Chic Black Wedding Dresses for the Edgy Bride

Who says you have to wear white on your wedding day? White, black, pink, purple, orange, whatever: If it makes you feel like a bride, then it's a wedding dress. Many unconventional brides choose to wear black because it is the opposite shade of white. Others (New York City dwellers, especially!) just have an affinity for the dark hue. Whatever your reasons, the heart wants what it wants and if the statement-making inky shade catches your eye, there's no turning back. Truth be told, we're all for going over to the dark side.

The best part? If you're not 100 percent sold on giving the vision of a creamy, traditional bridal gown up, you can have the best of both worlds. Go with a classic white wedding dress for the ceremony and change into a black gown when it's time for the reception or after-party. Alternatively, choose a dress that's both black and white, so you can rebel just a little while maintaining the bridal tradition of wearing wedding white.

If you're absolutely invested in wearing the hue, you're in luck. More and more wedding dress designers are embracing the darker side of bridal couture. It's been a staple in Vera Wang's wedding dress collections for years. Other big names (like Reem Acra, the label responsible for this navy blue and black wedding dress) have also followed suit. Whether you fancy grand black ball gowns or sleek black sheaths, get inspired by these chic black wedding dresses, straight from the runways.