Bridal Party Attire: From Tradition to Trend

Photo: cottonbro studio

Planning a wedding involves making countless decisions, both big and small. You’ve decided on your bridal party and let them know that you want them by your side on your wedding day. Now onto the next question: what will they wear? This decision holds significance not only for aesthetic purposes but also for historical and cultural reasons. If you’ve ever wondered why bridal parties typically wear the same outfit or color, and how people decide what will be worn, keep reading, this is for you. We’ll also get into how to choose colors that align with the current wedding season.

The Historical Significance of Bridal Parties:

Bridal parties have been an integral part of weddings for centuries. Ancient Roman law required ten witnesses to be present at weddings, which eventually evolved into the concept of the bridal party. Initially, bridal attendants were chosen to protect the bride from evil spirits and jealous suitors. Over time, the role of the bridal party expanded to include supporting the couple throughout the wedding process.

The Matching Attire Tradition:

The tradition of bridesmaids wearing the same color as the bride dates back to ancient Rome and Greece. The practice was believed to confuse evil spirits who might wish to harm the couple. It also served as a way to protect the bride from potential kidnappers or rival suitors. By dressing identically, the bride and her attendants would be indistinguishable, ensuring the bride's safety.

In more recent history, bridesmaids wearing matching dresses became fashionable during the Victorian era. Queen Victoria herself is often credited with popularizing the trend. Bridesmaids would wear gowns resembling the bride's dress, reinforcing the bride's status and creating a cohesive visual aesthetic.

Choosing Colors in Season:

Selecting the right colors for your bridal party's attire can be a fun and creative process. When considering the color scheme, definitely keep in mind the season in which your wedding will take place. Different seasons evoke distinct moods and offer a variety of color palettes that can complement the overall theme of your wedding.

To determine the colors in season during your wedding, consider the following tips:

Research and Inspiration:

Explore online resources, wedding magazines, and social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration. Look for color trends, seasonal palettes, and real wedding photos that resonate with your vision.

Consult Professionals:

Wedding planners, stylists, or designers can offer valuable insights into color trends and combinations that work well during a particular season. They have their fingers on the pulse of current fashion and design trends, making them excellent resources. The Editorial team at Riley & Grey has a great eye for trends, and you can follow along on Pinterest and Instagram.

Embrace Nature:

Find inspiration in the natural elements associated with the season and location of your wedding. Spring weddings can incorporate pastels and floral hues, while summer weddings might feature vibrant and bold colors. Fall weddings can embrace warm earth tones and rich jewel tones, while winter weddings may opt for cool and icy shades.

Personal Preferences:

Don't forget to consider your own tastes and preferences as the bride and groom. Ultimately, your bridal party's attire should reflect your personal style and create a cohesive visual narrative.

Deciding what your bridal party will wear is an exciting and meaningful part of the wedding planning process. Understanding the historical significance of bridal parties and the tradition of bridesmaids wearing the same color as the bride adds depth to this decision. By considering the season of your wedding and seeking inspiration from various sources, you can choose colors that align with the current trends and create a visually stunning and harmonious ensemble for your bridal party.

Remember, the most important factor in this decision is that your bridal party feels comfortable and confident in their attire. After all, their presence and support are invaluable as you embark on this remarkable journey of love and commitment.