11 Understated & Elegant White Wedding Cakes

Trends

Collectively, the wedding-day dreams of couples seem to be becoming more about intimacy amongst beloved guests and less about pomp and circumstance with each passing day. Given the present state of the American economy, the encroachment of social media onto every aspect of our lives, and the growing divide between those who live flashy lifestyles and can afford to host over-the-top weddings and those who are more focused on paying off student loan debt, this shift seems like a perfectly organic one.

In light of the movement toward smaller, experience-focused affairs, the recent influx of simple and elegant white wedding cakes popping up on our computer screens makes perfect sense. In addition to coming in at a much lower price point, less elaborate cakes also tend to be far more edible than their heavily ornamented counterparts. Practicality aside, the aesthetic of a minimal cake can be just as striking, if not more so, than a colorfully ornamented one, especially when it comes to rustic and vintage nuptials. Keep scrolling to get inspired by some of our favorites!

1. A three-tiered white cake is gorgeously romantic when topped with muted floral and succulent accents (above). Cake by The Butter End Cakery

understated white wedding cakes

2. The simplest white cake paired with matching cupcakes wrapped in silver
foil adds just the right amount of elegance to a rustic dessert table. Photo by Leah Verwey Photography; Cakes by The Cake Lady

understated white wedding cakes floral accents

3
& 4. Hand-frosted one-tier cakes dressed up with florals
, foliage and
vintage cake stands are a dreamy union of elegance and whimsy. Left: Photo by Crystal Genes Photography; Cake by le Cookie M0nkey; Right: Photo by Erinn J Hale Photography; Cake by Baked.

understated white wedding cakes

5. A two-tiered white cake is anything but boring when surrounded by cupcakes and vintage details. Photos by Kimberly Kay Photography; Cake by The Cake Lady

understated white wedding cakes pink floral accents

6. Tiny pearls and touches of pink and white roses dress up a lovely and romantic two-tier off-white number. Photos by Meghan Klein of Floataway Studios; Cake by Heidi Sittig

understated white wedding cakes

7, 8 & 9. Texture and crumb toppings add interest to these standalone white cakes. Left: Photo by O'Malley Photographers; Cake by Rosario Resort & Spa; Middle: Photo by Carly Bish Photography; Right: Photo by Ryan Flynn Photography; Cake by Herban Feast Catering

10 & 11. Subtle flowers and polka dots combine both whimsy and romance. Left & Right: Photo & Cake by Superfine Bakery