Elope in Style With These 20 Elegant Wedding Dresses Under $500

This is literally yoursummer of love and you get to make the rules *and* the plans for your big day. You’re tying the knot to your favorite human and you want to avoid all the hullabaloo that often comes with a traditional ceremony and reception. We get it. So no matter what your reasons for eloping may be — whether it's to save money, keep it small and simple, explore the world, or just get hitched ASAP — you absolutely don’t have to sacrifice looking your best in a dreamy wedding dress. The following gowns are gorgeous, affordable, and the best styles to wear at every type of elopement locale.

Elopement Chapel: For a Reno or Vegas elopement, choose a bridal outfit as bold as you are. Opt for edgy peekaboo cuts, sequins, and plunging necklines that work for flashy locales like this BHLDN Jill Stuart Mara Jumpsuit ($280) showstopper. For more options, swipe on.

Urban Destination: Paris, Barcelona, Bangkok — just name your dream locale, plan a few simple deets, and book those tickets STAT! And in the spirit of wanderlust and true love, it's essential that you find a gown to match your outgoing and adventurous nature. Keep it short and simple like the Keepsake Shine Dress ($235) and maybe with just a bit of playful flair — like asymmetrical ties, ruffled detailing, or a contrasting belt. Want more? Click through.

Backyard Garden: Nothing compares to the simplicity of a backyard ceremony surrounded by an abundance of colorful, living plants. Couple up in romantic fashion amongst ivy and roses, in flowing cuts, and flirtatious fabrics a la this Rachel Zoe Estelle Cutout Maxi Dress ($495). Complete the look with a bloom-adorned, boho crown and some gorgeous yet very wearable earrings. Keep scrolling for more picks.

Beach: You don't have to wait for the honeymoon to sink your toes into deliciously warm white sand. Exchange vows with the sun at your back and the sound of waves crashing, because how much more perfect can it really get?! Channel your inner goddess in easy *and* fairytale-style gowns — like the Reformation Verbena Dress ($328) — that perfectly pair with bare feet, tanned skin, and beachy waves. Want a different style? Click through.

City Hall: A traditional, no-frills approach will lead you to your local city hall where the legal magic *actually* happens. Taking a more conventional route definitely has its benefits, like cheap travel, spontaneity, and simplicity — all of which we love. And because minimalism is the name of the city hall wedding game, go with something like the Black Halo Juma Two-Piece Dress ($345) — a classically cut frock that declares sophistication, grace, and simplicity. Or try one of the other silhouettes on the slides that follow.