Ball gown wedding dresses create a sense of elegance, romance, and sophistication. They are a timeless wedding dress silhouette that has been a favourite among brides for decades. These dresses feature a fitted bodice and a full skirt that resembles princess-like ball gowns. They are perfect for a formal wedding and will make any bride feel like royalty on her special day.

If you have chosen a ball gown wedding dress shape, congratulations! You have made a fantastic choice. Now, it’s time to focus on styling your dress to perfection. Here are five tips to help you style your ball gown wedding dress.

1. Wear A Veil

Brides wear veils for different reasons, but ball gown wedding dresses, in particular, add a touch of romance and drama. A veil with a ball gown dress will create a dramatic effect as you walk down the aisle. You can choose from various lengths, styles, and materials to find the perfect one that complements your dress.

At Bridal Wardrobe, we have three beautiful Cathedral-length wedding veils that would look stunning with a ball gown wedding dress. You can also choose a custom-made option that will match your dress perfectly.

2. Keep Your Accessories Simple

Ball gown wedding dresses are already stunning, so you don’t want to overload on accessories. Ball gown wedding dresses with a sweetheart neckline and beading detail on the bodice, for example, don’t need a necklace. Instead, opt for delicate earrings and a bracelet. At Bridal Wardrobe you can get various accessories in our stores or online. 

A good rule of thumb to remember is to focus on one statement accessory. You do not want to take away from the elegance and grandeur of your ball gown by wearing too many accessories.

3. Choose The Right Undergarments

Wearing the proper undergarments is essential when it comes to styling a ball gown wedding dress. You want to ensure that everything stays in place and that there are no visible bra straps or lines. A strapless bra or bustier works best for most ball gown dresses, but you can also opt for a corset or sewn-in cups. 

For added support and comfort, consider wearing shapewear underneath your dress. Just make sure to try on the undergarments with your wedding dress before the big day to ensure a perfect fit.

Our ball gown wedding dresses at Bridal Wardrobe provide exceptional support. With built-in cups and structured boning, they ensure you feel confident and comfortable throughout your special day. Plus-size brides will also appreciate the additional support offered by the extra strap at the back.

4. Go All Out With Wedding Shoes

One of the great things about a ball gown wedding dress is that you can go all out with your wedding shoes. Since the dress will cover most of your legs, you can wear statement shoes without them being too distracting. Consider wearing sparkly heels like our Badgley Mischka Shoes available online or in-store, colourful pumps, or even cowboy boots for a unique twist.

5. Add Sleeves

Ball gown wedding dresses with sleeves allow you to play with different styles and fabrics. From delicate lace sleeves to dramatic off-the-shoulder designs, sleeves can add an extra touch of elegance and sophistication to your look. They can also provide coverage for those who are uncomfortable showing their arms.

Some popular sleeve styles for ball gown dresses include cap, illusion, and three-quarter-length sleeves. If you want a more traditional look, opt for long lace or tulle sleeves.

Here are three ball gown wedding dresses with sleeves so that you can see for yourself the elegance and sophistication it brings:

Élysée – Cecile 

Élysée – Trianon

Blue by Enzoani – Elysee – Cecile Rio


With these 5 tips, you’ll look like a princess on your wedding day. For more information or advice, book an appointment with us at Bridal Wardrobe today! We’ve helped many brides find the perfect ball gown wedding dress in South Africa, and we can do the same for you.

Bridal Wardrobe