Weddings come with a whole host of traditions – from enormous cakes, to romantic first dances or brides wearing long white gowns. But increasingly, when it comes to the latter, some brides are making different choices: opting for dresses in shorter lengths, or ditching them for white jumpsuits.
Others are choosing strong suits, brighter colours, interesting patterns and opting for trousers or co-ords that make an equally elegant – and much more personal – style statement. What’s more, many can be worn beyond the wedding, reducing waste and giving you that lovely wedding feeling whenever you bust them out.
To give you a head start in the hunt for something different from the traditional long white gowns, we’ve curated a selection of outfits for women who feel a white gown is not for them.
Angelica Lace Dress, Needle & Thread, £330
This delicate, pale daffodil frock is embroidered with all over lace. The tiered panels add volume but not drama, so if you’re not into a pouffy look, this is perfect. As it’s not full length, it’s the ideal opportunity to show off a pair of statement shoes.
Double Breasted Linen Blend Blazer, &Other Stories, £79 and Belted Linen Blend Shorts, &Other Stories, £49
Suit up in this shorts set. In breathable linen, it would look fantastic at a hot-weather wedding with the double-breasted cut of the blazer adding just the right amount of formality, while the slightly oversized fit won’t leave you feeling constrained. The high waisted linen and cotton blend shorts are a great alternative to trousers – and you’ll definitely get several wears out of this outfit. In fact, you might not take them off all summer.
Marchesa Notte Layered Embroidered Point D’Esprit Gown, The Outnet, £497 (Was £1,185)
If you still want a frock with maximum impact, then consider this floral appliqué gown from Marchesa, with crochet trims, an open back and peplum style bodice. Wear with an simple up do, like a low bun, to let this piece do all the talking.
Eleanor Lamé Spot Halterneck Tie Midi Dress, Rixo, £305
Be your own something blue in this halterneck midi from the experts at a printed dress; Rixo. A high neck suits a smaller bust and you can add volume with a pussy bow tied to the side. We like the addition of the belt and the great midi length.
Dark Red Off Shoulder Pleated Jumpsuit, Self Portrait, £350
With this pleated red chiffon style, you get the flowy, feminine illusion of a dress with the practicality of a jumpsuit. The fitted bodice looks great above the flared trouser legs and the off the shoulder straps make it a chic alternative to a traditional gown.
Ditsy Blossom Pleated Dress, Whistles, £199
No matter where your ceremony is, bring the sunshine with you in this dress. The contrasting black in the straps and along the hemline means this vibrant hue won’t wash you out if you’re pale, and makes accessorising with black heels a breeze. You know you’ll wear this all summer too.
Laura Crepe Double Breasted Blazer, Reiss, £265 and Laura Crepe Slim Fit Trousers, Reiss, £140
If suits are more your thing, this powder blue set is sharp and stylish. Wear the blazer buttoned up alone, or undone over a silk camisole or crisp white shirt. Both pieces will serve you well after your wedding day, too.
Printed Blazer With Belt, Zara, £79.99 and Printed Trousers, Zara, £39.99
This trouser set suits all body shapes. The wrap, V-neck blazer looks chic when worn on its own and will flatter bigger busts, while the flowing trousers have a stretch inner waist which will keep you comfortable no matter how many slices of cake you enjoy.
Twist Front Midi With Thigh Splits, Hope & Ivy, £75
You may be new to British brand Hope & Ivy, but its affordable floral hand-drawn prints and delicate embroidery do not disappoint. This v-neck midi with puffed short sleeves and asymmetric hem, decorated with blue, green and yellow foliage is form-flattering and unique.
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