If you prefer a simple bridal look, the best courthouse wedding dresses and sets should reflect your style. Traditionally, these gowns and separates are clean and minimal, focusing on sharp tailoring and fluid fabrics. But a courthouse wedding doesn’t mean you have to give up all whimsy and celebration. For some, it’s a prelude to a big after-party or a destination ceremony with loved ones. Others see it as the perfect, efficient way to get married—often in an hour or less. Whatever your situation, there’s a romantic, intimate charm to a civil ceremony, whether you’re avoiding months of planning with a quick midweek visit or turning the legal moment into a chic affair.

Vogue’s Guide to the Best Courthouse Wedding Dresses & Sets:

The Slinky Halterneck
Tom Ford halter silk cocktail dress
$2,850 at NORDSTROM

The Tailored Set
Destree Amoako cropped faille jacket
$610 at NET-A-PORTER
Destree Yoshitomo pleated faille wide-leg pants
$530 at NET-A-PORTER

Since courthouse weddings are naturally uncomplicated, a voluminous princess gown or a sweeping train might feel over-the-top in a government building. Instead, opt for timeless, practical ankle-length or shorter silhouettes in crepe, wool, or fluid silk. Add a celebratory touch with an ultra-mini hem, off-the-shoulder neckline, or a bit of sparkle. And when in doubt, channel Bianca Jagger with a classic pantsuit, a top-and-trouser combo, or a matching shirt-and-skirt set—always a good idea.

Below, explore a range of courthouse wedding dresses and sets perfect for your sweet, simple civil ceremony.

Dreamy Dresses
Choosing the right courthouse bridal dress isn’t about a dress code—it’s about personal style. Look for details that subtly express your individuality, whether it’s boho touches like romantic lace and a flowy silhouette, or something sleek and minimalist.

– Rodarte embellished maxi dress
$2,848 at NET-A-PORTER
This dress embraces romance with a rose appliqué to match your bouquet.

– Simkhai Ambretta dress
$795 at SIMKHAI
Simkhai updates the classic blazer dress with an asymmetrical hem and crisp pleats.

– Courrèges buckled mini dress
$1,350 at NET-A-PORTER
A decorative buckle at the neckline adds a fun twist to this clean-lined mini.

– Tom Ford halter silk cocktail dress
$2,850 at NORDSTROM
Ideal for a nighttime city celebration.

– The Row Johanne dress
$4,350 at THE ROW
From the neckline to the slim shape, this dress is a nod to ’90s minimalism.

– Staud Ilana mini dress
$325 at STAUD
Pair this shorter hemline with sky-high heels for a festive feel.

– Toteme maxi dress
$930 at NET-A-PORTER
A fluid maxi dress with long sleeves, perfect for a winter wedding.

– Khaite Loell draped midi dress
$3,200 at NET-A-PORTER or NORDSTROM
Effortless draping, a handkerchief hem, and light organza lining create an elegant courthouse look.

– Lein Audrey mini dress
$1,598 at OVER THE MOON
Inspired by the ’60s, this high-collar mini is retro perfection.

– Rixo Sandrine midi dress
$595 at RIXO
Feminine and flattering, this best-selling slip dress is great for the laid-back bride.

– Emilia Wickstead Keeley strapless dress
$2,155 at OVER THE MOON
Made from heavy duchesse satin for a structured, elegant look.Emilia Wickstead’s strapless satin column gown looks instantly elegant.

Senna maxi dress, $378 at REVOLVE
The beauty of this simple short-sleeve style is that it’s essentially a blank canvas—you can dress it up or down in countless ways.

Aritzia Choreo dress, $168 at ARITZIA
With its boatneck and subtle bell sleeves, this satin mini dress has a ’70s vibe.

Marina Moscone bias slip dress, $715 at OVER THE MOON
A timeless choice: this liquid-like satin slip is one you’ll want to wear again and again.

Reformation Zenni dress, $298 at REFORMATION
Simple and sweet, this A-line style is perfect for the minimalist bride.

Chloé column dress, $4,690 at CHLOÉ
When it comes to breezy bohemian dresses, no one does it better than Chloé.

Self-Portrait midi dress, $715 at MYTHERESA
The pencil skirt here is old-school chic, and the bouclé material is especially great for winter brides.

Wardrobe.NYC x Rosie Huntington-Whiteley blazer dress, $1,950 at FWRD
We love this modern, sculptural take on the classic tuxedo dress.

### Perfect Pairings
Whether you envision a classic white suit, a fanciful blouse, or a matching skirt set that’s ready for a spring wedding, these coordinated looks are ideal for the bride who prefers an alternative to a traditional gown.

Dôen Viviane top, $348 at DÔEN
The boho bride will adore this silk-and-lace top.

Dôen Lavon pants, $398 at DÔEN
Plus, the matching pants—with an elastic waist—are incredibly comfortable, perfect for a celebratory dinner with friends and family after the ceremony.

LaPointe satin cape tee, $690 at LAPOINTE
There’s something so sophisticated about a drapey silk short-sleeve top instead of something more structured.

LaPointe satin relaxed pleated pants, $890 at LAPOINTE
Style it with matching pleated trousers, of course.

Heirloom Catalina blazer, $1,290 at NET-A-PORTER
Go classic with a structured blazer set for your courthouse wedding.

Heirloom Carolyn straight-leg pants, $990 at NET-A-PORTER
These twill straight-leg pants are the perfect length to pair with a sharp heel.

Leset Barb cowl neck top, $250 at REVOLVE and SHOPBOP
Editor-favorite brand Leset is also a great fit for your wedding day. This low-stretch satin top features a mock neck for a sophisticated twist.

Leset Barb wide-leg pants, $260 at SHOPBOP
These cream-colored trousers also make a great option for a honeymoon outfit.

Danielle Frankel bustier top, $3,990 at NET-A-PORTER
Worn with the matching satin maxi skirt, this bustier creates the illusion of a dress—but you can rewear each piece separately.

Danielle Frankel Desi maxi skirt, $4,590 at NET-A-PORTER
With delicate florals painted on the silk-and-wool blend fabric, it’s the subtle details that make this skirt feel special.

Staud Bronte tunic, $275 at SHOPBOP
Skip the jacket and opt for a cream-colored shell for a more laid-back set.

Staud stroll pants, $295 at SHOPBOP
Psst: These trousers have a covered elastic waistband, so you’ll stay extra comfortable on your big day.

Posse Emma jacket, $399 at SHOPBOP, $451 at REVOLVE
For a summer wedding outfit, choose something in non-stretch linen to get both structure and breathability.

Posse Noelle pants, $320 at SHOPBOP
These straight-leg trousers are also minimalist-friendly.

Destree Amoako cropped faille jacket, $610 at NET-A-PORTER
An updated ’50s silhouette gives this jacket a unique twist.

Destree Yoshitomo pleated faille wide-leg pants, $530 at NET-A-PORTER
The cropped hem on these silk pants gives them the perfect length.Pair with strappy heels.

Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful FAQs about courthouse wedding dresses and outfits for a civil ceremony

General Beginner Questions

Q What exactly is a courthouse wedding dress
A Its simply a dress chosen for a civil ceremony at a courthouse or city hall Its often simpler shorter or more casual than a traditional ballgown but it can be anything that makes you feel special and fits the venues formality

Q Why choose a special outfit for a courthouse wedding
A It marks the day as significant Even for a small simple ceremony wearing a dedicated outfit helps you feel bridal creates beautiful photos and honors the importance of the commitment youre making

Q Is white required for a courthouse wedding dress
A Not at all While white ivory and champagne are classic courthouse weddings are a perfect opportunity to wear bold colors patterns or even a chic pantsuit or jumpsuit

Q Can I wear a long gown to a courthouse
A You can but consider practicality A very long train or huge skirt might be cumbersome in small spaces on stairs or in crowded hallways A tealength or midi dress is often a popular choice for ease of movement

Q What should my partner wear
A It should complement your outfits level of formality Options range from a nice suit and tie to a blazer with dress pants or even smart trousers with a crisp buttondown shirt

Style Shopping Questions

Q What are the most popular styles for courthouse weddings
A Common styles include chic sheath dresses flirty fitandflare elegant tealength dresses modern jumpsuits and minimalist slip dresses The key is often clean lines and sophisticated simplicity

Q Where should I shop for a courthouse wedding outfit
A Look beyond traditional bridal shops Consider department stores boutique brands websites like Reformation Lulus or ASOS and even vintage stores Many special occasion or cocktail attire dresses work perfectly

Q How much should I spend on a courthouse wedding dress
A Theres no rule The benefit is you can spend much less than on a traditional gown Many find beautiful options between 100 and