Why do brides wear white on their wedding day?

Before Queen Victoria, brides simply wore their best dress, regardless of the color. Queen Victoria chose a white silk satin gown adorned with Honiton lace, which was quite unusual at the time. Her wedding set a trend among the wealthy, as white was difficult to keep clean and thus a symbol of status and wealth​.

In earlier times, white was not associated with weddings. For example, in biblical days, blue was the colour that represented purity. The Greeks and Romans also used white robes to symbolise joy and celebration, but it wasn’t specifically for weddings​.

The colour white has come to represent purity, innocence, and new beginnings. This symbolism aligns with the traditional view of marriage as the start of a new chapter in life. Also, white can signify a fresh start and the bride’s transition from her family home to her new life with her spouse​.

While the white wedding dress remains popular, modern brides often personalise their wedding attire. Some opt for off-white, ivory, or even pastel shades. These choices reflect personal taste and a move towards more inclusive and varied interpretations of what a wedding dress should be​.

Interestingly, in some cultures, white is not the traditional colour for weddings. For instance, in many Eastern cultures, red is the preferred colour for bridal attire as it symbolises good luck and prosperity​.