.GIF)
A Modern Gothic Romance
Not all brides dream of a classic, fairy tale wedding. In fact, many modern brides are looking in the exact opposite direction for wedding day inspiration: gothic.
While gothic style, with its doom and gloom connotations, may initially seem too morose for such a happy event, it’s actually a highly adaptable and inherently elegant style.
“It really is down to each personality as each are unique. I say: be different, but be you,” says Eva Satchell, owner of Beauty Bride in British Columbia, Canada.
“Every gothic-inspired wedding I have created has been completely different from the next as I work with them as individuals.”
Want to embrace your dark side for your nuptials? Here are a few ideas for incorporating modern gothic romance into your wedding.
1. Select a Rich Palette
While black may be a no brainer for a gothic-inspired wedding, it doesn’t have to be the star of the show. Instead, make it a supplementary color by pairing it with other deep shades, such as plum, purple, burgundy and green, for a moody and romantic look.
“Black is such a dominate color, but when paired with other rich colors it works!” adds Satchell. She also suggests utilizing slightly translucent white and ivory palettes, which will allow deep colors underneath to show through for a harmonizing effect.
2. Send Intricate Invites
Set the tone for your event by sending over-the-top invitations to your guests. Think pressed calligraphy, lined envelopes, floral motifs, gold lettering, wax seals or leather details — anything that screams “extra” is perfectly in line with gothic-style drama.
3. Select a Backdrop
You don’t have to say ‘I do’ in a haunted house for your wedding to fit the “gothic” bill (though, it would be appropriate!). A wide variety of venues, ranging from chic urban warehouses to rustic rural barns, pair well with gothic-inspired décor.
4. Dress with Drama
Look to Victorian era fashion trends for gothic wedding attire ideas. Brides, for instance, can incorporate high collars, choker necklaces, lace details, corsets, long sleeves and tiered tulle skirts — all reminiscent of the late 19th century.
Color-wise, brides should feel free to think beyond classic white. A gothic wedding is the ideal setting for a smoky gray, dusty rose or, of course, black gown.
Grooms, too, can go outside the traditional black suit with a burgundy velvet jacket or accessories like an ascot or even just a brocade pocket square.
5. Lean into Luxury
For Satchell, this kind of event is all about the “wow factor.” So look for decor with rich details that adds depth to your overall look such as: