Cultural wedding dresses

Some brides may wish to wear a gown or ensemble that reflects their cultural tradition. Traditional gowns can have special details added to integrate the bride and groom's culture, or the bride might choose to wear the cultural wedding attire. Below are a few examples of cultural wedding ensembles.

• Indian brides traditionally wear a sari, which is a long length of fabric wrapped numerous times around the waist and draped over the shoulder. It is worn with a blouse called a choli or ravika, which has a low neckline and short sleevs. Variations to this outfit will include an exposed back or midriff, as well as loose-fitting trousers.
• Scottish brides often wear a white dress with tartan trimming, commonly known as plaid. Scottish 'clans' or surnames each have their own unique tartan designs. The ensemble is then accessorised with a tartan shawl or a tartan sash at the waist.
• Chinese brides traditionally wear red to symbolize good luck and to ward off evil spirits. Chinese brides might also wear a red crown. During the wedding events, Chinese brides will usually dress in three different outfits.
• Japense brides often wear a white silk kimono for the ceremony. After the ceremony, the bride changes into a red silk kimono, embroidered with Japanse folk symbols.
• African brides tradionally wear tunic style dresses and headdresses made of African fabrics. Cowrie shells are often included in the gown trim and headpieces to encourage fertility.
• Traditional Jewish bridal attire usually cover the body, showing little or no skin. If the ceremony is being performed in an Orthodox synangogue, the shoulders are covered, and the gown may have full or three-quarterd length sleeves. The neckline is high, the back covered, and the skirt is ankle length.
• A Spanish bride may wear a soft, long black gown and an intricatly woven lace veil, typically the manilla veil. Latino brides wear similar esembles, although the Latino bride's gown is usually white, with accents of red and black. The gown is covered by a small balero jacket, which is a short jacket with an open front. For more informal weddings, Latino brides may wear a flamenco dress. These long gowns have multiple ruffles on the dress an sleeves, which highlight the drama and expression of traditional Latin dancing.
• Muslim brides tradionally wear robes of a rich cherry red colour. A ghunghat, similar to a veil, is worn by the bride and covers not only the head, but also the shoulders, back, and waistline, all the way around the body. Typically, the Muslim bride recieves her wedding attire from the groom's family.

Adding cultural elements to the bride's wedding ensemble is a very special way to personalize the wedding and honour the traditions and backgrounds of the bride and groom.