Unconventional Wedding Attire For Brides

what can a bride wear instead of a wedding dress

There are many alternatives to the traditional wedding dress. From jumpsuits and pantsuits to colourful or printed dresses, there are a plethora of options for brides who want to break the mould. Two-piece gowns are also an option, allowing for easy outfit changes throughout the night. For those who want to forgo a dress altogether, a custom corset with slacks or a suit can be a stylish and comfortable choice. Ultimately, the most important thing is for the bride to feel comfortable and true to herself on her wedding day, whether that be in a non-traditional dress or an alternative outfit.

Characteristics Values
Type Jumpsuits, pantsuits, two-piece gowns, short dresses, colourful dresses, printed dresses, suits
Style Boho, chic, vintage, dip-dyed, embroidered, beaded, sequined, colourful, printed, floral, sheer, polka dot, high-low, mini, billowy, oversized, strapless, A-line, off-the-shoulder, ball gown, bubble-hem, separates
Colour White, black, blue, green, pastel, vibrant, colourful

shunbridal

Jumpsuits and playsuits

Bridal jumpsuits come in a variety of styles, from sleek and trendy to romantic lace designs. For a laid-back, yet elegant look, a white jumpsuit from Lavish Alice is a great option. It features a strapless bandeau style with silky draped fabric, pleated detailing and frills. For a more unique look, Whistles offers a jumpsuit with a high neckline and wide-leg silhouette, which can be styled for both church and outdoor weddings. If you're looking for something colourful, Pretty Lavish has a range of fashion-forward designs in a variety of colours, while Revolve offers one of the largest collections of jumpsuits in different styles and colours. For a vintage look, Dame and Maiden's scalloped vintage lace jumpsuit is a great option, while their boho romper with fringe details is perfect for a more playful bride.

For brides on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options. ASOS offers a range of wedding jumpsuits from budget brands to top fashion labels. German brand Ivy & Oak also offers a jumpsuit and bridal suits for budget-conscious brides.

Bridal jumpsuits are not only for the ceremony but can also be a great option for a second bridal outfit, contrasting the main wedding gown.

shunbridal

Two-piece dresses

For a relaxed yet refined look, the Dre two-piece dress from Grace Loves Lace is a perfect choice. It captures the free-spirited, bohemian vibe without going overboard. If you're seeking something more high fashion, Mira Zwillinger's two-piece gown is adorned with embellished floral appliqués, glittered lace, silver accents, and life-like blooms, taking your wedding style to new heights.

Houghton's two-piece ensemble, featuring the Mack top and a high-low tulle skirt, exudes a fun, Carrie Bradshaw-esque charm. The top features a cool cross-over cut, while the skirt adds a unique twist to your wedding attire. For a more formal yet stylish option, their Aligote lace crop top paired with the full Macabeau high-low skirt creates a sophisticated and trendy "cool-girl" wedding outfit.

If you're looking for something glamorous and feminine, the Alexandra Grecco Florence satin skirt and blouse are a beautiful duo. This simple yet elegant pairing accentuates your natural beauty, perfect for the modern-day bride. For a unique, French flair, Delphine Manivet's two-piece Yoko set is a stylish choice.

shunbridal

Suits

For a more masculine look, a pantsuit is a popular choice. You can stick with the classic wedding white, or choose a fun, vibrant colour. A pantsuit with a suit jacket is a good option for brides who want to feel comfortable and be able to move freely, without the constraints of a dress.

If you want to add some flair to your suit, consider a funky waistcoat, a large boutonniere, or a statement pair of shoes. You can also add personal touches with colourful ties, bow ties, socks, and interesting cufflinks.

For a more relaxed and laid-back vibe, the Frances Suit features an oversized jacket and wide-leg pants in matte silk crepe. It can be worn with or without a belt and is a good option for brides who want a non-traditional look.

When choosing a suit, it's important to consider the level of formality of the wedding. For an evening wedding, darker hues like navy blue or charcoal are appropriate. For a daytime or outdoor wedding, lighter colours like light grey or tan are more suitable.

shunbridal

Prints and colours

If you're a bride who wants to wear a dress but with a unique twist, there are plenty of options to choose from. From colourful gowns to printed two-piece dresses, you can find something that reflects your personality and style.

For brides who want to make a statement, a bold and vibrant colour might be the perfect choice. You can opt for a dress in your favourite colour or a hue that complements your wedding theme. If you're feeling daring, why not try a dip-dyed dress or a gown with a colourful embellishment? You can also incorporate colour into your outfit through vivid blouses or skirts, especially if you're wearing a two-piece ensemble.

For a more subtle approach, pastels can be a lovely choice, especially for a spring wedding. You can also opt for a dress with a unique print, such as florals or bohemian shapes. A floral print, for instance, can add a romantic touch to your look, while still being non-traditional.

If you're looking for something truly unique, you might want to consider a dress with an unusual print or pattern. For instance, a sheer dress with polka dot lace can be both daring and elegant, especially when paired with alluring lingerie or a full slip for more coverage. Alternatively, a dress with a high-low silhouette can offer a dramatic and unique look, pairing a simple bodice with a handcrafted floral organza skirt.

Whether you choose a bold colour, a subtle print, or a unique pattern, there are endless possibilities for brides who want to forgo the traditional wedding dress. You can express your personality and make a statement on your special day.

shunbridal

Shorter dresses

You can also add a pop of colour to your wedding outfit by opting for a shorter dress in your favourite colour or a fun print. This could be a floral pattern or something more unique, like the selkie—a creature from Scottish and Irish folklore that assumes the form of a seal but can also take human form. You can find colourful and printed shorter dresses at Needle and Thread, and Temperley London.

For a quirky bride, a two-piece shorter dress is a great option. This style allows for easy outfit changes throughout the night and ensures a perfect fit for your body. You can find two-piece shorter dresses at Hera, Lucy Can't Dance, and House of Ollichon.

If you're looking for a unique shorter dress with a vintage feel, consider pairing a custom corset from a boutique like Dark Garden with a pair of slacks or a floaty skirt. This non-traditional look is perfect for brides who want to stand out on their wedding day.

Finally, don't forget that you can also wear a shorter dress for your wedding rehearsal or other pre-wedding events. This way, you can still have the traditional long dress on your wedding day but also enjoy the comfort and style of a shorter dress during the festivities leading up to the big day.

Frequently asked questions

There are many alternative outfits to a wedding dress that a bride can wear. Some options include a jumpsuit, a two-piece dress, a short dress, or a colourful dress.

Unique styles of wedding dresses can include prints, pops of colour, two-piece gowns, and billowy silhouettes. Brides can also opt for non-traditional embellishments, shades, and silhouettes.

Some non-dress outfit options for brides include suits, pantsuits, and trousers with a custom corset.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment