- Just because you're an older widow doesn't mean you must wear a dowdy wedding gown. There are many wedding gowns on the market that are modest and elegant, and allow your beauty to shine through. Look for something with coverage since there's a high probability you don't want to walk down the aisle in a strapless number that your granddaughter would love to wear. Opt for colors like ivory, champagne and silver, which will complement a simple design like a long sheath or cap-sleeve gown. You want a clean neckline, some arm coverage and a skirt that just grazes the floor. J.Crew is a great retailer to check out for simple, modest wedding gowns.
- A special-occasion dress can make you feel just as special as a wedding gown. Often a more mature bride doesn't want to fuss with the song and dance of a full-blown wedding gown, no matter how simple the silhouette. In that case, go for a special occasion dress that fits and flatters. The dress can be cocktail or a bit more formal. Rich fabrics like taffeta, satin and brocade work well on mature women. You can also add a matching tailored jacket for the ceremony and remove it once it's time for the reception and dance. An open collar frames the face nicely. Keep the silhouette fitted by looking for princess seams and 3/4-length sleeves.
- If dresses aren't your style, consider an evening pantsuit. There's no written rule (and even if there is, break it) about wearing a dress to your wedding. An older widow or mature bride will look amazing in an evening pantsuit. Look for an evening pantsuit with a satin lapel or covered buttons for a dressy feel for the big day. Ivory is always a contender, but so are feminine shades like lavender and sky-blue. The idea is to look feminine and beautiful on your wedding day, and this can definitely be achieved with an evening pantsuit.
- No desire to wear white? You aren't the only one. If ivory and champagne still scream first wedding to you, go for colors reflective of the season. In the spring and summer, a soft pink, canary yellow or lilac look lovely, while wedding ceremonies held in the fall and winter work with burgundy, forest-green and chocolate-brown. Even black is acceptable. The most important thing is that you be comfortable and feel beautiful.
- Whether you choose a wedding gown or a special-occasion dress, you want to keep the details to a minimum. You're going for a modern, streamlined approach to your wedding dress; as an older widow, you don't want fussy details that overwhelm the look. Avoid details like excessive lace, buttons or tulle, which can come off as juvenile. Covered buttons at the back or side of a dress, sheer overlay and tonal brocade (brocade that is all one color) are chic details that will elevate your wedding-dress style without overpowering it.
