Ivory vs. White Wedding Dress: What’s The Difference?

ivory vs. white WEDDING DRESS

At Style-Architects Weddings, we’ve spent decades turning wedding dreams into reality… and that includes helping you say “yes” to the perfect dress, whether it’s ivory or white. You’ve probably heard it before: “That wedding dress is white, ivory, cream, eggshell, nude, etc… but does it really matter? Don’t they all look the same?” Absolutely not! While the difference may be subtle to some, the shade of your wedding dress truly does matter. It plays a major role in the overall aesthetic of your bridal look and the style of your wedding.

so, what’s the difference between ivory and white dresses anyway?

White wedding dresses are bright, pure, and crisp, with no color undertones. They exude a modern, sleek, and contemporary feel, which is perfect for brides who love that fresh and clean aesthetic! On the other hand, ivory wedding dresses have a warm undertone, often appearing soft, romantic, and timeless. Ivory has more range in hues, from softer creams to warmer taupes. If you just can’t decide, consider two-tone dresses for more interest and contrast, which can also really showcase the details of your gown.

how do I know which shade is best for me?

The question has a simple answer: your skin tone!

While personal preference is key, certain shades flatter certain skin tones. True white wedding dresses tend to complement cooler skin tones with rosy or bluish undertones. However, the stark white can also make warm or olive skin tones appear washed out. Ivory wedding dresses, with their subtle warmth, are almost universally flattering and tend to enhance many complexions, making them a popular choice among brides. However, even amongst skin-tones and undertones, other factors, such as hair color, vary. So, if you’re still dead-set on a certain shade despite contrary opinions, don’t be afraid to try it out!

are there any other considerations?

Don’t forget the groom! His dress shirt should coordinate with the wedding gown: stark white shirt for a stark white wedding dress and an off-white shirt for an ivory wedding dress.

However, at the end of the day, the most important factor is how you feel in your wedding dress. When trying on gowns, take photos in natural light and pay attention to how each shade complements your complexion. Whether you choose a striking white dress or a soft ivory gown, the best choice is the one that makes you feel the most radiant on your wedding day!

IVORY

WHITE

 

Want help finding the perfect dress and bringing your wedding fantasy to life? If you're dreaming up something special and aren't sure where to begin, we’re here to help. At Style-Architects Weddings, our design service packages are tailored to guide you through the process with expertise, style, and a little bit of magic. Let’s bring your vision to life!

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Hey there! We’re Rachelle and Anna—mother and daughter…by law, but we like to think of it as family by design. Rachelle’s been in the wedding and events world for over two decades, and for half of that time, she’s had Anna by her side. Our love for details and logistics pairs perfectly with our skill for style and design, making us the ultimate left-brain/right-brain dream team. That’s why we’re called Style-Architects Weddings! We’re obsessed with what we do, and with over 20 awards under our belt, we’re confident we can turn your dream day into a reality.

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