When you think of a bride, what’s the first image that pops into your head? For most of us, it’s probably a gorgeous white gown. White and weddings seem inseparable. But here’s a fun fact: The tradition isn’t as old as you might think! In fact, it all started with one very trendy royal who knew how to make a statement. Let’s dive into the surprising history of the white wedding gown!
Before Queen Victoria
For centuries, wedding dresses weren’t white at all! Brides simply wore their best dress—whatever color it happened to be. White was seen as impractical. It was tough to keep clean, and since clothing was expensive, owning a dress you’d wear only once was unheard of.
Instead, brides often chose dresses they could use again, favoring rich colors and fancy fabrics like silk, velvet, or fur if they could afford them. Blue was especially popular because of its association with the Virgin Mary, which, like white, symbolized purity. Red was another favorite in many cultures.
Enter Queen Victoria: The Trendsetter
The white wedding gown’s rise to fame started in 1840 with Queen Victoria. When she tied the knot with Prince Albert, she rocked a jaw-dropping white satin gown. Photos of the royal couple spread everywhere, and brides across Europe and America couldn’t wait to copy her style. Suddenly, white dresses became the ultimate status symbol, a way for wealthy families to flaunt their ability to afford a one-time-only outfit.
Today’s Take on the Tradition Own
Whether you’re preparing for a dress fitting or simply wanting to learn more about wedding culture, it’s worth knowing how the tradition of a white dress impacts today’s brides. Queen Victoria might’ve started the trend, but bridal fashion has come a long way since her big day. Mainly, even though white remains the most popular color, it’s far from the only option. Today’s brides can pick from a rainbow of hues, from literal rainbow to black and everything in between.
Ladies who want to keep a non-white gown feeling bridal usually pair the look with classic pieces like a veil or timeless silhouette. But in the end, modern brides are more focused on dresses that make them feel like the unique individuals they are, regardless of the color.
A Fresh Take on Tradition
So, there you have it—the surprising history of the white wedding gown! It’s not the ancient tradition we all thought. It’s a trend sparked by royalty, wealth, and ever-changing fashion tastes.
