• The tradition of wearing a special dress for a wedding is ancient, but the white gown, a symbol of purity and innocence, is a relatively modern concept. Historically, brides chose their best dress, regardless of colour, reflecting their social status, cultural customs, and personal preference.
  • The journey of wedding gowns from their historical origins to the diverse choices of today reflects a fascinating evolution.

When a bride walks down the aisle, her wedding gown is often the focal point. The journey of wedding gowns from their historical origins to the diverse choices of today reflects a fascinating evolution. From ancient customs and royal influences to contemporary trends, the story of wedding gowns is a tale of evolution.

The tradition of wearing a special dress for a wedding is ancient, but the white gown, a symbol of purity and innocence, is a relatively modern concept. Historically, brides chose their best dress, regardless of colour, reflecting their social status, cultural customs, and personal preference.

In ancient Rome, brides wore a distinct yellow veil called 'flammeum.' During the Middle Ages, bridal gowns were made from luxurious fabrics like velvet, silk and fur.  Blue was famous because it symbolised purity and was associated with the Virgin Mary.

The use of white gowns, now a popular choice, can be traced back to a single event in 1840. When Queen Victoria married Prince Albert, she wore a white, silk, satin dress, a departure from the traditional royal bride's attire.

This bold choice sparked a trend that quickly spread across Europe and eventually the world, with white gowns coming to symbolise purity and innocence, aligning with societal expectations of the bride.

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The 20th and 21st centuries have witnessed a tremendous trend in wedding gowns. Different styles are explored in an era of free spirit. Hollywood glamour has also influenced the trends in wedding gowns. Some people are opting for skirts and lace details in their dresses. 

For many girls, the dream of someone proposing to them is cherished. From a young age, they imagine the prince charming getting down on their knees; the world fades away, and then there are those four life-changing words: Will you marry me?

The anticipation of wearing a wedding gown and walking down the aisle is finally uttering.

Therefore, the bustle of choosing the gown begins, and it is tiresome. It requires flipping through several magazines and thorough research to get the 'perfect dress' for the day.

It is a stage where men' distance' to avoid drama and allow her to choose. While white remains a staple, many brides opt for non-traditional gowns like blush, champagne, or even bolder hues like red, blue, or black. 

In 2019, Lydia Pang, the global editorial design director at Nike HQ and designer Roo Williams, decided to wear a black gown, which made headlines.

Black has a varied meaning in African cultures and is often associated with auspiciousness. Some consider it bad luck, while others, such as Ghana, see it as a sign of strength, maturity, and potential for rebirth.

Nigeria in Africa stands out for its unique opulence and diversity, emphasising cultural significance. They often wear traditional fabrics, such as Ankara, adorned with intricate embroidery beading. They have bold and vibrant colours with a 'Gele' –a large, elaborate head wrap to complement the gown.

The diversity of wedding gowns reflects a tapestry of cultural heritage, evolving from traditional white gowns to vibrant colours. Brides have myriad choices to complete their big day. 

As fashion changes daily, brides can wear suits like the groom and still tie the knot—from wedding gown to wedding suit!