Before we get into our latest instalment of wedding dress inspiration, we want to make one thing clear - just because you're a little bit older than the average bride, doesn't mean that you should have to follow any specific rules when choosing an outfit for the big day! Whether you're 18 or 80, we'll offer you pretty much the same advice on wedding dress shopping, but we also understand that, if you're 40 or older, it can be difficult to picture yourself in a gown that you only ever see modelled by 22-year-olds online. That's why we wanted to use real weddings and real mature brides to spark some ideas for your own dress shopping. If you're currently looking at wedding dresses for older or mature brides, this is a perfect place to start your Pinterest board!
1. Fabulously Flared
Real bride Maeve went for something chic and smart for her wedding to John. Her knee-length ensemble by Irish dressmaker Jean Poutch proves that a short wedding dress can look exceedingly grown up, while the flared bell sleeves and hem give it that feminine, flirty edge.
2. Tailored and Embellished
Real bride Vikki accessorised her Jenny Packham dress to perfection with a pair of customised Jimmy Choos and a bright pink bridal clutch. How gorgeous are those ostrich feather statement sleeves?
3. Modern Lace
This real bride kept it classic with a sleek, cap-sleeve gown. The webbing print on the lace adds a contemporary twist, while BHLDN offer a fabulous selection of structured gowns with sleek silhouettes and flattering capped sleeves.
4. Statement Structure
This couple aren't really a couple believe it or not, as we featured Ivan and Ludmila in a wedding shoot inspiring anyone planning a chic city celebration. But there's no denying that Ludmila's look is perfect for any fashion forward bride-to-be. Those structured puff sleeves in her Nastiya Anikina dress totally pop!
5. Style For Hire
Real bride Donna's gown suits her so perfectly, we can hardly believe that her groom chose it for her! This Rent the Runway dress was part of an elaborate surprise vow renewal, and we think Lance did an incredible job in selecting it - with its structured lace bodice and waistband embellishment, it's modern yet unmistakably bridal.
6. With Sequins Please
Real bride Irene chose not one, but two shimmering gowns by BHLDN for her vow renewal to James, her hubby of 50 years, and we love them both! The ceremony and reception dresses both featured a pretty shade of blush pink, but the one-shoulder dress she chose for the evening meal has a little bit more of a party vibe with even more sequins and a skirt of tulle.
7. Just Add Tulle
This real bride went designer with her effortlessly simple Monique Lhuillier gown, adding a sheer tulle cover up Bardot-style for an extra dose of light-as-air summertime sophistication to complement a sweetheart neckline.
8. Timeless Boho
We've long believed that the boho bridal look is timeless, and we can see brides of all ages looking fabulous in Jo's lace gown and flower crown combo!
9. Custom Made Character
Karen picked the perfect dress for her elopement with Patrick to the Burren. The sweeping, dramatic (and very romantic) landscape, and the old ruins where they had their ceremony was complemented by her modern meets Medieval silhouette which she had custom made to her personal style.
10. Handsome High-Neck
Married for 55 years, Wendy and David renewed their vows in the dreamy setting of O'Brien's tower on the Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare. Wendy chose a gorgeous high-neck style with long sleeves which really allowed her lavender and dried flowers flower crown and bouquet to pop against the white of her dress.
11. A Bold Bardot
A bold neckline can really take a short wedding dress to the next level, as proven by real bride Jamie, who found her ensemble at iconic department store Saks Fifth Avenue.
12. The Classic LWD
What not to love about the little white dress. This is one of those classic wedding dresses that works for brides of all ages. A knee-length piece in crisp, white lace is always a safe bet, and it suits multiple wedding styles too!
13. Exquisite Embellishment
Real bride Ellen went for a sleeveless, embellished gown on her big day - it sounds daring on paper, but the classic silhouette gives it a timeless feel. We also love how she added a pop of colour with a pair of navy blue heels!
14. Light Layers
The many layers of lace and silk on real bride Barbara's dress could quite easily look too fussy, but the structured silhouette, teamed with her undone updo, give it a charming edge.
15. Why Choose White?
Not sold on the idea of wearing white or ivory for your big day? Classic lace in a champagne shade is a great alternative. How beautiful does real bride Robin look in her layered gown?
16. Simple Suiting
What could be chicer than a cream or white tailored trouser suit!? Real bride Sarah paired her Richard Anderson two-piece with a pair of Jimmy Choos for extra oomph.
17. 60s Siren
This real bride's look is right up our street! Karen went retro with her 60s-inspired ASOS wedding dress, which features some seriously stylish pearl embellishment.
Ready to go shopping? Click here to see our list of the Best Wedding Boutiques in Ireland where you'll find an amazing collection of wedding dresses for all ages.
