30 Fancy Outfits For Smaller Weddings

Elopements, Backyard Weddings, and Pop-up Weddings, we got you

In the whirlwind of 2020 (halfway… there?) we’ve seen engaged folx getting super creative with the sudden adjustment in wedding plans, not to mention ever changing regulations regarding gatherings around the country and our own individual counties. (We remain so sorry you’re going through this, but so inspired with the wildly imaginative ways you are coming up with to celebrate your love.)

And while some couples have decided to postpone their wedding and wait until 2021 or 2022 to have their celebration, we’re seeing that a lot of couples are throwing caution to the wind (well, figuratively, they’re still wearing masks) and sticking to their original date while having a very different wedding than they originally planned. We’re talking about backyard weddings, pop up weddings and elopements. And the attire for a smaller celebration may look a little different than your originally planned affair.

I’ve scoured the internet looking for the latest and greatest wedding dresses, jumpsuits and fancy colorful dresses… because in 2020 anything goes, right? If you want to wear the polka dot dress or the bright blue dress, do it. But if the classics are more your style, we’ve got you covered too. Plans have changed, tears have been had and none of us are the same as we were just four months ago. And 2020 engaged folx, my heart goes out to you…. but I also put my shopping skills to work for you. Because we need action right now, not just nice thoughts.

So if you’re in the market for a new fly AF backyard wedding dress or you know, something just a little different, we got you.

Wedding Dresses

Angelina Gown by Cult Gaia

The layers! The cut-outs! We’re here for the look of this modern and chic design.

Sakura Dress by Seni Dey via Etsy

Classic, flattering and timeless, can you ask for anything more?

Puff Puff Gown by Mestiza via Olivela

Remember what I said about the polka dot dress? GO FOR IT.

Award Winner Gown by Badgley Mischka via Rent the Runway

A beautiful sequin dress never fails to disappoint, and this one gets bonus points because you can rent it!

Embellished Pearl Batwing Dress by ASOS Edition via ASOS

Pearls are one of the hottest 2020 wedding fashion trends and it’s clear to see why. Give us all the pearls!

Diamond Beaded Blouson Gown by Pisarro Nights via Dillard’s

Roaring 20s but make it modern.

ML Monique Lhuillier Lambeth Dress via BHLDN

60’s mod meets romantic lace, and we’re feeling it. (Meg has a very similar pair of Loeffler Randall heels and she couldn’t love them more.)

Grecian Maternity Gown by Seraphine

These are some serious goddess vibes right here!

 

One Shoulder Beaded Gown by Adrianna Papell

Can you imagine the light catching the beads on this gown? Perfection.

Amber Gown by nha khanh via Rent the Runway

If you’re not in the market to purchase a dress, you can rent one. And this gown is as classic as it gets.

Melba Lace Gown by WHISTLES via Selfridges & Co.

For all the folx who love themselves a sleeved gown, this one is for you!

Atlantis Gown by Boudoir Wedding via Etsy 

Another dreamy pearl dress for the win. TBH, I’m not mad at it!

Call Me Slim Gown by Katie May via Rent the Runway

Modern, sleek and just a tad sexy.

Ivory Chiffon Cape Sleeve Wedding Dress via Torrid 

We love a good cape moment around here, and this dress doesn’t disappoint.

Cowl-Neck Sequin-Fringed Gown Aidan by Aidan Mattox via Bloomingdale’s 

Fringe and sequins, and pure elegance. This one was a staff fav.

Kellee Gown by Badgley Mischka via Rent the Runway

Are you getting Meghan Markle reception vibes? Because I sure am!

Colors and Patterns

Belle Pink Tulle Dress by Lisou London

This isn’t your childhood pink tulle dress!

Florence Gown by Cult Gaia

Sign me up for this one shoulder gown with a pop of color!

Lavelle Colorblock Deep-Pleated Gown by Alice + Olivia 

Non-traditional? Maybe. Show-stopping? FOR SURE.

Fame and Partners Escala Gown via BHLDN

Serve up some earth goddess vibes in this olive beaut.

Off-Shoulder Pleated Evening Dress by Marchesa Notte via Far Fetch

Not all pleats are created equal. This dress however, chef’s kiss.

Pemberley Dress by La DoubleJ via Far Fetch

I’m pretty sure this dress was made for a garden wedding. Just look at that floral print and feather trim!

Jumpsuits

Cowl Drape Jumpsuit by Halston

A little bit conservative, a little bit mysterious, either way it’s stylish AF.

Halter Neck Tailored Jumpsuit via Lavish Alice

Alert: here’s the perfect courthouse wedding jumpsuit!

Adrianna Papell Plus Size Peplum Jumpsuit via Macy’s

The asymmetrical peplum overlay on these pants are 💯

Liza Wide Leg Jumpsuit by Mestiza via Olivela

Maybe you want a neutral besides white. Give champagne a try (not just the bubbly type)!

Lace Wide Leg Floral Jumpsuit by Eloquii

Dress it up, dress it down. What I’m saying is you can wear this one so many ways that you’ll be itching to wear it post nuptials again!

Caine Strapless Jumpsuit w/ Skirt Overlay by Black Halo via Neiman Marcus

How do you feel about skirt overlays? Personally, I love them. Bring the drama!

Julia Jordan Halter Neck Jumpsuit via Nordstrom

This one has pockets, do I really need to say more?

If you got a low key wedding dress this year, show us your work. If you have something you’re considering, we’re happy to help enable your shopping habit. (Seriously though, you deserve nice things.)

Featured Sponsored Content

Please read our comment policy before you comment.

The APW Store is Here

APW Wedding e-shop

go find all our favorites from around the internet, and our free planning tools

Shop Now
APW Wedding e-shop

Planning a wedding?

We have all the planning tools you need right now.

Budget spreadsheets, checklists, and more...

Get Your Free Planning Tools