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Which Wedding Dress Color Should You Choose?

Finding the wedding dress that makes you feel like a bride comes with many considerations. One of the biggest after finding your style? Selecting the right shade of white.

A traditional choice for brides has traditionally been pure white. However, this has changed a bit in recent years and Ivory has been on the rise in. White has always been the symbol of innocence and purity. Ivory is a more up to date modern classic that still signifies the values of white, love and commitment.

We broke down main differences between stark white, natural white, and ivory—and share their tips for deciding which is right for you.

White is white. Right? Well, actually there are several types of white- from stark or pure white, natural or off white to ivory shades. Lastly don’t forget about other favorite colors within brides such as blush, champagne, mocha and mauve which are other options you might consider. 

If you’re looking for a subtle hint of color, consider pale shades of pink, lilac, or powder blue. You can find dresses that give a nod to certain hues, for example, the bust may be white but it gradually fades into a blush-colored skirt. 

Skin Complexion

Keeping your skin tone in mind is always something to consider. 

Brighter whites work best on darker skin tones or complexions that have a yellow or olive undertone. White dresses on fair skin can be harsh and appear washed out. 

Ivory is typically the most universally flattering version of white. So if you're not 100% sure about your skin tone or when in doubt, go ivory.

White

Pure White

The brightest white, stark white is typically bleached to get its crisp tint and is best achieved with synthetic fabrics. So if you are thinking of taffeta, satin, or a polyester blend then this could be a good option.  

The hue is known to pick up the colors of its surroundings and can appear too electric for some tastes. Over the years stark white has become less popular as brides favor more universally flattering shades, and experts expect the color to continue to fade in popularity. Stark white can be so pure that it can appear light blue or purple under certain lighting and HD cameras.

We advise brides to be careful choosing stark white because the pictures can come out with a light blue tint.

Natural White

Natural white is the whitest shade that natural fibers can achieve without the need for bleaching. Sometimes called diamond white, off white or silk white it falls between stark and ivory and features a little less warmth than ivory.

Natural white tends to photograph the same as stark white without any unwanted blue notes. Some brides fear that since it’s not the brightest level of white, it won’t look as bridal, but a truth is that natural white is much more flattering to a wide range of skin tones, especially ones with yellow undertones. 

Ivory

Often referred to as eggshell, this color has quickly become the most popular shade of white for modern brides. If selecting ivory over a traditional white makes you nervous, its probably because marketing allure and word choice rather than actual hue. 

The creamy color adds a level of luxury while still photographing as white. Some ivory dresses have yellow undertones as opposed to just a soft white look. Brides tend to assume all ivories have a yellow or nude tint but to the naked eye it looks like natural White. In fact, most brides think ivory is natural white when they see dress on the rack until told otherwise.

Wedding Dress Chosing Tips

When it comes down to it, your best bet is to visit any bridal salon and compare in person. The only way to truly find your best shade is to try the dresses on, preferably in natural light. You can try different necklines, cuts, and materials so that you can work through a variety of options!

That way you know what to look for when you order dress online.

Here are some extra tips to make sure you get the most out of the wedding dress trying experience. Make sure you feel fabulous on the day you visit salon; do your hair, wear make-up and some nice jewellery - it goes a long way. 

Wear good white or cream underwear and don’t forget to bring your shoes to help with getting the length of your dress right. Your favorite pair of shoes that have a similar height to what you’ll be wearing on the day is perfect if you don’t have your exact wedding day shoes yet.