There’s something undeniably alluring about black wedding dresses. In 1997 Sarah Jessica Parker visited one of her favourite boutiques and chose one right off the rack to wear to her ceremony with Matthew Broderick. “Our logic was we didn’t want to call attention to ourselves that day, because we’re actors and we get attention all day long,” Parker said. “Matthew bought a suit off the rack, and I bought the first dress I looked at.” Though Parker has gone on to say that she might have done things differently, the fact of the matter is that for something that was meant to be an understated fashion choice, the look is still getting attention.
More and more brides are skipping the traditional cream and ivory gowns and saying yes to black wedding dresses.
It’s proof that black can very much be a festive colour, especially when accompanied by beautiful floral embroidery. Embellishments like romantic lace, delicate beading, and whimsical feathers also make for lovely accents worthy of a walk down the aisle.
If you’re contemplating wearing the unexpected colour for your big day, we’ve gathered 19 delightful options - or inspiration - below.
Oscar de la Renta strapless embellished tulle and silk-blend crepe gown
Khaite Desi crystal-embellished tulle dress
Alexia María Magnolia column gown
Prada off-the-shoulder wool-blend gown
Giambattista Valli cape-sleeve floral-print silk-georgette gown
Alex Perry Hudson strapless crepe gown
Maison Margiela viscose satin sleeveless long dress
Talbot Runhof shiny textured jacquard gown
Monique Lhuillier off-the-shoulder glittered tulle gown
Carolina Herrera ruffle strapless silk mermaid gown
Sergio Hudson stud & crystal-embellished gown
Rene Ruiz sequin strapless slit gown
Naeem Khan floral sequin-embroidered tulle illusion gown
Alexander McQueen lace evening dress
Maticevski Abyssinia crêpe gown
Dolce & Gabbana cowl-neck silk-blend satin gown
Carolina Herrera pleated silk faille gown
Marchesa ruched floral off-the-shoulder gown
Yolancris embellished tulle dress
