The people who really know are our instore Bridal Experts, so we gave some of them the tricky challenge of picking their dream classic wedding dress. Check out their beautiful selection below…

A modern classic

Stunning Elena is the perfect example of a design with both a contemporary and a classic feel. The traditional ballgown shape has been updated with clean lines, sleek details and a shimmering Mikado fabric, making it a dream dress for 21st century brides.

Back view of Elena a classic werdding dress by Anna Sorrano

The softly plunging V-neckline leads into a defined waistband to show off the smallest point of the waist. The band also wraps round to help frame the striking square back. Then, the addition of a simple, detachable Mikado bow gives this dress an old Hollywood feel that will never go out of style.

Crop back view of Elena a classic werdding dress by Anna Sorrano

Lastly, there’s the dramatic skirt, which really is magnificent. The gleaming Mikado gives this dress an amazing structure and volume. It’s also the ideal fabric to add some extravagance to a classic style. Try this with a ballgown underskirt to show it off at it’s very best and then match it with our elegant Perla tiara and our lace Monae veil, so you feel every inch the bride.

Full back view of Elena a classic werdding dress by Anna Sorrano

Luxury detailing

Alternatively, Platinum Edition Beatrice, is a completely different style of classic wedding dress. This look is all about the exquisite detailing, which has been paired with a contrasting, understated A-line skirt for a look that’s luxurious and quietly sophisticated.

Full Front view of Beatrice a classic werdding dress by Viva Bride

The flattering semi-sheer bodice has an off-the-shoulder neckline and a neatly dipped V-neck with illusion panel, so it’s not too revealing. The floral lace that covers the entire bodice and straps is just exquisite. It features hundreds of pearlescent glass beads and sequins, so it sparkles from every angle.

Crop front view of Beatrice a classic werdding dress by Viva Bride Crop Back view of Beatrice a classic werdding dress by Viva Bride

At the back, there’s another gentle V-neck and a sweet row of pearlescent buttons that lead the eye all the way down the extra-long, 100-inch train. The skirt, made from sleek Mikado, is just as fabulous as the bodice but has minimal detailing as a lovely contrast. The long shimmering train will look absolutely amazing trailing behind you and, if you thought this dress couldn’t get any better, wait till you hear that it has hidden pockets, too!

Full Back view of Beatrice a classic werdding dress by Viva Bride

Sophisticated shimmer

Adelaide is another classic/contemporary mix that will stand the test of time. The on-trend, off-the-shoulder straps flatter the shoulders and arms and are a subtle modern detail that looks beautiful with the crisp skirt.

Full Front view of Adelaide a classic werdding dress by Anna Sorrano

The sleek Mikado fabric has just the right amount of shimmer, while still having a pared-back modern feel. The smart cuff neckline can also be dressed up or down. Keep it simple with a small drop pendant necklace or zhuzh it up a little with bold statement earrings!

Crop front view of Adelaide a classic werdding dress by Anna Sorrano

The cuff detail continues onto the back and then the Mikado flows out into a magnificent train. Add a glittering Leonie belt to accentuate the waistline and don’t forget to try it with an underskirt too, for maximum volume.

Full back view of Adelaide a classic werdding dress by Anna Sorrano

Simply perfect

Mikado is a great classic choice, as the sleek lines and understated shimmer keep it simple but chic. Elton has a beautiful minimal look but the bodice, with its cuff detail and flattering panelling, is also a gentle nod to current catwalk trends.

Full Front view of Elton a classic werdding dress by Anna Sorrano

The simple look of the bodice hides all the hard work underneath too, where you’ll find couture-style internal lacing to comfortably support you all day long. And, if that’s not enough, it’s also one of our first gowns to be made from 50% recycled fabrics and yarns!

Crop back view of Elton a classic werdding dress by Anna Sorrano Side view of Elton a classic werdding dress by Anna Sorrano

The glossy ballgown skirt features neat princess seams that flow effortlessly into the voluminous box pleats and are perfect for wearing with one of our underskirts. Try it with a traditional tulle veil to complete your classic look.

Back view of Elton a classic werdding dress by Anna Sorrano

Get the look...

Our fabulous real brides are also the experts when it comes to choosing a classic big day style that works for them. We’ve picked a few who nailed the modern classic look beautifully…

A town hall celebration

Katie chose our lovely Esther dress, which was a great match for a chic city do. “I chose Esther because it was so timeless and elegant,” she says. “It was also so comfortable to wear. I loved the attention to detail on the bodice and the long flowing Mikado skirt and train. I teamed it with the Willa veil, which matched perfectly.”

Katie and Mike holding hands whilst walking the corridors of their London registry office wedding
Katie and Mike walking out of their town hall with confetti being thrown over them

Let’s go outside

Classic is also a great look for an outdoor wedding, as real bride Emily discovered. “WED2B’s Middlesbrough store was the first shop we went to,” she says. “And I loved the very first dress I tried on. I picked Florian, as it was satin, corset style and, best of all, it also had pockets!”

Emily and Jordan holding hands while posing for wedding photos in the woodland grounds of their wedding venue
Emily in her off the shoulder wedding dress while holding her wedding bouquet

An elegant coastal wedding

Lastly, Maz chose Annette, a simple Mikado mermaid for her rustic big day by the sea. “The detailing on the back is gorgeous and the cut is so flattering,” she says. “The material is also lovely and looks a lot more expensive than it was. I wanted something simple, classic and timeless.”

Maz laughing with her bridesmaids whilst trying to get into her lace up back wedding dress
Maz and Andy walking back up the aisle with their wedding guest smiling and clapping

Well, we hope we’ve given you something to think about when it comes to choosing your own classic wedding dress. A pared back mermaid style? A Mikado ballgown? An off-the-shoulder A-line? So many choices! Remember our instore Bridal Experts can help you find the perfect one, along with all the accessories to go with it. So, drop into your nearest store soon, and have fun!

Click here to find your classic wedding dress, 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.