Getting married? Congratulations!
Are you getting married for the first time? Have you been down the aisle before? Or maybe you are renewing your vows with your longtime sweetheart? No matter what the context, you need a wedding dress that will make you shine on your special day.
Just because you are an older bride doesn’t mean you have to skimp on your wedding dress style. Many wedding dresses are designed with the older woman in mind without compromising on trends.
Sure, the body may change with age, but the spirits remain young, and you deserve to look stunning on your wedding day.
Let’s take a look at some simple tips and style advice to help you choose the perfect wedding dress.
White or Not?
You don’t have to shy away from wearing white just because you are an older bride or even if this isn’t your first wedding. White is the traditional color for wedding dresses, and if this is what you wish, go for it!
If you don’t want to wear white, you can also take a look at shades like ivory, blush, grey, or even gold. Truthfully, you can choose a wedding dress in any color that suits your style, personality, and complexion.
Be Yourself
The sky’s the limit when it comes to your wedding dress style. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t wear a certain style because you are an older bride.
At this point in your life, you have pretty much determined your fashion sense and you know what suits your frame. You want something that will showcase your confidence and elegance.
Tip: Empire waists and soft lines typically flatter an older woman’s body as opposed to ball gowns and princess dresses.
What Length to Choose
Wedding dresses come in an assortment of lengths: from mini to floor-length. If your legs are one of your best features, why not think about a cocktail or tea-length dress? Choose the length that you are most comfortable in.
Tip: Mid-calf A-line dresses are a classic and look great if you are shorter and carry a few extra pounds. Also, you can show off those great shoes if you wear a shorter wedding dress.
What About Sleeves?
You don’t have to cover your arms – unless you want to. Don’t let anyone convince you to hide your arms simply because you are a bride over 50.
But if you do want to cover up your arms, you have plenty of options. Look for wedding dresses with sleeves, a matching cover-up, or even a formal jacket.
Tip: ¾-length sleeves are quite stylish and can flatter your hands and wrists.
Necklines that Flatter
Chances are you won’t want a plunging and extra revealing neckline for your wedding. But then again, if you are proud and confident showing cleavage, go for it.
Tip: Look for bateau and scoop neck necklines that are typically very flattering and chic. Halter tops and lace necklines are also great options for brides over 50.
Think Vintage
Vintage-inspired wedding dresses are a great option for older brides. Timeless elegant and sophisticated styles from the 20s and 30s can complement your beauty and grace on your wedding day.
Tip: Many vintage wedding dresses are designed with lace and delicate beading which can soften the look and provide a romantic feeling.
11 Wedding Dress Styles for Older Brides
There’s a lot of ways you can shop for your wedding dress. From your local bridal shop to designer online options. Online shopping has come a long way and now offers you more possibilities than ever before.
Here’s a list of some of my favorite wedding dresses for mature brides.
Vintage Romance at BHLDN
When shopping for wedding dresses you can visit Anthropologie’s bridal division BHLDN stores or easily shop your dress online and have it delivered. They offer a variety of designer and signature dresses in an array of styles.
I particularly like this romantic vintage wedding dress with scalloped sheer sleeves and fine beading.
Photo: BHLDN Bonheur Dress
Stylish Design at MATCHESFASHION
Photo: ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Lace-trimmed leaf-crepe gown
This Alexander McQueen wedding dress caught my eye because of its simple and stylish design features. The accented shoulders can add some definition to your shape and the crepe and lace mixed fabrics provide a flowy and easy fit. There are many other great options at MATCHES FASHION.
Perfect Plus-Size Short Lace Dress at David’s Bridal
Photo: Plus Size Wedding Belle Short Dress
This ivory, knee-length lace dress from David’s Bridal is a perfect wedding dress style to compliment your fabulous figure. Empire waisted dresses are simply the most flattering on any body type.
Elegant Hi/Low Wedding Dress from Tadashi Shoji Bridal
Get the best of both worlds with this beautiful, lace, off-the-shoulder gown that is short in the front and long in the back.
Photo: Mimi Gown
Tadashi Shoji Bridal has an assortment of exquisite wedding dresses that you can purchase in one of their retail stores or order online.
Modern Silhouette at BHLDN
Photo: Jenny by Jenny Yoo Shipley Gown
This is another great modern look that I love and that suits the older bride very well. This chic halter top dress from BHLDN is perfect for the stylish and modern woman on her wedding day.
Sophisticated Gown by Justin Alexander
Photo: Organza Draped Illusion V-Neck Ball Gown
I am in love with this dress by Justin Alexander! This elegant wedding gown is perfect if you want the volume of a ball gown while keeping your look sophisticated and contemporary.
Off-the-Shoulder Stylish Dress by AMSALE
Photo: Shiri Gown
There is both simplicity and elegance in this off-the-shoulder, crepe, fit-to-flare wedding dress by AMSALE. It’s sure to flatter your figure.
Tulle Beauty by Tadashi Shoji
Photo: Ripley Sleeveless Full-Skirt Gown
Tadashi Shoji effortlessly combines lace and tulle in this chic dress to provide an elegant look that can cater to many different body types.
Tailored Jumpsuit by Donna Karen
Photo: Belted Suit Style Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits are very trendy for modern brides and can be a great alternative if you don’t wish to wear a dress. This perfectly tailored jumpsuit offered by Donna Karen is classy and will assure a flawless fit with its adjustable belt.
3-Piece Pantsuit by David’s Bridal
Photo: Embroidered Plus Size Three-Piece Pantsuit
For an untraditional look go for this simple yet eloquent 3-piece pantsuit in sandstone offered by David’s Bridal. It will take you from afternoon to evening effortlessly on your special day.
Gold Floral Elegance at Pronovias
Photo: ATOL STYLE 05
Luxurious combo of floral embroidered placements on the bodice and a pleated skirt make this dress offered at Pronovias the perfect option for the discerning mature bride.
Go Ahead, Say I Do
Choosing your perfect wedding dress can be challenging when you’re getting married later in life. Let’s face it, most photos promote young women in their 20s and it can sometimes be difficult to relate.
Simply follow your heart, and don’t let anyone tell you that you have to limit yourself because of your age. Choose a dress that you are comfortable in and that makes you feel beautiful and confident.
Which style of wedding dress do you like best? Tell us about your upcoming nuptials and what your wedding dress will look like.
