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Worn by royalty and nobility during the Medieval Era and by style icons like Stevie Nicks in the 1970s, bell sleeve dresses have been part of the fashion lexicon for centuries. Today, these beautifully flared sleeves can be seen on everything from fashion-forward crop-tops to bohemian-inspired wedding dresses. What's more, today's bell sleeves have been reimagined to include many iterations of this enduring trend from clean and modern designs to bold and dramatic silhouettes.
Whether you’re looking to make a statement on your wedding day or have a penchant for vintage-inspired silhouettes, bell sleeve wedding dresses are an eye-catching choice for any type of wedding.For brides with a daring sense of style, exaggerated bell sleeves in allover lace and velvet are always a show-stopping option.Looking for something more subtle? While bell sleeves are often long, dramatic, and statement-making, there are also many versions that are ever-so-gently flared and more suited for more traditional tastes.
No matter your style preferences, we've researched and rounded up the best options on the market to help you find your dream gown. For the bride who loves allover lace, our top recommendations are the Azazie Hayes Wedding Dress and the Lulus duch*ess Ivory Lace Bell Sleeve Maxi Dress. Going for an ethereal and romantic look? Opt for the the Rue de Seine Caine Dress.
Read on for the best bell sleeve wedding dresses for every style and budget.
Best Allover Lace: Lulus duch*ess Ivory Lace Bell Sleeve Maxi Dress
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Beautifully bohemian, this allover lace gown is perfect for the bride-to-be who loves an ethereal look. The exaggerated sleeves and gentle train add some drama to the romantic silhouette.
Price at time of publish: $182
Size: XS–3XL | Material: Polyester | Length: Floor
Most '70s-Inspired: JJ's House Chiffon Lace Wedding Dress
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If your style icon is Stevie Nicks then you can't go wrong with this retro, '70s-inspired gown. The plunging neckline, sparkling sequins, and exaggerated bell sleeves are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Price at time of publish: $204
Size: 0–26 | Material: Chiffon, lace | Length: Floor
Best Mermaid: Azazie Hayes Wedding Dress
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A body-skimming silhouette—combined with oversized bell sleeves—lends this gown a decidedly flattering and dramatic aesthetic. Wear yours with delicate personal jewelry and strappy sandals.
Price at time of publish: $439
Size: 0–30 | Material: Lace | Length: Floor
Most Romantic: Azazie Stevie Wedding Dress
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For an utterly romantic look, you can't go wrong with this jaw-dropping dress, which is complete with vintage-inspired lace trim and delicate floral details. We love this effortless number for a garden ceremony or a rustic wedding set in the countryside.
Price at time of publish: $399
Size: 0–30 | Material: Tulle | Length: Floor
For an Effortless Look: Blush Fashion Ivory Lace Bell Sleeves Gown
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We can't help but picture this breezy bohemian gown set against a seaside backdrop. Light, airy, and feminine, this effortless style is our top pick for a beach or destination wedding.
Price at time of publish: $452
Size: XXS–4XL | Material: Lace, polyester | Length: Floor
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Best Embroidered: Rue de Seine Caine Dress
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From the bell sleeves to luxurious cotton silk fabric, it doesn't get more eye-catching than this gown from Rue de Seine. Style your hair up to showcase the alluring bodice, open back, and delicate embroidery.
Price at time of publish: $4,250
Size: Custom| Material: Cotton, rayon, viscose | Length: Floor
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Best Velvet: miribridal Velvet Wedding Gown with Bell Sleeves
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Throwing a winter wedding? This striking gown is crafted from sumptuous velvet, making it a stylish option for cold-weather nuptials.
Price at time of publish: $600
Size: Custom| Material: Lace | Length: Floor
Best Color: Claire Pettibone Venus Gown
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Not one for white wedding dresses? Opt for this fairy-like gown, which features delicate pastel florals and shimmering tulle detailing. It's an utterly romantic and ethereal pick.
Price at time of publish: Available upon request
Size: Custom| Material: Tulle | Length: Floor
For the Laid-back Bride: DreamersandLovers Vintage-Inspired Bell Sleeves Gown
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The epitome of laid-back elegance, this fun and stylish gown is a beautiful option for the boho bride-to-be. Choose from one of four hues, including ivory, old lace, and black for the tradition-adverse bride.
Price at time of publish: $1,730
Size: 2–14 and custom| Material: Cotton | Length: Floor
Most Chic: Meshki Giselle Dress
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Searching for an ultra-chic wedding day outfit? Go for this silky, Hollywood glam-style dress with a fitted silhouette and subtle bell sleeves. It's sure to stun your guests (in the best way) when you step down the aisle.
Price at time of publish: $145
Size: XXS–3XL| Material: Viscose | Length: Ankle
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Best With Three-Quarter-Length Sleeves: Harem's Bell Sleeves Bohemian Wedding Gown
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Buy on Haremsbrides.com$940
Looking for a dress with bell sleeves that don't go all the way down to the wrists? This pretty gown might be just the thing. The full-length design features and illusion neckline and back with delicate buttons and beading details, plus an all-over lace overlay and a sweep train that graces the floor.
Price at time of publish: $940
Size: 32–42EU and custom| Material: Tulle, lace | Length: Floor
Best With Angel Sleeves: Azazie Memphis Mermaid Sequins Lace Chapel Train Dress
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Angel sleeves are a variation of bell sleeves. As seen on Azazie's Memphis Dress, the style gives off an ethereal aesthetic with a nod to 1970s fashion. We also love how the off-the-shoulder sleeves flatter the upper body, while the mermaid skirt skims your curves before flaring out into a sweep train.
Price at time of publish: $669
Size: 0–30 and custom| Material: Lace | Length: Floor
What to Look For in Bell Sleeve Wedding Dresses
Fabric and Fit
Just like any wedding dress, you'll want to consider the fabric and fit of your dress. Bell sleeve wedding dresses can often be found in all-over lace designs and chiffon fabrics, like the JJ's House A-line Chiffon Lace Wedding Dress, while others like the Rue de Seine Caine Dress are made in stunning silk materials.
Many dresses follow a vintage vibe and are made with intricate embroidery, floral embellishments, or even shining sequins, like the Azazie Memphis Wedding Dress. Sticking with the retro-inspired aesthetic of bell sleeves, many bell sleeve dresses come in a body-skimming fit or airy and flowing silhouettes. So think about all of the details you love most and then go from there!
Sleeve Length
Though most bell sleeve wedding dresses have long sleeves, you'll also find options that don't go all the way down to the wrists. We like the Harem's Bell Sleeves Bohemian Wedding Gown, which only goes down to the elbows. There are also angel-style sleeves, which are flowier and flare out like wings when you lift your arms.
Wedding Venue and Aesthetic
Bell sleeve dresses like the couldn't be more perfect for a boho beachside wedding or a whimsical garden ceremony, but you can also find dresses that are appropriate for black-tie weddings and formal affairs. Think about the overall aesthetic and color scheme of your big day to help narrow down your choices. Hosting a chic city wedding? Go with a silk gown with just a subtle flare at the sleeves–such as the Meshki Giselle Dress.
FAQ
What are bell sleeves?
Bell sleeves are quite literally sleeves that are shaped like a bell. They're fitted around the arm and flare out at the wrists, and come in a wide range of lengths and sizes.
Are bell sleeve wedding dresses appropriate for all types of weddings?
While bell sleeve wedding dresses have a certain bohemian flair to them, they're appropriate for all types of weddings and come in a wide range of silhouettes to suit many different bridal styles.
Are bell sleeve wedding dresses comfortable?
Due to their flared design, bell sleeves are typically loose-fitting and comfortable. Because of its flowy nature, this type of dress can be fun to dance in!
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