The expert guide to… the ballgown wedding dress

A ballgown wedding dress used to be all about the princess look, complete with sequins, ruffles, lots of glittering layers and more. And, if you want the full big day fairytale, there’s no better way to get the look than with this stunning silhouette. However, these days, the ballgown is so much more than that, meaning everyone from fashion lovers to boho brides can benefit from its flattering proportions.

The beauty of ballgowns

This fantastic shape usually features a full skirt and a structured bodice, and the two combined are brilliant for emphasising your natural waistline. It’s also  an ideal silhouette for most body types, although it can sometimes overwhelm smaller frames. Budget-wise, a ballgown wedding dress can be a little more expensive due to the extra material (although at wed2b they start from just £599). However, trust us, it’s worth every penny for the entrance you’ll make! 

Classic with a twist

The quintessential ballgown has a strapless sweetheart neckline with plenty of intricate detailing and sparkle. Ballgowns also look great with off-the-shoulder straps and a lace-up back, which suits the fairytale feel perfectly. This chic ballgown by Viva Bride manages to capture all the princess-worthy essentials of a classic ballgown - glitter, tulle, sweetheart neckline - but with a subtle dash of ‘cool girl’ style. Each element here has been kept simple, so the overall look feels understated but still magical. The skirt also has a little less volume than some styles, so the designer leaves it up to you whether you want to add some more.

Sleek, simple and stunning

For a more modern take, simply look for less detailing and fabrics like Mikado, for its crisp, contemporary lines. Byron by Sofia Cruz is the perfect example. Its clean confident outline, stunning pleated neckline with contemporary straps and a wow-factor train make great use of the ballgown silhouette but keep it elegant and very timeless. This design lets the flattering shape do all the talking.

Straight from the catwalk

Alternatively, for a bang-on-trend ballgown that will have all your fashionable friends swooning, tap into the latest trends for oversized bows, sculptural elements or bubble hems. Jules by Sofia Cruz is all about this season’s dropped, basque waist, which elongates the body and looks amazing when paired with the billowing Mikado skirt.

Go big or go home

Lastly, however contemporary your ballgown, most brides who choose this shape want to feel the joy of swishing about in a big, beautiful skirt. After all, what could be more fun? If you like the sound of that, then a waterfall skirt is the only way to go and Ash’s glorious ruffles will help to fulfil that dream in a thoroughly modern way. Its off-the-shoulder, crepe bodice with sleek cuff neckline is the perfect balance for the waves of luxurious organza below. You will love wafting around in this, we promise

The ballgown wedding dress reimagined

So, there really is a ballgown for everyone. There are still plenty of fairytale options for all you princess brides, but designers are also starting to offer different styles for everyone else, too. Not sure which one’s for you? Then, drop into your nearest store today, try on as many as you like and our expert staff can help you work it out!

Click here to check out all our ballgown wedding dresses, then try on your favourites at your nearest wed2b store. Here’s what to expect when you visit, too. Lastly, for more inspiration, check out our Instagram, Facebook or TikTok accounts.