When you think about a wedding gown, odds are you conjure up an image of a brilliant white dress, drenched in embellishments and fine details. While that is what we commonly see from wedding gowns, it is hardly the only choice. In fact, white wedding gowns were first popularized in 1840, when Queen Victoria donned a white gown for her walk down the aisle. Prior to that, any color was acceptable, and many brides wore blue wedding gowns for their special day. If you are interested in wearing a blue wedding gown for your current day fairy tale wedding, we have a few tips and tricks that will help you find the perfect style and shade.
The History of Blue Wedding Dresses
Prior to 1840, most brides didn’t select a new dress specifically for use on their wedding day. A lack of economic security and more delicate sensibilities dictated that a dress be capable of being reused for other occasions. Because of this, many brides simply wore their finest dress to their wedding, paying close attention to pick a color that wasn’t associated with a bad omen. In the past, green was considered an unlucky color, and blue was seen as a color that symbolized purity and piety. Many brides donned blue wedding gowns as a sign of their purity on their wedding day.
Shopping for a Modern Day Blue Wedding Gown
Before you begin shopping, you may need to adjust your expectations. Because white is the overwhelmingly popular color for wedding gowns, finding a dress in a completely different hue will not be an easy task. Most bridal stores will offer limited stock in colors other than white in wedding gowns, however prom dress and bridesmaid dresses come in a variety of hues, and you might find something fitting for your wedding in that section. The added bonus is that such dresses are generally cheaper than bridal gowns.
Custom Blue Wedding Gowns
Another option is to have a dress made to your specifications. More brides than ever before are utilizing the services of seamstresses to create a custom wedding gown. While many of the dresses made by private designers and seamstresses are white, they can work with any color and can often help you better visualize the type of dress you are after. If you choose to go this route it is important to begin work with a seamstress early. Use recommendations from friends and family, as well as online reviews to find a designer who can create the dress of your dreams. Check in often with the designer to ensure progress is on-track for your big day.
Not Ready to Completely Commit
If you are not yet ready to commit to the idea of a completely blue wedding gown, there are still ways to incorporate the color into your wedding day and your wedding dress. A blue sash, or blue lacing up the bodice of the dress can be used to bring the blue hue into your outfit. Many brides choose to use blue lacing up the back of their dress for contrast purposes, or for the cultural significance associated with the color blue. Another option to look for a colored veil or blue shoes to go with your dress. Both options are easier to find than blue wedding gowns and can offer a pop of color.
While there is a heap of tradition associated with white wedding gowns, your wedding day is about you and your groom. Picking a dress that makes you feel beautiful, regardless of hue, should be your top priority.
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