Black wedding gowns have been used throughout various cultures for centuries. Even today in Spain some Roman Catholic brides wear black wedding gowns to symbolize their devotion to their partner until death. And it wasn't that long ago that in Western cultures black attire was a statement of wealth and social standing.
The color black is slimming, flattering and classy, and because it's a very popular color for formal events, black wedding gowns can be worn again. And let's not forget that white is the color of mourning in many Eastern cultures including India and China, and was also for the European nobility during medieval times.
Tips for harmonizing black bridal gowns
1) Black and white. Black paired with an icy white can make for stunning bridal dress. You decide whether you want more black or white and whether you want to accessorize with black or white.
2) Light fabrics. Choose a more streamlined figure fitting style (perhaps corset style) with thin layered chiffon for a light airy finish, and perhaps a little less material than you would use for a standard white wedding dress (unless you want lots of heavy material for that Goth look - hey it's your party).
3) Jewelry, makeup and accessories. Keep it simple, natural and tasteful, your black wedding gown is enough of a statement. Dark lip and eye liner has coffin bride written all over it (I actually quite like the look, but hey, that's me.) Consider a white veil and red bridal bouquet.
Of course these are just recommendations use your own judgment to get just the right mix. Enjoy!
Tips on finding an inexpensive black wedding dress
• Bridesmaid dresses are typically less expensive than wedding gowns, and there are some stunning black bridesmaid dresses at a fraction of the price. A black bridal gown is already a bold statement, all you need are the correct accessories, some complementary colors for your veil and bridal bouquet and you are set.
• Check bridal boutique clearance sections. Black is still in its experimental stage, some bridal stores have a great response, some don't, no reason why you can't benefit.
• Anything with the word "wedding" attached attracts a far greater price tag. Scout the formal and evening wear sections of clothes stores. Some prom and evening dresses are cut in identical styles as wedding dresses.
Think black overdress, decorated with jet beads, a side slit with the hint of a white undergarment, and finish with a pearl necklace.
Or a full skirt evening dress with a boned bodice and beading, then picture it with a tiara and bouquet, this would certainly make a stunning black bridal gown with a very attractive price tag.
• Phone some local professional costume shops, you'll be surprised what a range of dresses they have. Make sure the material is of a good sturdy quality.
• Ebay probably offers the widest range of new and used black bridal gowns. When buying on Ebay you can email the seller with any concerns you might have, some will even send additional photos. Make sure you have your exact measurements!! Remember, you can also view details about the seller to see how many items they have sold before.
You can find more ideas and advice on how to incorporate wedding dresses with color into your wedding theme at:
•Red bridal gowns
•Pink wedding gowns
•Gold bridal gowns
•Blue bridal dress
•Purple wedding dress
•Colored bridal gowns
•Wedding dresses with color
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