Vera Wang wedding dress worn by Chrissy Teigen.
5. Halter Silk Sheath Dress
This is a conservative style that earned the nod of royals. Meghan Markle wore this particular style by Stella McCartney on the day she became the Duchess of Sussex. It’s simple yet classic and not too sexy, especially if you choose to leave your hair down on your wedding day.
The halter dress worn by Markle even had a closed neck, and the fit was relaxed — it just skimmed the body instead of hugging the curves. Therefore, if you want a summer wedding dress that’s comfortable, modest, and classy, this particular style is undoubtedly a good pick.
6. Off-Shoulder Trumpet Dress
There’s simply no going wrong with an off-shoulder dress for a wedding, whether you’re the bride, the bridesmaid, or even just a guest. An open boat neckline, which reveals only the tips of the shoulders, is particularly modest. But, if you have a short neck, you’ll still maintain modesty with a drop-shoulder option, especially if the top has spaghetti straps over the shoulder, as well.
As for the trumpet skirt, it’s just a solid option for a soft and feminine silhouette, and it will look nice whether you are petite, medium-sized, or plus-sized. A lovely example of this type of dress is the Carolina Herrera gown of Tony awardee, IdinaMenzel, for her wedding to Aaron Lohr.
7. Sweater and Tulle Skirt
This wedding dress may seem a little casual, but for a modest woman with the right attitude, it can look quite high fashion. Socialite Olivia Palermo rocked this unexpected style of wedding ensemble by Carolina Herrera, except she had shorts thrown into the mix.
Not only does this dress cover the body, but it is also quite comfortable, even if you go with a fitted sweater. The fact that there are separate pieces makes the dress a breeze to manage.
Adorning your body on your wedding day in a way that’s fashionably demure is an admirable and meaningful thing to do. Choosing a modest wedding gown will also keep the focus on what’s beautiful about you. So, with the seven wedding dress style options listed above, you’ll find something that aligns with your values and can guide you in your search for the perfect wedding gown.
