Throughout history, brides have worn bridal gowns that reflected the fashion of the times and wedding day. Medieval European brides wore rich, lavish jewel tones on that special day. Brides in the Elizabethan era wore muted tones of sage, rose and gold. Although we think of white as the ideal wedding dream dress color, the concept of a "white wedding" is quite modern.

A white unique bridal gown was not a practical choice for many brides. Even among the wealthy it was considered extravagant to buy a gown to be worn only once. Until the early 20th century, brides usually chose a colored gown that could be worn for other occasions and special events. Some even chose a black dress, because funerals were common in the 1900s, and a woman would wear her best dress to the funeral.

Old-World Brides

The concept of wearing a bridal veil predates the wedding dress itself. In ancient Greece, brides wore a bright yellow veil, while Roman brides wore a scarlet red veil that was also used as their burial shroud. Many ancient tribes wrapped the bride from head to toe, to symbolize the modest and untouched maiden and to protect her from prying eyes and evil spirits.

New-World Brides

New arrivals to America in the 17th and 18th centuries were most likely married in their native country first. Young women who made the ocean crossing to start a new life in America would have brought pieces of fine fabric with them to make a wedding gown, when it was time. In a society preoccupied with its own survival, a colonial American wedding would have been a simple affair.

Queen Victoria

When she wed her true love in 1840, the young Queen Victoria chose a delicate white silk gown. Previous royal weddings had featured lavish furs and jewel-encrusted robes. Although some brides had worn white before her, the popularity of Queen Victoria's wedding sparked many imitators. Still, white remained an impractical choice for all but the very wealthy. Colored wedding gowns persisted through the 1920s, when white was officially adopted as the wedding color of choice.

The Roaring Twenties

In most eras, wedding gowns were typically floor length, with the exception of the Roaring Twenties. As the hemline crept up above the knee, a curious wedding dress style developed that has never been repeated. The wedding dress hemline was anywhere between the knee and mid-calf length, but the veil was very long for a timeless elegance.

Wartime Brides

During World War II, it was common for couples to get married quickly before the groom was sent to war. Women often opted for a smart suit rather than a fancy wedding gown. The groom, of course, wore his dress uniform.

Other Customs

Modern Indian brides usually wear red saris decorated in lavish gold embroidery. Chinese brides also wear red, which is symbolic of joy and love. In Chinese culture, white is a symbol of hope and is often worn at funerals.

Italy is world renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, fine fabrics and unparalleled experience in haute couture fashion. Brides around the globe seek out Italian designers when selecting wedding gowns for their special day - be it traditional elegance or modern chic designs that suit every bride perfectly. Italian bridal boutiques provide a diverse range of styles suitable for every taste and body type to find their dream gown.

Nicole Milano

Nicole Milano has long been considered a leader in Italian bridal fashion. With their keen attention to detail and luxurious fabrics, Nicole Milano gowns have quickly become popular with brides searching for their ideal wedding day ensemble. Brides can trust Nicole Milano to design something to match their personal style - from full skirted numbers to sleek mermaid cuts.

Carlo Pignatelli and Eddy K

Italian designers Carlo Pignatelli and Eddy K are widely revered for their exquisite craftsmanship and innovative designs. Their collections combine timeless classic silhouettes with cutting-edge trends to guarantee every bride finds her dream dress. Their fabrics selection, tailored workmanship tradition and impeccable designs epitomise Italian bridal fashion at its best.

Francesco Pignatelli and Antonio Riva

Francesco Pignatelli and Antonio Riva offer brides who crave something truly original unique bridal wear collections that break with tradition. Boasting avant-garde designs using Italian fabrics, these designers cater to modern brides looking to make a statement on their special day.

Brides who want to keep abreast of the latest trends and collections can sign up for newsletters from their favorite designers or bridal boutiques, which often include sneak previews of new collections, exclusive offers, and styling tips that help brides find their ideal gown.

Italian wedding gowns go beyond simply finding the ideal gown; they create an exceptional experience that celebrates love, tradition and style. Boasting luxurious fabrics, exquisite craftsmanship and an array of styles available, brides can trust Italian designers to find them their dream gown for their big day.