Elegant and Earth-Friendly: 15 Sustainable Dresses for Weddings to Rent or Buy

From Weddings to Premieres, These will have you ready for your close-up

Spring is in full on flower. Social events and weddings keep popping up on your calendar. Now’s the perfect time to exchange those lived in lounge about sweats for a dazzling dress. For if fashion is the cultural signifier we believe it is, it’s time to trot out, choose or find the ideal dress to compete with those Spring blooms.  We are here to help sort through the dizzying array of exuberant possibilities.

And while environmental concerns aren’t going away, we can make an impact by dressing responsibly. Whether you’re a bridesmaid or a guest, we will show how you can be the center of the spotlight with different ethical options and a vast variety of sustainable dresses.

While our specific selection shows rental and responsible new brands, we also encourage vintage. The RealReal and Vestiaire are two of our favorite online destinations. The Manhattan Vintage Show, other NYC vintage boutiques or your local vintage are other great options!

All products featured on No Kill Mag are independently selected by our writers or editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Rented

Rent the Runway

Formal dresses can be expensive, so renting is a refreshing alternative. This site stocks exquisite finery and even offers specific packages tailored to the bride and bridesmaids!

Farm Rio Tropical Shine Dress

Perfect for transitional weather, this long-sleeve chiffon dress from FARM Rio is sure to turn heads! A dramatic floral print and waist cutouts make this dress a standout for spring. 


3.1 Phillip Lim

For an evening affair you can’t go wrong with this airy gown by 3.1 Phillip Lim. It features a waist cutouts anchored by a ring detail and plunging neckline.


DELFI Collective Solie Dress

Can we say flattering? Accordion-inspired pleats create eye-catching movement in this one-shoulder dress by DELFI Collective. A side cut-out and slit up the side adds to the magic.


ML Monique Lhuillier

Get crowned the best-dressed guest in this floral lace ML Monique Lhuillier dress. Raspberry and fuschia flowers overlap in a beautiful lace pattern.


Sabina Musayev Amadea Dress

Sweet AND sexy! This whimsical chiffon tiered dress will make you feel like a modern-day Cinderella. Complete with a corset back and keyhole details, the Amadea dress is perfect for a daytime wedding or spring cocktail party. 


Coliseum Maxi Dress

This gorgeous maxi dress by Staud screams spring is in session. It has a fitted top with side cutouts and a modern empire dress cut that won’t constrict you. And since it’s made from linen it is guaranteed to keep you cool wherever you decide to wear it!


AMUR Martine Dress

This effortlessly flirty piece by AMUR combines puff sleeves and a bold print in a dress that is perfect for your next garden party! Made of linen, you’re sure to stay cool and comfortable while still looking fabulous. 


Obando Collective Honeycomb Gown

Ring in spring with this gorgeous gown from Obando Collective! Flowy pleats make this dress perfect for a seasonal celebration – and will have you looking like a ray of sunshine!


CAROLINE CONSTAS Brigitta Gown

Dressed up or down, this floral Caroline Constas trumpet skirt gown is perfect for your upcoming spring soiree. The cotton fabric ensures you’ll be comfortable AND chic while twirling on the dance floor!


New Dresses

Doen Sohana Dress

In an allover lace, the ‘30s-inspired Sohana Dress features a fitted silhouette and a skirt that hits just above the ankle. Dainty buttons with elastic loops extend down the front, while shirring at the sleeves lends volume. Designed to let the light shine through, the Sohana can be paired with a slip for additional coverage—or worn over a bikini on a warm-weather getaway.


Doen Oliana Dress

In an intricate floral silk georgette, the Oliana Dress features a high neckline, an empire waist with subtle shirring, and drapey dolman sleeves. An easy-fitting bodice gives way to an ankle-grazing skirt adorned with front princess seams. 


Whimsy and Row Danielle Dress

model in Danielle dress by whimsy and row

This versatile dress can be worn as a halter or tied in bows – and it’s as comfortable as it is gorgeous! Made of tencel and cupro, this dress is a beautiful and sustainable choice for your next wedding. 


Whimsy and Row Freya Dress 

Model in Freya dress by whimsy and row

There’s nothing we love more than a slip dress, especially when it’s made of vegan silk! The Freya dress is as stunning as it is sustainable, and can be dressed up or down for all your spring happenings. 


Sara Slip Dress 

sara dress by amour vert

Who can say no to a simple black slip dress, especially for warmer weather! Wear the Sara dress as a perfect one-and-done party piece or layer it over a tee for a more casual daytime look.


Danielle Dress

Keep it classic in this springy pink floral dress! Complete with delicate ruffle details, a peek-a-boo keyhole at the waistline, and best of all – pockets! – this dress by Amour Vert is THE moment for spring.

–Sara Marsh


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