When it comes to weddings on the big screen, the dress is the moment. Some are timeless and traditional, others bold and unforgettable—but all of them live rent-free in our minds.
From full princess ball gowns to sparkling corsets and even not-quite-wedding-dresses, here are some of the most iconic wedding looks in movie history that brides are still swooning over today!
Carrie Bradshaw’s “Cloud Dress” by Vivienne Westwood
From Sex and the City (2008)
No one makes a fashion statement like Carrie. Her Vivienne Westwood ball gown—nicknamed the “cloud dress”—was dramatic, romantic, and unapologetically her. The structured bodice, exaggerated sweetheart neckline, and two-tier voluminous skirt crafted from silk duchess satin and Radzimir taffeta made her look like walking couture. Was it a happy ending? Not quite. But the dress? Iconic.
Bella Swan’s Custom Carolina Herrera Elegance
From The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 (2011)
Bella’s dress was everything Twihards had been waiting for—and it didn’t disappoint. Designed by Carolina Herrera, the crepe satin and French Chantilly lace gown took six months and four seamstresses to perfect. With a subtly sexy V-neckline, illusion lace back, and 152 buttons trailing down the spine, it struck the perfect balance between ethereal vampire bride and timeless romantic.
Mia Thermopolis’s Princess-Perfect Strapless Gown
From The Princess Diaries (2001)
Okay, it wasn’t technically a wedding dress, but it totally could be. Mia’s white strapless ballgown was a full-blown princess fantasy—with a fitted bodice, delicate silver embroidery, and a grand skirt that floated with every step. Paired with long gloves and a regal updo, it was a royal bridal look in every sense (and yes, we still rewatch the scene where she does the robot in it).
Maria von Trapp’s High-Neck Satin Simplicity
From The Sound of Music (1965)
Maria’s gown is the gold standard for minimalist brides. The high neckline, long sleeves, and satin sheen gave it a sacred elegance. Free from embellishments, the slim silhouette and flowing A-line skirt felt both modest and majestic. Paired with a floor-length veil, it perfectly captured Maria’s journey from governess to baroness in the most graceful way.
Satine’s Dress That Stopped the Duke (and Us) in Our Tracks
From Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Satine’s red gown from Moulin Rouge! is one of the film’s most iconic looks—a sultry showstopper made of rich red silk satin with a fitted, lace-up corset bodice and flowing skirt. Worn when she prepares to meet the Duke, the gown perfectly captures her bold, seductive energy and vintage cabaret glamour. Designed by Catherine Martin and Angus Strathie, it’s not your typical white wedding dress—but for a bold, unconventional bride, it’s a stunning statement piece that could absolutely steal the show down the aisle.
Scarlett O’Hara’s Southern Belle in Ruffles
From Gone with the Wind (1939)
Scarlett’s Victorian white ruffled gown is pure drama in fabric form. With layers of cascading ruffles, puffed sleeves, lace details, and an off-shoulder neckline, it screamed Southern belle with a side of bold. Paired with her signature confidence and hourglass silhouette, this dress was as unforgettable as her character.
Andie Anderson’s Gold Slip That Stole the Show
From How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)
Okay, again, it’s not a wedding dress—but we had to include it. The slinky gold slip gown by Carolina Herrera is one of the most iconic movie fashion moments ever. Simple yet jaw-dropping, this gown lives rent-free in bridal boards and moodboards alike. And anyway, who says bridal has to be white?
Do you have more iconic dresses to add to this list, brides? Let us know in the comments below!