Colourful wedding dresses may be all the rage, but white remains the top shade for brides-to-be. When shopping for your dream wedding dress, however, you’ll be shocked by the sheer number of white tones there are to choose from. We explore the many shades of white available for brides as well as share our tips for choosing the right tone for you.
When did brides start wearing white?
The white wedding dress isn’t as historic as you may think. It wasn’t until the 19th Century that white became synonymous with brides, with our very own Queen Victoria being something of a trendsetter as WeddingWire explains:
“In 1840, Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in one of the first heavily photographed royal weddings of the time. She chose to wear a white dress in Honiton lace in order to help the struggling factory where the fabric was created… Because this was one of the first “celebrity weddings,” the photos were shared around the world. Brides took note of Queen Victoria’s white gown, and thus began white wedding dress history as we know it.”
Before this very high-profile event, anything went on the wedding day fashion scene, with brides favouring no one particular colour at all to say “I do” in. The fact is brides simply wore their ‘best dress’ to tie the knot, whatever its shade.
Explore the throwback wedding dress styles from every era of the last century right here.
Why should you wear white on your wedding day?
During Victorian times, wearing a white wedding gown was seen as a status symbol, with the ability to wear white (and keep it clean) exuding wealth. White has also long symbolised purity and innocence, which were important traits for brides-to-be throughout history.
These days, wearing white is more of a personal choice rather than a wedding day must. Brides looking to uphold tradition tend to choose white. The fact it’s synonymous with bridalwear makes it the first choice for many more, regardless of their wedding’s theme or colour scheme.
Whether dressing for a spring wedding, summer nuptials or out-of-season occasion, choosing white is a fantastic option.
What different shades of white can you expect?
There are countless shades of white to discover, and whilst the variations may be subtle, choosing the right one for your skin tone is important.
Stark white is the brightest shade you’re likely to encounter. It’s whiter than white and features blue undertones that aren’t necessarily universally flattering. Natural white is a little more forgiving. While still intense and bright, it has a softer appearance that lends itself well to a wider range of skin tones.
Ivory wedding dresses are more common than people think. Often referred to as ‘eggshell’, this creamier shade is warmer and more versatile as a result. Those looking to go darker with their undertones should try champagne, light gold or alabaster.
Which is the right white for me?
As a rule of thumb, brighter shades of white are most complementary to olive skin tones with yellow undertones. They tend to wash out paler complexions, making ivory a better fit. Creamier whites have a glowing effect that looks great on everyone, however, especially when used with fabrics like tulle and satin, or complemented with embroidery or beading.
Brides with darker skin tones will be spoilt for choice, with every shade of white offering a beautiful look, from stark white and ivory to champagne and light gold.
