{Image source: dunikowski via Flickr}
Looks like black may be the new white. The little black dress has given way for the big black dress – at the wedding altar. Many brides are giving up the traditional white dress in favor of a more edgy, fashion-forward look with a black gown. Vera Wang made the look popular when she debuted a line of black wedding gowns in her Fall 2012 show, and now celebrities including Avril Lavigne, Shenae Grimes and the wife of A.J. McLean have all jumped on board, walking down the aisle in designer black wedding gowns.
This isn’t the first non-traditional color that has become popular for wedding gowns. Red-accented gowns were popular a few years ago, and recent trends have include pale blue and mint gowns. However, this new trend makes a much bolder statement and certainly pushes the limits for traditional wedding dress.
If you are considering wearing a black gown for your nuptials, here are a couple things you may consider to make the look a success and to suit your personal tastes:
Soften Hair and Makeup
Your dress will be bold enough. If you add severe hair and makeup, as well, you’re going to look more Bride of Chucky than blushing bride. You want to stand out and make a statement. You don’t want to look like you’re the goth prom queen. Soften your hair and makeup, skipping the eyeliner and the smoky eye in favor of more neutral tones that highlight your features and opting for romantic waves and tussles rather than tight updos.
Soften the Color with Gradients
If all those yards and yards of black fabric have you nervous, you can soften the look by choosing a dress with gradients. Neutral panels or softer colors can be laid under black tulle or chiffon, adding a more romantic feel to the dress. Choosing this option will allow you to still enjoy the boldness of the black dress without feeling like the dress is too extreme.
Choose Black Accents
{Image source: Faylyne via Flickr}
You don’t have to dress from head to toe in black to take advantage of this new fashion-forward trend. You can choose dresses that have black accents to create a look that’s a little different without veering too far from the traditional. White dresses with black panels or black applique are some of the most popular choices. You can even add a black sash to your gown for just a pop of the bold color.
Add Traditional Elements to the Look
{Image source: various brennemans via Flickr}
Other ways to soften the look of a black dress include adding traditional elements to it. These can include a bejeweled tiara or head piece, a bouquet in more neutral or softer colors, or classic jewelry such as a string of pearls. It’s best to avoid a veil, as a black veil will look far too lady-in-mourning and a white veil will clash horribly. Choose a stylish head piece instead.
Don’t feel like you are married to the tradition of the white wedding gown. You can show off your personality and be fashion-forward at the same time by choosing an alternative color for your dress or experimenting with accents. The black wedding dress is in style now, but you can choose any color you like to express your own personal style.
What do you think of the black wedding dress trend? Do you love it or hate it? Would you wear it? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Chloe Trogden is a seasoned financial aid writer who covers specific opportunities such as beauty school scholarships. Her leisure activities include camping, swimming and volunteer work.
