Best Purple Wedding Dresses for Brides: Style & Buying Guide

Step into a world of elegance and individuality with our shopping guide to purple wedding dresses for brides. Perfect for those seeking a nontraditional yet romantic look, purple gowns blend regal charm with modern flair. Discover why more brides are choosing this enchanting hue to express their unique style and make an unforgettable statement on their special day.

Comparison Table: Types of Purple Wedding Dresses for Brides

Dress Type	Shade Options	Silhouette(s)	Best For	Features	Typical Fabrics	Budget Range
Ball Gown	Lavender, Plum, Amethyst	Ball, Modified A-line	Formal, Classic	Full skirt, fitted bodice	Tulle, Satin, Taffeta	$$ — $$$$$
Mermaid/Trumpet	Iris, Deep Purple, Mauve	Mermaid, Trumpet	Glamorous, Modern	Figure-hugging, flare	Lace, Satin, Mikado	$ — $$$$
A-Line	Dusty Lilac, Violet	A-line	Flattering All	Flared from waist down	Chiffon, Organza	$ — $$$
Sheath/Column	Grape, Eggplant	Sheath, Slip, Column	Minimalist, Chic	Slim, body-skimming	Crepe, Jersey, Satin	$ — $$$$
Tea-Length/Short	Soft Purple, Orchid	Tea-length, Mini	Casual, Vintage	Shorter hemline	Tulle, Lace	$ — $$
Two-Tone/Ombre	White+Purple, Ombre	Ball, A-line, Others	Unique, Artsy	Color gradient	Tulle, Organza	$$ — $$$$
Gothic/Renaissance	Dark Purple, Black+Purple	Ball, Empire, Others	Alternative, Themed	Lace, velvet, dramatic	Velvet, Brocade, Lace	$$ — $$$$$
Boho/Rustic	Heather, Soft Lilac	A-line, Empire	Bohemian, Informal	Lace, floral, flowy	Chiffon, Tulle, Lace	$ — $$$
Plus Size	All shades	All silhouettes	Curve enhancing	Structured, supportive	Any (customizable)	$ — $$$$$

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Choosing Your Purple Wedding Dress by Body Type

Hourglass Shape

• Best Silhouettes: Trumpet, Mermaid, Fitted A-line
  These styles hug your natural waist and flare at the right spots to accentuate curves.
• Tips: Look for corset bodices or structured seams that define the waist.
• Avoid: High-waisted empire lines that may hide curves.

Pear Shape

• Best Silhouettes: Ball Gown, A-line
  Fuller skirts balance out wider hips, while a fitted bodice highlights your upper half.
• Tips: Embellished necklines, off-shoulder straps, or cap sleeves can emphasize shoulders.
• Avoid: Mermaid or trumpet styles that tightly fit around the hips.

Apple Shape

• Best Silhouettes: Empire, A-line, Flowing Sheath
  Gowns that flow out from under the bust draw focus upward and are forgiving at the waist.
• Tips: V-necklines elongate the neck and torso, and soft, draped fabrics are flattering.
• Avoid: Heavily ruched or fitted waistlines.

Rectangle/Athletic Shape

• Best Silhouettes: Ball Gown, Tiered, Peplum, Detailed A-line
  Styles with added detail, volume, or embellishments create more curves.
• Tips: Experiment with belts, bows, or sashes in contrasting purples to define your waist.
• Avoid: Straight-cut sheaths with no waist definition.

Petite

• Best Silhouettes: Sheath, Slim A-line, High-Low Hem
  Slim, vertical styles (with minimal volume) avoid overwhelming your frame.
• Tips: Opt for minimal trains, and earthy or softer purple tones to lengthen the figure.
• Avoid: Full, layered ball gowns that can appear heavy.

Plus Size

• Best Silhouettes: Custom-fit A-line, Ball Gown, Empire
  Structured bodices with moderate volume below balance shape and provide support.
• Tips: Look for built-in shapewear, boning, or a tailored bust.
• Avoid: Very lightweight, clingy fabrics without structure.

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Choosing by Occasion: Casual, Formal, Themed & More

Formal & Black Tie Weddings

• Recommended: Deep purples (plum, royal, eggplant), shimmering details, classic silhouettes (ball gown, trumpet, mermaid).
• Styles: Floor-length satin, beaded bodices, embroidered tulle, luxurious fabrics.
• Best Features: Long trains, dramatic embellishments, structured tailoring.

Semi-formal / Contemporary Weddings

• Recommended: A-line, sheath, or tea-length dresses in lilac, lavender, or ombre purple.
• Styles: Minimalist slip gowns, modern high-low hems, fresh prints, or two-tone looks.

Casual & Outdoor Weddings

• Recommended: Soft purple hues, bohemian or flowy A-lines, less structured fabrics.
• Styles: Chiffon, flutter sleeves, floral or lace accents, midi or tea-length.

Themed & Alternative Weddings

• Recommended: Gothic-inspired black and purple, Renaissance or Victorian styles, whimsical fairy tale ball gowns with heavy embellishments, ombre or gradient effects.
• Styles: Velvet corset tops, dramatic sleeves, or skirt layers. Perfect for fantasy, Halloween, or garden themes.

Seasonal Tips

• Spring/Summer: Light purples, floral accents, breathable fabrics.
• Fall/Winter: Deeper purple tones, velvet or brocade fabrics, capes, or long sleeves for warmth.

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Style Tips for Purple Wedding Dresses

Pick Your Perfect Shade

• Lavender: Youthful, soft, and whimsical. Great for spring/summer or garden weddings.
• Lilac: Romantic and feminine, universally flattering.
• Plum & Eggplant: Rich, regal, and bold. Ideal for formal or winter events.
• Amethyst, Iris, Violet: Artistic, modern, and striking. Suitable for unique bridal looks.
• Ombre or Two-Tone: For dramatic flair or boho/fantasy themes.

Embrace the Power of Fabric

• Tulle & Organza: Add dreaminess and volume.
• Satin & Mikado: Bring luster and structure for glamorous, sleek looks.
• Lace: Offers timeless romance and texture.
• Velvet: Perfect for drama and warmth in colder months.
• Chiffon: Light and breezy for outdoor or boho celebrations.

Fit & Comfort

• Always prioritize a dress that lets you move and dance comfortably.
• If the dress is elaborate, allow time for professional fittings.
• Built-in corsets or bra cups can enhance fit and support.

Personalize Your Look

• Consider custom-made options if you want something truly unique, especially for plus sizes or if you want a specific shade.
• Add a pop of contrast—like a blush sash or metallic details—for a custom touch.

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Accessorizing Purple Wedding Dresses

Veils & Hairpieces

• Classic Touch: Opt for white, blush, or silver veils—they complement all purple tones.
• Modern/Boho: Consider colored veils (lavender, pale grey), floral crowns, or jeweled headbands.
• Alternative/Themed: Try dark tulle, black or gold accents, or dramatic capes.

Jewelry

• Metal Licorice: Silver, white gold, or platinum best suit cool purple tones; yellow gold and rose gold pop with warmer purples.
• Gemstones: Amethyst, pearl, diamond, or clear cubic zirconia are universally stunning.
• Keep it Simple: If your dress is highly embellished, go for minimalist jewelry.

Shoes

• Classic: Silver, nude, blush, or matching purple heels.
• Whimsical: Sparkling or floral-adorned shoes for fairytale looks.
• Edgy/Gothic: Black, deep purple, or lace-up booties.

Outerwear

• Seasonal: Faux fur capelets or velvet wraps in winter.
• Boho/Romantic: Lace or crochet shrugs, pastel shawls in spring.
• Themed: Floor-length velvet or brocade capes for drama.

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Practical Pointers for Choosing and Wearing a Purple Wedding Dress

1. Order Swatches First
   Purple varies wildly by fabric and brand—order fabric swatches to see true color in person.

2. Check Return Policies
   Dresses in unconventional colors may have more limited return options. Shop from reputable boutiques with supportive customer service.

3. Customization Is Key
   Many boutiques offer sizing and color customization—even for petites and plus sizes.

4. Plan Your Timeline
   Custom or imported purple dresses often require 4–8+ weeks for delivery.

5. Picture-Perfect
   Purples photograph differently under varied lighting. Ask to see the dress by daylight and artificial light before the big day.

6. Coordinate With Your Theme
   Purple works beautifully with silver, white, blush, navy, gold, or black. Consider the color palette for your florals, décor, and wedding party.

7. Keep Undergarments in Mind
   Nude seamless shapewear, purple or strapless bras, and slips are sometimes needed for lighter or sheer fabrics.

8. Communicate with Your Tailor
   Alterations on colored dresses require color-matched thread and care—choose an experienced professional.

9. Consider Multiple Looks
   Maybe wear a white dress for your ceremony and switch to purple for the reception or after-party.

10. Stand Tall!
    Wear your bold choice with confidence. Let it set the tone for a celebration truly your own.

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Technical Comparison Table: Purple Wedding Dress Attributes

Attribute	Ball Gown	Mermaid/Trumpet	A-Line	Sheath/Column	Short/Tea-Length	Gothic/Renaissance
Skirt Volume	High	Medium/Low	Medium	Low	Low	High
Train Length	Chapel/Cathedral	Sweep/Chapel	Variable	None/Sweep	None	Cathedral/None
Bodice Style	Corset, Structured	Fitted, Corset	Fitted, Relaxed	Relaxed, Minimalist	Structured/Simple	Corset, Laced
Neckline Options	Sweetheart, Strapless, Cap Sleeve	Plunging, Boat, V-Neck	V-Neck, Scoop, Square	Scoop, High, V-Neck	Varied	Square, Off-Shoulder
Best Season	All	All	All	Spring/Summer	Spring/Summer	Fall/Winter
Fabric	Tulle, Satin, Brocade	Lace, Satin, Mikado	Chiffon, Organza	Jersey, Satin	Tulle, Lace	Velvet, Brocade
Best For	Classic, Formal	Glamorous, Modern	Universal	Minimal, Modern	Casual, Vintage	Themed, Alternative
Embellishments	Beading, Embroidery	Lace, Sequins	Floral, Beading	Minimal	Appliqués, Sash	Embroidery, Lace
Typical Price	$$ — $$$$$	$ — $$$$	$ — $$$	$ — $$$$	$ — $$	$$ — $$$$$

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Conclusion

Purple wedding dresses offer brides a fresh way to express individuality, elegance, and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the softness of lavender or the drama of deep plum, there’s a style, silhouette, and shade to flatter every figure and suit any occasion—from intimate garden weddings to black-tie galas and whimsical fairytale affairs.

With careful consideration of your body type, personal style, and wedding theme, you can select a purple gown that feels authentically you. Thoughtful accessorizing and smart shopping—like ordering swatches and considering custom tailoring—will help ensure your big day look is both comfortable and unforgettable.

Embrace the beauty and symbolism of purple: creativity, royalty, and bold romance. Let your purple wedding dress make your personal statement on one of life’s most meaningful days.

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FAQ

1. Are purple wedding dresses acceptable for traditional weddings?
   Absolutely! While white is traditional in some cultures, there are no strict rules. Purple dresses can be styled as classic or as modern as you like. For a traditional touch, opt for a ball gown in a muted lavender or purple with white accents.

2. What shades of purple are available for wedding gowns?
   You’ll find options from the palest lavender and lilac to rich plum, eggplant, amethyst, and even ombre or purple mixed with white or black.

3. Can I customize the shade of my purple wedding dress?
   Yes. Many boutiques and online retailers offer custom color matching, so you can choose the perfect shade and even order fabric swatches before buying.

1. What body types suit purple wedding dresses?
   Purple works for every body type! Focus on the silhouette and fit: A-lines and ball gowns flatter most, while mermaid and trumpet cuts suit hourglass figures. Custom tailoring is available for petite and plus sizes.

2. Are purple dresses only for non-traditional brides?
   Not at all. They’re perfect for brides seeking a personal twist, but many designs are classic and elegant enough for any ceremony.

3. What accessories go best with a purple wedding dress?
   Silver, pearl, and white gold jewelry generally look beautiful, as do floral crowns, blush veils, or colored sashes. Choose accessories to match your theme and shade of purple.

4. How do I ensure my purple wedding dress photographs well?
   Check the color in both indoor and outdoor lighting. Lighter purples pop in daylight, while darker hues add drama indoors. Ask your photographer for test shots during fittings.

5. Can bridesmaids or groomsmen wear purple to match?
   Definitely! Coordinating bridesmaid dresses or accent pieces for the wedding party in matching or complementary purples is a stylish choice.

6. Are there plus-size options for purple wedding dresses?
   Yes. Many sellers offer a full range of sizes and some specialize in custom measurements for a perfect fit regardless of your size.

7. How early should I order my purple wedding dress?
   Order at least 4–8 months ahead, especially for custom or specialty shades. This allows time for shipping, alterations, and color correction if needed.

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With the right purple wedding dress, you can create a look that’s truly your own—memorable, meaningful, and as magical as your love story.