There are plenty of reasons to choose a stylish town hall wedding. Perhaps you love the look of a modern city ceremony in an elegant historic building. You might also want something more intimate, more affordable and less stressful to arrange than a larger do. Plus, it’s an ideal way to make sure you have lots of special moments as a couple, without tight schedules or tons of guests making demands on your time.

Whatever the reason, a smaller town hall wedding is just as deserving of a ‘proper’ wedding dress as a bigger celebration, whatever that phrase means to you. That could be anything from a glittery romantic ballgown to a contemporary sheath or modern mini with trainers. It might even call for two dresses. One for this ceremony and another for a larger party later on. 

To start you off, we’ve curated a list of eight perfect town hall wedding dresses, with everything from traditional looks to full-on glamour. Simply read on to find your favourite below…

Traditional with a twist

The traditional look for a town hall wedding is often something a little more relaxed, like this classic tea length by Anna Sorrano. The pretty cap sleeves and bouncy lace skirt are formal enough for the ceremony but also have a playful vintage feel that’s perfect for celebrating with cocktails afterwards.

Wedding dresses featured: Bel by Anna Sorrano And Devyn by Sofia Cruz

Alternatively, bear in mind the style of your town hall. While many have a lovely 1950s’ or Art Deco feel, others are much more modern. A sleek sheath is ideal for a more contemporary setting, especially if you’re heading to a smart restaurant later. In which case, Sofia Cruz’s off-the-shoulder sheath in figure-hugging Mikado might be more the right vibe. It’s a simple style but the shoulder-baring, cuff neckline adds the wow factor. Plus, for more drama, it’s a look that can be dressed up with chandelier earrings or a chic belt. The neat train is perfect for taking photos around town, too.

The contemporary classics

However, you can never go wrong by keeping your look classically beautiful. Some styles have stood the test of time for good reason. This stunning A-line ticks all the boxes with its soft lace bodice and flowing skirt (with all-important pockets). Subtle modern touches, like the sheer bodice and chic lace, just add to the timeless appeal. A simple Mikado belt is the perfect way to complete the look.

Wedding dresses featured: Erin and Camina by Anna Sorrano

For something more figure-hugging, a classic mermaid is also hard to beat. Anna Sorrano’s Chantilly lace version has everything you could want from a mermaid style; a flattering sweetheart neckline, detailed floral lace and a softly flared skirt finished in delicate eyelash edging. It’s a mermaid but minus the drama, and the gentle flare of the skirt adds movement and glamour without being too over the top.

Understated elegance

Our next dresses are all about quiet elegance; effortless designs with minimal detailing and a relaxed sophistication. Draped chiffon is ideal for this look, especially if you’d prefer something with a carefree feel that’s less figure hugging. Heidi Hudson's balloon sleeve A-line is the perfect way to bring a touch of boho to a modern town hall setting. Here the floaty silhouette is paired with on-trend details, such as a plunging neckline, low back and sexily split skirt, for the best of both worlds. What’s more, the sleeves are detachable, so you can create a totally different feel for the evening.

Wedding dresses featured: Jaxx by Sofia Cruz and Wilma by Heidi Hudson

Meanwhile, Jaxx is all about a hip-skimming, sleek silhouette. Deceptively simple, this perfectly cut design fits like a dream. A low-scooped back adds subtle sex appeal while a row of covered buttons accentuates the gorgeous shape. It’s simple enough for bold accessorising too, so just add statement earrings then strike a pose! 

Confident glamour

The joy of a town hall wedding is that anything goes when it comes to your outfit. Slip dresses, huge ballgowns, white suits, you name it. So, if glamour and detailing is your thing, then go for it. Just make sure you consider your full day. Will you want to wander the streets taking photos? Are you going to a restaurant or club afterwards? If so, a detailed sheath will give you just as much wow factor but with more ease of movement than the full skirt and underskirt combo.

Wedding dresses featured: Havanna and Matis by Miavalenca

Miavalenca has got you covered here with her selection of modern sheaths with high fashion necklines, intricate lace and glittering beading. Off-the-shoulder Havanna is a look straight from the bridal catwalks, with its décolletage-flattering neckline, 'tattoo-effect' lace and sexy fitted crepe skirt. Alternatively, Matis comes with breathtaking jewellery built in, thanks to its low-scooped back and rows of sparkling beads. A sheer bodice and on-trend exposed boning just add to the magic. Whichever one you choose we promise heads will turn!

Your day, your way

A simple ceremony doesn’t have to mean a simple outfit. So, break the bridal fashion rules when it comes to your town hall wedding. Our experts can help you too, with whatever look you're going for. Simply tell them your dreams and they’ll get to work finding you a look to match!

Click here to check out all our town hall 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.