When you hear the phrase “red wedding,” you may immediately think of Catelyn Stark’s impending death. However, crimson wedding dresses are common in various regions and civilizations. Brides in India and China, for example, frequently wear red to symbolize good luck, happiness, and success. And, amusing fact, the whole white wedding dress thing is a relatively recent trend, dating back only to Queen Victoria. So, if you’re looking for a red gown (or suit) to wear when you say “I do,” check out these 16 alternatives that will take you from courthouse elegant to black-tie ready.
1. Edwin Maxi Dress By Song Of Style
Usually, we’d advise you to choose between puffed shoulders, a crystal buckle accent, or a highly textured Jacquard fabric. But when it’s your turn to marry, we recommend all three.
2. Cape-effect Silk-satin Gown By Brandon Maxwell
This silk-satin gown is available in white, but the red is particularly stunning in its simplicity. The beautiful bias-cut and gathered neckline complements the cape-effect sleeve well.
3. Lolita Gown By Lovers + Friends
This reminds us a lot of Reformation’s white version a few seasons back. This gown has the perfect blend of structure and drape; the asymmetrical mermaid hem and flutter sleeves complement the structured bodice with boning.
4. Keyhole Neckline Gown By Eloquii
Sometimes, little is more. This bodycon floor-length silhouette in desire red with a peekaboo keyhole. The fact that this gown is machine washable will make your buddy reconsider her life choices after spending $500 washing and maintaining her Vera Wang, only to find it buried in the back of her closet.
5. Stacey Polka-dot Chiffon Maxi Dress By Eywasouls Malibu
It’s the Zooey Deschanel of wedding gowns, with the perfect amount of twee. Yes, there are polka dots, but the light pink spots look great against the red-orange wispy silk. The body-skimming silhouette, drop waist, and delicate ruching add to the overall appeal of this dress.
6. One-shoulder Draped Silk-crepe Gown By Carolina Herrera
From the front, this one-shouldered gown appears simple and lovely. When you turn around, your visitors will notice the beautiful draped panel trailing behind you.
7. Elizabeth Gown By Marjorelle
We’ve seen a million and one brides rock this frock in white. But because it’s red, it’s about a million dollars cheaper. Plus, who can say no to a peplum?
8. One-shoulder Sequin Lace & Crepe Gown By Tadashi Shoji
We have gathered here today to admire this glittering lace gown with a draped crepe panel. Don’t make us speak about the fabric pooling at the bottom, or we’ll be here all night.
9. The Joelene Gown By L’academie
The super-sleek silhouette is accented with puff sleeves and a billowing bow that falls over an open back. It reads, “I’m serious about getting married, but I’m here to have fun.”
10. Linda Jacket And Pant By Michael Costello X Revolve
What would Wonder Woman wear down the aisle, no? This rocket-red crepe “faux” costume resembles a hybrid of a jumpsuit and a power suit. It cinches in at the perfect place and emphasizes the décolletage, but you can also kick some butt and make major movements on the dance floor.
11. Heliconia-print Silk Chiffon Gown By Emilio Pucci
When I say “regal,” you reply “yas queen.” With its gauzy chiffon overlay, tropical design, and knotted one-shoulder accent, this gown exudes royalty on vacation.
12. Monterey Top By Nbd
Because, c’mon, where else can you wear this top than down the aisle? This fluffy one-shoulder shirt is a true statement piece, and if you’re worried about stumbling on the train after a few glasses of Cava, don’t be; it’s removable.
13. Silk Faille Off-the-shoulder Bow Gown By Alexia Maria
Sweetheart necklines and mermaid trains are basically tenets of the contemporary wedding dress. But make it fire-engine red with off-the-shoulder architectural bow sleeves, and you’re suddenly a one-of-a-kind bride.
14. Dallas Top And Eaton Midi Skirt By Song Of Style
For the bride eloping in Cabo, this skirt and top combo is smart. First and foremost, the clothing is stunning (just look at your images). Second, the parts are wrinkle-resistant and can be worn separately, which is ideal for tourists on the go.
15. Evelyn One-shoulder Draped Silk-satin Gown By Ong-oaj Pairam
This stunning silk-satin gown is designed to move with you, making you look like a walking Grecian marble statue. While there is plenty of fabric, the split front, one-shoulder design, and front slit elegantly transition this gown from a somber ceremony to a lively reception.
16. Marchesa Notte Strapless Satin Ruffle Ball Gown
Is anything more luscious than crimson satin? We think not. Add exquisite draping, clever pleats, and a flattering banded waist, and you’ve essentially created the perfect gown. Oh, did we mention that there are pockets? (Mic drops.)
