Even though college students aren’t exactly the target demographic for bridal collections (especially designer ones), wedding dresses are so beautiful you can’t help but look. And drool. So why not make all that drooling productive and get some outfit inspiration?
Even though most wedding dresses are white and long, there’s no reason you can’t take fashion inspiration from them. It just might not be as easy as taking inspiration from, say, your favorite influencer’s OOTD.
If you can appreciate the beauty of these special white dresses, read on for some bridal-inspired outfits that can absolutely work in the life of the independent, career-driven, “I’m-not-getting-married-anytime-soon” college girl.
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The Inspo: Monique Lhuillier
Monique Lhuillier’s bridal collections are of the dreamy, fairytale-and-frothy lace variety. Even though you might not plan on showing up to class in a ball gown anytime soon, you CAN copy this dress’s gorgeous detailing.
Copy the… Embroidery
Products: Gold Earrings – Macy’s, Pink Gloss – Clinique, Lace Kimono – Shoptiques, Embroidered Bodysuit – Charlotte Russe, Phone Case – Shoptiques, Rollerball Scent – Sephora, Navy Flats – Vince Camuto, Straw Tote – Nordstrom, Jeans – Articles of Society
This look takes the floral embroidery of the wedding dress and makes it class-appropriate on a bodysuit and a kimono – paired with jeans so it doesn’t look TOO over-the-top. Geometric earrings contrast with the femininity of the florals, while bow flats are cute AND comfy. A straw tote is summer-ready, as is this wildflower phone case. Finish with a sheer pink lip and a hint of floral scent.
The Inspo: Vera Wang
For the rebellious bride, Vera Wang has a whole collection of non-white wedding dresses. But, because this is still a bridal collection, the dresses have that classic princess silhouette: think nipped-in waist with a voluminous tulle skirt.
Copy the… Silhouette
Products: Leather Jacket – Last Call, Strappy Heels – Nordstrom Rack, Green Bag – Fossil, Arm Cuff – NA-KD, Chandelier Earrings – Nordstrom Rack, Pink Lipstick – Too Faced, Eye Palette – Smashbox, Bustier – Revolve, Tulle Skirt – Charlotte Russe
Here, I took this dress and made it night-out ready. Though I didn’t stick with pastels, I did keep the bustier and tulle skirt. Instead of a green sash, I added a green handbag. Next, throw on a leather jacket with floral embroidery. It’s edgy, but still feminine. Add strappy heels and chunky earrings, like the ones on the model, as well as an arm cuff for perfect night-out accessories. Last, what party look is complete without a smoky eye? Stick to a nude lip to keep the focus on your eyes.
The Inspo: Reem Acra
Reem Acra’s dress is my favorite of the bunch. I love the beach-wedding vibes of this dress, from the deep halter to the simple silhouette; I also love the baby’s breath in this model’s relaxed waves. I would definitely take summer outfit inspiration from this look.
Copy the…Neckline
Products: Halter Dress – Urban Outfitters, Gold Headband – Urban Outfitters, Floral Bangle – JCPenney, Earrings – Halogen, Mules – Nordstrom Rack, Eyeshadow – H&M, Mascara – Clinique, Necklace – BCBGMAXAZRIA
This is the perfect summer night out outfit – if you’re going for ethereal and dreamy. The halter dress also has polka dot s- a summertime staple! Pair with nude mules, my favorite comfy alternative to heels. For accessories, add floral jewelry as a nod to the model’s flowers. You don’t need all the pieces pictured – they’re just there for ideas. Keep the makeup simple with a shimmery shadow and a swipe of mascara.
What Do You Think?
Can bridal collections be a source for college girl outfit inspiration? Would you take inspiration from them? Would you wear the outfits above? Let us know in the comments!