Wedding dresses have been around for centuries, and although the styles have evolved over time, one thing has remained constant – the expectation that a bride will wear a white dress. While many brides still choose to wear white on their wedding day, there are others who are starting to buck the trend and opt for dresses that aren’t traditionally bridal. But can you really wear a pure white wedding dress? We’re here to explore this question and help you decide what’s right for you and your upcoming nuptials.
The History of White Wedding Dresses
Before we dive into whether or not you can wear a white wedding dress, it’s important to understand why they became the norm in the first place. The tradition of wearing a white dress on your wedding day is said to date back to the Victorian era, when Queen Victoria wore a white gown to her wedding in 1840. At the time, white was not a common choice for a wedding dress, but Queen Victoria’s choice was seen as a statement of her status, since white fabric was expensive, and difficult to clean and maintain.
Over time, white wedding dresses became more popular, and by the early 20th century, they were the norm for brides in Western cultures. The symbolic meaning of white – purity, innocence, and virginity – became associated with weddings, but this is not necessarily the case for all cultures. In fact, in some cultures, wearing a white wedding dress is seen as a bad omen, and brides opt for other colors instead.
The Modern Take on White Wedding Dresses
Despite the tradition of white wedding dresses, more and more brides are choosing to forgo this tradition and choose a dress that is not white. Some brides choose alternative colors that still feel bridal, such as blush, champagne, or even black. Others opt for more non-traditional options, such as jumpsuits, separates, or even pantsuits.
But what if you still love the idea of a white wedding dress, but you’re worried about the symbolism, or about being perceived as old-fashioned? The good news is that there are many ways to put a modern spin on a classic white dress. For example, you might choose a dress with a modern silhouette, such as a high-low hem or a dramatic train. You could also add a pop of color through your accessories or shoes, or choose a dress with a subtle pattern or texture to add visual interest.
The Bottom Line
So, can you wear a pure white wedding dress? Absolutely! While there is certainly a long-standing tradition of brides wearing white dresses, this is ultimately a personal decision, and there is no one right or wrong way to dress for your wedding day. Whether you choose a classic white gown or something more unconventional, what matters most is that you feel comfortable and confident in your decision.
At the end of the day, your wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment to your partner, and the dress you wear should reflect that. So whether you choose a pure white dress or something totally unexpected, make sure it feels like you, and you can’t go wrong.
FAQ
What kind of white can you wear to a wedding?
When it comes to attending weddings, dressing appropriately is crucial. While guests have a range of outfit options, there are certain rules to follow, especially regarding color choices. When it comes to white, it has traditionally been viewed as the bride’s exclusive color. However, as times are changing, more and more people are asking if it’s acceptable to wear white to a wedding.
According to the Emily Post Institute, it’s acceptable to wear white, as long as it doesn’t “distract from the bride or her attendant’s dresses.” In other words, if the bride is wearing white, you should avoid wearing a full white dress or outfit. Instead, you should go for an outfit that incorporates white tastefully.
For instance, try to opt for colorful, cocktail-length dresses with white lace or embroidery overlay. These dresses give a playful yet elegant feel and avoid the impression of trying to upstage the bride. You can also consider wearing a white blazer, pants, or skirt with a colorful top for a daytime wedding.
It’s essential to remember that the focus should stay on the bride, and you’re a guest. Let the bride shine on her special day, and dress appropriately and tastefully. It’s also a good idea to check the wedding invitation for any dress codes the couple may have included.
Going against social norms can often make the guests feel uncomfortable. Therefore, before you wear all-white to a wedding, take a moment to think about how it might make others feel and if it’s appropriate. While there’s no one rule for what to wear to a wedding, it’s essential to be considerate and respectful of the day’s events.
Why don t you wear white after Labor Day?
Wearing white after Labor Day is a fashion rule that has been around for many decades, but it can be quite confusing to many people, especially as fashion trends continue to evolve over time. The idea of not wearing white after Labor Day can be traced back to the early 1900s when those who were well-to-do often favored lightweight, bright clothing—white linen suits and breezy dresses. However, as the summer season ended and the weather became cooler, these lightweight clothes were replaced with warmer fabrics, such as wool, flannel, and tweed.
The idea behind this fashion rule was that wearing white after Labor Day meant you were someone who had the means to have end-of-summer vacations. Wearing your whites beyond Labor Day was just, well… showing off. It was a way for the elite to distinguish themselves from the working-class who couldn’t afford to go on vacation or have a summer wardrobe separate from their other clothes. In fact, wearing white after Labor Day was considered an act of rebellion against the established social norms of the time.
The reasoning behind why this rule of not wearing white after Labor Day continues to persist is still up for debate. Some fashion experts believe that it serves as a reminder that summer fashion is not appropriate for the colder months of the year, while others argue that it has lost its relevance with time. Nowadays, many people wear white throughout the year and designers have incorporated white into their fall and winter collections.
The fashion rule of not wearing white after Labor Day has its origins in social class distinction and the seasonal changes in fashion. While some continue to follow this rule religiously, others choose to embrace the versatility of white throughout the year. fashion is a form of self-expression and personal preference, so it is up to each individual to decide whether or not to follow this outdated fashion rule.
What colors are too close to white for a wedding?
Choosing the right color scheme for your wedding is an essential part of the planning process. While many people opt for traditional white or ivory, there are plenty of other colors to choose from to make your special day truly unique. However, it is important to remember that some colors are considered too close to white and should be avoided in order to prevent confusion or unintentional clashes.
Champagne, for example, is a popular color choice for bridesmaid dresses and wedding decor. While it may seem like a subtle difference, this color can easily be mistaken for white, especially in certain lighting conditions. Similarly, beige, cream, and other light neutral tones can also create confusion, leading guests to wonder whether they should have worn white themselves.
It is important to remember that white is a symbolic color that traditionally belongs to the bride. By wearing a color too close to white, guests risk taking attention away from the bride and inadvertently causing distraction or tension. Additionally, using colors too close to white in decor or on the wedding cake may cause these items to blend into the background, making them less effective in creating a memorable experience.
If you want to incorporate light colors into your wedding, consider colors like blush, pale pink, light blue, lavender, or mint green. These colors add a soft, romantic touch to your palette without the risk of confusion. Alternatively, you can use white sparingly in combination with other colors to create a striking contrast. For example, white flowers against a backdrop of rich jewel tones can create a beautiful effect.
It is important to remember that ultimately, the choice of wedding colors is a personal one. While there are some guidelines to follow to prevent potential issues, your wedding should reflect your own personal style and preferences. With a little thought and planning, you can create a beautiful and memorable event that will be cherished for years to come.
