42 Courthouse Wedding Dress Ideas for Every Style - Zola Expert Wedding Advice (2024)

Saying “I do” in city hall? From smart suits and modern silhouettes to full-on glam looks, we’ve compiled the best courthouse wedding dress and outfit ideas for every style.

If you’ve decided to say “I do” in city hall, you’re probably looking forward to skipping all the overwhelm of wedding planning and instead making it official in a quick civil ceremony. While you might be in the clear for things like choosing table arrangements and buying decorations, there’s one thing you do need to decide: what you’ll wear!

No matter what you call it—a civil ceremony wedding dress, city hall wedding dress, or even civil wedding dress—you indeed need to dress the part for your courthouse wedding.

Typically, a standard courthouse wedding dress will err on the side of simple and casual—think shorter hemlines, minimal styles and silhouettes. That said, just because you’re having a straightforward ceremony doesn’t mean your outfit has to be!

Ultimately, nothing is off limits. Want to make a statement? Reach for dresses with bold embellishments like sequins, sparkles, or feathers. If you prefer something more modern, there are countless jumpsuits, smart separates, and even suit-style dresses to suit your taste. Or maybe you’re after something vintage-inspired, or an edgy party-ready look—go for it! There are no rules for what to wear to a courthouse wedding. Read on for our roundup of our favorite courthouse wedding outfits, from classy courthouse wedding dresses to casual courthouse wedding attire.

1. If You Love Lace: Self Portrait Lace Bib Mini Dress

Made of mid-weight poplin, it’s hard to pick our favorite thing about this dress—the intricate lace trim with scalloped edges, the eye-catching cutout, and the dainty pleating details all come together in a uniquely beautiful design.

Length: Mini
Style notes: Pair with a simple updo to let the lace trim around the décolletage and collar shine.
Where to purchase: $495, Shopbop

2. For Interesting Cutouts: Zimmermann Jude Scallop Midi Dress

Intricate details like the scalloped edge trim, lace-up back, and embroidery and pleating in the skirt level up this breezy cotton dress.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: This dress is 100% cotton. (Translation: ideal for summer.)
Where to purchase: $695, Shopbop

3. For a Summer Courthouse Wedding: White Eyelet Embroidered Mini Dress

Light-woven fabric and dainty eyelet embroidery makes this breezy dress a no-brainer for your summer courthouse nuptials.

Length: Mini
Style Notes: Make sure you find the right bra to accommodate the plunging V neckline and back.
Where to purchase: $74, Lulus

4. Best One-Shoulder: Significant Other Macy One-Shoulder Midi Dress

Simple but elegant, this midi dress features an asymmetrical one-shoulder style for an elevated silhouette.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: Pair this dress with minimal jewelry to help it shine.
Where to purchase: $109, Intermix

5. For the Boho Bride: Costarellos Appliquéd Embroidered Tulle Gown

This breathtaking dress features tiers of wispy ivory tulle and latticework trims to complement the corded lace detailing. It’s structured and whimsical all at once!

Length: Full
Style Notes: An invisible bra is a must with this dress.
Where to purchase: $3,670, Net-a-Porter

6. Best Puff Sleeves: SEA Simona Smocked Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress

Puff sleeves have become an exploding trend, and this dress balances the sleeve volume with a figure-hugging bodice with smocked detailing.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: Pair it with gold jewelry.
Where to purchase: $425, Net-a-Porter

7. Most Romantic: Self-Portrait Tiered Broderie Anglaise Cotton-Voile Midi Dress

If you want to make a statement in something that still feels timeless, this dress is for you! The skirt is made from broderie anglaise cotton-voile, and we love the subtle volume of the tiered silhouette.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: This dress features molded, underwire cups and décolletage-framing straps—dust on some highlighter to give your collarbones a romantic pop.
Where to purchase: $510, Net-a-Porter

8. For a ’60s-Inspired Look: Lisa Marie Fernandez Scalloped Swiss Dot Cotton-Piqué

This cotton-piqué mini dress gives a nod to the glamour of the ’60s while still keeping a modern edge thanks to its Swiss dot texture and dainty scalloped trims.

Length: Mini
Style Notes: Pair with playful, colorful accessories for a bolder look.
Where to purchase: $895, Net-a-Porter

9. Best Bodycon: Hervé Léger Icon Cutout Bandage Mini Dress

10. Best Blazer Dress: Belted Lace-Trimmed Mini Dress

This stunning blazer dress is both ultra-modern and minimal, with ties at the waist to balance your frame.

Length: Mini
Style Notes: Pair with statement earrings to complete your look!
Where to purchase: $1,725, Net-a-Porter

11. For the Classic Bride: Marcella Linen Dress

This dress is a must if you’re going for an effortlessly timeless look. It’s strapless with a smocked back bodice and straight-edged neckline, and a tasteful side slit to show off some leg.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: Pair with a sleek, slicked-back hairstyle to emphasize the strapless silhouette.
Where to purchase: $248, Reformation

12. Best Off-the-Shoulder: Adriel Linen Dress

We can’t get enough of the structure of this dress—a must for anyone looking to show off their shoulders! The smocked back bodice and front slit add a touch of romance.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: This beauty is strapless bra-friendly.
Where to purchase: $248, Reformation

13. For the Whimsical Bride: Enza Dress

This dainty number is both a simple and stunning wedding dress for courthouse nuptials. We’re huge fans of the flattering straight neckline, and we’re also downright obsessed with the whimsical (and adjustable!) ribbon shoulder ties.

Length: Mini
Style Notes: The ribbon shoulder ties are adjustable, so you can find your perfect fit with this dress.
Where to purchase: $278, Reformation

14. Best Long Sleeve: Caitie Dress

This romantic dress features a deep V neckline and a dainty button front. With on-trend puff sleeves and button-closure cuffs, this dress is sure to shine!

Length: Mini
Style Notes: The relaxed skirt paired with a fitted bodice balances both structure and comfort.
Where to purchase: $248, Reformation

15. For the Minimal Bride: Infinite Glory White Maxi Dress

For a minimal courthouse look, consider this sleek option. This dress is multi-seasonal thanks to the stretch knit fabric, and its darted, triangle bodice and subtly flared mermaid hem brings this design together.

Length: Maxi
Style Notes: Ditch the bra thanks to the adjustable straps.
Where to purchase: $89, Lulus

16. Best Floral Design: Santorini Midi Dress

This dreamy dress is partially lined to show off an eye-catching floral design, and features an asymmetrical one-shoulder style that comes together for a glamorous look.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: This dress features a flowy chiffon handkerchief hem.
Where to purchase: $168, Revolve

17. Best Backless: So Stunning White Backless Midi Dress

A high, rounded neckline balances an ultra-deep V-shaped back design in this simple yet stunning midi dress that’s sure to turn heads.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: This dress features a hidden V-bar for added support in the back.
Where to purchase: $50, Lulus

18. Best Strapless Jumpsuit: Power of Love Strapless Jumpsuit

A fluttering hemline balances this jumpsuit’s strapless bodice, and we adore the wide-leg silhouette of the pants—if you’re after a clean and classic look, this jumpsuit is for you.

Length: Full
Style Notes: This jumpsuit is strapless bra-friendly—make sure you get one with a plunge design so it stays hidden beneath the deep V neckline.
Where to purchase: $68, Lulus

19. Best Halter: Jasmine Halter Mini Dress

We’re a sucker for ultra-flattering halter styles, and this dress balances it perfectly with a dramatic open back. This romantic dress drapes in all the right places.

Length: Mini
Style Notes: Pair this with an invisible bra or stickies to accommodate the open back.
Where to purchase: $148, Show Me Your Mumu

20. Best Shorts Set: Glozell Vest and Stelffi Short

21. For the Timeless Bride: Genevieve Midi Dress

This tailored design is effortlessly classic, with a mostly minimal silhouette paired with a dramatic bow in the front.

Length: Tea
Style Notes: Pair with pearl jewelry for a look that transcends the decades.
Where to purchase: $530, BHLDN

22. Best Jumpsuit: Coco Tux Jumpsuit

This smart jumpsuit combines a modern tuxedo style with ’70s-inspired tailoring like the halter neck design and flared leg.

Length: Full
Style Notes: Wear this with a blazer for a confident urban mood, or ditch it for a more feminine style.
Where to purchase: $319, Reiss

23. Best Tuxedo: Women’s White Tuxedo

If a flowing dress isn’t quite your vibe, reach for this tailored tuxedo set instead. Crisp, clean, and classic—and perfect for a courthouse wedding!

Length: Ankle-hem pants, slim fit throughout
Style Notes: Pair with white heels for a stunning monochromatic moment.
Where to purchase: $249, SuitShop

24. For a Winter Courthouse Wedding: White Long Sleeve Mermaid Maxi Dress

If you’re in need of a winter courthouse wedding outfit, take note of this dress! The long sleeves and full length make it an excellent option for colder months, and we love the figure-skimming mermaid silhouette—not to mention the subtle but romantic train in the back.

Length: Maxi
Style Notes: Pair it with an updo to show off the faux button accent design on the back.
Where to purchase: $99, Lulus

25. Best Slip Dress: Cali Satin Charmeuse Midi Dress

This silky slip dress features an elegant draped cowl neckline and a modern midi silhouette—perfect for the minimal bride.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: This number is strapless bra-friendly.
Where to purchase: $168, BHLDN

26. Most Sophisticated: Livvy Open Back Midi Dress

Turn heads in this striking dress with a high-neck style and subtle open back detail. It fastens with a self-tie bow that trails down the back for a truly elegant look.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: Check out the fit-and-flare silhouette.
Where to purchase: $268, Reiss

27. For the Vintage Bride: Self-Portrait Pleated Maxi Dress

Embody the vintage-inspired look of your dreams with this graceful chiffon dress. The pleated bust detail shows beautifully through the sheer chiffon, with romantic puff sleeves and a dainty grosgrain trim at the waist.

Length: Maxi
Style Notes: This dress comes with soft cups built into the bust, so no bra needed!
Where to purchase: $410, Tuckernuck

28. Best Open Back: NBD Bao Dress

Make a statement in this flirty dress! A fashion-forward mock neck and eye-catching sheer organza sleeves come together for an unforgettable style for your civil ceremony.

Length: Mini
Style Notes: This dress is unlined, so be sure to wear it with a slip.
Where to purchase: $218, Revolve

29. For the Statement-Making Bride: Katie May Elle Mini Dress

After garnering international recognition for designing her younger sister’s wedding dress, Katie May Neu launched her bridal collection in 2012 with a focus on striking silhouettes—and this dress doesn’t disappoint! This fully lined tulle dress is fun, flirty, and sure to make a statement.

Length: Mini
Style Notes: Pair with lace-up heels to pull your look together.
Where to purchase: $525, Revolve

30. For the Flirty Bride: Bronx and Banco Bedouin Mini Dress

This sweet dress is both flirty and sophisticated. We adore the plunging V neckline, and the flouncy tiered skirt adds a playful flair to this look.

Length: Mini
Style Notes: Padded shoulders give this flirty dress a unique edge.
Where to purchase: $590, Revolve

31. Best Fringe Detail: Sleeveless Beaded co*cktail Dress

We’re here for the shimmer and fringe of this 20’s-inspired mini dress crafted with a modern silhouette. The light that reflects off its sequins creates a show-stopping look!

Length: Mini
Style Notes: Comfortable with plenty of stretch.
Where to purchase: $249, Adrianna Papell

32. Most Modern Dress: Ivena Asymmetric Knit Bodice Dress

The asymmetric cut of this luxe dress makes for a modern look, structured with a knit bodice and a satin skirt.

Length: Maxi
Style Notes: Pair with a statement clutch for a chic look!
Where to purchase: $162, Ted Baker London

33. Best Two-Piece: Charm Bells Twist Front Bridal Two Piece Set

This set’s cropped top with balloon sleeves puts a modern spin on a dreamy retro aesthetic, pulled together with a full-length mermaid silhouette skirt and a high slit to elongate your legs.

Length: Maxi
Style Notes: This dress features a subtle train that’s perfect for your civil ceremony.
Where to purchase: $200, Showpo

34. Best V Neck: Superdown Harlow Mini Dress

This dress is crisp, clean, and classic—if you’re all about a plunging V neckline, then this is the dress for you! The delicate flutter sleeves add a touch of femininity to balance out this look.

Length: Mini
Style Notes: Dress up this look with gold or silver jewelry and a statement clutch.
Where to purchase: $78, Revolve

35. Best Linen Dress: Joie Lory Dress

Say “I do” in this breezy linen dress. The smocked bodice and double-layered hem create elegant visual interest. Bonus: It even has pockets!

Length: Tea
Style Notes: Help this dress shine with bold, colorful jewelry, or play up the linen with a rattan purse.
Where to purchase: $228, Revolve

36. Best Wrap Dress: Rise to the Occasion White Midi Wrap Dress

Look stylish without sacrificing comfort in this sweet midi wrap dress! Framed by fluttering short sleeves and made of sleek woven fabric, we love how effortlessly chic this dress is.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: Use the adjustable waist sash to get the perfect fit.
Where to purchase: $64, Lulus

37. Best Ruffle Detailing: Divine Invitation Swiss Dot Ruffled Midi Dress

Wear this dress if you want to feel like you’re a character in a fairytale! A sheer mesh overlay covers a knit liner, and the dainty Swiss dot detailing throughout adds lovely visual interest. And of course, the ruffled trim straps are impossibly chic.

Length: Midi
Style Notes: This dress features hidden no-slip strips so you don’t have to worry about them falling.
Where to purchase: $78, Lulus

38. Best Strapless Dress: Susana Monaco Strapless Side Pleat Dress

Stand out in this effortlessly chic strapless dress. Sleek and simple, an asymmetrical front hem elevates this dress and creates an ultra-modern (and flattering!) silhouette.

Length: Mini
Style Notes: This dress is constructed of nylon and spandex, so there’s plenty of stretch.
Where to purchase: $191, Revolve

39. Best Little White Dress: Galvan Satin Halterneck Mini Dress

Cut from glossy satin, we adore the pearlescent hue of this dress to help you glow at your courthouse wedding ceremony.

Length: Mini
Style Notes: Pair with gold accessories to play up the iridescent hue.
Where to purchase: $995, Net-a-Porter

40. Best Feather Trim: Huishan Zhang Reign Feather-Trimmed Crepe Mini Dress

If you lean toward a more standout style with plenty of flair, this dress is for you—made from smooth white crepe and lined with silk, the fun feather trim on the sleeves will look amazing in photographs!

Length: Mini
Style Notes: Pair with white heels for a truly glam look.
Where to purchase: $2,845, Net-a-Porter

41. Best High-Low Dress: White Lace Sleeveless High-Low Dress

We adore the intricate floral crochet lace detailing of this stunning high-low dress—perfect for a spring or summer civil ceremony! The high halter neckline and trumpet-style skirt create an elegant and flattering silhouette.

Length: High-low
Style Notes: Take in that trumpet-style silhouette (form-fitting).
Where to purchase: $78, Lulus

42. For the Festive Bride: ML Monique Lhuillier Perrie Dress

Just because you’re holding a courthouse wedding doesn’t mean you can’t go full glam with your outfit—enter this fabulous number from BHLDN. Whimsical tulle pleats and voluminous ruffle accents match the festive vibe of your special day!

Length: Mini
Style Notes: This dress is not bra-friendly—prepare to have a tailor add additional bust support if needed.
Where to purchase: $595, BHLDN

Whether your wedding day style is clean and classic or festive and glamorous, there are no rules when it comes to your courthouse wedding dress. What matters is that you choose something you feel great in!