Finding a wedding dress is no simple feat, and that is especially true when searching for a gown that strikes a chord between a traditional bridal look and adding just a touch of sexy. If you’re looking to add a modern hint of va-va-voom to your wedding day look, a slit is a subtle yet striking way to do so—and still have the best of both worlds!
Besides changing into an entirely different dress to give you a sultrier look, a dress with a slit also provides an incredible opportunity to showcase your killer legs, and of course, the shoes you hand-picked for the day. And if you’re like us, we can’t deny our love for a statement shoe moment! Plus, many wedding dress options have the ability to show as much or as little leg as you would like, meaning there’s no need to worry about too much thigh at the ceremony!
A few of our favorite designers to shop these leg-bearing gowns include Berta, Galia Lahav, and Martina Liana. Sites such as Net-A-Porter, Reformation, and MatchesFashion also provide an array of irresistible options ideal for the big day, beyond—or any other pre-wedding celebrations!
Ahead, our 18 favorite wedding dresses with slits for every style and budget.
Best Sparkle: Berta Caesarea Collection Look 23-13 Dress
Size Range: 36-44 | Material: Shimmer-infused tulle | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
Fashion-forward, iconic, and utterly mesmerizing—we could go on and on! This leg-bearing, shimmer-infused beauty by Berta simply speaks for itself.
For a Garden Wedding: Viktor & Rolf Draped Flower Jacquard Style VRM265 Dress
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Material: Jacquard | Shipping: Dependent on bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
Between the strapless neckline, bow detailing, and slit, this floral jacquard look is nothing short of perfection. This gown would look beautiful at a garden wedding, no doubt!
Best Satin Dress: Ines Di Santo Anaisa Dress
Size Range: Inquire with bridal retailer | Material: Inquire with bridal retailer | Shipping: Dependent on bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
For a sultry gown that oozes style, choose Ines Di Santo’s Anaisa dress. Bonus: You can add a detachable cape, too.
Most Effortless: Reformation Rya Silk Dress
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Silk charmeuse | Shipping: Free standard U.S. shipping | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery
Chic and effortless, this stunner speaks for itself. The gorgeous sheen of this silk charmeuse fabric exudes timeless luxury that is absolutely perfect for the classic bride.
Best Plunging Neckline: Tadashi Shoji Dawson Gown
Size Range: 00-26W | Material: Stretch crepe | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery
This gorgeous ivory stretch crepe gown features a plunging V-neckline perfect for the daring bride. It also boasts a twist detail that follows a crisp slit.
For a Beach Wedding: Galvan Ellipse Cutout Satin-Trimmed Jersey Gown
Size Range: FR34-FR44 | Material: Satin-trimmed jersey | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 28 days of delivery
Be the ultimate beach bride in this Galvan number. And in our opinion, this gown would look even better barefoot in the sand.
Best Print: Rebecca Schoneveld Evemarie Gown
Size Range: 00-30 | Material: Embossed taffeta | Shipping: Dependent on bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
Not ready to compromise your bridal moment for a sultry slit and a print? We’ve got you covered with this gold embossed dream.
Most Sleek: Galia Lahav Carmen Dress
Size Range: 32-46 | Material: Crepe and beaded illusion | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
The Carmen gown’s thigh-high slit reveals a sheer embellished skirt. Adding a glamorously sexy twist to an ultra sleek silhouette, this stunner is calling all brides seeking a sexy and minimalist look.
Best Halter: Azazie Ellis Dress
Size Range: WD0-WD30 | Material: Stretch crepe | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of purchase for standard sizes
Release your inner Hollywood starlet with this halter-style fit-and-flare gown. Effortless and glam all rolled into one, this beauty is a no-brainer.
Most Mod/60s Inspired: Self Portrait Pleated Crochet Floral Maxi Dress
Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Crochet lace and poly blend | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Returns accepted within guidelines
Looking for a vintage mod feel? This pleated maxi skirt with crochet detailing offers just a peek of leg with a hint of a slit.
For the Modern Bride: Martina Liana Style 1453 Glamorous Strapless Silk Satin Sheath Wedding Dress
Size Range: 2-28 | Material: Silk satin | Shipping: Dependent on bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
This luxurious silk satin gown effortlessly glides across the body oh-so-perfectly. We’re obsessed with the minimal yet intentional details, like the exposed boning, fabric-covered buttons, and irresistible draping, that add a modern touch.
Best Wrap Dress: Reformation Winslow Dress
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Georgette | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 30 days of delivery
For a dress that exudes effortless, this wrap dress offers a change of pace. With this style, you can make the slit as open as you prefer.
Most Romantic: Galia Lahav Luce Dress
Size Range: 34-48 | Material: Tulle, lace, and 3D floral embellishment | Shipping: Inquire with bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
You’ll appear to float down the aisle in this ultra dreamy Galia Lahav gown. Featuring intricate lace and 3D floral embellishment cascading throughout soft tulle, this piece is nothing short of pure romance.
Best Statement Sleeve: Karen Willis Holmes Taryn Camille Gown
Size Range: 0-14 | Material: Mikado | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 7 days of delivery
A classic full skirt, ultra fitted bodice, and eye-catching statement sleeve make up the Taryn Camille gown. Creating the ideal juxtaposition between timeless and edgy, this stunning number is calling the names of all chic brides.
For the Glam Bride: Christian Siriano The Alexa Gown
Size Range: 2-28 | Material: Satin | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 10 days of delivery
For a gown that feels straight off the red carpet, wow all your guests with this ruched gown that dares to bare. Need we say more?
Best Party Dress: Retrofête Violet Asymmetric Lace-Up Sequined Stretch Tulle Gown
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Stretchy white sequined tulle | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Free returns accepted within 28 days of delivery
Shimmer the night away in this glimmering little number. Stretchy white sequined tulle effortlessly hugs the body for a seamless and sexy fit.
Most Ethereal: Martina Liana Style 1497 Luxe Strapless A-Line Wedding Dress
Size Range: 2-28 | Material: Tulle and organza | Shipping: Dependent on bridal retailer | Return policy: Inquire with bridal retailer
This is the epitome of an ethereal bridal dream. You’re bound to turn heads in this layered organza gown featuring a modern corset bodice, thigh-high slit, and detachable sleeves.
Best Architectural Details: Maison Signore Aida Dress
Size Range: 38-58 | Material: Mikado | Shipping: Inquire with Kleinfeld Bridal | Return policy: Inquire with Kleinfeld Bridal
This is what we like to call striking simplicity at its finest. The Aida gown’s voluminous mikado skirt and architectural neckline is sure to be remembered.
What to Look for in a Wedding Dress with a Slit
Whether you’re choosing a gown with a slit for better mobility, to have an iconic shoe moment, or to make a subtly sexy statement, we’re here to give you the inside scoop of what to know before saying “yes” to your leg-bearing wedding dress! Most importantly, ask your bridal consultant specific questions about the slit while trying on the sample. Keep in mind that if the sample dress is too big or small, it may influence the look of the slit or where it falls on your leg. Similarly, you may want to consider adding snap closures to the slit opening for a more conservative look during your ceremony. It not only adds a sense of modesty if this is an aspect you prioritize, but it also adds versatility to your bridal look throughout the big day. Now, for our favorite part—the shoes. We’re all about a bold shoe moment, so don’t hold back! Whether it be bows, rhinestones, or a lace-up detail, let your personality and bridal style shine through.
Do wedding dresses need to have slits?
Not at all! Typically, brides who want a more modern, sexier look will choose a gown with a slit but the choice is entirely up to you. There are certainly plenty of options without slits, too.
Can you close a wedding dress with slit?
Yes! It is definitely possible with some but not with all gowns. If you would like to do so, be sure to consult with a seamstress or alterations specialist first.
Can you add a slit to a wedding dress?
Sometimes! This depends on the fabric, construction, and the seam placement of the gown. It may also be possible as a customization with the designer. Before purchasing the dress, inquire with your bridal consultant or designer to see if it is possible.
Why Trust Us / About the Author
Contributing writer Belle Bakst is a professional freelance writer with expertise in fashion. Previously serving positions in the fashion departments of Real Simple and Harper’s Bazaar, her work has appeared on sites such as StyleCaster, Real Simple, and Harper’s Bazaar in addition to her work with Brides.