Does The Bride Have To Wear White?

Let’s get to the point straightaway: no, not at all! What is more, who says the bride has to wear a gown, too? Neither of these is mandatory, and if you wish to raise quite a few eyebrows by staying true to yourself, simply go ahead!

Darin Collison

After all, the whole phenomenon about having a white wedding didn’t really kick off until Queen Victoria got married back in 1840. If you just remember all the hype about the latest royal wedding, you will get the full picture. Meghan Markle’s dress was certainly beautiful and she looked radiant. However, just because the dress was admired by the whole world doesn’t mean we shouldn’t opt for a lacy or a mermaid dress at our own wedding, does it? For the same reason, why would anyone object to you wearing pants at your own wedding if you feel like it? Especially since there are several pretty good reasons for it.

First of all, pants are extremely light and comfortable. Wearing long, heavy dresses is a real torture, but rarely do brides boast about their ordeal. Not to mention the dreaded moment of going to the toilet – it simply cannot be done without the maid of honour’s assistance. It’s only natural that you don’t want to feel limited in any way on your big day. There will be enough stress about all the other things –flowers, music, seating arrangement, decorations – so why would you want to make yourself feel uncomfortable on top of all the things you have to pay attention to?

Brides in pants

Also, pants are a perfect embodiment of gender equality. While nowadays we take them for granted, it was only in the 1950s that this clothing item was considered somewhat acceptable. Up until that point, pants were considered highly controversial. They were quite popular during the WWII, though, in a sense that women started wearing them in factories when they took over jobs typically done by men. What better sign of equality than this one? By wearing pants at your wedding, you are showing you and your partner are truly one.

Fashion has come a long way since the beginnings of the 20th century, and nowadays there are so many options when it comes to wedding pants, jumpsuits, pantsuits, and even playsuits that it’s almost impossible to choose from! You can opt for a white version, or play with colours. Perhaps with a white jacket on a naked body, like homage to Bianca Jagger.  Or a modern jumpsuit like the one Solange Knowles was wearing. Variations are fun and endless, so play with them.

Finally, regardless of the practical issues and women’s right to wearing the outfit, it should be noted that you are not obliged to make up any excuses why you are choosing this attire over a big, white ball gown. If you wish to wear them at your wedding, you have every right to do so! After all, everyone’s been saying that is your big day. Therefore, feel free to make a statement, and dress to your heart’s desire!

Susan Josh