Singaporebrides | Fashion

October 2014

10 Unconventional Wedding Gown Alternatives

By Audrie Soh

If you are looking for a unique wedding outfit for your big day, we’ve gathered 10 alternatives to the traditional white wedding gown you should know about.

The tradition of the white wedding gown was passed down from the 18th century after Queen Victoria wore one at her wedding to Prince Albert. Although it still remains as the number one wedding tradition most brides uphold today, it is not their only option. Coloured wedding gowns and bridal pant-suits are starting to emerge on the runways and more brides are considering a knee-length or ballerina dress in favour of the classic floor-length ballgown in recent years.

1. Pant-suits

Traditionally, the groom wears the pants at the wedding (and at home). But not today. Pant-suits and jumpsuits are perfect for brides who aren’t overly fond of skirts and for showing off those model-like long and slender legs while still being wedding appropriate.

Urban Fairy Tail by Lihi Hod Beaded tulle jumpsuit from Colin Cowie Weddings by Manuel Mota for Provianas Garbo by Stephanie Allin

2. Shorts

Another alternative for slender and long-legged brides is a top-and-shorts or romper ensemble. These are perfect for a casual afternoon solemnisation or intimate wedding in our sunny island, allowing you to stay cool in our humid weather and move about easily. Opt for one in lace like these for an air of youthful romance and femininity.

Prato by Vatana Watters Silk and lace ensemble from Colin Cowie Weddings by Manuel Mota for Provianas

3. Ballerina Wedding Gowns

Now, if you’re not against skirts for your wedding outfit but are not into floor-length dresses, then consider these ballerina wedding gowns. This fun and flirty silhouette gets its name from its resemblance to a ballerina’s tutu skirt, and never fails to remind me of Tchaikovsky’s ballet, The Nutcracker. Pair this short dress with a pair of striking Jimmy Choos or Louboutins and you have a winner.

The Wedding Present from Spring/Summer 2014 Lookbook Krikor Jabotian Alexis by Delphine Manivet

4. Tailored Dresses

Who says you can’t look formal without a floor-length ballgown? Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn with these formal and chic knee-length tailored dresses that are oh-so-perfect for an afternoon solemnisation or wedding.

Suzette by Tobi Hannah Rosa Clará Knee-length Lace gown by Daalarna

5. Knee-length Dresses

Instead of a full length ballgown, why not consider a cute knee-length dress for your solemnisation ceremony or intimate garden wedding? Not only are knee-length dresses both wedding and weather appropriate, it also easier to move (or party) in it without having to worry about tripping on a long hem or train.

Barletta by Vatana Watters Lola by Jenny Packham Erin by Theia

6. Tea-Length Wedding Gowns

First popularised by Audrey Hepburn, this elegant and feminine silhouette is a great compromise between a knee and floor length wedding gown. A perfect silhouette for brides seeking that vintage look.

Rho by Vatana Watters Nora by Charlotte Balbier Image from Etsy.com by Ouma

7. Two-piece Wedding Gowns

Follow in Olivia Palermo’s footsteps and piece together a unique wedding gown that reflects your personal style.Whether you favour the mid-driff baring crop top with a full length skirt combination like Theia’s Haven, or simply love the ability to pair one top with different skirts like Della Giovanna’s Logan and Devin skirt, you’ll have countless variations of wedding dresses to choose from with two-piece wedding gowns.

Haven by Theia Julie M by Lihi Hod Madison Corset with Logan and Devin Skirt by Della Giovanna

8. Floral Printed Wedding Gowns

Brighten things up with floral printed wedding gowns and add a splash of colour to an otherwise white or pastel-coloured affair. Or, opt for floral prints in a neutral or monochrome colour palette for an evening affair.

Image from Polka Dot Bride by Angela Higgins Image from Ruffled by Alixann Loosele Photography Le Grand Wedding from Fall/Winter 2014 Lookbook

9. Coloured Wedding Gowns

Pastel colours such as powder blue, dove grey and blush are popular hues among brides who do not want a white wedding gown for their once-in-a-lifetime, and it’s not difficult to see why they favour these romantic shades over the traditional white. Or, go against tradition and don a black wedding dress, but only if your family and family-in-law are okay with it.

Sareh Nouri Oscar de la Renta Image from Etsy.com by NelliUzun

10. Convertible Wedding Gowns

Wedding gowns with detachable parts such as a removeable lace bolero or bridal coat or a longer tulle skirt are perfect for brides who can’t decide between a long or short dress and those who want 2 different looks without breaking the bank.

Ersa Atelier Kate by V.Souz Sareh Nouri

For similar looking wedding gowns and more, browse our Lookbook of wedding dresses and find out where you can find the wedding gown of your dreams.

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Credits: Feature Image: Image cc licensed ( BY NC ) flickr photo by Anne Marthe Widvey

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