5 ALTERNATIVE WEDDING DRESSES FOR THE UNEXPECTED

HitchPlanner recommends 5 alternative wedding dresses for the unexpected.

 2020 has definitely been the year of the unexpected. The world has been turned upside down due to COVID-19 and this has also heavily affected many couples due to tie the knot. Whether you’ve decided to postpone your wedding or have to downsize. Whatever the reason, sometimes your original wedding dress may no longer fit the situation.

No matter what, there's always a gown to match you.

Perhaps you’re looking for something less conventional or you’ve decided to postpone your wedding so you’ve had to change the theme. No matter what, there’s always a gown to match you. 

The classic white wedding gown can seem a little ordinary to some with the variety of cuts and colours that are out there. Or given the current climate you may just want to break with tradition.

 Whatever you decide, have a scroll below as we’ve searched the internet for the best alternative wedding dresses for the unexpected. 

1. two-piece gown

Make your wedding dress twice as fun with a two-piece wedding dress or even a two-piece suit!

 The two-piece wedding dress is perfect for the bride who’s looking to break tradition.

With all the different elements they contain, it’s easy to see why brides who want to be different go with two instead of one-pieces for their wedding.

You can layer up or take it off but it's all down to personality and preference.

What we love most about these is that the bride can play with the amount of skin on show between the two pieces. You can layer up or take it off but it’s all down to personality and preference.

Not to be forgotten that a two-piece is probably easier to get out of as well! You can easily chop and change your outfit during the big day.

2. short alternative wedding dresses

Are you keen on the dancefloor? Well, full-length dresses aren’t for everyone. Short wedding dresses are an ideal alternative for brides searching for more comfort. It is also the perfect dress length for rustic weddings and wedding venues outdoors. Short dresses definitely allow the bride to move easier.

You can always change it with a long veil or have a longer train. Ready to show some leg? A short wedding dress is definitely a bold choice for a bride that wants to break from the traditional.

3. Chinese traditional

Still want to go traditional but don’t fancy the big white wedding gown? You could consider wearing a Qun Kua that is not only stylish but also nods at tradition and culture. The Qun Kua is the traditional two-piece which literally means “long skirt and top coat”.

Nowadays, there are many modern styles to choose from with many brides choosing a slimmer cut. The amount of embroideries is now customisable. Brides can also opt for the one-piece Qi Pao, which is also more figure-hugging.

Photo credit: 1st Journal productions

4. Colourful alternative wedding dresses

 For brides who want to break with tradition, why not consider a colourful alternative wedding dress? Colourful wedding dresses can be as subtle or as bold as you like. There are uncountable numbers of colours to choose from to match every personality.

Brides who want a hint of colour could consider shades of soft grey and lilac. If your personality is bold and punchy why not go for something like emerald green or blue.

5. DIY

Want to add some handmade touches to your wedding?

While most brides will purchase their wedding dress from a retailer. Some do decide to make their own dresses for their big day.

Whether you want to make a dress from scratch or you just want to add some personalised touches to the dress. Putting your DIY skills to the test will definitely make the dress extra special. Especially if COVID has thrown your wedding planning out of whack and you have all that extra time on your hands.

For that extra sparkle, you can try adding a sash or sparkling belt which can instantly transform your look.

Or consider adding some beading work to create a vintage inspired wedding dress.

We recommend checking Girl and the World where she blogs about her DIY wedding dress and balcony wedding! 

top tips to consider when choosing your gown:

  1. Do your research! Check out what your favourite celebrities wore at their wedding and browse through Pinterest. Compile some images of your top picks, and share the boards with your bridesmaids!
  2. Be open! You may have a dream dress in mind but you need to also consider if it matches your venue, your theme and if it is a viable option in terms of budget.
  3. Shop your true size. Even if you are considering losing weight before the wedding – it is easier to take in a dress than work with one that is too small. Check out diet tips from 3 real HitchPlanner brides here.
  4. Pay attention to Fabrics. Fabrics can really make a difference on how a gown will look. Some heavier structured materials like taffeta will smooth your figure. Whilst silk and chiffon are less flattering for some brides.
  5. Keep your dress shopping entourage small! Take one or two people who you know will give you an honest opinion and encourage you to make the right choice. Your best friend and your mum are usually the best choices!
  6. Lastly – don’t forget to have fun! Choosing a wedding dress and wedding planning in general can be stressful. But remember that this is your big day so make sure that you have fun with it and make it your own! Don’t forget that HitchPlanner is here to help. From sending invitations to seating charts – don’t forget to sign up for FREE account to build your wedding website today.

Conclusion

Here at HitchPlanner, we think that all brides should be free to wear what they want to on their wedding day. While the white or ivory dress will always be a classic if you’re considering an alternative wedding dress – Go for it!

Did you postpone your wedding due to COVID? Amidst all that re-planning, why not take a day to have some fun with your SO. Is your-would-have-been-wedding-day is coming up? Check out our super fun ways to celebrate your-would-have-been wedding day.

Still looking for that perfect alternative wedding dress? – We have compiled a Pinterest board specifically for wedding dress alternatives here.

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