Do I have to wear white?

I don't want the traditional white gown that every bride wears. Why not have pink or pastel blue? Do I really have to wear white on my wedding day?


As the bride, you have the final say on what colour you want your wedding gown to be. There are, however, a few key elements to keep in mind before you make that decision.

After you have decided on a wedding officiant or site for your ceremony (ie. if it's a religious location), have a chat with him/her regarding bridal attire. Ask simply, "Are there any guidelines or restrictions on what the bride and bridesmaids can wear?"

Another element to keep in mind is the potential reactions of your guests, specifically older relatives who may be traveling from afar to be part of your wedding day.

Depending on the formality of your wedding and your religious beliefs, your officiant may insist on following traditional protocol. The less formal your wedding is, the more freedom you will feel to exercise your contemporary expressions of your ideal wedding gown.