George Boyle
Wedding dresses are often expensive, and many brides are opting for alternatives to the classic white gown. Whether you're looking for something colourful, vintage, or modern, there are many options to choose from. You can rent a designer dress, buy a used one, or even have one custom-made. If you're looking for something unique, you can find alternative bridal gowns in a variety of styles, colours, and lengths. You can also mix and match separates or go for a non-dress option like a jumpsuit or trousers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Price | $50–$4,000 |
| Colour | White, black, red, beige, pink, blue, gold, yellow, multicoloured |
| Style | Jumpsuit, mini, midi, ball gown, two-piece, vintage, boho, contemporary, straight-from-the-catwalk |
| Fabric | Lace, silk, taffeta, tulle, feathers, sequins |
| Details | Floral print, glitter, pockets, leg slits, bows, ruffles, cape, boots |
| Neckline | Scoop neck, sweetheart, off-the-shoulder, square, deep-V, strapless |
| Silhouette | A-line, drop-waist, wide-leg trousers |
| Sleeve | Puff, wide-leg |
| Source | Etsy, ASOS, Azazie, Modcloth, Lulu's, BHLDN, The Knot, Hitched, Olivia Bottega, Borrowing Magnolia |
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What You'll Learn
Jumpsuits and two-piece outfits
Jumpsuits are a modern alternative to the classic wedding dress. They are a great option for brides who want to feel comfortable and be able to move around with ease on their wedding day, especially if the wedding is outdoors. Jumpsuits can be dressed up or down to suit any wedding vibe, from casual barn weddings to black-tie events. They can also be accessorized with items like veils, belts, and jewellery. For example, a lace floral jumpsuit would be a stunning and comfortable choice for a garden wedding.
There are a variety of styles to choose from, including wide-leg jumpsuits, halter-neck jumpsuits, and jumpsuits with detachable straps. Jumpsuits can also incorporate traditional bridal elements such as lace, tulle, and sparkly embellishments. For instance, a wide-leg jumpsuit made from luxuriously smooth satin is a comfortable option that can be dressed up with a trendy embroidered veil.
Two-piece outfits are another alternative to the traditional wedding dress. They offer a modern twist while still maintaining a bridal vibe. For example, a two-piece ensemble with a full satin gown and a lace bolero with scalloped edges and a button back can be worn during the ceremony and then transformed into a more relaxed look for the after-party by removing the bolero.
For a more casual look, a lace top and bottom set can be a great choice, especially for destination weddings or more informal events. Brides can also opt for a separate bodice with lace appliques and a keyhole back, paired with a chiffon skirt. This combination provides a more dimensional choice, especially in an ivory and gold colour palette.
Ultimately, the key is to choose an outfit that reflects your personality and style. Whether it's a jumpsuit, a two-piece outfit, or something else entirely, there are many alternatives to the traditional wedding dress that can make you feel like a "freaking badass" on your big day.
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Coloured dresses
If you're looking for a colourful wedding dress, consider the latest collections from designers such as Monique Lhuillier, Ines Di Santo, and Hera Couture, who have all included colourful gowns in their recent designs. For something truly unique, look beyond bridal fashion to ready-to-wear designer collections, vintage stores, and your favourite retailers.
When it comes to colour, the options are endless. Red is a popular choice for brides, as are black and floral dresses. You could also consider a dress with a colourful floral print, such as the La Perle gown, which features a subdued blue-and-green pattern. For a unique twist on a traditional white gown, a colourful cape or overlay can add a non-traditional touch.
For a colourful and cultural option, consider a sari for your wedding. While red is a standard colour for saris, they also come in a variety of colours, including pink, green, gold, and white.
No matter what colour or style you choose, remember that there are no rules when it comes to your wedding dress. If you feel confident and beautiful, then it's the right dress for you!
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Non-bridal fashion
The beauty of a non-traditional wedding dress is that there aren't any rules—it's all about what feels right to you. If you're looking for non-bridal fashion, you can opt for a chic bridal pantsuit or a structured blazer look. You can also look beyond bridal fashion and check out the latest ready-to-wear designer collections, vintage stores, and your favourite retailers for something truly out of the box.
For those who want to stick with a dress, you can opt for a less traditional length like a mini or midi. You can also choose a unique silhouette, such as a two-piece or a jumpsuit. If you're feeling bold, you can even opt for a sparkly sequinned jumpsuit or a coloured gown in shades like gold, champagne, pink, navy, or red. You can also add some drama with over-the-top embellishments and shades, such as metallics and three-dimensional features.
If you're looking for something more casual, you can opt for a two-piece wedding outfit, combining a chic top with a flowing skirt or trousers. For a fun and playful look, London-based bridal brand Wed incorporates waste fabrics into its designs, with tiered dresses, puffball and handkerchief skirts, ruched blouses, and trousers in colours like black, red, and pink.
For the modern, fashion-forward bride, a blazer romper is a chic and unexpected choice that redefines bridal style. With its sleek tailored fit, structured lapels, and playful shorts, this romper is perfect for a civil ceremony or elopement.
Whether you're looking for something bold and romantic or understated and refined, there are endless options to create a unique wedding day look that reflects your personality and celebrates your special day in style.
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Vintage and charity shops
If you're looking for a wedding dress with a difference, vintage and charity shops are a great place to start.
Vintage shops are an excellent source of inspiration for those seeking something unique for their wedding day. Dig For Victory, for example, offers a range of vintage styles, colours, and fabrics inspired by original 1940s and 1950s dresses. The designer, Eleanor Callaghan, was drawn to the handmade nature of these vintage gowns, each one a unique creation for its original owner. Dig For Victory's designs include a stunning bottle green velvet dress, a far cry from the traditional white gown. For those who want to embrace vintage glamour and romance, this could be the perfect choice.
Charity shops are another fantastic option for finding a wedding dress with a difference. You can often discover good-quality white dresses in these stores, and with a little imagination, you can create a unique bridal look. Consider a simple white lace gown with a small train, or a champagne-coloured dress with a floor-length cut for a more understated, yet elegant, look.
For those who want to step away from the traditional dress silhouette, vintage and charity shops offer a wealth of alternatives. Keep an eye out for jumpsuits, blazers with matching trousers, or even a bold two-piece like the Legend Bridal dress in pink. If you're feeling especially adventurous, why not opt for a colourful, quirky gown from Lucy Can't Dance, who experiment with dip-dying, lace, and layering? Their collection includes boho, vintage, and festival-inspired designs, perfect for brides seeking something truly unique.
When it comes to non-traditional bridal gowns, WONÀ Concept is another designer to consider. They offer classic wedding dress silhouettes with a twist, such as rich feather details framing the hemline and side slit, adding a bold finish to an otherwise traditional look.
Whether you're browsing vintage shops or charity stores, keep an open mind and embrace the unexpected. With a little creativity, you can find or create a wedding dress that reflects your unique style and personality.
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High-street retailers
Whistles
Whistles is a popular choice for high-street wedding dresses, with their collection featuring chic square-neck gowns, vintage-inspired silk dresses, and sharp tailoring. Their wedding dresses are fashion-forward, with styles including lace, ribbons, puff sleeves, and corsetry. Whistles' wedding dress collection is also known for its affordable pricing, with all pieces under £700.
Reformation
Reformation is another well-known high-street brand that offers chic and inexpensive bridalwear. Their designs are unique and fun, ranging from long sleeve and midi styles to boho and lace bridal dresses.
Self-Portrait
Self-Portrait is a high-street brand that offers modern and elegant wedding dress alternatives at highly affordable prices. Their designs are known for their wow factor, featuring modern silhouettes and unique details.
Coast
Coast is a high-street retailer that offers beautiful and affordable wedding dresses, with prices starting as low as £50. While they may not have a wide variety of sculpted and lacy designs, Coast is perfect for brides seeking relatively minimalist styles.
Recycle My Wedding
For an inexpensive and ethical approach, Recycle My Wedding offers a range of pre-loved wedding dresses, accessories, and decor. This option allows brides to find beautiful gowns while also being mindful of the environmental impact of their wedding.
Zara, H&M, and COS
While these high-street retailers may not have traditional bridal ranges, they often feature dresses that can work beautifully for wedding receptions. These brands are worth considering if you're open to non-traditional options and are looking for more informal styles.
The above-mentioned high-street retailers provide a range of wedding dress alternatives, allowing brides to find stylish, affordable, and unique options that suit their personal style and budget.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many online retailers that offer affordable wedding dresses, including ASOS, Lulu's, Azazie, BHLDN, and Modcloth. You can also browse second-hand wedding dresses on sites like Still White, Once Wed, or Nearly Newlywed.
Alternative wedding dresses can come in a variety of styles, including non-white dresses, two-piece outfits, jumpsuits, colourful gowns, and vintage-inspired designs. You can also add unique accessories like a floral cape or colourful boots.
Yes, there are several boutiques that offer unique wedding dresses. Unbridled in Liverpool specialises in unique wedding wear. You can also visit the boutique of designer Erdem, whose celebrity fans include Lily James and the Duchess of Cambridge.
