Yellow is a bright, joyful color that symbolizes happiness, optimism and new beginnings. For this reason, brides sometimes consider wearing yellow dresses or having yellow accents in their weddings. However, there are differing opinions on whether or not yellow is an appropriate color for a bride to wear. In this article, we’ll explore the history of bridal traditions, examine the symbolism of the color yellow, look at contemporary trends and opinions, and provide tips for brides who want to incorporate yellow into their weddings.
The History of Bridal Traditions
In the Western world, white wedding dresses became popular after Queen Victoria wore a white lace dress at her wedding to Prince Albert in 1840. Before that, brides often wore their best dress regardless of color. White was chosen as it symbolized purity and virginity. Wearing white became a status symbol that only the wealthy could afford to do. Over time, the white wedding dress became ingrained as a long-standing tradition.
In many cultures, vibrant colors like red, gold and yellow were reserved for the bride only as a symbol of her happiness and prosperity. In Ancient Rome, brides wore yellow veils to symbolize new beginnings. In parts of India, brides still wear brightly colored saris in shades of yellow, red or pink on their wedding day. However, in most of Europe and America white gowns remained the norm for brides.
The Symbolism of Yellow
The color yellow has both positive and negative associations in color psychology:
Positive meanings:
– Joy, happiness, optimism
– Freshness, renewal, new beginnings
– Intellect, clarity of thought
– Friendliness, warmth, cheerfulness
Negative meanings:
– Cowardice, fear, weakness
– Illness, hazard, deceit
– Jealousy, envy, betrayal
In a wedding context, yellow can represent the joy, warmth and new beginnings of a marriage. However, some feel yellow also suggests betrayal or infidelity. This stems from outdated historical connotations of a “woman in disgrace” being made to wear yellow. Others associate yellow with caution and warning rather than celebration.
Contemporary Trends and Opinions
While white and ivory gowns remain the top choice for brides, colored wedding dresses are gaining popularity. Blush pink, champagne and pale blue dresses are trending, but brighter colors like yellow are also an option. Here are some current perspectives on brides wearing yellow:
For it:
– Yellow is perfect for a daytime or outdoor wedding, bringing brightness and cheer.
– Vintage inspired or retro style weddings can incorporate yellow accents.
– Yellow suits informal, laidback weddings and relaxed barn or beach venues.
– Brides who want to stand out from tradition can make a statement.
– Yellow flatters warmer skin tones.
Against it:
– Yellow may be too bold or distracting for formal church ceremonies.
– Some think yellow draws attention away from the bride looking beautiful and elegant.
– Yellow has connotations of deceit, jealousy or caution to some.
– Yellow does not suit all skin tones and may wash some people out.
In moderation:
– Adding yellow accents to a white dress can work better than an all-yellow gown.
– Mixing soft yellow tones with ivory or champagne can give a lovely effect.
– Yellow flowers, sashes or shoes POP against a white dress.
So opinions differ! Some view yellow as perfectly bright and happy for weddings, while others feel it goes against tradition or may look distasteful. Ultimately it comes down to the bride’s own taste.
Tips for Incorporating Yellow
For brides who want a pop of yellow, here are some tips:
1. Choose the right shade
Soft pastel yellows or pale golden hues tend to work better than neon bright shades. Mustard yellow can suit autumn weddings.
2. Use yellow as an accent
Add hints of yellow through sashes, ties, flowers or decor rather than an all-yellow dress.
3. Mix yellow with white or ivory
A white and yellow bouquet or two-tone dress keeps the look elegant.
4. Consider a short yellow dress
More formal ceremonies may suit an ivory gown with a yellow cocktail dress for the reception.
5. Accessorize with yellow shoes, jewelry or a hat
Pops of yellow in accessories look cute against a white dress.
6. Use yellow floral prints or embroidery
A white dress with embroidered yellow flowers can give a modern twist.
7. Add yellow wedding cake layers or decorations
Yellow cake layers or icing details inject fun without going overboard.
8. Tie in yellow bridesmaid dresses
Having the bridal party in yellow coordinates well if the bride wears white.
9. Consider other yellow wedding details
From stationery to signage to napkins, small touches of yellow can work well.
10. Choose yellow if having a laidback wedding
For informal beach or backyard weddings, a yellow sundress could be perfect.
The Verdict
While yellow bridal gowns go against the traditional white wedding dress norm, they can work well for the right bride in the right setting. A touch of yellow can inject a fun, bright pop of color and happines into a wedding. But yellow may not be suited to very formal or traditional celebrations.
Brides should think about the overall style and formality of their wedding when deciding on yellow accents. As a full wedding dress, yellow will stand out and go against custom. Used sparingly in details, yellow can liven up a white wedding gown and decor. The shade of yellow also matters, with softer tones likely to blend more elegantly than neon citrus shades.
Overall, it comes down to the bride’s personal preferences. Couples today want to express their own styles. If a bride feels confident and happy in yellow, then there are no rules saying she can’t wear it. But she should consider her wedding’s formality, her skin tone and optimal shades before saying yes to yellow. Used thoughtfully, yellow can be a delightful pop of color and sunshine.
Conclusion
While yellow bridal gowns are non-traditional, they can allow a bride to express her personal style and bring a bright, joyful color into her wedding day. Contemporary brides are increasingly moving away from rigid traditions and having fun with colored dresses or accents. If chosen and styled carefully to suit the overall wedding, incorporated yellow can inject warmth, vibrance and optimism into celebrations. Rather than seeing yellow as taboo or distasteful, modern brides can embrace it to show their unique personality. A yellow-clad bride radiates happiness on her big day.
