Different cultures have different expectations when it comes to what bridesmaids should wear. Whether a bride is traditionally religious or more modern, there is typically a preferred dress code for her bridal party. Here are all the details on what you need to know about bridesmaid attire in different cultures:
- In some cultures, bridesmaids are expected to dress modestly. This means that they should wear dresses that cover their shoulders and knees
- Western bridesmaids typically wear formal evening wear, such as dresses or skirts. In the United States, bridesmaids typically wear dresses that match the colour of the bride's dress.
- Asian bridesmaids might wear traditional dresses like a qipao or a mandarin collar dress. This includes long dresses with high collars and slits up the side.
- In India, many bridesmaids prefer to wear traditional Indian outfits such as salwar kameez or sari.
- In some African cultures, bridesmaids often dress in colourful robes or sarongs.
Bridesmaid Attire Can Vary Significantly from Culture to Culture
If you're getting married abroad or even having a destination wedding, it's essential to be aware of its bridal party attire traditions. For example, it's customary for the bridesmaids to wear colourful and elaborate dresses in some cultures. In contrast, others might wear a simple dress or even a traditional outfit specific to that region. Ask your wedding planner or local contacts if you have any questions about what your bridal party should wear. They will be able to give you the best advice based on the cultural context.
Bridesmaids' Dresses in Other Countries
In the United States: typically, bridesmaids wear dresses that are similar in colour and style to the bride's dress.
This has been a tradition in the United States for many years. Most people believe that it shows unity between the bridesmaids and the bride. Usually, the bridesmaids' dresses are either the same colour as the bride's dress or a similar shade. The style of the dresses may also be similar, but this is not always the case. Often, bridesmaids will have different styles of dresses, as long as they are all in the same colour family.
There are many reasons why this tradition exists. Some say that it is so that the bride has the centre of attention on her big day. Others believe that it gives the bride support and makes her look even more beautiful by comparison.
In India: bridesmaids often wear brightly coloured saris that are very different from the bride's dress.
When a woman in India gets married, her bridesmaids often wear brightly coloured saris that are very different from the bride's dress. While the bride's outfit is typically white or cream, the bridesmaids' saris are often bright red, green, blue, or purple. This tradition likely dates back to ancient times when it was believed that brightly coloured saris also add colour and excitement to Indian weddings.
In Greece: bridesmaids often wear floor-length gowns similar in colour to the bride's dress.
In Greece, bridesmaids often wear floor-length gowns similar in colour to the bride's dress. This tradition is thought to have originated in ancient Greece, where the bride and her maids would dress in similar robes to show their unity. Today, many brides still choose to follow this tradition, believing that it symbolizes the bond between them and their maids. In addition to wearing floor-length gowns, Greek bridesmaids often carry bouquets and wear headpieces or tiaras.
In China: bridesmaids often wear qipaos, which are traditional Chinese dresses.
When a woman in China gets married, her bridesmaids often wear qipaos. Qipaos are traditional Chinese dresses with fitted bodices and full skirts. They are usually made from silk or cotton, and they come in various colours. Many bridesmaids choose to wear qipaos because they are exquisite and feminine dresses. In addition, qipaos are very comfortable to wear, which is essential since bridesmaids often have to stand for long periods during weddings.
In Ethiopia
In Ethiopia, there may be relatively more bridesmaids than in other countries. Ethiopians are known for their extravagant weddings with more than 600 guests of family and friends, who will attend the wedding in both traditional and modern attire. Attire is one of the most important aspects of a wedding. Family members and friends who are accompanying the bride and groom form small groups with each other to make similar garments. Since Christianity here is orthodox and very common - almost 50.6% of citizens are Orthodox Christians - Western traditions are deeply embedded in the culture of wedding attire. The bridesmaids' dresses are usually made according to Western styles, but with a lot of traditional elements added. The groom's friends should also have suits with each other, and the ties should be the colour of the bridesmaids' dresses.
Modern Bridesmaid Attire
There was a time when bridesmaids all dressed in the same manner, but those days were long gone. Today, bridesmaids can choose from various attire options to perfectly match their styles. Some modern bridesmaids wear conventional dresses in colours that match the wedding theme, while others prefer something more contemporary, such as cocktail dresses or separates. Whatever the choice, the dresses must be flattering and coordinate well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bridesmaid attire can vary significantly from culture to culture. It is essential to be aware of these traditions before selecting bridesmaid attire to avoid cultural misunderstandings. While it is essential to respect the bride's wishes, it is also essential for the bridesmaids to feel comfortable and look their best on the big day. If you are a bridesmaid, be sure to communicate with the bride about what you should wear. And if you are planning a wedding, be sure to take cultural traditions into account when selecting your bridesmaid attire.
