Say "I don't" to the traditional wedding gown

MANILA, Philippines - Recent history is laden with plucky designers and gutsy brides, both locally and internationally, who said, “I don’t” to the classic all-white wedding gown. It was a resounding “I do” to unconventional cuts, avant-garde styles, and rich colors for those who chose the road (or, more appropriately, the aisle) less traveled. 

Ladies with a ring on that telling finger (and those hoping to put a ring on it very soon), we bring you a rundown of bridal gown options that allow you to dare to be different as you exchange your eternal “I do’s.”

From the altar to the after-party

In this day and age of instant everything, there’s no reason why bridal couture should get left behind. Up to speed with the trends of the times, designers and brides alike have been known to pull out the “convertible wedding gown” stunt out of their proverbial bag of tricks. Especially great for destination weddings, the convertible wedding gown is a time, space, and money saver. A zip here, a tuck there and voila, you’re ready to cut the cake at the reception.

It’s Ok to flirt with fabric

Lace, chiffon, silk, organza, tulle — these are the usual suspects encountered when whipping up a dreamy gown worthy of bridal bliss. Time to step out of the box. You’d be surprised with what a non-traditional fabric can do. Oftentimes, the result is every bit — or even more — ethereal than their typical textile counterparts.

Plains and prints

Computer graphics by ROXY M. VALENCERINA

Who said bridal gowns have to be plain? Prints and patterns work as well as their bare alternatives. The gorgeous wedding wonders Oscar de la Renta sent down the runway at his 2013 bridal show are more than enough proof that simplicity isn’t always key.

Not just for the groom

More and more women understand that an ultra-feminine dress dripping in layers of tulle and lace does not a bridal gown make. A well-fitting suit jacket or a tailored pantsuit doesn’t exclusively belong in groom territory; either would look smashing on an adventurous fashion-forward bride. Even in the wedding circuit, androgyny has its welcome place.

Toss the typical template

A good wedding gown is far from cookie cutter. While we’re in love with the traditional sweetheart neckline or the sultry mermaid cut, we laud the ladies who have the courage to bare a back, show a midriff, or reveal their fetish for all things couture with their choice of ultra-architectural details. Experiment with cuts; be bold with designs; let the creative juices flow!