What Style Should An Older Bride Wear?
Question: What are the rules of dress for a 37-year-old first time bride? I'm not really comfortable wearing white because I have two children. I have considered wearing a black and white evening gown (it will be an evening wedding), but my sisters feel that black is totally inappropriate for a wedding, no matter how old the bride is or how many kids she has. Any thoughts?
Answer: by The Knot
You should wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable on your wedding day. The black and white gown sounds lovely and completely appropriate; after all, black is an evening colour and white is for weddings. Most brides probably wouldn’t choose to wear all black for their weddings, but you know what? If some do, more power to them. Remember that you are no longer bound to age old rules of etiquette when it comes to your attire. The bottom line: Wear what makes you feel comfortable, attractive and the most “bridal.” Also, white is not off limits simply because a woman has children. While it’s true that white used to symbolise virginity, these days it’s the colour of celebration — and you certainly have something to celebrate!
More: Attire for bride
- Can you explain the different train length options?
- Should the gown dictate the wedding style?
- Should I change into a different gown after the ceremony?
- Tips for Choosing a Winter Wedding Gown?
- When’s The Best Time To Try On?
- Can I Wear A Shorter Skirt?
- Can I Wear Satin In Summer?
- Flattering Dress For A Full Chest?
- Best Dresses for a Beach Wedding?
- Can I Wear White If I Have A Child?
Share your comments on this topic
Write your own tips and ideas to share with other Knotties.
Comments (5)
Pangema
I will be 38 when I get married, and have been living with my partner for 5 of the 9 years we have been together, so white didn’t feel right to me. So, my dress will be a silver colour, and still in a formal wedding style. I think you need to go with what you want. To be honest it’s your day and you want to be sure you don’t walk away with regrets because someone dissuaded you from doing what you want.
Beemer70
I’m getting married in Feb next year and I’m going to be wearing a gorgeous ivory gown. I tried the white gown and found it to be very harsh. Although this is a second marriage for both of us I still wanted to feel like a bride. I’ve been to many weddings where the bride didn’t wear white/ivory or even champaign. One wore red, One wore dark green, one wore terracotta. Each dress was stunning and suited the bride. I’m with the others, it’s your day, not your sisters and although your sister sounds like she wants to be an assistance with you, she needs to remember it’s your day. I think a black and white dress sounds stunning.
nenna
As a marriage celebrant, I have conducted services where the bride wore black -and looked absolutely stunning. Wear what makes you feel good, and something that suits your skin colouring. If that is black, then go for it, and have a wonderful wedding!!
Helava
I am 45 years of age and getting married in October next year in Fiji. I dont look my age which I am very blessed. I am old fashion in my own ways and the issue I am having is deciding my wedding dress colour. My daughter, will be 20 then who will be my bridesmaid and my son 19 then will give me away. We are having the wedding at the Hilton in Fiji and we plan this to coincide with the good weather. We have been there a few times already. I like old pink, I have been suggested to think of apricot colour (not your typical apricot). I have been thinking about off white dress. I have a big personality and I would like a standout colour. The dress will be very similar to Caroline Bissett’s wedding dress design – its elegant and simple. Do you think I this may be over the top for me being my age etc.
hazelle
hi
i am getting married next feb 2012 and it will be my second wedding my first was in a church quick no fuss not recepetion i was very young .
so this time round i am doing it the way i like it age does not matter , ps i will be 52 so wear what you like hair color antthing goes dont dress for others