When it comes to your wedding day look, one of the decisions you may have considered is what kind of straps or sleeves, if any, you want to wear on your big day. While strapless styles and long sleeves often get a lot of love. Cap sleeve wedding dresses are a stunning and fashion-forward choice, too!
Keep reading to learn more about wedding dresses with cap sleeves and see some of our favorite gowns.
What is a Cap Sleeve Wedding Dress?
Wedding dresses with cap sleeves feature short sleeves covering the shoulder that taper under the arm. This sleeve style is ideal for the bride who wants more coverage and support than a strapless wedding dress or a gown with spaghetti straps but doesn’t want the full coverage that a long sleeve gown can provide. Whether you want a more modest wedding dress or simply love the look that cap sleeves offer, you can’t go wrong with this stunning sleeve style. For more modest wedding dress inspiration, check out our Traditional Bride’s Guide to Modest Wedding Dresses!
Not looking to break the bank when shopping for your wedding dress with cap sleeves? Good news! There are cap sleeve wedding dresses to fit a wide range of budgets. While it depends on the fabrics and embellishments used on the sleeves and the rest of the gown, you will most likely find a cap sleeve wedding dress that fits within your budget!
What are Some Common Styles of Cap Sleeve Wedding Dresses?
Cap sleeves offer the perfect balance between traditional long-sleeve gowns and sleeveless dresses. They provide comfortable, classic coverage while maintaining an elegant, classic look. Cap sleeve wedding dresses come in a variety of styles ranging from sleek wedding dress silhouettes with chic lace to voluminous A-line designs that add soft movement and romance thanks to the softness of the fabric. Whether you’re looking for something traditional, sophisticated, or something more modern and daring, there is a cap sleeve wedding gown to suit any bride’s aesthetic and complement their bridal vision.
What Fabrics, Necklines and Waistlines are Usually Used in Cap Sleeve Wedding Dresses?
Wedding dresses with cap sleeves can come in various fabrics and styles, ranging from vintage looks to minimalist designs to ethereal gowns. Lace, satin, tulle, chiffon, crepe, illusion and organza are all fair game! Light and airy fabrics like tulle, chiffon and organza provide a dreamy and romantic look. While lace and satin can be more traditional. You can learn more about wedding dress fabrics in our Ultimate Guide!
Common necklines on wedding dresses with cap sleeves include V-neck, bateau, sweetheart and square necklines, proving that this type of sleeve is versatile and can fit any bridal style! Cap sleeves also pair well with any waistline. They make your shoulders appear a little wider, which is great for balancing proportions and giving the illusion of a slimmer waist.
Cap Sleeve Wedding Dresses
Lace Cap Sleeve Wedding Dress
It’s no question that lace and cap sleeves are a beautiful bridal combination! Essense of Australia Style D3530 is a breathtaking wedding dress for the classic yet modern bride. A plunging V-neckline combined with cap sleeves, an organic lace finish and a subtly sexy sheer beaded lace bodice makes for a traditional yet modern gown.
The lace trickles onto the sleek column skirt for a romantic touch. While the keyhole back and covered buttons that adorn the entire skirt and train make for a wow moment! A sheer lace train completes the look with stunning delicate details that will turn heads.
A-Line Cap Sleeve Wedding Dress
An A-line silhouette combined with cap sleeves makes for a stunning spring wedding dress! Sweet and sophisticated, Essense of Australia Style D3487 has an effortlessly charming appeal. Each feature radiates a graceful and effortless vibe. From the dainty lace cap sleeves that swoop into a plunging neckline to the simple, elegant bow detail at the waist.
The keyhole back is framed in delicate florals. While the fitted bodice and soft A-line skirt accentuate the natural waist for a flattering fit. From the first look to the first dance, this gown enchants with its romantic elegance.
Vintage Cap Sleeve Wedding Dress
Cap sleeves lend a vintage vibe to any wedding dress style, especially when combined with stunning appliqués, sparkling embellishments and A-line skirts. Martina Liana Style 1447 radiates vintage sophistication and breathtaking beauty. The flattering V-neckline and classic cap sleeves are timeless and chic. While the whimsical chiffon florets and sheer bodice highlight the ultra-feminine silhouette of this couture wedding gown.
Gorgeous 3D floral appliqués, intricately embroidered lace and subtle shimmer add texture and dimension to the design. The V-shaped open back leads to a romantic lace train that moves with grace, elegance and ease as you float down the aisle toward your happily ever after.
Plus Size Cap Sleeve Wedding Dress
Cap sleeve wedding dresses are beautiful for brides of all sizes. Stella York Style 7336 has all the sparkle and embellishments for a true celebration of love. This plus size wedding gown has an effortless formality with a modern twist, fit for a queen. Embossed glimmer tulle with an inventive linear design throughout pairs with silver and ivory sparkle details on the bold, swirling patterns for a dazzling effect.
The off-the-shoulder cap sleeves and A-line skirt create a timeless feel. A masterfully designed bodice that provides the ultimate support for the plus size bride. The V-neckline draws the eye vertically, elongating the body. While layers of tulle and organza come together to form a subtly voluminous skirt — ideal for dancing the night away!
Mermaid Cap Sleeve Wedding Dress
Look like a dream come to life in this stunning mermaid cap sleeve wedding dress! With its sheer illusion tulle and sparkling lace, you’ll be the epitome of effortless luxury on your special day. The statement-making bodice is adorned with shimmery sequins and dips into the sweetheart neckline that cinches at the waist to create a romantic silhouette.
To finish off this bridal look, the classic ivory tulle skirt flows gracefully and is flawlessly complimented by an alluring low V-back. Embrace your inner goddess and strut down the aisle feeling your most confident and graceful self.
What Seasons are Best for Cap Sleeve Wedding Dresses?
While it depends on your wedding location’s climate and the wedding dress’s fabric and silhouette, cap sleeves are an excellent choice for early fall, spring or summer weddings. If you are concerned about getting too hot, opt for a gown with cap sleeves in a light material like chiffon or tulle. Or go for a style of sleeve that isn’t super fitted for more breathability.
Do you picture yourself walking down the aisle in a cap sleeve wedding dress? Find a store location near you and book an appointment. We can’t wait for you to find the wedding dress of your dreams!