Wedding Traditions 101: What is the origin and symbolism of the white wedding dress?

The white wedding dress is perhaps the most symbolic part of today's wedding ceremony.  Through different religions and denominations, each wedding is unique in its customs.  And although the styles may differ, and color accents may be added, in most every modern wedding you will see the bride wearing a white wedding dress.

Many theories exist as to why the white wedding dress came into fashion, the most popular belief is that the white symbolizes virginity.  But the color white historically also represents purity, innocence and wholesomeness.  Some even believe that they grew popular as monarchs tried to promote the sale of lace.
 
Queen Victoria of England wore a white wedding dress at her wedding in 1840, and this is the time period where the white dress grew into style.  Prior to this, brides were known to wear their best or most expensive clothes, which varied in color and style.  By the late 1800s, many American brides (especially frontier brides) would choose dresses more practical, that could be worn after the wedding as well.  A common practice after the wedding was to dye the dress in a color of her choice, keeping only the collar and the cuffs white.
Today brides choose there dress based more on style, affordability, and perhaps sentimental value (as some brides wear dresses passed down from generations before).  A popular trend is white wedding dresses with color accents, that perhaps match with the color scheme of the flowers and bridesmaids.  Click here for some samples of this fashion trend.

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