The wedding industry is undergoing a much-needed transformation as Gen Z dismisses outdated traditional wedding norms. Say goodbye to awkward first dances and traditional cake cutting—today’s couples are writing their own rules. This also includes breaking free from conventional bride and groom dress codes.
Rock n Roll Bride has always championed individuality, recognising that a wedding is about two unique people celebrating their love story with their closest friends and family. Authenticity is paramount. The wedding fashion landscape is finally catching up, embracing a bolder and more inclusive mindset. Gender-nonconforming and gender-neutral outfits are also now more accessible, offering a wide array of stylish choices for every couple and every type of wedding.
Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression, and your wedding outfit should reflect who you truly are. Gender is a spectrum, therefore wedding attire shouldn’t just be white dresses for brides and dark suits for grooms! Brands are now offering fluid collections that can be worn by anyone. For an affordable option, Sister Jane has an impressive collection of suits and shirts that feature playful touches such as bows and ruffles. They also shot the pieces on both male and female models to show how the same pieces can be styled in different ways.
Finding Inspiration
There is still work to be done to take non-conformist wedding fashion mainstream, so I understand it can be hard to know where to begin with envisioning your big day style. I recommend starting with Instagram and Pinterest. Hashtags like #GenderNeutralFashion, #AndrogynousStyle, and #NonBinaryFashion are worth following to discover diverse and creative looks.
Thankfully, there are some great celebrity trailblazers such as Janelle Monáe, Billy Porter, and Ezra Miller, who have all made bold statements with their gender-fluid, red carpet fashion choices.
The Power of Androgyny
If you want to go for an androgynous look, blending traditionally male and female elements to create an outfit that is both unique and expressive, then you could look at tuxedo-inspired gowns, complete with a sleek satin lapel and structured bodice. Or, consider a tailored suit with a twist – think waterfall hems, bold colours, dress cloaks, or unconventional fabrics.
New brand QUEERA nails this stylish androgyny expertly. Designer and Founder Curtis Cassell explains, “I used to be a waiter at an event space that mostly did weddings. The LGBTQ staff would always talk about if they wanted to get married in a suit or in a dress. I couldn’t believe the options were literally black and white, and wanted to change that for myself and for our community.” Their debut collection is divine and perfect for the couple who seek a matching yet modern vision.
Accessories play a crucial role in androgynous styling, too. A well-chosen bow tie, pocket square, or even a hat or veil can add distinctive flair to your ensemble. Footwear is another area where you can break the mould. Why not pair a flowing dress with a sharp pair of creepers or biker boots?
Customisation
Customisation is a game-changer in the world of wedding attire. Many designers now offer mix and match collections, allowing you to create a cohesive outfit that perfectly aligns with your vision. Milla Nova’s (millanova.com) Atelier Collection is a gender-inclusive collection that offers statement unisex mix and match options, and the campaign was shot on both male and female models. Ritual Unions (ritual-unions.com) also offer structured capes and cinching corsets to add edge over bias cut silk skirts and slips.
And if you can’t find exactly what you want from the traditional channels, there are a wealth of bespoke designers who you can work with on something truly one-of-a-kind. The beauty of bespoke is that every detail, from the fit to the fabric choice, is tailored to your preferences. When working with a designer, it is key to be well prepared for your initial consultation with plenty of references from Pinterest boards to photos, sketches, or even items from your wardrobe that make you feel your best.
Your wedding day is a celebration of your unique love, and your choice of clothing should also be a testament to that. Ultimately, the most important aspect of your wedding attire is that it not only reflects who you are but you are also totally in love with yourself wearing it! So, whether you opt for a traditional look with a twist or a completely unconventional ensemble, the key is to stay true to yourself and be confident in your choices. The world of wedding fashion still has a way to go, but the future is bright with new brands emerging every day, bringing with them fresh ideas and exciting non-conformist collections.
This article originally appeared in issue 58 of Rock n Roll Bride magazine. You can purchase the latest copy here, or why not subscribe to never miss an issue?