Trendy Wedding Attire: UK Couples’ Stylish Alternatives to Traditional Outfits
In the ever-evolving world of wedding fashion, UK couples are increasingly opting for stylish alternatives to traditional wedding outfits. This shift towards modern and unique wedding attire is driven by a desire for personal expression, comfort, and a break from the conventional norms. Here, we delve into the latest trends, must-know designers, and practical tips for those looking to make a statement on their special day.
Embracing Non-Traditional Wedding Dresses
For many modern brides, the idea of wearing a traditional white wedding dress is no longer the only option. Instead, they are turning to designers who offer non-traditional and unique wedding dresses that reflect their individual style.
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Completedworks’ Modern Bride Collection
London-based jewellery brand Completedworks has introduced a wedding capsule collection that redefines traditional bridal dressing. This collection, available exclusively at Net-a-Porter, features pieces inspired by contemporary art and ceramics, using zirconia gems and freshwater pearls. The designs are unexpected yet retain a romantic feel, perfect for the modern bride looking to avoid the saccharine and obvious[1].
In-Grid Bride: Precision and Volume
In-Grid Bride, founded by Katie and Adam Barclay, focuses on post-modern, structured silhouettes that eschew the traditional princess vibe. Their bespoke gowns, made in England, feature intricate details like bell sleeves and hidden tulle ruffles. Each piece is meticulously crafted in their in-house atelier in Sheffield, ensuring a unique and personalized look for every bride[1].
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Vivienne Westwood Bridal: Historical References with a Twist
Vivienne Westwood’s bridal wear continues to be a go-to for brides seeking the unconventional. The label’s designs blend historical references like corsets and opera gloves with unorthodox cuts and silhouettes. The bridal collection includes made-to-order and bespoke options, featuring elements like metallic silver lace and dramatic Watteau trains[1].
Sustainable and Versatile Wedding Attire
Sustainability is becoming a key factor in wedding fashion, with many couples opting for dresses and attire that can be worn more than once.
Needle & Thread: Responsibly Made Gowns
Needle & Thread offers a responsibly made off-shoulder gown that is not only stunning for the wedding day but can also be modified for future events. This gown can be shortened or dyed, making it a versatile and sustainable choice[2].
Molly Goddard: Short and Sweet
Molly Goddard’s off-shoulder cotton mini dress is another sustainable option. Perfect for a summer wedding, this dress can easily be worn again with flat sandals on holiday or at other casual events[2].
Alexander McQueen: Beyond the Dress
For those who prefer not to wear a dress, Alexander McQueen’s crepe straight-leg pants offer a stylish alternative. These trousers can be worn on holiday, on a night out, or even on a date night, making them a practical and fashionable choice[2].
Alternative Wedding Suits for the Modern Bride
Traditional wedding dresses are not the only option for brides; many are now opting for stylish and unique wedding suits.
Blazé Milano: Tailored Elegance
Blazé Milano offers a series of blazers, blouses, and trousers that celebrate the eternal chic of the tailored jacket. Their designs reference women who have championed this silhouette, from Coco Chanel to Bianca Jagger. The label’s tactile cream and soft silk jackets provide a sophisticated and insouciant look for the modern bride[1].
Rock My Wedding: Colourful Wedding Suits
For those looking to make a bold statement, Rock My Wedding features a range of colourful wedding suits. From Nadine Merabi’s bold red suit to Reiss’s dark velvet teal ensemble, these suits offer a fresh and modern take on traditional wedding attire. The cerise corduroy suit from BA&SH and the cobalt blue suit from Mango Iguana are other standout options that exude confidence and personality[5].
Modern Accessories and Dress Codes
Accessories and dress codes play a crucial role in completing the wedding look.
Unique Accessories
Modern brides are opting for accessories that avoid the saccharine and obvious. Completedworks’ jewellery, for instance, features unexpected designs that draw on contemporary art and ceramics. For a more understated look, Asceno’s silk slip dresses and fluid pyjamas can be paired with elegant accessories like the Yves Saint Laurent Le Smoking jacket-inspired white silk-crepe tailored suit[1].
Dress Codes for Wedding Guests
For wedding guests, especially those attending Indian weddings, it’s important to respect cultural traditions. Avoid wearing red, white, and black, and opt for modest western silhouettes or traditional Indian outfits like sarees or lehengas. Mixing Indian looks with western accessories or vice versa can create a unique and respectful look[3].
Practical Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Attire
Here are some practical tips to help you choose the perfect wedding attire:
Know Your Style
- Identify Your Aesthetic: Before starting your search, have a clear idea of what you like. Look for inspiration online, in magazines, or through friends’ weddings.
- Consider Comfort: Your wedding day is long, so ensure your attire is comfortable. Asceno’s streamlined separates and fluid pyjamas are great examples of comfortable yet stylish options[1].
Shop Sustainably
- Choose Versatile Pieces: Opt for dresses or suits that can be worn again. Needle & Thread’s off-shoulder gown and Alexander McQueen’s trousers are excellent choices for their versatility[2].
- Rent or Buy Second-Hand: Renting high-end designer outfits or buying second-hand can be cost-effective and sustainable. Apps like By Rotation offer a wide range of high-quality, rented Indian outfits[3].
Personalize Your Look
- Add Unique Elements: Incorporate personal touches like custom typography or innovative materials. Perfect Daze Bridal offers non-traditional cotton dresses with unique elements like suede and nylon[4].
- Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix different styles. Pairing Indian outfits with western accessories or vice versa can create a unique and memorable look[3].
Table: Comparing Alternative Wedding Dress Designers
Designer | Key Features | Availability | Price Range |
---|---|---|---|
Completedworks | Contemporary art and ceramics inspiration, zirconia gems, freshwater pearls | Net-a-Porter | High-end |
In-Grid Bride | Post-modern silhouettes, bespoke gowns, volume and precision | in-gridstudio.co | High-end |
Vivienne Westwood | Historical references, unorthodox cuts, metallic silver lace, Watteau trains | Mytheresa, Vivienne Westwood boutiques | High-end |
Asceno | Streamlined separates, silk slip dresses, fluid pyjamas | asceno.com | Mid to high-end |
Blazé Milano | Tailored jackets, blouses, trousers, tactile cream and soft silk | blazé-milano.com | Mid to high-end |
Needle & Thread | Responsibly made off-shoulder gown, versatile and sustainable | needleandthread.com | Mid-range |
Molly Goddard | Short cotton mini dress, versatile and casual | matchesfashion.com | Mid-range |
Alexander McQueen | Crepe straight-leg pants, versatile and stylish | net-a-porter.com | High-end |
Quotes from Experts and Designers
- Katie Barclay, In-Grid Bride: “It’s about shaking off that princess vibe of the wedding dress. Precision and meticulous craftsmanship; post-modern, structured silhouettes, executed through traditional couture.”[1]
- Poppy Sexton-Wainwright, Asceno: “Early on in our friendship, we knew we wanted to create a clothing brand that was pared back and relaxed.”[1]
- Fashion Expert on Indian Weddings: “I would recommend renting your Indian outfits. There is simply little to no value in purchasing low quality pieces from markets for single use, and the prices will still range from upwards of £75.”[3]
The world of wedding fashion is evolving, and UK couples are at the forefront of this change. Whether you’re looking for non-traditional wedding dresses, sustainable and versatile attire, or alternative wedding suits, there are countless options available to suit every style and preference. By embracing modern trends, personalizing your look, and shopping sustainably, you can ensure that your wedding day is not only memorable but also reflective of your unique identity.
In the words of Anna Jewsbury from Completedworks, “The new capsule promises to ‘reform traditional rules of bridal dressing… championing the unexpected and irrelevant’.” This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of modern wedding fashion – a celebration of individuality, comfort, and style that goes beyond the conventional norms. So, don’t be afraid to break the mold and create a look that truly represents you on your special day.