Tag Archive | wedding history

Wedding Gowns and History

Here at Occasions Bridal, we find the brides believe that the wedding gown is forever. This however is not so! In medieval times, royal marriages were of great political importance and were used to seal alliances between two countries. It was necessary for the preview to look magnificent in order to uphold the bride’s country as well as to impress the bridegroom’s country with their wealth and importance.

To do this, bridal gowns had as much material as they possibly could. Gowns were made of velvet, damask silk, satin, fur, and fabrics woven with threads of silver and gold. Colors would be rich-red, purple, and true black. Gowns might have had precious gems sewn in so the bride would glitter and flash in the sunlight.

During this time the poor bride’s gown would be linen or fine wool. Gowns with flowing sleeves or a train were big status symbols.

The traditional gown as we know it today appeared in the late 18th century. By 1900 the white dress with a veil was the gown to wear. In 1840, Queen Victoria chose a white dress with lace, making it a virtual rule. She was the first royal bride to have bridesmaids carry her train.

See what influence royalty had?