White Wedding Dresses vs. Ivory Wedding Dresses
White and ivory wedding dresses have long been the traditional choices for brides, but each color offers its own unique charm and elegance.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the history of these classic bridal shades, examine their differences in hue, undertone, and fabric texture, and provide expert insights to help you make an informed decision when choosing between white or ivory for your special day.
So whether you’re a bride-to-be searching for the perfect gown or simply curious about this timeless wedding debate, read on as we unravel the mystery behind white vs ivory.
Key Takeaways
- The tradition of brides wearing white dates back to Queen Victoria’s wedding in 1840, while ivory gowns were more prevalent during the Roman Empire.
- Ivory wedding dresses offer a subtle elegance due to its creamy, yellowish – white hue that provides a distinct contrast to white and often flatters a wider range of skin tones than stark white options.
- When selecting your wedding dress color, it is important to consider matching your skin tone, the venue’s vibe and colors, the bridesmaids’ dresses, coordinating with your theme and complementing everything else from flowers to linens.
- Different materials can create different versions of white and ivory wedding dresses;Â satin or taffeta will yield brighter results on stark whites while silk or lace enhances ivory fabric sheen.
The History Of White And Ivory Wedding Dresses
Why Do Brides Wear White?
Brides began wearing white after Queen Victoria popularized the trend in 1840. Before then, brides would simply wear their best dress without adhering to a specific color.
When Queen Victoria married Prince Albert, she chose a white gown made of silk and lace – thus setting the standard for bridal fashion ever since.
In addition to its association with royalty and grandeur, the color has historical significance as well. Ancient Roman brides often wore the gowns as an emblem of modesty and chastity.
As bridal traditions evolved over time, this concept carried on, maintaining the perceived connection between white dresses and virtuous values.
Interestingly enough, while many people still associate bridal attire with classic shades, modern trends have expanded the range of possibilities for wedding dresses over time.
Origins Of Ivory Wedding Dresses
Ivory wedding dresses have a rich history that predates the popularity of white gowns. Often considered to be a more traditional choice, they have been worn by brides for centuries across different cultures.
The ancient Romans, for example, favored ivory-colored wedding attire as it symbolized purity and wealth.
Today’s brides appreciate the versatility and subtle elegance that an ivory gown offers paired with its storied past. They often feature hues such as champagne or blush undertones which can provide warmth and depth to the overall appearance of the dress.
These unique tints make it an increasingly popular choice among modern brides who seek a timeless yet contemporary look.
In addition to their historical significance and visual appeal, many brides choose an ivory gown because it tends to flatter a wider range of skin tones compared to stark white options.
Brides with warmer complexions may find that yellow undertones present in some ivory shades complement their natural coloring beautifully while still adhering to traditional bridal aesthetics.
White Vs Ivory
White and ivory are two of the most popular dress colors, but what’s the difference? Let’s look at variations between stark white, natural white, and ivory shades and how they can complement your complexion and wedding theme.
Stark White
Stark white wedding dresses are characterized by their bright, electric shade, which is achieved through the use of synthetic fabrics. This eye-catching option has become increasingly popular among modern brides seeking a bold statement on their big day.
Not only does stark white make a strong visual impact, but it can also be particularly flattering for brides with darker skin tones or complexions featuring yellow or olive undertones.
Brides who choose this striking color should keep in mind that the vibrancy may appear differently depending on the material used for the gown; opting for materials such as satin or taffeta will yield a more impressive result due to their inherent shine and luster in comparison to matte fabrics like crepe or chiffon.
Natural White
Natural white is the whitest shade that natural fibers can achieve and falls between stark white and ivory. It gives off a clean, crisp look without being too bright or glaring.
The coloring is achieved through various fabric treatments and bleaching processes to remove any yellowing or dark marks on the fabric. Dresses made from materials like cotton, linen, and silk often have this natural white hue.
Christina Wu 15800 Sparkly Wedding Gown and Mon Cheri Champagne Wedding dress 122171 both come in natural white shades which bring out their vintage look beautifully.
Ivory
Ivory wedding dresses are a popular choice for modern brides who want to break away from the traditional color. It has a creamy, yellowish-white hue that provides a distinct contrast to white.
It’s important to note the difference between ivory and shades of off-white or champagne, which can be challenging to differentiate with the naked eye. While traditionally the color was associated with older wedding dress styles, today’s designers are incorporating the shade into modern designs that have unique textures and fabrics such as silk, tulle, or lace.
Bridal boutique owners recommend choosing an ivory gown if it complements your skin tone better than stark or diamond white.
Considerations For Selecting Your Wedding Dress Color
When selecting the color for your wedding dress, there are important considerations to keep in mind, such as matching your skin tone, coordinating with your venue and bridal party attire, and complementing your wedding theme.
Considering Your Skin Tone
Choosing the right dress color can be a daunting task, but considering your skin tone can make all the difference. Brighter colors work best on darker skin tones or complexions with yellow or olive undertones.
For those with lighter skin tones, ivory tends to be the most universally flattering version of white. A skilled bridal consultant can provide guidance on the best shade for a bride’s complexion and offer options that suit different undertones or tints in one’s natural coloring.
Matching Your Wedding Theme And Colors
It’s important to consider your wedding theme and colors when selecting a your wedding dress color. For example, if you’re hosting an outdoor winery wedding with earth-toned décor, an ivory-hued gown may complement the natural surroundings better than a bright white gown.
On the other hand, if you’ve chosen bold colors like red and black for your wedding palette, a stark white dress could add contrast and make quite the statement as you walk down the aisle.
Remember that your dress is just one aspect of your overall wedding look – it should harmonize with everything else from flowers to bridesmaid dresses to linens.
Complementing Your Venue’s Vibe
Selecting a wedding gown color that complements the chosen venue’s vibe is crucial for creating an overall cohesive look and feel. For example, if the venue is a rustic outdoor setting, an ivory wedding dress may be more appropriate to match the natural aesthetic of the surroundings.
Alternatively, in a modern or contemporary space, a brighter color may work better to create a clean and sleek look. Consideration should also be given to any existing colors within the venue’s décor or theme, as these can impact how certain colors appear in photos taken on the day.
Coordinating With Bridal Party Attire
It’s essential to consider the color scheme of the wedding when deciding on a dress color. Brides should look for a shade that will match their bridesmaids’ and complement the overall theme and feel of the wedding.
Alternatively, white pairs well with bold-colored bridesmaid dresses like purple or royal blue. The goal is to create a visually appealing palette without going overboard in any particular direction.
Comparing Textures And Fabrics
White Vs. Ivory In Different Materials
Different materials can affect how white and ivory tones appear on a gown; while some brides may prefer the crispness of silk, others may opt for the softer feel of lace or tulle. The table below highlights the differences between the shades on various fabrics.
Material | White | Ivory |
---|---|---|
Satin | Reflects light, creating a brighter and more vibrant hue | Offers a richer depth of color that enhances the fabric’s sheen |
Silk | Has a slightly off-white appearance due to its natural fibers | Accentuates the fabric’s glow while providing a softer, warmer shade |
Tulle | Provides a crisp, clean brightness without appearing too stark | Offers a romantic and whimsical look with a softer hue |
Lace | Highlights the intricate patterns and details in the fabric | Enhances the vintage feel while complementing the overall design |
Chiffon | Creates a light and airy feel, helping to balance the brightness | Provides a delicate and romantic touch with its subtle shade |
When selecting a bridal gown, brides should consider how their preferred shade will appear on the chosen material. Trying on dresses in natural light can help determine the best shade for the bride’s skin tone and wedding aesthetic.
Popular Types Of Ivory And White Wedding Dresses
Some of the most popular types of gowns include the elegant halter dress, a chic crepe wedding dress, a romantic lace overlay gown, and a stunning mermaid dress with intricate beading.
Halter
The Halter Dress is a popular choice for brides who want a timeless and elegant look. This style of dress features a high neckline that fastens at the back, leaving the shoulders and arms exposed.
The halter design flatters most body types by drawing attention to the upper body while elongating the neck.
According to bridal experts, ivory dresses have become increasingly popular in recent years compared to stark white versions. This shade provides warmth and depth compared to brighter whites, which sometimes appear too harsh on camera or under certain lighting conditions.
Crepe
The crepe wedding dress is a popular choice amongst modern brides because of its versatility. Crepe is a lightweight fabric that drapes beautifully and accentuates the curves of the body.
It’s soft to the touch, yet creates an elegant and sophisticated look. This style can be worn by brides of all shapes and sizes, making it a go-to option for many bridal boutiques.
Crepe works well with different shades, allowing brides to choose their preferred color without compromising on style or fabric quality.
Lace Overlay
A lace overlay gown is a fashion-forward choice among modern brides, as it adds an element of luxury and elegance to the dress. The addition of a lace layer can provide texture and enhance any embellishments or gems on the gown, creating a stunning visual effect.
This type of gown also tends to photograph well, as it appears less stark than pure white under bright lights or cameras. Moreover, ivory dresses have warmer undertones and creamier hues that complement most skin tones better than stark white.
Mermaid
The mermaid is a popular style among brides opting for an ivory dress. This style hugs the body through the waist and hips, then flares out dramatically from the knees to create a dramatic train.
Often made with luxurious fabrics like satin or silk, this dress adds a touch of glamour to any wedding theme. The color complements the elegant silhouette of the mermaid dress, enhancing its timeless beauty and making it perfect for vintage-inspired weddings or more modern affairs.
Selecting The Perfect Accessories
Once you’ve chosen the perfect gown, it’s time to focus on accessories like shoes, jewelry, and hairpieces which will elevate your look. From classic pearls to sparkling statement pieces that match your venue’s vibe; we’ll show you how to create a cohesive look from head to toe.
Shoes
Selecting the perfect shoes to complement is no easy feat, but it’s an important consideration for any bride-to-be. The color of the dress can affect the shoe choice, with white pairing well with brighter whites or metallic tones like silver or gold, while ivory may call for warmer hues like nude or champagne.
Of course, personal preference plays a big role in shoe selection as well. Some brides opt for comfortable flats or sandals while others choose statement heels to add some extra height and glamour to their look.
It is worth mentioning that white sneakers have become quite popular in recent years as a trend-setting footwear option for brides looking to prioritize comfort without compromising on style.
Jewelry
Accessories play a crucial role in completing any bridal look and jewelry does more than that. The right piece of jewelry can elevate the overall appearance, adding an element of glamour or simplicity to it.
When it comes to selecting jewelry, there are a few factors to consider such as neckline, and personal style. For white gowns, silver jewelry is a classic choice with diamonds or pearls being timeless options that work well with both white and ivory.
However, for ivory gowns, gold jewelry adds warmth and complements the shades beautifully.
Brides magazine advises brides to keep their accessories minimal when their dress features ornate designs while recommending statement earrings for simple gowns without much detail.
Veils And Hairpieces
Selecting the perfect veil and hairpiece to complement your wedding dress can be a daunting task. For a white wedding dress, it’s best to choose a veil and hairpiece that matches the shade of white or is diamond white.
Ivory dresses are typically paired with champagne, blush, or the same color as the dress for veils and hairpieces.
The consultant at a bridal salon can provide guidance on which style works best with your gown as well as the color that complements your complexion. It’s recommended to try on several different styles before making a final decision; also keep in mind what feels comfortable throughout an entire day of wear.
Trusting The Experts: Tips From Wedding Dress Professionals
Wedding dress professionals have years of experience in helping brides find the perfect dress for their big day. Here are some tips from experts to keep in mind when selecting your wedding dress color:
Consider your skin tone and undertones
A bridal consultant can determine which shades of white or ivory will complement your complexion.
Trust the lighting
Natural light is essential when trying on dresses, as it will show the true color of the fabric. HD cameras used by bridal salons can also give you a realistic perspective of how you look in each dress.
Don’t be afraid to try on different shades
Even if you’ve always envisioned wearing a pure white dress, don’t discount the beauty of an ivory gown with champagne undertones or soft-white hue that works better with your skin tone.
Keep an open mind
Bridal salon owners and designers know what looks best on each body type, so take their suggestions into account when trying on dresses.
Consider matching your wedding theme and colors
If you have a specific color scheme for your wedding, it’s important to consider whether a stark white or ivory dress would work better with those hues.
Think about the venue and its vibe
If you’re getting married at a winery or rustic barn, an ivory lace overlay gown might complement the atmosphere better than a bright white satin ballgown.
Coordinating with bridal party attire
It’s crucial for cohesive photos and overall aesthetic. Ask for advice from your event planner or stylist when choosing complementary colors for bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen suits.
Don’t forget about accessories!
The right shoes, jewelry, veil, and hairpiece can elevate any wedding dress to another level of elegance.
These tips show that there are many factors to consider when selecting between white or ivory wedding dresses, but ultimately trusting the expertise of professionals can make all difference in finding “the one.”
Conclusion
The decision between a white or ivory wedding dress ultimately comes down to personal preference and a few important considerations. Understanding the differences between stark white, natural white, and ivory can help you make an informed decision and select the perfect shade for your special day.
With tips from bridal boutique owners and designers, as well as guidance on selecting accessories that complement your dress color choice, you’ll be able to create a stunning look that’s uniquely yours.
Remember to trust the experts when it comes to choosing your wedding dress color and always try dresses on in natural light to get the most accurate representation of how they will look on your big day.
FAQ’s
Q: What’s the difference between white wedding dresses and ivory wedding dresses?
A: White wedding dresses are the brightest shade of white, while ivory wedding dresses have a slightly creamy or yellowish tint. Ivory falls between stark white and a natural white, which can vary in tone depending on the fabric and design.
Q: How do I choose which color for my wedding dress?
A: When choosing the color of your wedding dress, consider your skin tone and the overall color scheme of your wedding. If you have warmer or darker skin tones, ivory may be a better choice as stark white may not complement your skin tone. If your wedding has a more traditional theme, ivory may be more appropriate. On the other hand, if you prefer a modern look, white may be the perfect choice for you.
Q: What’s the meaning behind ivory vs white wedding dresses?
A: Ivory wedding dresses are thought to symbolize purity, while white is associated with innocence and brightness. In the past, white wedding dresses were reserved for the wealthy while ivory was worn by those who couldn’t afford a brand new dress. Nowadays, the distinction is more about personal preference and style than any underlying significance.
Q: What’s the difference between ivory vs white wedding dress shopping?
A: When shopping for an ivory wedding dress, it’s important to note that this color does not always have a consistent shade, unlike white. It’s important to find a store that carries a variety of ivory shades to ensure you find the perfect one for your skin tone and wedding theme. Conversely, shopping for a white wedding dress is a bit easier as the shade is usually constant across stores.
Q: Can I wear an ivory wedding dress if I have a fair skin tone?
A: Absolutely! Ivory wedding dresses tend to have a warmer or creamier undertone than stark white, making it a great option for those with fair skin. However, it’s important to try on a variety of shades to see what complements your skin tone the most.
Q: Are white wedding dresses always the brightest shade of white?
A: Yes, white is the brightest shade of white. However, keep in mind that the brightness can vary depending on the fabric and lighting of the dress. It’s important to try on white dresses in a variety of settings to ensure you are happy with the overall brightness.
Q: What’s the difference between white and natural white wedding dresses?
A: While white is the purest and brightest shade of white, natural white can vary in tone and have a slight creamy or yellowish hue. Natural white falls between stark white and ivory and is a popular choice for those who want a classic white dress with a slightly softer tint.
Q: Can I wear a colored dress for my wedding instead of white or ivory?
A: Of course! Wedding fashion has evolved over time and many brides are now opting for colored dresses rather than traditional white or ivory. Choose the color that best represents you and your style!
Q: What type of white should I choose for my wedding dress?
A: The type of white you choose for your wedding dress depends on your personal preference and the overall theme of your wedding. If you prefer a bright, classic look, go for stark white. If you want a softer look, opt for a natural or ivory white. Remember to consider your skin tone and overall color scheme when making your choice.