Why I’m Obsessed With Courthouse Weddings (And You Should Be Too!)
Girl, can we talk about courthouse wedding dresses for a second? If you’re saying “I do” at city hall, I totally get it—intimate vibes, way less stress, and honestly? More budget for that dream honeymoon (or an incredible outfit!). Whether you’re eloping on a whim or planning a chic civil ceremony, finding the perfect courthouse wedding dress is everything.
I’ve spent hours researching the prettiest options for you, from budget-friendly finds under $100 to designer splurges that’ll make your heart skip a beat. Let’s find your perfect match!
How I Picked and Ranked These Dresses
I didn’t just throw together a random list, babe. Here’s exactly what I looked for:
My Criteria (weighted by importance):
- Silhouette & Fit (25%) – Does it flatter multiple body types?
- Fabric Quality (20%) – Is it comfortable and photograph-ready?
- Versatility (15%) – Can you rewear it for other occasions?
- Size Range (15%) – Inclusive sizing is non-negotiable
- Value (15%) – Worth every penny?
- Availability (10%) – Can you actually get it before your date?
The Dresses You Need to See
1. Lulus “Romantic Destiny” Midi Dress – The People’s Favorite
One-line verdict: Over 2,000+ five-star reviews can’t be wrong!
Snapshot:
- Best for: All body types, year-round weddings
- Silhouette: A-line midi
- Fabric: Woven satin
- Length: Midi (hits below knee)
- Size range: XS–XL
- Care: Dry clean recommended
Why it ranks: This dress consistently tops bestseller lists for good reason. The A-line cut flatters everyone, and the midi length is perfect for courthouse settings. The satin has just enough sheen without looking too bridal-bridal.
Price: ~$78–$98 USD at Lulus — checked Jan 2026; sizes in stock vary
Pros:
- Budget-friendly without looking cheap
- Runs true to size based on reviewer feedback
- Free returns within 10 days
- Works for rehearsal dinners too
Cons:
- Limited customization
- May need steaming after shipping
- White sells out quickly
Styling Ideas: Pair with nude pointed-toe pumps, a delicate pearl necklace, and a mini bouquet. Add a blazer for cooler weather.
Where to Buy: Lulus.com
2. Reformation Citrine Dress – The Cool Girl’s Pick
One-line verdict: Minimalist, effortless, totally Pinterest-worthy.
Snapshot:
- Best for: Bohemian brides, summer ceremonies
- Silhouette: Relaxed maxi with deep V
- Fabric: 100% silk crepe
- Length: Floor-length with side slit
- Size range: 0–12
- Care: Dry clean only
Why it ranks: If you want that “I woke up like this” bridal energy, Reformation delivers. The silk drapes beautifully, and the sustainability factor is a major bonus.
Price: ~$518 USD at Reformation — checked Jan 2026
Pros:
- Sustainably made
- Looks expensive (because it is!)
- Self-belt included
- Perfect for outdoor photos
Cons:
- Not bra-friendly
- Higher price point
- Limited size range
- Requires alterations for petites
Styling Ideas: Go barefoot for a beachy vibe, or add strappy gold heels. Keep jewelry minimal—maybe just statement earrings.
Where to Buy: TheReformation.com
3. Sachin & Babi Reed Mini Dress – The Statement Maker
One-line verdict: That oversized bow will have everyone talking.
Snapshot:
- Best for: Fashion-forward brides, photo-focused ceremonies
- Silhouette: A-line mini with high neckline
- Fabric: Polyester/elastane blend
- Length: Mini (above knee)
- Size range: 0–14
- Care: Dry clean
Why it ranks: This dress went viral for a reason—the removable back bow is chef’s kiss. Business in the front, party in the back, literally.
Price: ~$395 USD at Anthropologie — checked Jan 2026
Pros:
- Removable bow for versatility
- Structured fit is incredibly flattering
- High neckline feels elegant
- Conversation starter guaranteed
Cons:
- Investment piece pricing
- Mini length isn’t for everyone
- Limited color options
Styling Ideas: Keep the bow on for the ceremony, remove for dinner. Pair with pointed-toe mules and a chic clutch.
Where to Buy: Anthropologie, Sachin & Babi
4. ASOS DESIGN Dropped Waist Satin Maxi – The Budget Queen
One-line verdict: Designer vibes without the designer price tag.
Snapshot:
- Best for: Budget-conscious brides, all seasons
- Silhouette: Dropped waist maxi
- Fabric: Satin
- Length: Floor-length
- Size range: US 0–14
- Care: Machine washable (!)
Why it ranks: Under $150 and machine washable? ASOS understood the assignment. The basque waist trend is huge for 2025, and this delivers the look affordably.
Price: ~$100–$150 USD at ASOS — checked Jan 2026; prices vary by style
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Easy returns
- Trendy silhouette
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Quality varies by style
- Limited in-person try-on options
- May need alterations
Styling Ideas: Elevate with statement earrings and a structured bag. Add a fur stole for winter weddings.
Where to Buy: ASOS.com
5. Adrianna Papell Beaded Midi – The Glamour Girl
One-line verdict: Subtle sparkle that photographs like a dream.
Snapshot:
- Best for: Evening ceremonies, plus-size brides
- Silhouette: Sheath midi
- Fabric: Beaded mesh over lining
- Length: Midi
- Size range: 0–24W (petite & plus available)
- Care: Dry clean
Why it ranks: Adrianna Papell is known for impeccable beading, and their inclusive sizing means everyone can sparkle. The midi length is courthouse-perfect.
Price: ~$179–$299 USD at Adrianna Papell — checked Jan 2026
Pros:
- Hand-beaded details
- Excellent size inclusivity
- Available in petite and plus
- Sophisticated without being over-the-top
Cons:
- Beading requires careful handling
- Dry clean only
- Mid-range pricing
Styling Ideas: Keep accessories minimal—the dress is the star. Add simple pumps and a clutch.
Where to Buy: AdriannaPapell.com, Nordstrom, Dillard’s
6. BHLDN Jenny Yoo Jumpsuit – The Non-Dress Option
One-line verdict: Who says brides have to wear dresses?
Snapshot:
- Best for: Modern brides, winter ceremonies
- Silhouette: Tailored wide-leg jumpsuit
- Fabric: Crepe
- Length: Full-length
- Size range: 0–26W
- Care: Dry clean
Why it ranks: Jumpsuits are so in for 2025 weddings. This one feels bridal without being fussy, and you can actually sit comfortably.
Price: ~$250–$350 USD at Anthropologie/BHLDN — checked Jan 2026
Pros:
- Incredibly comfortable
- Excellent size range
- Works for multiple occasions
- Easy to move and dance in
Cons:
- Hemming often needed
- Not traditionally “bridal”
- Bathroom logistics (real talk!)
Styling Ideas: Add a cape or blazer for ceremony photos. Statement earrings are a must.
Where to Buy: Anthropologie Weddings (formerly BHLDN)
7. Lulus Tulle Intentions Mini – The Fairytale Mini
One-line verdict: All the drama of a ball gown, mini-sized.
Snapshot:
- Best for: Summer brides, playful personalities
- Silhouette: Strapless tiered tulle mini
- Fabric: Tulle
- Length: Mini
- Size range: XS–XL
- Care: Spot clean
Why it ranks: If you love tulle but don’t want a traditional gown, this mini brings the romance without the bulk. Perfect for showing off your legs and wedding shoes!
Price: ~$88 USD at Lulus — checked Jan 2026
Pros:
- Incredibly affordable
- Fun and playful vibe
- Great for photos
- Perfect for after-party too
Cons:
- Strapless may need tape or alterations
- Tulle can snag
- Not ideal for formal courthouses
Styling Ideas: Add a veil or headband for bridal energy. Pair with sparkly heels.
Where to Buy: Lulus.com
8. Banana Republic Linen Sweetheart Midi – The Minimalist
One-line verdict: Quiet luxury at its finest.
Snapshot:
- Best for: Summer weddings, minimalist brides
- Silhouette: Fitted sweetheart bodice with midi skirt
- Fabric: Linen blend
- Length: Midi
- Size range: 0–14
- Care: Machine washable
Why it ranks: Sometimes less really is more. This dress proves you don’t need embellishments to look bridal—just great fabric and a perfect cut.
Price: ~$160–$200 USD at Banana Republic — checked Jan 2026
Pros:
- High-quality linen
- Machine washable
- Rewearable for other occasions
- Breathable for hot weather
Cons:
- Wrinkles easily (it’s linen!)
- Very minimal design
- Limited availability
Styling Ideas: Let the simplicity shine—add barely-there sandals and delicate gold jewelry.
Where to Buy: BananaRepublic.com
9. Shona Joy La Lune Bias Midi – The Elegant One
One-line verdict: Bias-cut perfection that moves like water.
Snapshot:
- Best for: Hourglass and pear shapes, year-round
- Silhouette: Bias-cut midi with frill cuffs
- Fabric: Satin
- Length: Midi
- Size range: US 2–12
- Care: Dry clean
Why it ranks: Australian brand Shona Joy knows how to cut a dress. The bias cut hugs in all the right places while the frill cuffs add a feminine touch.
Price: ~$320 USD at Shopbop — checked Jan 2026
Pros:
- Incredibly flattering cut
- Beautiful movement when walking
- Unique frill detail
- Premium quality
Cons:
- Requires shapewear for some
- Higher price point
- Limited size range
Styling Ideas: Keep it simple with strappy heels and drop earrings. Let the dress do the talking.
Where to Buy: Shopbop, REVOLVE
10. Grace Loves Lace Samba Gown – The Splurge
One-line verdict: If you want to feel like a goddess, this is it.
Snapshot:
- Best for: Brides who want drama, evening ceremonies
- Silhouette: Sleek column with draped neckline
- Fabric: Premium crepe
- Length: Floor-length with back slit
- Size range: 0–18
- Care: Professional clean
Why it ranks: This gown proves courthouse doesn’t mean boring. The draped neckline and low back bring serious elegance without being over-the-top for a civil ceremony.
Price: ~$800–$1,200 USD at Grace Loves Lace — checked Jan 2026
Pros:
- Editorial-worthy look
- Premium craftsmanship
- Incredibly flattering
- Show-stopping drama
Cons:
- Investment pricing
- May need hemming
- Only available through brand
Styling Ideas: This dress needs minimal accessories—maybe just statement earrings and sleek hair.
Where to Buy: GraceLovesLace.com
My Best Buying Tips
Sizing & Fit:
- Order two sizes if you’re between—most places have free returns
- Read reviews for fit notes (photos from real brides are gold!)
- Consider alteration costs in your budget
Fabric Care:
- Satin photographs beautifully but shows wrinkles—steam before your day
- Lace requires careful handling—bring a steamer, not an iron
- Always check care labels before buying
Spotting Quality:
- Check seam finishing (should be clean, not fraying)
- Look for lining in white dresses (prevents see-through disasters)
- Feel the weight—quality fabrics have substance
FAQs
What length dress is best for a courthouse wedding? Midi and knee-length are the sweet spot—formal enough for a ceremony but practical for the setting. Mini works for casual ceremonies, and maxi is fine if you love drama!
Can I wear a traditional wedding gown to the courthouse? Absolutely! There are no rules. But most brides prefer something less elaborate for practical reasons.
What’s a good budget for a courthouse dress? You can find gorgeous options from $78 to $500. My sweet spot recommendation is $150–$300 for the best quality-to-value ratio.
Do courthouse wedding dresses come in plus sizes? Yes! Adrianna Papell (up to 24W) and BHLDN (up to 26W) are my top picks for inclusive sizing.
What shoes should I wear? Block heels or pointed-toe pumps are most popular. You’ll be walking on hard floors, so comfort matters!
Can I return a dress if it doesn’t work? Most retailers (especially Lulus, ASOS, and Nordstrom) have generous return policies. Always check before ordering.
Go Get Your Dream Dress, Gorgeous!
Whether you’re keeping it simple with Lulus or splurging on Grace Loves Lace, remember: this day is about you and your love. Pick the dress that makes your heart sing, snap those photos, and enjoy every moment.
Loved this guide? Save it to your Pinterest boards for later, and tag me when you find THE ONE! I’d love to see what you choose. 💕
Prices subject to change. Always verify current pricing at retailer websites before purchasing.
