Mature Bride Wedding Protocols

by Gloria
(Michigan)

I will be a first-time bride at 55 years old and I want to know wedding dress protocols. I would also like to know if there are any other protocols I should be aware of as a "mature" bride. Thank you!


Hi Gloria,

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! And I know that since you are a first time bride, like most you want to make sure you pick a dress that is complimentary to you.

You also may feel that you also want to pick an age appropriate wedding dress for a mature bride over 50. This can mean different things to different people. For some they don't want a strapless wedding dress and then there are others who do. Some don't want a halter or backless wedding dress and again there are others who feel comfortable in these styles. Then there are others who don't think they should wear white or ivory. It all boils down to... what do you feel comfortable in?

So far as protocol is concerned for a mature bride, there really are no hard fast rules. You can wear any color you want, including white or ivory. You can wear a wedding gown with a train or one without a train. You can wear a full length wedding gown, tea length bridal dress or even a wedding suit.

Basically, you need to pick a bridal gown style, color and fabric that is the flattering to your figure and appeals to you!

Here are a few links to pages that may help you:

Frequently asked questions from mature brides?

Additional questions and answers concerning mature bride attire

Here are some tips and suggestions for finding mature wedding dresses.