Planning

When it comes to alternative bridal outfits, we’re essentially like your pushy best friend, but in a really, really great way. You’re not comfortable in a traditional wedding dress? So. What. There’s a plethora of options out there to ensure you feel your absolute best self on your wedding day. Your choice should truly showcase who you are as a person. And, if that person wants to wear a bridal separate in bright yellow, then so be it! We’re just here to give you the inspiration you need (and want) to find The One. Now, don’t let us stop you. There’s a world of jumpsuits, coloured wedding dresses and sparkle out there… 


Alternative bridal outfits wedding inspiration 

METALLIC WEDDING DRESSES

Looking to sparkle your way down the aisle? Then a metallic wedding dress is for you. We’re all about the glitz and the glam, and we’ve seen some absolutely incredible pieces from our real brides. Of course, you may have seen Jess over on our Instagram, or just about anywhere in which we’re able to post her pictures. We’ve also got to mention India, who looks as though she’s stepped right off the pages of an editorial shoot in her short gold wedding dress. But hey, if you’re in need of a little more convincing, then you can hop right over to our metallic wedding dress roundup. Disclaimer: may need sunglasses for all the sparkle.

COLOURED WEDDING DRESSES

There’s a special place in our hearts for coloured wedding dresses. And whether you’re opting for bright and bold, or subtle and sweet, we’re here for whatever you decide! We absolutely loved real bride Jade in her long sleeve black wedding dress. All in all, her outfit only cost £78 and was a combination of a skirt and top, so a little bit of a bridal separate going on there too! And of course, we MUST mention Eve in her incredible pink Vivienne Westwood wedding dress. And that pink looks a little like the Pantone colour of the year

SHORT WEDDING DRESSES

You know we can’t resist a short wedding dress moment. We saw a huge rise in short wedding dresses alongside micro weddings, and we’re so pleased they stuck around! Everyone fell in love with, real bride Lauren in her Alex Perry dress and bright yellow Manolo Blahnik pumps! And short doesn’t necessarily mean above the knee, you could always opt for a tea-length gown or a high-low skirt, which adds a little something extra to your look! 

ALTERNATIVE BRIDAL OUTFITS BRIDAL SEPARATES 

Bridal separates are definitely making their way into the forefront of the wedding dress world, and we’re here for it. Whether you’re a boho babe or looking for a more classic look, then a bridal separate has got you covered! Real bride Laura’s bridal separate worked perfectly during her festival-styled day, the capped sleeve embellished top and floating skirt just give us Coachella vibes and we love it. Or, if you’re still looking for a more bridal look, then Alex and her lace two-piece gown is most certainly one you can take inspiration from. 

BRIDAL SUITS

If you’re not feeling a dress at all, then a bridal suit is where it’s at. Whether you’re opting for something a little more fitted, or fancy something slightly oversized, we guarantee you’ll find something you love. Real bride Chelsea looked absolutely stunning in her Nadine Merabi suit, finished with pearl detailing, which still provides that bridal look you may be after! Rebecca also looks beautiful in her Reiss suit, with a tapered leg and a slightly oversized jacket, creating an effortless and chic look. 

BRIDAL JUMPSUITS 

Potentially one you haven’t seen too much of, but is really making its way through the ranks, the bridal jumpsuit! If you’re looking to shun the wedding dress and totally feel as though a suit is for you, then a jumpsuit is where it’s at. Providing full coverage (if that’s what you’re looking for), you can still style it up to ensure you showcase your personality. Just take a look at Mariella, she is absolutely rocking her jumpsuit, complete with a leather jacket, short veil and sunglasses! 

Have we convinced you with our alternative bridal outfits roundup?


If you’re loving the idea of alternative bridal outfits, but still want to explore your options, then we’ve got you covered. From lace wedding dresses to long sleeve wedding dresses, we’ve got the inspiration you don’t want to miss. And don’t forget, we’ve got all the information you need as you begin searching for The One (and no, we don’t mean your other half…) 

Ella Turner

Written by Ella Turner

Featured suppliers

Toggle all article tags

Planning articles you may also find useful