Contrary to popular belief, the white wedding dress hasn’t always been the done thing. First popularised by Queen Victoria at her wedding to Prince Albert in 1840, white has been the go-to hue for brides ever since. Before this point, however, things were very different on the bridalwear scene as Brides explains:
“Throughout most of history, marriages were more about family, business, and political alliances than they were about true love—which meant lavish celebrations for weddings were typically reserved for nobility…Though there are some instances of rulers in Ancient Egypt, Rome, and Greece donning white pleated linens for celebrations, it was, for centuries, largely customary for brides to simply wear their best dress for the occasion.”
While white remains the most popular shade for modern-day brides, coloured wedding dresses have been making a comeback. Read on to discover the best non-white wedding gowns on the market right now.
Venus by Naomi Neoh
Go one step up from white with this dusky lilac number from luxury bridalwear designer Naomi Neoh.
Inspired by the colours of the solar system, the Venus dress is a celebration of corsetry. The bodice uses a sweetheart neckline and delicate thread lace to create plenty of romance, with its tulle skirt overlaid with a subtle yet sparkling organza adding to this dreamy look.
Bellatrix by Ryley and Flynn
From a subtle shade of lilac to the other end of the spectrum. The Bellatrix dress by custom bridalwear specialist Ryley and Flynn is dark, moody and utterly delightful. Made for the daring bride, this design is the ultimate little black dress, combining a beautiful corset and soft tulle skirt with statement train to ensure a super cool, ultra-chic, alternative bridal look.
Pheonix by Suzanne Neville
Iconic British bridalwear designer Suzanne Neville offers a very different take for embracing the non-white wedding dress trend, using metallics in her Pheonix dress to create a truly standout piece.
As one of the top ways to use florals at your wedding, your choice of bridal gown is a fantastic option for showcasing your love of all things botanical. To do this in gold will guarantee the opulent, elegant finish every bride deserves on their big day. With its V-neck line and A-line skirt with sweeping train, the gown also delivers a flattering finish that’ll suit brides with varying body shapes.
Poppy by Millia London
Looking to wow in a red wedding dress? Then the statement Poppy dress will be the one for you! Using showstopping ruffles in soft tulle, and sporting a high slit and plunge neckline, this designer wedding gown is just the right amount of sultry for your wedding day.
It can be created with a nude or 100% silk satin lining to provide as little or as much coverage as you desire. It’s also been hand-dyed to ensure a vibrant, colourful finish.
Grooms can get in on the action too! Check out these bright and bold suit designs for summer grooms for inspiration.
