Do I have to wear a dress for my engagement photos?

Definitely not! When it comes to your engagement photos, the most important thing to remember is that they’re a celebration of your relationship. While lots of couples choose to dress up for the occasion, there’s no rule that says you have to wear a dress—wear something that feels true to you and makes you feel comfortable.

Am I supposed to wear white for my engagement photos?

There’s no rule that says you have to wear white for your engagement photos. While lots of brides choose a white engagement photo dress as a nod to their wedding, you should wear something that feels true to your personal style and preferences. Many brides will choose their engagement photo shoot outfit color based on the setting and season of the shoot.

How do I pick an engagement photo dress?

If you’re taking photos at home or in your favorite coffee shop, something comfy and casual will complement the locale. If you’re at a nice venue or luxe location, opt for something a little dressier. Look for inspiration online, flip through bridal magazines, and make a vision board on Pinterest to help inspire your photo shoot aesthetic and wardrobe.

The 19 Best Engagement Photo Dresses of 2024

For many couples, taking engagement photos is a way to celebrate their new relationship status. These photos are used for save-the-dates, the wedding website, social media, and most often, as a personal souvenir to remember this special event. Whether you envision a gown with opulent details or something relaxed and carefree, there are many engagement photo dresses to choose from—catering to all budgets and bridal styles. If you're unsure where to start, the best rule is to choose a style and hue that makes you feel comfortable and highlights your aesthetic. After all, you'll treasure these pictures forever.

To help bring your vision to life, we've researched and selected beautiful engagement photo outfit options, keeping style, materials, season, and overall quality in mind. From romantic mini dresses to embellished frocks and chic jumpsuits, we've got you covered.

Our Top Picks

Most Elegant:

Shona Joy La Lune High Neck Midi Dress at Revolve

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Best for the Casual Bride:

Lulus Puff Sleeve Mini Dress at Lulus $48

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Most Stylish:

Katie May Boss Lady Dress at Revolve $285

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Best Slip:

BHLDN Cali Satin Midi Dress at Anthropologie $70

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Best Party Dress:

Majorelle Clemence Mini Dress at Revolve $268

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Best Cocktail Dress:

Adrianna Papell Cape Sheath Dress at Adriannapapell.com $160

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Best for Fall:

Jenny Yoo Velvet Open Back Dress at Anthropologie $295

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Best for the Glamorous Bride:

Retrofête Olivia Embellished Tulle Halterneck Gown at Retrofete.com

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Best Sparkle:

Revelry Bardot Sequin Dress at Shoprevelry.com

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Best for a Destination Shoot:

Dolce & Gabbana Pleated Printed Cotton-Poplin Dress at Bergdorfgoodman.com

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Most Elegant

Shona Joy La Lune High Neck Midi Dress

PHOTO: Revolve

View on Revolve

You’ll look stunning in this elegant gold dress from Shona Joy. The luxurious satin dress drapes fluidly across the body for a smooth and graceful silhouette. It’s fitted at the bodice and features a split back and a high neckline with a slightly ruffled hem. This midi dress makes a statement and will shine in those engagement photos.

Size Range: 0-12 | Material: 58% lenzing ecovero, 42% viscose | Length: Midi

Best for the Casual Bride

Lulus Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

PHOTO: Lulus

$48 at Lulus

Want to take engagement photos that showcase your laid-back aesthetic? This puff sleeve mini dress from Lulus is elevated yet casual—ideal for shoots at home, on the beach, or any place that's relaxed and breezy.

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Woven fabric | Length: Mini

Most Stylish

Katie May Boss Lady Dress

PHOTO: Revolve

$285 at Revolve

This stylish mini from Kate May is elegant and sophisticated. It features cape sleeves, padded shoulders, and a showstopping plunging neckline. The dress—which comes in ivory, pink peacock, blush, and black—is fully lined with a simple button closure at the front. Pair it with strappy heels and get ready to capture the day.

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: 98% polyester, 2% spandex; 100% polyester lining | Length: Mini

Best Slip

BHLDN Cali Satin Midi Dress

BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress

PHOTO: Anthropologie

$70 at Anthropologie

For those longing for something sleek and sophisticated, BHLDN's Cali satin dress kicks things up a notch. White is always a classic choice but if you're looking for something bold, this slip dress style comes in five different colors from champagne to moss green.

Size Range: 0-16 | Material: Satin | Length: Midi

Best Party Dress

Majorelle Clemence Mini Dress

PHOTO: Revolve

$268 at Revolve

This mini dress from Majorelle exudes life-of-the-party energy. There’s a charming floral detail at the bust and a fitted bodice that's oh-so-flattering. The textured cotton gives it an elegant look while the simple design feels effortless. Wear this versatile dress with heels or flats.

Size Range: XXS-XL | Material: 100% cotton; 100% polyester lining | Length: Mini

Best Cocktail Dress

Adrianna Papell Cape Sheath Dress

PHOTO: Adrianna Papell

$160 at Adriannapapell.com

This elegant cocktail dress, with a fashion-forward cape, is the epitome of bridal chic. It'll be able to elevate even the most casual engagement shoot settings.

Size Range: 0-20 | Material: Crepe | Length: Mini

Best for Fall

Jenny Yoo Velvet Open Back Dress

PHOTO: Anthropologie

$295 at Anthropologie View on Jennyyoo.com

Taking engagement photos in the cooler seasons? This dress is for you. Jenny Yoo's open-back dress will make you feel at once warm and luxe. This would look especially gorgeous for a photo shoot in the woods.

Size Range: 0-19 | Material: Velvet | Length: Floor-length

Best for the Glamorous Bride

Retrofête Olivia Embellished Tulle Halterneck Gown

RetrofÃªte Olivia Embellished Tulle Halterneck Gown

PHOTO: Net-A-Porter

View on Retrofete.com

If you want to go full glam for your engagement photos, this gown in allover sequins and tiny crystals will make you feel like a star. Keep accessories simple–this shimmering dress does all the talking.

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Tulle | Length: Maxi

Best Sparkle

Revelry Bardot Sequin Dress

PHOTO: Revelry Bardot

View on Shoprevelry.com

If you're looking to shine in your photos, then Revelry’s Bardot dress is a must-have. This figure-flattering fit is covered with sequins and comes in a variety of colors for every bridal aesthetic. If you love a sparkly dress, this eye-catching one is ideal for a bold engagement announcement.

Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Sequins, polyester | Length: Floor-length

Best for a Destination Shoot

Dolce & Gabbana Pleated Printed Cotton-Poplin Dress

Dolce & Gabbana Tile-Print Pleated Poplin Bustier Dress

PHOTO: Bergdorf Goodman

View on Bergdorfgoodman.com

We can't help but love the tile print on this poplin mini dress that reminds us of a vacation in Santorini (perhaps foreshadowing for your honeymoon?). If you have a beach or island engagement shoot in the works, this Dolce & Gabbana dress will perfectly fit your theme.

Size Range: IT36-IT50 | Material: Poplin | Length: Knee-length

Most Bridal

Tobi Analise White Plunging Floral Maxi Dress

PHOTO: Tobi Analise

View on Tobi.com

Tobi’s Analise maxi dress comes in multiple hues to fit a variety of style aesthetics. No matter what color you choose, though, the luscious lace overlay and dramatic plunging neckline make it an engagement photo favorite.

Size Range: S-L | Material: Lace | Length: Maxi

Most Formal

Wtoo Baylie Gown

PHOTO: Watters

View on Watters.com

Floaty sleeves, a thigh-high slit, and an off-the-shoulder neckline come together to create Wtoo’s famed Baylie dress. Offered in nine colors and in sizes 00 to 26W, this sophisticated number is a show-stopping selection for any bride.

Size Range: 00-26W | Material: Melody georgette, knit lining | Length: Floor-length

Most Sophisticated

BHLDN Satin Charmeuse Dress in Moss

PHOTO: Anthropologies

$170 at Anthropologie

Hello, gorgeous! Bring on the Hollywood vibes with this elegant charmeuse maxi from BHLDN. The one-shoulder neckline is balanced by a deep slit, so select your hue (it comes in seven stunning colors) and get ready to feel like you're walking the red carpet.

Size Range: 00-26W | Material: Satin | Length: Floor-length

Best for the Lace Lovers

Chi Chi London Gilded Grace Lace Dress

PHOTO: ModCloth

$110 at Modcloth.com

Layers of tulle, metallic gold accents, and allover lace make this dress a favorite amongst newly engaged brides-to-be. It's the perfect choice for a photo shoot at a ritzy hotel, a cute coffee shop, or something in between.

Size Range: 2-26 | Material: Lace, tulle | Length: Knee-length

Best Jumpsuit

Lulus Edith White Strapless Jumpsuit

PHOTO: Lulu's

$66 at Lulus

We love this strapless bridal jumpsuit, which is sleek and chic to show off your neckline and décolletage in an engagement photo. The wrap detail beautifully accentuates the clean lines and crisp fabric for a modern look, and the wide-leg, full-length pants open up the minimalist silhouette to give it more shape. You can pair it with a shawl, cover-up, or statement necklace to draw even more attention to your face. We also love its affordable price tag.

Size Range: XXS-XL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Full-length

Best Classic Mini

Likely Mini Dress

PHOTO: Amazon

$228 at Amazon $228 at Revolve

We love the look of this classic mini-dress with pleated chiffon sleeves to deliver an elegant bridal look. The non-stretch crepe fabric hugs your figure, stretching for comfort and movability, making this an ideal choice for a barefoot beach shoot.

Size Range: 00-14 | Material: Heavyweight, non-stretch crepe | Length: Mini

Most Summery

STAUD Elio Dress White

PHOTO: STAUD

$245 at Amazon $285 at Shopbop.com

This cotton midi dress from Staud is the epitome of summery. The lightweight, easy-to-wear dress has a button-down front and a hidden zipper in the back. With an off-the-shoulder neckline, short puff sleeves, and a full-tiered skirt, it’s got a casual feel that would be ideal for an outdoor photoshoot. Pair it with stylish wedges to complete the look.

Size Range: 00-12 | Material: Cotton, elastane | Length: Midi

Most Sexy

NBD Aella Gown

PHOTO: Revolve

$160 at Revolve

If you’re looking for a more formal engagement photo dress, the NBD Aella gown is sleek and sophisticated. The form-fitting dress has a high back slit, padded underwire bust, and a satin back vent. This sexy gown also has adjustable shoulder straps for a great fit.

Size Range: XXS-XL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Maxi

Most Romantic

Amanda Uprichard Lyle Floral Ruched Midi-Dress

PHOTO: Saks Fifth Avenue

$185 at Nordstrom $148 at Saks Fifth Avenue

This lovely dress from Amanda Uprichard has a sweet floral design. The sleeveless midi dress features a round neck, ruched bodice, and mesh detailing. It’s partially lined with an invisible zipper for an elegant daytime or evening look.

Size Range: XS-L | Material: Polyester, elastane | Length: Midi

What to Look for in an Engagement Photo Dress

Style: There are no rules when it comes to your engagement photo outfit. Want to wear a jumpsuit? Go for it. Looking for something colorful? Be bold. Opting for a totally bridal look? Options abound. No matter your personal style, there are plenty of photo-ready outfits.
Setting and Season: To make the engagement photo dress shopping process a little easier, it's helpful to keep in mind the setting of your photo shoot and during what season it's taking place. For example, the bride-to-be snapping pics at a garden venue in the spring or summer should opt for breezy silhouettes or an off-the-shoulder look. Shoots that take place in the fall and winter venues are more suited to velvet and floor-skimming dresses with high necks and long sleeves.
Color: Decide on the color palette and whether you prefer solid colors or prints for your engagement photo dress. Neutral colors such as white, ivory, blush, or pastels are popular choices as they create a soft and romantic feel. But if it fits your taste and the setting of the shoot, feel free to use bright colors, florals, and prints.
Theme: Another important factor to remember is whether you want your engagement photos to reflect the theme of your upcoming nuptials. If you're throwing a destination wedding, for example, you may want to choose a beach venue for the engagement photos and wear something summery. You can also keep it fun and casual with an at-home shoot for a backyard wedding and wear something sweet and simple.

FAQ

Do I have to wear a dress for my engagement photos?

Definitely not! When it comes to your engagement photos, the most important thing to remember is that they’re a celebration of your relationship. While lots of couples choose to dress up for the occasion, there’s no rule that says you have to wear a dress—wear something that feels true to you and makes you feel comfortable.
Am I supposed to wear white for my engagement photos?

There’s no rule that says you have to wear white for your engagement photos. While lots of brides choose a white engagement photo dress as a nod to their wedding, you should wear something that feels true to your personal style and preferences. Many brides will choose their engagement photo shoot outfit color based on the setting and season of the shoot.
How do I pick an engagement photo dress?

If you’re taking photos at home or in your favorite coffee shop, something comfy and casual will complement the locale. If you’re at a nice venue or luxe location, opt for something a little dressier. Look for inspiration online, flip through bridal magazines, and make a vision board on Pinterest to help inspire your photo shoot aesthetic and wardrobe.

Why Trust Brides

Brides contributor Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and six years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more.

Edited by Cher Checchio