There are really no fashion rules or etiquette tips to follow when opting for a civil ceremony. Some brides choose to go more casual and low-maintenance and wear a mini dress or a matching set. While others don’t want to skimp on the glamour and go all out in a gown or a nice maxi dress. There are even some who skip the dress altogether and opt for a jumpsuit or a chic blazer and pants set.
You can wear traditional white or ivory, or you can go completely out-of-the-box and wear a pattern or a bright color. Florals can be fun and a jewel-toned dress can be beautiful. It’s all about your personal style here, and it’s nice to be able to select the look you love without having to worry about expectations.
The world is your oyster when it comes to civil ceremony bridalwear, and to help start your search, here are some of our favorite options.
This refined mini dress, made with compact Italian cotton that feels and looks luxe, is a great casual option. The scoop neck silhouette features bust darts and a nice Basque waistline, and a back tie can be made into an elaborate and adorable bow detail.
This dress is whimsical and fun with a classic feel to it. The sequined chiffon material makes it glitter with a lightweight feel, and the cape-effect look makes it perfect for cooler weather. This is a great way to do something glamorous without feeling over the top.
Made of lightweight linen, this halter dress is a great option for a summer civil ceremony. It’s casual on its own, but could easily be dressed up, especially with the front slit. And if you don’t want white, it comes in three other color options.
Whimsical but with a traditional feel, this mini dress features feather detailing on the sleeves that make it so much fun. The back cinches with a small bow detail and it’s made of a stretchy crepe material.
For a more traditional bridal look, opt for this lace maxi dress. It features a slit in the front and a subtle mermaid flare at the bottom. The long sleeves are great for fall, winter, or even spring ceremonies, and the square neckline is so pretty.
A blazer dress feels effortlessly stylish and cool and seems like such a good fit for a civil ceremony. This one features lightly padded shoulders and is made of lightweight linen. It also comes in blush and a green color if you don’t want white.
Matching sets have never been more trendy, so why not wear one for your civil ceremony? This one is made up of a romantic scalloped lace blazer and matching skirt, and is such a special option. Plus, after your big day, you can always wear the pieces separately if you want.
Perfect for the more casual winter bride, this knit midi dress is a versatile option because it doesn’t look traditionally bridal. Made of a luxe Italian knit for a close fit, this is a fairly low-key option that is also so elegant.
Reminiscent of Kendall Jenner’s iconic Giambattista Valli hot pink tulle gown—that she wore to Cannes in 2019—this dress is fun and unique. It would look adorable in photos and just as cute at an after-party.
Looking to keep things simple? This linen dress with thin sleeves and an A-line skirt is a minimalist’s dream. Ideal for warmer weather, this can easily be dressed up or down and is a very versatile pick.
A romper is casual and unexpected, and makes for a great summer ceremony ensemble. This one has a bridal vibe thanks to the ruffled neckline and delicate jacquard fabric.
It’s hard to resist this delightful crochet mini dress, which features a boned bodice and feathers along the hem. It might feel more casual, but it’s still the kind of dress you wear for a special occasion.
The playful bubble hem of this dress is what makes it so adorable. Spaghetti straps and a lace-up back are two other details we love here.
You don’t have to wear white to a civil ceremony. This cream-colored midi dress is sophisticated and effortlessly cool, with fabric-covered buttons down the front and flared sleeves.
Exclusive to BHLDN, this beautiful strapless mini dress is made up of a pearl-encrusted, corset-style bodice and a flouncy tulle skirt. The two very different fabrics make for a fun texture experience.
This vintage-inspired dress is a little bit dramatic and definitely bridal. It features an intricate corset top with a scalloped hemline, and a billowing train-like skirt.
Make an entrance with this curve-hugging white mini dress thanks to its asymmetrical hem and billowing long sleeve. It’s fun, it’s different, and it’s definitely a statement maker.
Las Vegas is known for its civil ceremonies, and this mini dress, reminiscent of lingerie, is a perfect choice. Made with sheer lace, dotted ruffle tulle, and the cutest tutu skirt, this is a bold, but appropriate, choice.
This gown has a boho feel to it, but it was actually inspired by an early Victorian bridal gown found on Portobello Road in London. It features delicate tulle, cotton embroidery, and an allover floral pattern for the perfect texture.
This silhouette is timeless for a beautiful and elegant look that anyone could love. Details like sparkling beaded straps, a V-neck, and a large bow on the front make it feel extra special.
Some brides want to go more casual for a civil ceremony, while others want to be just as formal as they would for a large celebration. Luckily, there’s no right or wrong way to do it. If you want to be more dressed up, this BCBG gown is a beautiful choice, in a sleek crepe with off-the-shoulder tulle sleeves.
A jumpsuit is a sleek and chic option if you don’t want to wear a dress. This one features an unexpected cut-out and a one-shoulder detail that makes it feel extra glam.
