They Agreed—5 Dresses Worn by Real Brides for Their Engagement Photos
Recently, it seems like every time I open Instagram, someone new is showing off an engagement ring. From celebrity proposals to close friends sharing their "We said yes!" moments, I've officially stepped into that life stage—engagement season is in full effect. As a fashion editor and dress lover, I immediately focus on what the bride-to-be is wearing. Let's be honest: The ideal dresses for engagement photos (and the following engagement party) can set the tone for the wedding ahead. Whether you're envisioning a picturesque beach shoot, a cozy at-home session, or something stylish in the city, your engagement photo dress deserves as much consideration as the ring. I discovered five real brides (including some celebrities) to share what they wore when they said yes. From lovely halterneck styles to understated white dresses, these are the best dresses for engagement photos that look as great in pictures as they do for making a commitment. Ready to find your perfect engagement shoot dress? Check out all five selections—plus more engagement dresses I currently adore—below.
It’s no surprise that L.A.'s cool girl Claudia Sulewski opted for Réalisation for her special engagement to partner Finneas after dating for seven years. The chosen dress—the Réalisation deep-V-neck Eva Dress—features a delicate, subtle floral print without being too old-fashioned. It looks stunning during sunset, making it perfect for an It-girl engagement photo shoot.
Shop Sulewski's dress:
- Réalisation
- The Eva Dress in Passion
Check out more red dresses:
- By Malene Birger: Marciella Stretch-Cotton Maxi Dress
- Shein: Ruffled Layered Sundress
I may be a bit biased since this is my engagement-shoot dress, but I adored the look of my secondhand shirred Mara Hoffman dress due to its stretchy material, open back, and importantly, long sleeves. As I got engaged in early spring, I knew I wanted a long-sleeve dress to keep warm during my engagement photos. Even though I knew the exact date of my engagement, it didn’t diminish the surprise. Choosing a dress I truly loved helped me seize the occasion and the countless photos I anticipated taking. If you have the luxury of knowing the timing, select a dress that makes you look and feel your best, regardless of style.
Shop my dress:
- Check out more long-sleeve dresses:
- Stone Cold Fox X Revolve: Frankie Midi Dress
- Sir: Milesi Twisted Jersey and Satin Gown
- Simkhai: Ornella Asymmetric Flap Midi Dress
It was the post that sent shockwaves online and the dress that quickly sold out. Yes, I'm talking about Taylor Swift's engagement to Travis Kelce and her photo shoot dress. While Swift's outfit may have been unintended, it felt effortless, relaxed, and completely her—a simple smocked halterneck dress with an A-line silhouette.
Shop Swift's dress:
- Polo Ralph Lauren: Striped Silk-Blend Dress
Explore more halter dresses:
- Faithfull the Brand: Marais Midi Dress
- Hill House Home: The Fleur Midi Dress
You certainly don’t have to wear white for your engagement photo shoot. When Bella Gerard was shopping for outfits last fall, she felt uncertain about whether her choice was bridal enough. "I tried it on and fell in love. But could I pull off a non-white look? I bought it as a backup and worried about regretting going yellow for the occasion," Gerard shared in her B List Substack newsletter. I recall encouraging her back then that, yes, butter yellow could work, and the photos confirm it. Sometimes, opting for something a little fun and unexpected for your engagement shoot dress is the best choice.
Shop Gerard's dress:
Check out more butter-yellow dresses:
- Reformation: Lilibeth Silk Dress
- Rotate: Embellished Strapless Gown
- ZARA: Satin Effect Foulard Dress
- MINKPINK: Ophelia Ruched Midi Dress
Wearing a white dress for your engagement photo shoot holds a special significance—it’s the first time someone dons white as a bride-to-be. If you have a feeling like my friend Sophia Sanders did, you're likely to choose your favorite casual white dress that won't raise suspicion for the person planning to propose. "I wanted something cute, subtle, and classy," Sanders explains. "I wanted to feel girly, so I paired it with my favorite cardigan and Madewell red flats to avoid looking too formal if things didn’t happen." Thankfully for her, they did.
Shop Sanders's dress:
Check out more white dresses:
- Staud: Freda Ruched Silk Maxi Dress
- Deme by Gabriella: Isla Long-Sleeve Draped Maxi Dress
- St. Agni: Exclusive Knit and Cotton Maxi Dress
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