What colors did brides wear before white?

Answered by Cody Janus

Before the tradition of brides wearing white became popular, the choice of color for wedding dresses was much more varied. While white was certainly an option for those who could afford it, it was not the only color of choice for brides throughout history.

In fact, brides from wealthy and royal families often opted for more luxurious colors such as gold. This choice symbolized their wealth and status, as gold was associated with opulence and royalty. These gold wedding dresses were often adorned with intricate embroidery, pearls, and other precious gemstones, creating a truly regal and extravagant look.

For those who were not as affluent, the color of the wedding dress would typically be determined by the bride’s best dress. Brides would wear their finest attire on their wedding day, regardless of its color. This meant that brides could be seen wearing a variety of colors such as blue, green, red, or any other color that their best dress happened to be.

It is important to note that the significance of the color white for wedding dresses did exist before it became a widespread tradition. In some cultures, white was associated with purity and innocence, and therefore brides would wear white to symbolize their chastity. However, this was not a universal practice, and the choice of color for wedding dresses varied greatly across different cultures and time periods.

In my personal experience, I have seen brides wearing a range of colors for their wedding dresses. I attended a traditional Indian wedding where the bride wore a stunning red and gold lehenga, which is a traditional Indian bridal attire. The vibrant red color symbolized love and fertility in Indian culture. Similarly, I have also seen brides wearing pastel-colored dresses, such as blush pink or light blue, which added a soft and romantic touch to their wedding attire.

Before the tradition of brides wearing white became popular, the color of wedding dresses varied greatly. Wealthy and royal brides often opted for gold to showcase their status, while others would wear whatever color their best dress happened to be. The significance of white as a symbol of purity and innocence existed in some cultures, but it was not a universal practice. The choice of color for wedding dresses was diverse and reflected the individual preferences and cultural traditions of the time.