Recently, during a conversation with a friend about the multiple weddings she was going to be involved in over the course of the next year, a great question came up. While showing me one of the many bridesmaids dresses she will don, she mentioned that one of the brides picked a pastel, brighter version of the purple hue she originally wanted for her bridesmaids. When I asked why, she explained that the bride thought it was a fashion rule due to her wedding being in the spring.
It is a common idea that certain colors are meant for specific times of the year and those ought not be changed or challenged. But is this truly an unspoken rule or just a myth that has been widely accepted?
“Traditionally,” begins New Orleans Bride Magazine and LTEC editor Melanie Spencer, “pairing specific colors with specific seasons has been the case. Pastels were relegated towards warmer weather weddings, however the pendulum has swung.”
Fashion on every spectrum changes and evolves and I believe that’s the same case with any wedding. Just because something has been traditionally accepted, does not mean it is the right practice for you as a couple. With a multitude of fabrics, hemlines and silhouettes available to brides and their maids, the tide is changing and making it more acceptable to wear bolder or darker colors during warmer weather.
A few key factors come into play when going with a darker hue for your wedding. You must always consider the fabric you choose. No matter what the color, if you opt for a heavier fabric in the Summer for example, not only will your maids suffer in the NOLA heat, but they will also look sartorially out of place for the season. In warmer months, go with a fabric like silk, chiffon, linen or cotton and the color of the frock will matter less.
In addition to fabric, your styling of the dress from neckline to the type of flowers will changes everything. A spring or summer cut like a strapless or halter-neck option gives a sense of softness, while the flowers you pick can compliment the overall darker hue.
Additionally, location and time of day play an important role in determining whether or not a particular color or fabric will hit or miss. For example, it’s possible to make metallics, sequins and other shimmery and shiny fabrics work during the day if you go with just a touch in light colors and a mixture of fabrics and tune the other accessories toward a daytime look. With sequins especially, a little goes a long way.
It’s definitely important to remember other fashion and styling rules and practices, but in the end, it is your wedding and you must feel comfortable with the look, color and overall feel of your special day.