Setting convention aside in favor of new traditions, this season's brides are "searching for non-traditional wedding colors" according to Pinterest. As a result, black and red dresses, as well as goth wedding related inquiries have seen a surge in traffic on the platform, signaling a shift in not just consumer tastes, but also their attitudes. "Gen Z Pinners are driving unconventional wedding themes by shaking things up from dresses to cakes, elaborate themes and beauty inspo," the report read.
The symbolic white dress is no longer the go-to choice for brides, as it wasn't for Sarah Jessica Parker when she married Matthew Broderick in a black gown on May 19, 1997. This might have been the beginning of a trend that's gained momentum in recent years, especially as we emerge from a pandemic that has disrupted dress codes across industries. "Selling Sunset" star Christine Quinn followed suit in 2019, marrying Christian Richard in a black strapless corset dress with a voluminous beaded skirt. Chloë Sevigny also went that route in 2020, when she shared images of her city hall wedding with Siniša Mačković in 2020. Sevigny wore a mid-length, long-sleeve black dress on her big day.
More and more bridal designers and retailers are catering to this subset of brides looking to break away from the norm. David's Bridal, for example, has made their most popular wedding dresses available in other colors, including black (they were previously only available for custom orders). From ballgowns to streamlined silhouettes, the possibilities of chic black wedding dresses abound. A black wedding dress also makes for a savvy year-round investment as you're likely to rewear it for formal occasions.
Should you wear a black wedding dress?
The answer is totally up to you! Some brides opt for the traditional white gown, while others experiment with colorful or non-white options. There is no right or wrong answer to this, as long as you choose a design you love.
How to style your black wedding dress
It all starts with the dress. A strapless silhouette often sets the stage for a major necklace moment, so if this is your preferred style, consider styling it with a pearl or ribbon choker or a crystal chain necklace. If it's designed with a halter-style neck, let your earrings shine by opting for statement studs or pendants. As for footwear, closed-toe or open-toe shoes will depend on the wedding venue or the length of the dress. The key is to ensure you're comfortable, whether you choose pointy slingback pumps, strappy heels or embellished flats.
If you're looking for a statement-making black bridal dress or browsing for wedding fashion inspiration, scroll on for our edit of the chicest black wedding gowns for every type of bride. From lacy options to corseted silhouettes, you will find a style that fits your taste, body type and budget.