When most people think of a traditional wedding gown, they picture a “white dress.” But in truth, nearly every modern wedding gown you see today isn’t pure white—it’s a shade of ivory, champagne, or soft alabaster. These hues have a subtle warmth that flatters a variety of skin tones and gives gowns a more luxurious, timeless feel.
A Brief History of the White Wedding Dress
The tradition of wearing a white wedding gown began with Queen Victoria in 1840, when she married Prince Albert in a white silk satin dress trimmed with Honiton lace. Before that, brides simply wore their best dress—often in colors like blue, silver, or even red. Victoria’s gown was seen as a symbol of purity, wealth, and social status, and soon, white became the color associated with weddings across Europe and America.
From Pure White to Ivory
As fashion and fabric production evolved, so did our understanding of “white.” Early wedding dresses were often made from bleached silks and satins, which had a crisp, almost bluish undertone. Over time, designers discovered that slightly warmer tones—ivory, eggshell, cream—photographed better and complemented the natural glow of the skin.
By the mid-20th century, most couture houses and bridal designers had shifted from stark white to ivory as their go-to shade. The change was subtle, but meaningful—ivory fabrics created depth, softness, and elegance in both daylight and candlelight.
Why Brides Love Ivory Today
Ivory gowns continue to dominate the bridal world because they feel classic without being harsh. Pure white can sometimes wash out a bride’s complexion, while ivory gives a touch of warmth and romance. Even gowns described as “white” in modern collections often have an ivory base or lining beneath layers of tulle or lace.
In short, today’s “white dress” isn’t truly white—it’s a soft reflection of bridal history, evolved to bring out the best in every bride.