It has been a growing trend that women have been moving away from the traditional white wedding attire, straying as far as to black wedding dresses. A new wave of creativity is coming with this, and it is one that many brides can appreciate, even if they want to stick with the traditional white, or something close to it.
The White Tradition
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The tradition of a white gown is not gospel truth. Ancient traditions that our modern religions were built on did not dictate a white dress. However, white was a symbol of purity. Thus, the white wedding dress became a symbol of purity.
As morals loosened up, so did the symbol, and now no one would assume the level of a bride's purity by the shade of her dress. Still, in some communities, any wedding dress besides a white one may be considered taboo. How an individual bride handles these conflicts is up to them, but most contemporary thinking brides try not to surround themselves with others who are unwilling to accept new ideas.
The Black Wearing Bride
As this new fad of the bride wearing black has grown, so have the options. Most mainstream bridal shops will not be yet carrying black wedding dress with black tulle, black lace and a black veil. However, they will be carrying black bridesmaid dresses and prom dresses. These can easily be customized into a fashionable wedding dress. Some online stores are also beginning to get more variety in wedding dress color. I would be sure to order early, though, so there will be time for any tailoring needed.
There are also growing options for engagements rings and wedding bands, for both men and women. You can choose black diamonds for a traditional stone. I would caution, though, that you want to choose a ring that you think you will be comfortable wearing in fifty years. The wedding ring is forever.