Should you propose modern or traditional wedding dresses?

With endless dress options, ladies have difficulty choosing the right one. If you’re the bride, should you opt for the traditional dress or try something bold? Should the bridesmaids pick their own dresses, or does the bride need to buy the dresses instead? 

There are so many possibilities, colors, and dress types that “could’ve been” better than the one we’ve already picked. But maybe the biggest question stands in the trendiness of the dress. We may tend to choose a more traditional option to please the family, but, on the other hand, a modern dress would flatter our figure better. 

So, let’s see what to choose between the classic and trendy for wedding dresses. 

On traditional wedding dresses 

Traditional wedding dresses are considered more modest and elegant than modern ones. At the same time, they can be more comfortable, making them perfect for brides who value comfort over looks. For example, the ball gown bridal style dress combines the voluminous skirt with a fitted silhouette around the waist, while the mermaid design offers a note of boldness with the flaring skirt and the fitted bodice. 

The bride’s team also has endless classic bridesmaid dress options online, from a satin trumpet gown to a ruffled lace-up maxi dress, which is great for a variety of body shapes. Contrary to popular belief, traditional-looking dresses don’t have to cover everything, so the bride and the bridesmaid can pick modest but advantageous dress designs. 

Indeed, the mother of the bride and the groom tend to wear traditional dresses so as not to outshine the young ladies. For example, they might pick dresses covering their arms or having a boat neckline, while the dress is in a darker color, such as navy or burgundy. 

On modern wedding dresses

Modern wedding dresses are loved by unconventional brides because they offer endless options. The black bride dress was quite controversial a few years ago when more brides were brave enough to wear it on their most special day. It was also pretty taboo for the bridesmaids and the guests to wear black, but now it’s part of the trendy wedding themes. 

Modern wedding dresses are indeed bolder. They can be shorter, have detachable skirts or sleeves for the after-party, or introduce unique elements. For example, in 2025, we might see flowing capes instead of veils, ultra-flattering elongated waists, and a pop of color in wedding dresses, such as flowers or natural elements. 

Modern dresses don’t follow a pattern, which is why they’re great for bridesmaids who won’t be all dressed the same. At the same time, the mother of the bride and the groom can be encouraged to get out of their comfort zone and wear something that makes them confident. 

Dress to impress or to find comfort? 

Now that we have broken down the differences between modern and traditional wedding dresses, you may wonder what the best choice for the wedding would be. Well, it depends on a series of factors. For example, if it’s a small wedding with mostly friends, a modern theme might favor everyone, from the ladies to the gentlemen. However, a wedding with all the family and acquaintances might call for a more traditional or modest look. 

At the same time, you should also consider your personal style because wearing something that doesn’t make you feel confident might ruin the wedding day. Don’t be afraid to experiment with asymmetric dresses if you’re usually into unique pieces, but opt for an unpretentious wedding dress if that’s more to your liking. 

The ladies’ wedding dress attire should follow the event’s theme, so make sure to choose something that aligns with your values and personality. Modern wedding ideas include mismatched bridal parties, cocktail menus, and black décor accents, so the dress code should be similar. On the other hand, classic weddings are usually held in garden venues, have wedding invitations with envelope liners, and opt for a vintage getaway car. 

Why the dress fabric matters 

The fabric of the dress is essential to consider when buying a wedding gown. First, pick the textile based on the weather. For colder months, a dress made of Mikado, silk shantung, and taffeta is best and will also beautifully shape your body. 

Summer weddings call for dresses made of silk, lace, and chiffon, as they drape the body and leave some room for air. However, these materials tend to hug the body a little bit too much, so they might be risky when it comes to perspiration.

How to make every type of dress look fabulous 

Whether you choose a traditional over a modern wedding dress or vice versa, there are ways to elevate its look in simple but efficient ways. First, tailoring is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to ensure the dress looks amazing on your body shape. The perfect fit will offer you a confidence boost, and the quality craft will add a unique personal style to the wedding dress. 

At the same time, choosing the right accessories will bring balance to the outfit. Floral or patterned wedding dresses should be accompanied by simple and minimal jewelry design, while simple garments can be accessorized with bolder earrings or a massive bracelet. Shoes, on the other hand, should be chosen in terms of comfort. 

Finally, wearing the dress with confidence and pride in yourself is everything you need to shine from the inside. It will show on the outside if you’re not fully in love with your dress, hair, and accessories. 

So, modern or traditional wedding dresses? 

Choosing the right wedding dress can be challenging, whether you’re the bride or the bridesmaid. While there are new modern trends every year, timeless wedding dresses are also a good option for those who favor modesty. You may be tempted to be modern due to social media but traditional since the whole family’s attending the event, but it’s best to choose a dress you feel most comfortable in. Any dress, whether conventional or bold, can be transformed into something unique with proper tailoring and accessorizing.