I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. – Isaiah 61:10
For most brides, there’s a good chance that this is the outfit you’ve been dreaming about since you were a little girl. And for good reason! A wedding dress is one of the most memorable garments that someone wears. Throughout all of history, brides have worn special garments to celebrate the occasion of getting married. Finding the “one” is certainly a joyous moment, knowing that the dress is the one you will wear when marrying your spouse.
As Catholics, the dress carries something significant. This dress helps represent something much more than a legal contract. It marks the beginning of a sacred covenant and a new vocation. Regardless of whether it’s lace, satin, or sequins – each dress supports the celebration of the sacrament you are partaking in. Picking one that is special to you, is the fun of it!
Make shopping for your dress an experience that you’ll remember fondly someday. Don’t rush this once in a lifetime experience. Try on the accessories and look at all silhouettes before you settle on what you think you want! Whether you go shopping in person or not, a great place to look for your wedding dress is Glamlora. So many styles and options to peek through (like the one modeled in the photos below!) Find the gown that makes you feel more beautiful than you ever have!
A Dress and the Catholic Church
There are many theological aspects behind bridal attire. Have you ever wondered why brides wear white dresses with long trains or a veil? (hint: it’s for much more than just the aesthetic). Think back to your first moments as a member of the Catholic Church, your baptism! Just as you were clothed in white as a new creation in Christ, you are now clothed in white as you and your spouse receive so many graces like you did on your baptism day. Also, historically, trains on dresses were symbols of royalty and honor, your dress now symbolizes you as a daughter of the King. Onto the veil, which is one of the oldest bridal traditions. Veils are used in times of prayer and for reverence, now you are clothed with one as you enter a holy covenant!
The Dresses of the Saints
One of my favorite things that couples include on their wedding days are devotions to the saints and the Holy Family. What better inspiration for you and your spouse as you begin married life than to look to the saints who were wed before you. It’s so intriguing to look at the wedding dresses of married saints (and some consecrated women like St. Elizabeth of the Trinity wore wedding dresses when they consecrated their lives to Christ). Each saint was married during different times within different cultures, but they were all united with their beloved. Such a fun place to start looking for dress inspiration! If you are interested in learning more about saint gowns, check out this post from Liturgical Style!
(Saints pictured below in order: St. Gianna Beretta Molla, Bl. Concepción Cabrera Arias and St. Elizabeth of the Trinity)
Dressing for a Lifetime Vocation
At the end of the day, marriage in the Catholic Church is not merely an event but a sacrament that endures. Your dress is worn once but you live your vows everyday. Your wedding dress is the beginning, not the capstone. The most beautiful thing you can wear is a heart prepared for this vocation. A dress that makes you feel beautiful is just the cherry on top. Know of my continued prayers for you as you prepare for your holy day!
Photography: Nikayla & Co.
