Rhiannon Hendricks
Wearing a white dress at a wedding is a long-standing tradition that has been questioned in recent years. While some people choose to uphold this custom, others view it as an opportunity to break free from tradition and express their personal style. This has sparked a debate about whether wearing a white dress as a bride is overrated or not. With the evolution of fashion and changing societal norms, individuals are exploring a range of colours and styles for their wedding attire, challenging the conventional choice of a white wedding dress.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wedding dress tradition | The tradition of wearing a white wedding dress began with Queen Victoria in 1840. |
| Reasoning | White dresses were a luxury item, signalling that the wearer could afford a dress that would show stains and would be difficult to wash. |
| Guest attire | It is generally considered a faux pas for guests to wear white to a wedding, especially long, lacy dresses that resemble a bridal gown. |
| Exceptions | Some sources suggest that guests can wear white if it is specifically requested by the couple or if the dress has a print that includes white. |
| Alternatives | Brides may choose to wear a coloured wedding dress, such as purple, black, or a non-white traditional dress. |
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What You'll Learn
The tradition of wearing white wedding dresses
Over time, the colour white has become synonymous with bridal attire, with guests often advised to avoid wearing white or similar hues to a wedding. This unwritten rule aims to prevent anyone from being mistaken for the bride, who traditionally wears white. However, some modern brides opt for alternative colours or non-traditional styles, reflecting their unique personalities and preferences.
The choice to wear a white wedding dress is influenced by various factors, including personal taste, cultural norms, and the desire to follow traditions. While some brides choose to embrace the classic elegance of white, others may prefer to make a statement with a colourful or unconventional dress. Ultimately, the decision rests with the bride, and there is room for flexibility and personal expression.
Although white wedding dresses are a longstanding tradition, some critics argue that they are overrated or unnecessary. They suggest that weddings can be an opportunity to break free from conventions and embrace individual style. Additionally, the exclusivity and expense associated with white wedding dresses may contribute to the perception of them being overrated.
Despite the varying opinions, the white wedding dress remains a classic choice for brides worldwide. It symbolises purity, elegance, and tradition, holding a special place in the hearts of many. Whether a bride chooses to wear white, ivory, or any other colour, the most important aspect is that she feels confident, beautiful, and true to herself on her special day.
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The problem with wearing white as a guest
The problem with wearing white as a wedding guest is that it is generally considered a breach of etiquette and may cause offence to the bride and other guests.
The tradition of wearing white at weddings began with Queen Victoria, who chose a white satin gown for her wedding to Prince Albert in 1840. Photographs of the event were widely published, and brides began copying Victoria's style, wearing white to their own weddings. As such, white is now considered 'the bride's colour' for the day, and wearing it as a guest could be seen as an attempt to upstage the bride or encroach on her moment in the spotlight.
Some people argue that this tradition is silly and that, as long as the outfit doesn't resemble a wedding dress, it shouldn't matter. However, the general consensus is that wearing white as a wedding guest is a faux pas and should be avoided. This is especially true for long, lacy dresses, or any outfit that could be considered 'bridal' in appearance.
If a guest is unsure about their outfit choice, it is recommended that they add a pop of colour, such as a bright belt or statement jewellery, to move away from the traditional 'bridal' look. Ultimately, the couple getting married sets the dress code, and if they specifically request that guests wear white, then it is acceptable to do so.
While some people may be happy to break with tradition and wear whatever they like to a wedding, it is generally considered more respectful to avoid wearing white and instead find other ways to express personal style within the boundaries of wedding guest fashion.
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How to wear white without upstaging the bride
Wearing white to a wedding has been considered taboo for over a century, with the colour and its closest relatives—like ivory and cream—traditionally being reserved for the bride alone. However, the rise in popularity of coloured wedding dresses and bridesmaids in matching white has made it more acceptable for guests to wear white.
If you're set on wearing white, there are some guidelines you can follow to ensure you're not upstaging the bride:
- Avoid full-length or floor-length white dresses, as well as maxi dresses or skirts, that could be mistaken for a bridal gown. Opt for something over the knee or mid-length instead.
- Stay away from bridal fabrics and silhouettes, such as chiffon, lace, tulle, and A-line skirts. Instead, choose a dress with a distinctive shape and structure, such as asymmetrical lines and edging.
- Use white as a base for your dress rather than the singular colour. This can be done by choosing a monochrome dress with a black pattern or colour block.
- If you want to wear a white dress, try to break it up with a bright pop of colour like a belt, earrings, or chunky statement jewellery.
- Avoid updo hairstyles if wearing white, and instead opt for a hairstyle that is more casual and modern.
- Check the invitation for any mention of a specific dress code or colour scheme. If the couple has requested that guests wear white, then it is acceptable to do so.
Remember, the most important thing to consider when choosing an outfit for a wedding is to respect the couple's wishes and avoid upstaging the bride.
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The bride's prerogative to dictate the dress code
It is generally considered a faux pas for anyone other than the bride to wear a white dress to a wedding. This tradition is said to have originated with Queen Victoria, who wore a white dress when she married Prince Albert in 1840. Brides began copying her style, and white became a popular choice for wedding gowns.
Today, the bride typically dictates the dress code for her wedding, and it is her prerogative to decide whether she wants to uphold this tradition or not. While some brides may be more relaxed about their guests' attire, others may specifically request that white attire be worn, or that guests avoid wearing white.
If the bride has not made her preference clear, it is generally advisable to avoid wearing white to a wedding, especially in the form of a wedding dress or a dress with bridal elements like lace. Guests can instead opt for colourful dresses with white elements or prints, or add a pop of colour to their outfit with accessories.
Ultimately, the bride's wishes should be respected, and if she has expressed a desire for a particular dress code, guests should adhere to it. It is her special day, and she should be able to shine without worrying about being upstaged by her guests.
While some may consider the tradition of the white wedding dress overrated or outdated, it remains a popular choice for brides who want to feel like a traditional bride on their wedding day.
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Alternatives to wearing a white wedding dress
There are many alternatives to wearing a white wedding dress. Firstly, it is important to remember that the bride is in charge of her own fashion sense and can choose any wedding dress that suits her style, flatters her silhouette, and makes her feel awesome.
If you don't want to stray too far from the traditional white dress, you could opt for a soft off-white or beige dress. To make it feel less traditional, you could choose a short dress or a delicate lace dress with exquisite detailing. You could also add a pop of colour to a shorter dress with coloured petticoats or statement shoes.
If you don't want to wear a dress at all, you could choose a fashionable jumpsuit, a crisp tailored suit, or even a short mini-dress.
There are also many colourful alternatives to a white wedding dress. Pastel tones are beautiful for a wedding, especially pastel blue for a winter wedding. For a summer wedding, a golden yellow sundress or halter dress would be a great choice. For a bold statement, you could try emerald green or amethyst ombre. For those who prefer darker colours, black lace is a striking option.
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Frequently asked questions
There are differing opinions on this. Some people believe that it is overrated and that it is just a tradition that started when Queen Victoria wore a white dress to show that she could afford a dress that couldn't be worn again and was difficult to wash. Others believe that it is a special occasion to wear a white dress and feel like a bride.
It is generally considered a faux pas to wear a white dress as a wedding guest. This is because it is the bride's colour for the day and you don't want to be mistaken for the bride. However, some people believe that it is okay to wear white if it is requested by the couple or if it is a print with some colour.
There are many alternatives to wearing a white wedding dress. You could wear a dress in another colour, such as purple, black, or yellow. You could also wear a sundress, a jumpsuit, or even a gorilla costume!
