20 Vow Renewal Dresses Worn by Real Brides

Bride in Purple Sundress with Braided Hair Posing With Groom in Pastel Green Suit in Front of Beige Wall — Photo by Adovasio Photography Studio; Dress by Mac Duggal

If your wedding dress holds a special place in your heart, then selecting a vow renewal dress is probably an important task for you. Luckily, finding an ensemble for this special celebration shouldn't be as labor-intensive as your original bridal gown search. Sure, it won't be a complete walk in the park, but given that you've already worn "the one" gown on your wedding day, coupled with the fact that there are truly no rules when dressing for a vow renewal, your shopping experience will likely feel more fun and carefree.

Unsure where to begin? Think about the vibe and style you'd like to embrace before you begin shopping. Vow renewals typically call for creative and less traditional ensembles than the standard wedding dress, though you can opt for a classic choice if that's what you prefer. After that, start to search for the exact silhouette you'd like to embrace based on your ceremony's theme and dress code. If you're hosting a traditional celebration, for instance, stick to a formal white gown to keep things in line with a classic theme. Planning something a little more casual? Consider donning a mini or midi dress in a fun color or print.

Ultimately, what's most important is that you wear what works best for you and the life chapter you're currently in. If you need a bit of inspiration to help start your search, however, here's a roundup of 20 vow renewal dress ideas worn by real brides.

If you didn't get the chance to wear your dream wedding dress when you first got married, vow renewals serve as the perfect opportunity to sport your ideal frock for your second trip down the aisle.

01 of 20

A Subtle Bridal Aesthetic

groom in a custom linen suit and bride in a floral white dress while holding hands in a pasture — Photo by KT Merry; Dress by Zimmerman

Though this dress feels bridal, it isn't too formal for a vow renewal ceremony. The three-dimensional floral embroidery and subtle ruffle hemline are two details individuals with romantic aesthetics should keep in mind when shopping for their own looks.

02 of 20

A Contemporary Vibe

"Dancing With the Stars” Pro Koko Iwasaki and Kiki Nyemchek posing for wedding photos — PHOTO BY SHANNON YEN PHOTOGRAPHY; Dress by Grace Loves Lace

A simple white gown is a lovely option that feels formal without being over the top. This Grace Loves Lace number, in particular, features an open-back design and side slits for a contemporary look we're sure you'll love forever.

03 of 20

An Old-Hollywood Look

bride wearing a strapless white dress with a cape, while holding her groom's hand and walking across the grass — PHOTO BY LISA ZIESING WITH ABBY JIU PHOTOGRAPHY; Dress by Gauge81

We love the attached cape on this otherwise minimalist white strapless dress. Add some diamonds, statement shoes, and the right hairstyle, and you've got an Old-Hollywood vibe going on.

04 of 20

A Traditional Wedding Dress

bride wearing a fit-and-flare wedding dress, posing with a groom in an open field with a house in the background — PHOTO BY ALIXANN LOOSLE PHOTOGRAPHY; Dress by Jane Hill Bridal

While non-traditional looks are generally the standard when it comes to vow renewal dresses, you shouldn't forgo wearing a formal gown if that's what suits you best. You can even wear your original wedding dress if it still holds a special place in your heart.

05 of 20

A Blue Beauty

bride sitting in a tulle, blue ruffle dress, posing with the groom wearing a blue suit — PHOTO BY YULIYA JUL PHOTOGRAPHY; Dress by Teuta Matoshi

Just because you're renewing your vows doesn't mean you can't lean into the "something old, new, borrowed, and blue" trend. Draw inspiration from this bride and sport an off-the-shoulder, ruffled blue dress for your second trip down the aisle.

06 of 20

A Fashion-Forward Midi

bride and groom posing outside together in semi-formal attire at their welcome wedding party — Photo by FACIBENI

There's something about this midi dress that makes it feel like the ideal pick for a daytime ceremony during the spring. Not to mention, the corset bodice and draped silhouette are perfect for those with modern and fashion-forward aesthetics.

07 of 20

A Bridgerton-Inspired Look

bride and groom holding hands while walking with a crowd of people behind them — PHOTO BY OLIVIA RAE JAMES

For those with old-world tastes, consider wearing an empire-waist dress with puff sleeves to renew your vows. It's a beautiful option for any season, and also ideal for individuals who love and subscribe to Bridgerton-inspired fashion.

08 of 20

A Springtime Ensemble

Portrait of Wedding Couple — Photo by Liz Andolina Photography; Dress by Brock Collection

Hosting an outdoor, springtime soireé for your vow renewal? Look to this bride who sported this stunning Brock Collection dress. We love the layered design and square neckline, both of which provide a feminine look.

09 of 20

A Classic Wedding Dress

bride wearing a strapless wedding dress with a plunging V-neckline, posing outdoors with her groom in a classic tuxedo — Photo by DANIELLE MARGHERITE PHOTOGRAPHY; Dress by Maison Signore

Again, a wedding gown is always acceptable at a vow renewal ceremony, especially if you're going big with the party. While this option is more minimalist, it's still a showstopper thanks to the deep V-neck and front slit.

10 of 20

A Show-Stopping Suit

Groom in Gray Suit and Bride in White Suit at Rehearsal Dinner — Photo by Feather & Twine; Bridal suit by Galvan London

You and your partner will look like the ultimate power couple if you choose to wear a show-stopping suit, à la this bride, for your vow renewal. Style your look with white pumps and a sleek hairdo to pull it all together.

11 of 20

A Floral Frock

bride and groom walking and holding hands — Photo by HANA GONZALEZ PHOTOGRAPHY

With three-dimensional floral appliqués and a tea-length hemline, this dress is one to know when exchanging vows (again) in a tropical destination. We especially love the versatility of this style, allowing it to be worn again for other special occasions.

12 of 20

A Garden-Chic Look

Whether you're hosting a semi-formal or laid-back affair, this floral maxi by MacDuggal feels extra special. It's simple yet so pretty, and would look amazing at a garden-chic celebration.

13 of 20

A Black-and-Look Outfit

bride and groom posing in front of an orange wall — Photo by DOS MAS EN LA MESA

Looking to wear an unforgettable two-piece ensemble? Take a few style notes from this bride, who sported a black lace top with feathered cuffs and a draped white pencil skirt.

14 of 20

A Mini With a Bow

Wedding Couple Kissing — Photo by The Lockharts; Dress by Alexia Maria

This pretty mini was made to be worn at a city vow renewal. We particularly love the oversized back bow, which contributes to the dress's overall statement look.

15 of 20

A Metallic Frock

bride in a gold A-line midi dress, groom in brown slacks and a white long-sleeve shirt — Photo by JANET KACZMAREK; Dress by An Erin

Glamorous and full of shine, this An Erin midi dress has an almost vintage look to it. The A-line bodice looks lovely with the floaty skirt, and the metallic fabric is feminine and fun—a definite must-have for those planning a private vow renewal ceremony.

16 of 20

A Simple and Chic Midi

bride wearing a midi-length dress, while posing with her groom who's wearing a black suit — Photo by M. HART PHOTOGRAPHY

Here, this bride proves why it pays off to get creative with your vow renewal fashion. Though the overall silhouette is simple in design, the feathered sleeves create a striking look that could work for any type of ceremony.

17 of 20

A Cool-Girl Blazer

bride wearing a blazer mini dress, holding her groom's hand who's wearing a navy blue suit — Photo by John & Joseph

Sophisticated and modern, a blazer dress is the cool girl's way of doing a vow renewal. It's unexpected and stylish, and a nice change of pace from the usual wedding gown.

18 of 20

A Modern Dream

Bride in Yellow and White Checkered Dress and White Boots Looking At Groom in in Black Suit in Front of Old White Building — Photo by Jenn Emerling; Dress by Rotate Birger Christensen

Between the metallic fabric, the long sleeves, and the midi length, this Rotate Birger Christensen dress is a beautiful option for a winter or fall affair. Our favorite detail, however, is the boots worn to style this very modern look.

19 of 20

A Strapless Maxi

black and white photo of a bride and groom — Photo by St. Chelle; Dress by Alexis

A strapless and column silhouette makes this dress a romantic option for any vow renewal. It's pretty versatile, as well, and would be a go-to closet staple once you've said "I do" again.

20 of 20

An Unexpected Look

Bride in Black Dress Wth Sleeves and Groom in White Tuxedo Handing Hands in Front of Long Island City Water — Photo by Scott Clark Photo; Dress by Rick Owens

If you're hoping to wear something completely unexpected, why not sport a little black dress? We especially love how this bride accessorized her look with teal-hued shoes to add a subtle pop of color.

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