The traditional white wedding dress is no longer the default choice for modern brides. Designers like Ashish Gupta are leading a movement towards more expressive and colorful bridal attire. Gupta’s debut bridal collection features vibrant designs, including a multicolored beaded halterneck and a “confetti” veil, catering to brides who prioritize personality over tradition. Similarly, David’s Bridal has partnered with Marchesa to release a colorful range of gowns, including styles worn on the red carpet.
This shift reflects a broader cultural trend where brides seek to express their individuality, and we love to see it, though as wedding planners who were encouraging couples to “let their freak flag fly” from our inception back in 2010, we’re quick to point out this is a long-needed shift in the wedding industry. Pinterest reports a 240% increase in searches for “unique wedding dresses,” indicating a growing interest in non-traditional bridal wear. Fashion editor Harriet Hall, who married in a vividly pink Molly Goddard dress, exemplifies this trend as a rejection of outdated patriarchal symbolism. Interestingly, this modern movement echoes pre-1840s wedding customs when dresses were commonly red, blue, or black.
If you’re considering a unique wedding dress, here are some of our tips:
Express Yourself: Don’t feel confined to traditional white gowns if they don’t make you smile. Choose a dress that reflects your personality and style.
Explore Options: Consider designers who offer colorful and unique collections to find a gown that resonates with you. If nontraditional is exciting to you, but also too intimidating, consider a dress change: you can do a traditional gown for your ceremony, and at some point in the evening, change into a “fun” dress for the reception before you tear up the dance floor.
Embracing non-traditional wedding dresses allows brides to celebrate their individuality and create a statement on their special day, which is the best thing you can do to create a memorable wedding day.
