As POPSUGAR editors, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. If you buy a product we have recommended, we may receive affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.
As many of today's brides break up with conventional wedding dressing, bridal suits are rising to the fore as modern alternatives. They may not immediately come to mind for your special day, but they can look just as sophisticated as traditional wedding gowns. Loved for their versatility and ease of wear, bridal pantsuits are a fresh proposition for those in favour of setting their own wedding traditions.
Whether it's worn for a bridal shower, wedding rehearsal or reception, a pantsuit makes a practical silhouette as it often contains pockets. Take it from Solange Knowles, who went that route on November 16, 2014, when she married Alan Ferguson (her now former husband) in New Orleans. She styled an off-white plunging jumpsuit with a matching ankle-length cape as a pre-wedding ensemble. Meanwhile, Emily Ratajkowski followed in Knowles' footsteps four years later, when she married Sebastian Bear-McClard (who she is now divorcing) in a tangerine Zara pantsuit. These stars created their own rulebook, and proved adopting a new wedding look can still come off quite chic.
"This concept of 'traditional' as it relates to weddings and bridal is really evolving and becoming more of a personal experience and preference," Heather McReynolds, vice president and general merchandising manager at David's Bridal, told POPSUGAR. Particularly since the pandemic, the brand has seen a surge in demand for a wider range of wedding styles — from black and non-white bridal gowns to entirely different silhouettes. Whether on-trend sleek satin or a classic tailored design, the possibilities of chic bridal suits abound.
Should You Wear a Suit on Your Wedding Day?
The choice is totally up to you. Wedding suits are on the rise, and they will certainly deliver a memorable entrance at your ceremony or party. However, you will make a statement in whatever wedding style you choose.
How to Style Your Bridal Suit
Consider enhancing the theme with accessories, whether that's a pearl necklace, a dainty gold chain, or diamond pendant. A strapless pantsuit will help highlight your neckline, while a halter or high-neck silhouette often emphasises your earrings — studs, hoops, or vintage clip-ons. On the footwear front, consider the wedding venue and decide on closed-toe or open-toe shoes based on practicality and comfort.
If you're curious about the trend, consider our curated list of styles, which includes a blazer-style dress that is a fun spin on the look.