If you do a quick Google search for wedding photos, ninety-five percent of them feature a bride in a white dress and a groom in a black tux. These outfits are elegant and expected, but they’re not for everyone. Some couples feel more comfortable celebrating in color instead of black and white, or in androgynous outfits.
If you’re planning a non-traditional wedding, keep reading for alternative wedding outfit inspiration.
Non-White Wedding Dresses
Did you know? Queen Victoria started the white wedding dress trend in 1840. Back then, it was the non-traditional option. White clothing was hard to clean (still is!) and most brides simply wore the nicest dress they owned. Over time, it became the expected apparel for brides and signified one’s purity on her wedding day.
While they’re classic, white wedding dresses aren’t for everyone. Maybe it’s your second wedding and you don’t love the symbolism, or maybe you just want to do things differently. Whatever your reason, here are a few alternatives to the traditional white wedding dress:
- Patterned Dress: For a tiny twist on tradition, opt for a white dress with a pattern or overlay. It can be as subtle or loud as you like! Embroidery, lace, and metallic textures are all great options.
- Colorful Dress: For something a little bolder, choose a dress in an entirely different color like hot pink or emerald green. Again, it can be muted or bright depending on your personal preference.
- Black Dress: Flip tradition on its head with a black wedding dress. Perfect for dark, moody venues and spooky celebrations.
Non-Traditional Bridal Outfits and Accessories
If you want to mix it up even further, branch out from dresses entirely. More and more brides are opting for jumpsuits or tailored pantsuits with blazers as they prioritize comfort and ease over gender-conforming outfits.
A matching set is another non-traditional bridal outfit option. Find a top and bottom — could be pants or a skirt — that match or complement each other and pair them together for an eclectic yet elegant look.
Accessories can also take your wedding outfit from expected to unexpected. A patterned veil, for example, can turn a white wedding dress into a non-traditional bridal ensemble just like that. If you choose a colorful dress, wear a white or ivory cape on top to add contrast. You could also wear a funky pair of shoes or chunky jewelry to mix it up.
Non-Traditional Groom Wedding Outfits
Interestingly enough, Queen Victoria’s wedding also inspired what we view as traditional men’s wedding attire. At their wedding, Prince Albert wore his Field Marshal’s uniform and sparked a style evolution because of the suit’s unique tailoring.
Today, grooms typically wear a well-fitted suit or tuxedo in a neutral color. Navy blue, olive green, and burgundy are also popular options depending on the season or style of wedding.
While it’s a little harder to go the non-traditional route for men’s wedding outfits, it’s still possible. Instead of a solid colored suit jacket and matching pants, make a statement with a patterned blazer. Florals, plaid, or pinstripe can add a pop of personality to your big day.
Non-Traditional Wedding Outfits for the Happy Couple
Some people think it’s bad luck for a groom to see the bride’s wedding dress before the big day. But if you’re planning a non-traditional wedding, you probably aren’t that superstitious. You might even consider coordinating your outfits or — gasp — shopping for a wedding dress and suit together.
There are many different ways to coordinate on your wedding day:
- Wear matching patterns on your wedding dress and suit.
- Match the groom’s tie to the bride’s wedding dress color.
- Choose a matching color to wear and ask your guests to wear white.
Whether you choose to totally flip the script or subtly dress in tandem, there’s comfort in knowing you’re cut from the same cloth.
Non-Traditional Wedding Outfit Tips
Your wedding is a celebration of who and what you love. Don’t hop on the latest trend just to fit in or make someone else happy. Choose an outfit that aligns with your wedding aesthetic and fits the vibe of your venue. Above all, choose an outfit that makes you feel like “you.”
Rachel Kauffman is a Detroit-based content writer, bookworm, and cat mom to two feisty felines.
