What is Black? Bridesmaid Dress Color Catalog

Many artists say black is the absence of light, but is it? The pigments of the color black absorb light, so it is not strictly the absence but the absorption of light that makes black. This enduring color is an everlasting example of high-end sophistication. It is historically a basic color, but lately, it’s a non-traditional canvas for an extraordinary wedding with a playful, elegant edge. Make space for a fresh look at what you might have thought was dark.

Black emerged eons ago when our ancestors used charcoal, iron, burnt bones, fire ash, soot and other natural elements to create art. Cave paintings, black-figure pottery from Greece, and West African black masks tell the tale of a rich history of symbology and ritual involving this enduring color.

Black is synonymous with funerals in many countries. However, during the 16th century, it became a sophisticated, noble and powerful color to wear. It was only affordable to the elite due to the cost of innovation in dyeing techniques. Over time, it transformed into the wonderfully varied, fashionable color that every closet has today—even making it back onto the wedding scene.

When a bride chooses black for her dress, entourage or guests, it’s a symbolic cutting loose from tradition. This bride says, “I am my own person. I am gutsy, enjoy experimentation and thrive on being different.” Formal weddings are an obvious choice for your ever-classic black-and-white or ivory theme. Black can feature sparingly in your wedding gown, as a sash or embroidery, etched on bridesmaid dresses or as part of the celebration décor for an interesting edge. Why not wear a top-to-toe black dress? We’ve already established that it’s “wow” right now!

Black is also on-trend for second marriages and vow renewals. Queen Victoria saw white as her commitment to purity and breaking with tradition to endear her to the people. Today, black is doing the same for more mature couples who’ve visited the pulpit before. Those who wish to renew their commitment to “until death us do part” are equally attracted to the black trend.

Image source: Okchicas

Before royalty influenced the scene, dense fabrics and displaying prosperity were commonplace. During the 15th century, bridesmaids dressed to look like the bride and protect her by confusing evil spirits. In the 17th century, black was reserved for the older bride and her following. Younger bridal parties favored green or brown for the bride’s friends.

Nowadays, experimenting with dress colors is wildly popular. From the 19th century to now, we have seen lilac, light gray, contrasting colors, short and full skirts and lots of experimentation and personal flair.

Welcome to the era where brides can do much of what they please!

Now that tradition has been cast to the winds, black is accepted everywhere. Popular styles and themes for 2025 embrace individualism, grace and ingenuity.

The entire wedding theme can be black if you wish. Bridesmaids could look breathtaking in soft, shimmery and flowy fabric for a romantic twilight affair with starched linen, Inca lilies and a sprinkling of rose gold metallics. Alternatively, the bride can be in a short black number, with her girls in deep florals for an informal or outdoor affair.

Avoid the matchy-matchy and let each bridesmaid select her color and style—all to flatter the bride in black. Otherwise, ask all the guests and your following to wear black and add color to the bride’s dress for a feast to the eyes. Imagine soft, lacy skirts with brightly colored flower embroidery as an ethereal veil or sweep train with bridesmaids in matte black and best men in monochrome black.

This wonderfully versatile color lends a strong foundation for many events, and happily now for weddings. You can create a rich, stunning color palate with black and navy, although it sounds an unlikely match. See the best men all in navy, black, and white with various styles of black bridesmaid dresses and a bride and groom in black. It looks better than you’d think. On the other hand, emerald green can add a mystical woodland vibe to a forest or outdoor wedding. Add it to a boho theme and many corresponding or contrasting dark floral fabrics and lacy accents.

If you love classy, elegant affairs, think drapey gray and black for the bridesmaid with charcoal and a touch of burnt orange for the bridal party.

Many colors are similar to black, such as plum, midnight blue, dark gray and charcoal black. These melancholic colors may be your charm. They can create a sensational feeling - which is the best choice for an evening party.

So, now you know that black is not just for funerals and ballrooms. You are free to dream of black wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, moms, dads, and family all dancing in black ensembles with fun accent colors or shimmery metallics decor.

The days of stifling your personality to fit in and be accepted are over. Feel free to play with black textures and research fun ideas until you feel satisfied that you’ll be the happiest guest at your own wedding.