For more than 70 years, thousands of brides have traveled to Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City to find their wedding day looks. From the moment you walk through the doors, you’ll feel the magic of Kleinfeld. Not only does Kleinfeld have 30,000 square feet filled with the largest selection of wedding dresses in the world, it also has the greatest professional staff of over 200 employees who are dedicated to finding and perfecting your bridal look.
As we’re in the midst of summer and our 2026 brides daydream about next summer’s nuptials, it’s impossible not to note the beauty of one of our favorite coastal-inspired embellishments: pearls.
Exuding timeless elegance, a pearl wedding dress is ideal for the chic, modern, and classic bride seeking a traditional yet unique bridal look. In this article, we’ll explore the various styles and designs of pearl wedding dresses, from simple and understated to elaborately embellished gowns, featuring some of the top bridal designers in the industry.
The Versatility of Pearl Wedding Dresses
Pearl wedding dresses are available in a variety of styles, and as a result, cater to many different preferences, wedding themes, and formalities. Whether you’re dreaming of a simple pearl wedding dress or a more ornate pearl beaded wedding dress, there’s a design to suit every bride’s vision.
1. Simple Pearl Wedding Dress
For brides who prefer a minimalist aesthetic, a simple pearl wedding dress offers subtle elegance. Sophisticated and understated, these gowns often feature a clean silhouette with strategically placed pearl details. Designers like Essense of Australia and Watters excel in creating these refined, pearl-accented gowns that focus on minimalism and timeless femininity.
2. Pearl Beaded Wedding Dress
For those seeking a more glamorous and dramatic option, a pearl beaded wedding dress is the perfect choice. These gowns feature intricate beadwork with pearls densely sewn into elaborate patterns across the bodice and skirt. Pnina Tornai and Netta BenShabu are renowned for their pearl beaded creations that add texture and dimension to a luxurious bridal look.
3. Lace Pearl Wedding Dress
Combining two quintessential bridal elements, a lace pearl wedding dress offers the best of both worlds. Creating a romantic and feminine aesthetic, delicate lace fabrics can often be enhanced with pearl embellishments. Enaura Bridal and Martina Liana are two designers who often blend lace and pearls for a vintage-inspired, bohemian, or more glamorous bridal look.
Choosing the Perfect Pearl Wedding Gown
When selecting a pearl wedding gown, consider the following factors:
- Dress silhouette: From sleek sheath dresses to voluminous ball gowns, pearls can complement any silhouette.
- Pearl placement: Decide whether you want pearls concentrated in specific areas or distributed throughout the gown.
- Pearl size and type: Varying pearl sizes and types, such as freshwater or Akoya, can create different effects.
- Complementary embellishments: Consider how pearls will pair with other elements such as lace, sequins, or crystals.
Styling Your Pearl Wedding Dress
To elevate your pearl embellished wedding dress, be intentional about your accessory choices. Consider the following:
- Choose pearl jewelry to complement your dress.
- Consider a scatter-pearl veil or pearl-embellished headpiece to create a cohesive look.
- Opt for simple, elegant shoes to balance an elaborately-embellished pearl gown.
- Select a bouquet that complements the pearls’ soft luster.
Designer Spotlight
Kleinfeld is proud to carry an extensive selection of pearl wedding dresses from world-renowned designers at a variety of different price points:
- Pnina Tornai: Known for glamorous, show-stopping gowns with intricate pearl beadwork.
- Netta BenShabu: Offers modern, fashion-forward designs incorporating pearls in unique ways.
- Enaura Bridal: Specializes in hand-beaded gowns with delicate pearl accents.
- Rivini: Creates sophisticated, pearl-embellished dresses with clean lines and elegant silhouettes.
- Verdin Bridal: Focuses on luxurious fabrics and exquisite pearl detailing.
- Watters: Offers a range of styles from bohemian to contemporary that often feature subtle pearl accents.
- Martina Liana: Combines trend-forward designs with timeless pearl embellishments.
- Essense of Australia: Provides a variety of romantic styles with beautiful pearl details.
A pearl wedding dress offers a timeless and elegant choice for brides. Whether you opt for a simple pearl wedding dress or a lavishly embellished gown from one of our top designers, pearls add an element of sophistication and romance to your bridal look.
Book Your Kleinfeld Bridal Appointment
The Kleinfeld team can’t wait to welcome you into our showroom right in the heart of New York City! Schedule your Kleinfeld bridal appointment to find the perfect pearl wedding dress for you.
Looking for the ultimate “say yes!” experience? That’s the beauty of a luxury bridal salon! Explore our VIP offerings. Plus, see our Trunk Show Calendar to book your appointment during a special event that piques your interest. Finally, stay in the know! Follow us on Instagram for updates and tons of bridal inspiration.
Looking for more bridal advice? Check out more of our Bridal Guides located on Kleinfeld’s Bridal Blog: