A bride’s wedding dress is a symbol of her passage from the naive, springtime realm of girlhood to the fruitful, adult world of marriage and motherhood. The dress is also a marker of the status of her relationship, with wealthier women wearing more elaborate dresses than those of lesser means.
In addition to being a beautiful garment, the wedding dress is a powerful cultural artifact. The tradition of wearing white is so ingrained that even brides with non-white skin have opted for the pristine hue for their special day. However, it’s important for brides to listen to their own intuition and select a dress that makes them feel most confident. It’s also a good idea to choose a gown that suits the venue, weather, and activities of their wedding day.
While the traditional white dress is still popular, there is a movement towards more unique wedding attire. Many designers are using bridal gowns as a platform to promote ethically sourced materials, inclusivity, and sustainable fashion practices. Some designers are even embracing color, with brides opting to choose gowns in shades of blue and pink.
Wedding dresses have come a long way since Queen Victoria jettisons white from the global stage. Today, a variety of cultures celebrate nuptials in their own distinctive ways, from the rich traditions of Southeast Asia to the more formal, regal ceremonies of Africa. But despite the variety in customs, there are some common themes in wedding ceremonies and dresses, including the idea of crossing from one world to another, the act of committing to a lifelong bond, and the symbolic passing of virginity into matrimony.
A key part of the dress that ties all these elements together is the neckline. The shape of the neckline can make or break a wedding dress, from a simple sweetheart to a dramatic off-the-shoulder design. Similarly, sleeves can have a huge impact on the overall look of the gown, from short and simple to full and flowing. The hemline, or skirt, is also a big factor in the overall style of a dress. It can be a classic A-line to flatter the figure, a knee-length style to show off your shoes, or a floor-sweeping ballgown to wow guests at the reception.
If you’re planning to wear an heirloom accessory with your dress, like a veil or jewelry, bring it to each of your dress shopping appointments. That way, you can ensure that it complements the style of every dress you try on and fits properly. You’ll also want to test how the dress feels while you move in it. For example, if you’ll be kneeling during your ceremony or dancing at your reception, practice that position in the dress so that you know whether you’ll be comfortable doing it for hours on end. Finally, remember that hangers can be deceiving, so don’t write off a dress just because it doesn’t look quite right on the rack. Take a deep breath and keep trying until you find the perfect dress for your wedding.