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.
Last updated February 5, 2024
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.
Intricate details like the scalloped edge trim, lace-up back, and embroidery and pleating in the skirt level up this breezy cotton dress.
Light-woven fabric and dainty eyelet embroidery makes this breezy dress a no-brainer for your summer courthouse nuptials.
Simple but elegant, this midi dress features an asymmetrical one-shoulder style for an elevated silhouette.
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!
Puff sleeves have become an exploding trend, and this dress balances the sleeve volume with a figure-hugging bodice with smocked detailing.
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.
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.
Chic and timeless, the stretchy bandage material of this sleek dress hugs your body in all the right places, and we love the modern cutouts throughout.
This stunning blazer dress is both ultra-modern and minimal, with ties at the waist to balance your frame.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This cropped vest and shorts set makes a statement while still evoking a classic, feminine style. The pointed collar and opulent buttons on the vest pair beautifully with the pleated shorts, all tied together by an elegant, textural fabric.
This tailored design is effortlessly classic, with a mostly minimal silhouette paired with a dramatic bow in the front.
This smart jumpsuit combines a modern tuxedo style with ’70s-inspired tailoring like the halter neck design and flared leg.
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!
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.
This silky slip dress features an elegant draped cowl neckline and a modern midi silhouette—perfect for the minimal bride.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
The asymmetric cut of this luxe dress makes for a modern look, structured with a knit bodice and a satin skirt.
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.
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.
Say “I do” in this breezy linen dress. The smocked bodice and double-layered hem create elegant visual interest. Bonus: It even has pockets!
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.
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.
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.
Cut from glossy satin, we adore the pearlescent hue of this dress to help you glow at your courthouse wedding ceremony.
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!
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.
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!
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!
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