You might be surprised at the idea that you could wear black for your special day, but more and more brides are choosing to do just that. This classy color doesn’t have to feel funereal if you know how to wear it, and for nontraditional brides, it’s a great way to make a statement. Don’t be surprised if you encounter resistance from friends and family, however. Lots of people still believe that weddings should be white, and it can take a little bit of effort to convince them that there are more interesting alternatives available.
Of course, the white wedding dress is relatively new. Queen Victoria’s 1840 wedding to Prince Albert involved a white dress that soon became the height of fashion, and the tradition of a white wedding was born. However, after that point, many brides were still married in their best existing gown, which was often not white. Very few people could afford to buy a sumptuous dress they’d only wear once, after all. White dresses got more and more popular, and pushed out other colors, but colored dresses are making a comeback.
Black gowns are a great choice for goth or other spookily themed weddings, but those aren’t the only kinds of brides who can choose to go dark. There are lots of great ways to wear a black dress without feeling over the top or somber. Mix up the look with some additional colors, like silver, white or a touch of red, and avoid dark makeup (especially dark eyes and red lips) and overly heavy fabrics (unless you’re having a renaissance themed wedding, of course).
Close fitting gowns are also going to flatter you more if you choose a dark color. That doesn’t mean that sumptuous flowing skirts can’t be pulled off, but you’ll want to make sure the fit of the bodice is very good. Avoid sleeves that are long and opaque, though sheer sleeves are a good choice, and keep your jewelry choices tasteful. Don’t go entirely unornamented, though, or you’ll look severe, rather than elegant.
If you’re going to be bucking tradition, you’ll need to think about your partner’s preferences, too. Family preferences are also a consideration, but they’re less important than how your partner will feel about a darker gown. Fortunately, fewer people are traditionalists these days, so the chances of feeling required to have a standard wedding are a lot lower than they used to be. If your partner or any family members need convincing, consider showing them photos of some of the gorgeous designer dresses that have been made in black.
Shop early for your black wedding dress, too. These are among the hardest types to find, and you’ll need some time to find them. Be willing to repurpose other kinds of dresses, including prom gowns and dresses intended for bridesmaids, if you really love the color. Not too many bridal gowns are made in black, after all.
However, if you’re willing to be patient and you’re really dedicated to your search, you’re sure to find the perfect fit and the perfect color. Don’t forget that you may be able to order online or have a gown custom made for you, as well. If you really love black, there’s no reason you can’t wear it at your wedding. It simply might take a little bit of time and effort.
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Weddings have always been special occasions. Nowadays it’s not uncommon to see some brides opting to choose other colors for their gowns other than the traditional white gown. We can see pink, yellow, gold, or even brown wedding gowns. But personally, to see a bride in a black gown does not look so appealing to me. I don’t have anything against those who choose it, but in my opinion, weddings are supposed to be happy events, and wearing black somehow contradicts the mood.
Makes sense that with most men’s attire being black that the woman could do the same.
I like your suggestion for a black dress to be like a background color for silver, gold and other colors that could be layered on top. Others colors stand out nicely with a black.