Three Trendy Alternative Bridal Looks (And How to Pull Them Off)

updated May 3, 2019

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It seemed like only recently, the limited options in the wedding dress world were all fitted, strapless balls of white chiffon. Thankfully, designers have caught up to what real brides want: Dresses that look and feel more like the things they wear every day. (Your favorite stores might even have started bridal collections.)

These three different bridal trends are rooted in reality. And as for how to pull them off, here’s the secret: There is no secret. If you stay true to your personal style–even if you’re a casual bohemian or a beach bum at heart–your bridal look will always look just right on you.

(Image credit: Shane Shepherd)

Bridal Separates

Show some skin, or ball out with a poofy skirt. Opting for a two-piece wedding ensemble gives you lots of room to play with looks (and maybe even incorporate your favorite white t-shirt).

Above and at top: A custom lace halter paired with a raw silk skirt for this Australian bride, captured by Shane Shepherd for The Lane.

(Image credit: Jillian Bowes)

A Carol Hannah ensemble on this Michigan bride from Intimate Weddings, shot by Jillian Bowes.

(Image credit: J.Crew)

J.Crew’s Dalila Tulle Skirt from their beachy wedding lookbook.

(Image credit: Infraordinario Studio)

Black and blush on this chic Italian bride, from Love My Dress and Infraordinario Studio.

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(Image credit: Christine Pobke)

Colored Dresses

Blush, nude and smoky shades are always welcome, but we think you can be even more bold today if you wanted to. If color is part of your normal wardrobe, feel free to bring it into your wedding day look, too.

Above: A beautiful bride in a stunning orange Aurelio Costarella gown, from Green Wedding Shoes and Christine Pobke.

(Image credit: Amber Gress)

This bride from a Green Wedding Shoes bash shot by Amber Gress rocks a dip-dyed orange dress by Synderela Story.

(Image credit: Susan Dean)

Who wouldn’t love to rock a green Alexander McQueen gown on their wedding day, like this bride featured on Inspired by This, shot by Susan Dean.

(Image credit: Max Dworkin)

A bit of pink peeking through this custom Kathryn Connover dress, shot by Max Dworkin for 100 Layer Cake.

(Image credit: Alexandra Wallace)

Bold Accessories

Whatever pieces you like to wear on the street to polish off your outfit, you can wear it down the aisle. Hats, sunglasses, jackets, bold jewelry–it’s all on the table.

Above: A boho bride rocking Free People in this Bespoke Bride inspiration shoot by Alexandra Wallace.

(Image credit: What Katy Did Next)

The Eugenie Collar by English designer What Katy Did Next.

(Image credit: Cassidy Brooke)

A headband (Anthropologie!) and leather jacket (Charlotte Russe!) on this Colorado bride from Ruffled and Cassidy Brooke.

(Image credit: Rime Arodaky)

A cool lookbook shot featuring sunnies and a lacy motorcycle jacket by Rime Arodaky.

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