Why not add a Stunning Pop of Colour to Your Wedding Look
When it comes to planning your wedding, one of the most exciting parts is curating the overall aesthetic. Colour plays a huge part in this, and while many couples naturally lean towards soft, romantic neutrals, there’s a growing trend towards introducing colour in clever, creative and stylish ways. Whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid, or part of the wedding party, adding a touch of colour can bring personality, fun, and a fresh modern twist to your big day.
Colour Themes: From Brights to Pastels
Colour themes can set the tone for the entire wedding celebration. If you’re drawn to bold, energetic shades, think jewel tones like emerald, ruby, or sapphire. These rich hues work beautifully in autumn or winter weddings and add drama and depth to your styling. Fabrics like velvets and satins work especially well in these tones, perfect for a winter celebration.
At the other end of the spectrum, pale pastels—think powder blue, blush pink, soft lavender, or mint—offer a romantic and ethereal feel, perfect for spring or summer weddings, although pastels work all year round, there are no rules when it comes to adding colour to your big day, it’s about what is personal to you.
For those somewhere in between, dusky tones like mauve, sage green, terracotta or dusty smoky blues are incredibly popular right now. They’re elegant, timeless and versatile, working beautifully across everything from bridesmaids’ dresses to florals, stationery and beyond.
Colour for the Bride
If you’ve always dreamed of a classic ivory or white wedding dress, that doesn’t mean you can’t add a pop of colour somewhere. Accessories are a wonderful way to weave in subtle—or not so subtle—touches of personality and palette. Think of a delicate floral crown with colourful soft blooms, a statement headpiece with coloured crystals, or even a stunning pair of bridal shoes that peek from beneath your dress as you walk down the aisle, you’re probably more likely to wear these pieces again if you’ve chosen a colour you love and one that will inspire many happy memories of your big day.
Jewellery is another fabulous opportunity to bring in colour—perhaps a family heirloom featuring emeralds or sapphires, or bespoke pieces made to match your wedding theme. Even something as simple as a sash or bridal belt in a complementary shade can add beautiful detail and cohesion to your bridal look.
Of course, if you’re feeling bold and love to make a statement, coloured bridal gowns are having a major moment. Soft shades like champagne, blush, and pastel blue are both dreamy and on-trend, offering a gentle step away from tradition while keeping a romantic, bridal vibe, and of course a pretty pastel blue dress could be the perfect Something Blue! Pale yellow and delicate lavender, and even a pastel green or mint are more lovely pastel options, adding a lightness and freshness to the day.
Florals and embroidered gowns are also a gorgeous way to introduce a touch of whimsy and romance and can often be the starting point for your colour palette.
For the flamboyant bride, bright hues like pink, red, and even black can be utterly stunning—especially for a black-tie wedding or an evening celebration, or perhaps a less formal more relaxed wedding.
Dressing the Bridesmaids
Bridesmaids’ dresses are a natural way to incorporate colour into your wedding party. Mix-and-match dresses in complementary tones can add depth and texture to your bridal party’s look. For example, shades of pink ranging from blush to raspberry, or a palette of sunset tones—peach, rust, terracotta—can be incredibly striking and are definitely having a moment.
If you’re going for a more unified look, a single tone across all your bridesmaids with varied silhouettes can still add individuality while keeping the aesthetic cohesive. Don’t forget to extend your colour story to shoes, hair accessories, and of course the florals to really marry it all together.
Don’t Forget the Groom (and His Groomsmen!)
Adding colour to the groom’s look is often overlooked, but it’s a fun way to bring your theme full circle. Think of a velvet bowtie in an emerald green or deep azure blue, or coloured socks perhaps with a stripe or pop of pattern or even a suit in a less traditional shade. Deep green, burgundy or navy suits are a stylish alternative to classic black or grey and can look incredibly sharp and fashion-forward.
Ties and waistcoats offer other subtle ways to introduce colour and personality without going over the top.
Colour Through Your Décor
Colour isn’t just for fashion—it can extend through every part of your wedding styling. Tablescapes are a brilliant way to make a visual impact. Consider coloured glassware, napkins, or candles, paired with beautiful linen and a mix of floral arrangements in your chosen hues. Layering textures and tones creates a rich, thoughtful aesthetic that elevates your reception space.
Stationery—both before and during the wedding—is another perfect opportunity. Save-the-dates, invitations, menus, place cards and signage all provide a canvas for colour that hints at the vibe your wedding guests can expect.
And of course, don’t underestimate the power of lighting. From fairy lights with a golden glow, pretty pastel paper lanterns to uplighting in soft pastel tones or bold statement hues, the right lighting can totally transform a space and enhance your colour story.
Other Creative Touches
Still looking for unique ways to introduce colour? How about a signature cocktail in a vibrant shade that matches your palette, served with colourful garnishes or custom drink stirrers? Or a cake decorated with painted flowers, fresh fruit, or tinted icing?
Coloured confetti, balloons, lounge furniture, dance floor decals or even coloured smoke for those dramatic wedding portraits—there are endless creative ways to weave colour throughout your day.
In the end, whether you’re dreaming of a classic day with a twist or a bold and vibrant celebration, colour is a beautiful way to express your personality and bring your vision to life. From the shoes on your feet to the flowers on the table, don’t be afraid to play, experiment, and most importantly—have fun with it!
At Diane Hassall, we adore working with brides to create custom wedding shoes that reflect their unique style and love story. Whether it’s soft blush florals, a bold statement bow or delicate hand embroidered florals, there’s nothing better than seeing that little flash of colour peeking out from beneath the dress. Your wedding should be as individual as you are—and colour is one of the loveliest ways to make it truly yours.