22 wedding outfits for older brides

From dresses to jumpsuits, there are more wedding outfit options for the older bride than you might think 

The average age of a bride is now in her mid-30s and this rises year on year, indicating a continued emergence of older brides. What's more, a third of UK marriages are now between couples where one or both have been married before.

Whether you found love at an older age or you're marrying for the second or third time, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to your wedding outfit. However, there has never been more choice available, ensuring brides - whatever their age - find an outfit that they feel comfortable and confident in. 

Eleanor Rafferty, owner of The Ivory Secret - a bridal boutique in Devon, says: "When it comes to finding the dream dress, we find that mature brides are more secure and confident in who they are and what they like, and it is important to go with that instinct and let your personality shine through in your choice of outfit.

"Don't be afraid to tell the consultant what you are looking for," Eleanor advises. "They can help you disguise any body hang-ups while highlighting your best features. If you feel conscious about wearing white, consider ivory, champagne or blush hues, which will still have that bridal feel."

From long sleeves and knee-length dresses to full skirts and androgynous suits, there is a wealth of outfit options available. You can even go for the traditional fairytale dress if you want to, it's all about reflecting your own personal style. Accessories are perfect for injecting personality with chic and stylish cover-ups, colour popping shoes, statement jewellery and retro fascinators all to be considered. 

To give you a taste of the wedding dresses and outfits on offer, ideal for the more mature bride, take a look at this varied selection...

'Constantinople' by Eliza Jane Howell

'Victoriana' Bridal Jumpsuit, Phase Eight

'Eileen Leigh' by Maggie Sottero

'Peyton' pants, 'Taye' top and 'James' jacket by Martina Liana

Monsoon Bridal Collection Summer 2019

'Zoe' by Savannah Miller

'Chambort' pants and 'Cannes' body top by Modeca

'Campagne' cape (short), 'Riley' corset and 'Hockney' skirt by Halfpenny London

'Alana' by Sassi Holford

Style C14211 by Special Day Bridal Wear

'Samantha' by Alan Hannah

Adrianna Papell Beaded Long Dress in Bridal Silver, John Lewis & Partners

'Milani' pants and 'Maxi' jacket by Catherine Deane 

Style 15689 by Christina Wu

'Hanifa' by Ronald Joyce

'Karly' by Rita Mae

Beaded Wedding Dress by Joanna Hope

Gina Bacconi Tamina Lace Detail Crepe Coat in Butter Cream, John Lewis & Partners

'Adair' by Suzanne Neville

'Leora' by Charlotte Balbier

Draped 'Scarlett' dress by Temperley London 

Style 88039 by Justin Alexander

Are you a bride in her 40s, 50s, 60s or older? We would love to see what you wore on your wedding day; email sarah.harris@archant.co.uk.