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Bridal Outfits You Can Wear Again after Your Wedding

Feature: Quick Read
Words by Abigail Gurney-Read

There are two schools of thought when choosing a wedding outfit. The first is a path well-trodden – a single show-stopping gown designed to be worn once (and only once) and archived ever after. In the farthest recesses of your wardrobe, such a piece will hibernate – boxed in a millefeuille of ivory tissue – save for its periodic awakening care of boredom, nostalgia, or in the hope it still fits. Bridal prerogative states this is entirely permissible and, better yet, a decision that need not be justified. But there is an alternative. This second route has gained traction with many modern and non-traditional brides for whom the cost-per-wear ‘girl math’ isn’t mathing.

It’s not just brides for whom change is brewing. Many women-led brands are embracing the philosophy for wedding designs with longevity. “The feeling of wearing something that transforms you into the best version of yourself is powerful – something that, once tasted, a woman naturally would like to experience time and again,” suggests Camille Perry and Holly Wright, Tove founders and creative directors. “To be able to wear a dress like this for future events and for it to be a part of future memories is special.”

 

As with many collective behavioural shifts, there’s no one-size-fits-all catalyst. Some responsibility can be laid at the pandemic’s door, where restrictions around capacity and attendance forced the hands of couples to adapt their wedding visions from the ‘big white’ playbook into something more intimate and informal – and outfits followed suit. “With COVID-19 restricting our freedom and enjoyment of life, I loved seeing brides be more playful, bold, and fearless,” notes designer Roksanda Ilinčić. Much store too could be set behind the simple fact that pragmatism is very much en vogue right now – whether that’s an aesthetic grounded in reality or a purchasing mantra to make quality, versatile investments.

 

As far as wedding dressing 2.0 goes, the secret sauce is choosing a silhouette that feels familiar – then bride-ifying it. A classic two-piece suit cut in silk, chic co-ords dotted with romantic, floral embroidery, or a timeless midi swathed in drapery. “Often, our brides are looking for a dress that feels modern and effortless, yet still refined,” explains Holly and Camille. “Beautifully feminine, balanced by clean lines and with unexpected drama. This combination is something they cannot find when looking at more traditional bridal brands.”

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ROKSANDA ILINČIĆ


"It is my responsibility as a designer to encourage the women in my community to experiment, explore and reuse – to create a connection with familiarity and history, that will inspire women to revisit and re-wear"

Remember: the traditional palette of white, ivory and cream is still off-limits for guests, so by dint of wearing any of the above, you’ll stand out as the bride. Styling is important, though. Classic separates transcend their simplicity when anchored by pearly Jimmy Choo heels. The Zimmermann dress you’ll wear again on holiday plays out perfectly with the addition of fantastic bridal jewellery. Even your choice of make-up or hairstyle can make all the difference: an impactful red lip and blow-dry for the big day, otherwise au naturel.


When all is said and done, there are no real rules to bridal dressing. If you’re keen to traverse unchartered waters because you can, do so by all means. When a couture gown is the only way forward, we’ll be right there with you. But if you’re less keen on the one-and-done wear of bridal fare, you’ll find a wealth of options at Harrods across the First and Fourth Floors. Take your time, and enjoy the ride.

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Planning a wedding? We’ve got your big day covered with everything from what to wear to florist and bespoke cake services, luxury bridal beauty, wedding gifts and more.

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