Your wedding dress is one of the most important garments you’ll ever wear. It’s the one day when you get to feel like a queen while surrounded by your loved ones. But one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make when it comes to your wedding dress is what color it should be. The traditional color for wedding dresses has always been white, but when it comes to choosing a shade, many brides are opting for ivory. In this blog post, we’ll explore whether most brides wear white or ivory and offer some helpful tips on how to choose the perfect gown for your big day.
White vs. Ivory – What’s the Difference?
White and ivory are both classic choices for wedding gowns, but they do have some subtle differences. Pure white is often the brightest and the most striking shade of white, but it can be tricky to pull off. It works best for brides with cooler skin tones, as it can make warmer skin tones look yellowish or sallow.
On the other hand, ivory is a softer and warmer shade that can flatter a wider range of skin tones. It’s a more neutral shade that can complement different themes and aesthetics, from classic and elegant to modern and bohemian.
The History of White Wedding Dresses
The tradition of wearing white wedding dresses can be traced back to the Victorian era, when Queen Victoria wore a white gown for her marriage to Prince Albert in 1840. At the time, white was a symbol of purity and innocence, and it quickly became the color of choice for brides in the Western world.
However, it’s worth noting that not all brides could afford to wear a white dress at the time. White fabrics were expensive and difficult to maintain, so many brides opted for darker colors or for their best dress, regardless of the color.
The Rise of Ivory Wedding Dresses
In recent years, ivory has become an increasingly popular choice for wedding gowns. One reason for this is that ivory is more forgiving than white, as it doesn’t show dirt, stains, or yellowing as easily. It’s also a softer and more romantic shade that many brides find more flattering.
Another reason is that ivory can be easier to coordinate with other colors in your wedding. It can complement a wider range of bouquets, bridesmaid dresses, and décor styles. Plus, it’s a shade that looks stunning in photos and videos, as it can add a warm, dreamy glow to the overall look.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Wedding Dress Color
When it comes to choosing between white and ivory (or any other color, for that matter), there are several factors to keep in mind:
- Your skin tone: As mentioned earlier, white can make warmer skin tones look washed out, while ivory can balance them out. If you’re not sure which shade to choose, try on different dresses in natural lighting to see which one flatters you the most.
- Your wedding theme: If you have a specific color scheme or theme in mind for your wedding, consider how your dress will fit into it. A pure white dress can add a stark contrast to a colorful or rustic wedding, while an ivory dress can blend in more naturally.
- Your personal style: Ultimately, your wedding dress should reflect your own taste and personality. If you love the idea of a classic, formal wedding, then a white gown may be perfect for you. If you prefer a more laid-back, bohemian vibe, then an ivory dress with lace or fringe may be more your style.
Conclusion
So, do most brides wear white or ivory? The answer is that it depends on personal preference, cultural traditions, and fashion trends. While white is still a popular choice for brides, many are opting for ivory for its warmth, versatility, and photogenic appeal. Ultimately, what matters most is that you choose a dress that makes you feel beautiful, confident, and ready to say “I do.”
FAQ
Why do some brides not wear white?
For many years, the tradition of brides wearing white on their wedding day has been a common sight in most parts of the world. However, you might have come across brides who have opted for a different colored gown, such as cream, pink, blue or even black. The question then arises – why do some brides choose not to wear white?
It turns out that the preference for a white bridal gown is a relatively new phenomenon, dating back to the 19th century. Prior to that, brides usually wore their best dress, regardless of the color, for their wedding day. In fact, white was not even considered the color of happiness and celebration. Instead, it was associated with mourning and used predominantly for funerals. This is why not many brides wanted to wear white on their wedding day during the 1700s and 1800s.
However, the origin of brides wearing white date back to the 16th century, when Mary Queen of Scots wore a white gown to her wedding in 1558. She did it as a fashion statement, and it took almost three centuries for the tradition to become popular. Queen Victoria was the one who popularized the trend of wearing white on her wedding day in 1840, and it quickly became the norm for other brides to follow. The trend continued into the 20th century, with white wedding dresses becoming an essential part of wedding fashion.
In recent times, there have been a few reasons why brides choose not to follow the traditional white wedding gown. The first reason is that brides are now seeking more individuality in their fashion choices, and choosing a gown in a color that suits their style and personality. Moreover, many brides feel that white does not flatter their skin tone, and are opting for complementary colors. Also, non-white bridal dresses are becoming more popular as they are considered more versatile and can be worn on other occasions.
While the tradition of wearing a white gown for a wedding has become popular, it is no longer the only option for brides. As with many traditions, one’s individuality and preferences can override the norms, and for some brides, a non-white wedding gown is a better choice.