For couples looking to achieve a sophisticated, elegant aesthetic, classic white wedding style is the way to go. Forget the latest trends—this style is all about using elements that will stand the test of time. Anything in white creates a classy and elegant vibe for any white wedding. As the most traditional wedding colour, white details are perfectly inspirational from gourmet cakes and exquisite decor, to the flawless bridal fashion inspiration.

Venue

With the right decor, you can make classic wedding style work for almost any venue, but the most suitable types are country clubs, hotels, estates, ballrooms, and banquet halls. These venues are generally traditional, elegant and sophisticated—all important elements of classic style.

If you prefer an outdoor venue, consider a vineyard, well-kept garden or formal courtyard. For a unique spin on classic style, host your wedding at a museum, restaurant, conservatory, castle, or theatre.

Season

The great thing about classic weddings is that they are always in style—and in season – they don’t ever go out of fashion! A classic wedding style is versatile and will work year-round.

Colour Palette

For your white wedding, you’ll want to choose a color palette that is timeless, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Most importantly, stay away from anything that is too vibrant or neon.

First, take a look at your venue’s existing decor (wallpaper, carpet, lighting, etc.). If there are any prominent colors, try to incorporate them into your palette for a look that’s cohesive and doesn’t clash with the surroundings.

Start by choosing one or two neutrals, such as ivory or grey. You can add dimensions by using a variety of textures, materials and even a touch of metallics here and there so the colours don’t look too monochrome. If you want to add a bit of effect, incorporate statement colours, like red, blue, coral, emerald green, or blush.

You can switch up the colour palette based on your wedding season. In the winter, choose metallics and darker colours, like gold, silver, red, navy blue, and black. For the warmer months, opt for colours that feel fresh, such as pink or peach.

Decor

While it can be fun to include all the latest trends on your big day, the last thing you want is to look back at your wedding photos in a few years and wonder what you were thinking. When it comes to choosing classic wedding decor, ask yourself first, “Will this still look beautiful in 20, 30, or 40 years?” If you’re not sure, then you might want to pass.

Look for pieces that are inherently classic, such as fine china, candelabras, votives, chair sashes, and luxe table linens. You should also keep the decor relatively understated, and skip anything that is too flashy or extravagant. That being said, classic wedding decor doesn’t have to be dull. Spruce up ordinary banquet tables with sequined runners, swap traditional Chiavari chairs for an upholstered style, or drape fabric swags throughout your venue. Ultimately, you should aim to achieve a vibe that is chic, elegant, and sophisticated.

Avoid mix-and-match elements, which will look too eclectic for a classic wedding. Instead, stick with two or three colors and use the same types of accents (pearl strands, lace, rhinestones, etc.) throughout the wedding to create a cohesive, well-planned effect.

Stationery

In general, stationery for classic weddings should be traditional and formal. You can personalise your invitation suite by adding a monogram (a must for classic weddings) such as foil stamping etc. Go for simple and elegant designs and pinterest is great for generating ideas.

Flowers

When it comes to wedding flowers, you can’t get more classic than roses. A rose shows a timeless and romantic appeal and the fact that they’re available year-round. Not only do they smell nice but they look amazing.

If you’re carrying a bouquet, avoid anything too trendy, like oversized arrangements or an abundance of loose greenery. Instead, have your florist design a more symmetrical bouquet that sticks with a few types of flowers and accents. Finish the bouquet with satin ribbons, lace, or a sparkling brooch for a personal touch. Would you think about a synthetic flowers that you can then keep afterwards in your wedding collection? They are not for everyone, but that’s what we chose to do because of that and also they were less expensive.

Reception centerpieces should be tidy and elegant, and you can add visual interest by alternating between tall and short arrangements on each table. For the wedding tables, it’s also important to choose the right flower holders – this can make all the difference. Anything too informal or over powering or distracting can take away from the actual flowers and change the look of your centerpieces. A few of our favourite options for white weddings are glass cylinder vases, rose bowls, and candelabras.

Attire

The dress code should be on the fancier side. Ballrooms and country clubs are more likely to require black-tie, while you might have the option to be more informal at a garden, museum or vineyard wedding.

A White wedding dress is the perfect option for brides who want that traditional classic look. You can choose a minimal gown style, or go for something more glamorous with intricate lace details. Accessorise with pearl jewellery, understated shoes, and a polished hairstyle.

If the venue requires a black tie dress code, The groom will need to wear tuxedo. For more casual attire, stick with a suit in a darker colour, although don’t feel limited to the standard black. Navy blue and charcoal grey are both classic looks.

Cake and Dessert

It wouldn’t be a classic wedding without a traditional tiered wedding cake. You can keep it simple with just the frosting and a topper, or you can ask your baker to add subtle decorative accents with swirling icing etc..