25 Modest Catholic Wedding Dresses That are Fit for a Princess
Finding a modest wedding dress can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. Maybe someone forgot to tell the wedding dress designers that lingerie is for the wedding night, not the ceremony (you know the dresses I’m talking about if you’ve done any shopping already!) In all seriousness, I know that your time is precious, so I’ve sifted through the chaff and come up with some gorgeous, classy ballgowns and A-lines for you to explore.
If you’re curious why modesty matters, you can check out my post Catholic Wedding Dresses Under $600, where I talk about how Church guidelines on modesty are based on love, not shame. In this post, I’ll simply share some of the guidelines you’ll typically see from Catholic churches, and a good rule of thumb when looking for modest clothing. Then, you’ll receive some recommendations on REALLY pretty dresses! Since ball gowns have a lot more material, you’re not going to find a lot of quality ones under $500 (although they may go on sale). Still, I’ll list them in order of least to most expensive, ranging from around $550-$2,400.
Example Guidelines
Fully covered thighs
Fully covered bodice
Backs covered up to the shoulder blades
cleavage covered
some sort of strap or sleeve on the shoulder
While these guidelines are a start, how dresses fit each person varies. When you look in the mirror, you can try asking yourself:
Is it classy?
Does this clothing draw attention to me as a whole person?
Where to Shop
While I do recommend trying on dresses in person to zone in on your style, I highly recommend actually purchasing your dress online. For one, there is just way more variety, so you’re more likely to find the combination of everything you love. Secondly, it tends to be a lot cheaper, because you cut out the middle-man. Disclaimer: with ANY dress shopping, in-person or online, look at return policies. If you’re unsure about anything, message the seller. You’ll want to know whether you’re committing to a non-returnable or returnable item.
So without further ado, let’s take a look at some beautiful ballgowns! Affiliate Disclaimer: I won’t be able to show pictures for all dresses due to copyright reasons, but if a description intrigues you, click the button to view the product and pictures. Your views and purchases through these links costs nothing extra and helps me create Catholic wedding resources—thank you!
dresses $550-$800
1. (Pictured above) Look at this stunning gown! I can’t resist the illusion capped sleeve, especially with the lovely lace applique throughout the bodice. It flows into a tulle skirt with a train, priced around $550.
2. (Pictured above) Grace Kelly inspiration comes through strong on this one! The gorgeous lace on top gives way to a soft tulle, making a lovely balance. You’ll notice the bodice is a little see-through. (Tip: ask the seller to add lining). Find it for under $700.
3. (Pictured above) This classic look with the floral touches along the skirt makes the perfect summer wedding gown. Once again, I’d suggest asking the seller to add some extra lining in the bodice. At right around $650, this dress could come straight out of a fairytale.
4. (Pictured above) If you’re looking for the classic lace bodice, silk skirt combination, look no further! You’ll be as shocked as I was when you see how unbeatable the price is!
5. (Pictured above) Sheer, long bishop-sleeves grace this square neck ball gown. The clean cut of the organza skirt and hem add extra class. The delightful lace details on the cuffs make this beauty hard to beat at under $700.
6. If you want a romantic-looking, fairytale dress, this is it! The leafy lace, slightly poufy sleeves, and billowing skirts make this dress utterly charming! Find it HERE for under $650.
Photo credits: Ann Losinski Photography
7. (Pictured above) Fun fact, my best friend rocked this dress at her wedding! Satin, sweetheart illusion neckline with 3/4 sleeves, THIS DRESS is both alluring and classy and only $745.
My bestie and I on her wedding day
She was my maid-of-honor, and I was hers! All along the dress-shopping process, I could tell she knew exactly what she wanted, and just wasn’t finding it in the stores. I sent her an Etsy listing, and she said, “Mish, I can’t believe I never thought to look on Etsy!” Before long, she found exactly what she was looking for.
Dresses $800-$1,200
8. Kate Middleton inspo is clear in this dress, from the scalloped V-neck and lace to the long train. Unbelievably just over $800 as I’m writing this. (Once again, it’s okay to ask the seller to adjust the neckline/back to suit you best).
9. Pictured above is a classic princess dress. The half sleeves are such a lovely option to have, and I’m in love with the illusion lace neckline. The full skirt with whimsical lace embellishments gives a delightful finishing touch.
10. (Pictured above) These dresses are customizable, with a full, tulle skirt, and lace detailing along the neckline. These make an elegant capped sleeve or sleeveless option, Starting under $850.
PiondressShop-Etsy
11. Isn’t this dress a delight?! With a lace-up back, leafy embroidery, Basque waist, satin train, and square neck with that slight sweetheart, I can’t resist. Find it HERE for $850.
12. Simply royal, THIS long-sleeved ballgown is mostly satin, with lace details on the back and cuffs. The sweeping train will make you feel like Maria Von Trapp going down the aisle. Just under $900, it truly looks priceless.
13. (Pictured above) Here is a Victorian-inspired dress with modern finish. The long sleeves are lightly-puffed, the bodice has a truly unique lace pattern, and the skirt is pleated satin, with a flattering belt. With a keyhole back for a modern touch, THIS remarkable dress is right around $950.
14. If you have a vision of an off-the shoulder satin ball gown, THIS might be the one you’re looking for. Its train is marvelous, with a lace-up back completing the look. (Tip: if you’re afraid it might slip down a little low for you, ask the seller if they can add a little sheer underlay).
15. (Pictured above) Here’s another find that has truly unique lace. The waistline is so flattering, and the collar completely elegant. Find this long-sleeved beauty for just over $1K.
16. THIS sleeveless square neck has large floral lace with beading upon the bodice, a lace-up back, and a full tulle skirt, including a train. Just over $1,00o for this fun, fairytale dress.
17. HERE is another square-neck ballgown with long-sleeves with pearl beading throughout. Simple but breathtaking.
18. (Pictured above) I am sooo excited about this one! The geometric lace is incredibly unique on the bodice and 3/4 sleeves! The skirt is satin with a train, and there’s even a tiny bow on the waist. Just over $1,000, this dress is a sight to behold.
19. Take a look at this lovely, long-sleeve lace gown with elegantly placed floral patterns throughout the dress. With a shimmer and an illusion sweetheart neckline, there is a perfect blend of elegance and fun.
20. THIS is a pretty spot-on Grace Kelly - the buttons in front just get me! The very full satin skirt is so flattering against the fitted lace bodice, and you could have it for under $1,200.
Dresses $1,200 and Up
21. Delicate lace fading slowly into soft tulle, here is a truly royal-looking gown. Long sleeves, pockets, modest V-neck, train, buttons, and sparkle - What’s not to love? Right around $1,500 - take a look HERE.
22. With an ethereal feel, this leafy 3D lace detailing throughout makes this modest boatneck stand out. Under $1,300 for THIS DRESS right out of a fairytale.
23. Lightly off-the-shoulder, THIS dress has a lace-up back, scallops along the collar-bone, a grand train, and bell sleeves, all for under $1,300.
24. Here is a square-neck covered with sparkles, with 3D flowers gracing the sheer long sleeves. With a lace-up back and flowing train, THIS DRESS is going to be unlike anything any of your guests have ever seen; under $1,500 for a priceless-looking gown.
25a. This sleeveless dress has intricately detailed lace, along with scallops on the neckline and hem, a pleated skirt, sweetheart illusion, and shimmering beads throughout. Regularly priced at $2,399, it can be on sale for under $900!
25b. If you are into all-out lace, THIS long-sleeved dress may be right up your ally. Listed at $2,399, it can sometimes be found on sale for 30% off. It’s pretty much the same as #25a, but with sleeves.
I hope you’re feeling inspired after viewing some modest wedding dresses here today. Remember, you are the King of Heaven’s very own daughter. Ask Him, and He will help you find a dress that glorifies Him, and that you feel amazing in. God bless your wedding dress search, and your future marriage!
