The wedding dress has long been a symbol of love, devotion and purity. But as the world embraces same-sex marriage, civil partnerships and feminism, wedding dresses are changing to reflect the modern bride’s unique style. Today’s brides are looking for gowns that are as meaningful as they are beautiful, whether that means incorporating a piece of their mother’s dress or choosing a color that holds emotional significance.
In the era of Vera Wang, slender lines and form-fitting silhouettes were all the rage, but these weren’t the only styles that made bridal history. The ’90s saw the rise of romantic, floral embellishments, asymmetrical designs and full-skirted gowns that allowed brides to show off their curves. Strapless, figure-hugging dresses also started to become a wedding fashion staple, with brides pairing them with slicked back updos for the ultimate bridal look.
Wedding dress fabrics play a big part in the overall look and feel of your dress, with different materials creating distinct textures, colours and movement. Some cling to your body and hug your curves, while others skim over your skin, adding a light, flowing effect. Some fabrics are crisp and sharp, with others soft, warm and lustrous. Your season, personal style and the theme of your wedding are all factors that should inform your choice of fabric, so take some time to think about these questions when you’re shopping.
If you’re considering a short or longer train length, it’s worth considering how your wedding will flow. Longer trains can be a bit cumbersome and may get caught up in the wind, whereas shorter options, like sweep or watteau trains, graze the floor for a more relaxed, less formal look. You’ll also need to consider if you want a bustle, which are discreet hooks or buttons sewn into the back of your skirt that make it easier to move and walk in your dress.
In addition to considering your personal style, fabric, neckline and waistline, you should think about your budget when picking out a wedding dress. The cost of a dress can quickly add up, and some rental companies charge additional fees for shipping, insurance and late returns. It’s also important to confirm how long you’ll be able to keep the dress, as returning it early will incur a fee.
The wedding gown is not just a garment, but also a tapestry of emotions and memories. Many women choose to wear the dress that they have worn on their wedding day, which is often a garment with significant meaning for them. Some women even choose to hold onto their wedding dress after the ceremony, which is known as a ‘gown’.
During and immediately following the Middle Ages, a wedding was not just about two people but could be a union between family, business or countries. For this reason, it was important for nobility and higher social classes to wear wedding gowns that reflected their status and wealth. White dresses became de rigueur in the 19th century, with Victorian ideals of love and purity cementing this as the only acceptable colour for a bride’s dress.