Traditional Hawaiian Wedding Dress

A Hawaiian wedding is a beautiful and unique event that is steeped in tradition. The bride and groom often choose to wear traditional Hawaiian wedding attire, which can vary depending on the specific island or region of Hawaii from which their families originate. In general, however, there are some common elements that are found in most traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses.

One of the most important elements of a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress is the color white. White is a symbol of purity and innocence, and it is also the color of the traditional Hawaiian wedding flower, the pikake. The bride's dress is typically made from a lightweight cotton or silk fabric and is often adorned with lace and other intricate details.

In addition to the color white, other traditional Hawaiian wedding dress elements include:

Traditional Hawaiian Wedding Dress

The traditional Hawaiian wedding dress is a beautiful and unique garment that is steeped in tradition. Here are 9 important points about traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses:

• White color
• Lightweight fabric
• Lace and intricate details
• Long and flowing
• Open shoulders
• Floral accents
• Train or bustle
• Veil or headpiece
• Jewelry and accessories

Traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses are often custom-made and can be quite expensive. However, there are also many affordable options available for brides who are on a budget.

White color

White is the traditional color for Hawaiian wedding dresses. There are several reasons for this. First, white is a symbol of purity and innocence, which are both important qualities in a marriage. Second, white is the color of the traditional Hawaiian wedding flower, the pikake. Pikake flowers are often used to make leis, which are worn by both the bride and groom on their wedding day.

White is a symbol of purity and innocence, which are both important qualities in a marriage. A white wedding dress represents the bride's commitment to her husband and her desire to start their new life together with a clean slate.

White is also a symbol of new beginnings. A white wedding dress represents the bride's hope for a happy and prosperous future with her husband.

The traditional Hawaiian wedding flower is the pikake. Pikake flowers are white and have a sweet, fragrant smell. They are often used to make leis, which are worn by both the bride and groom on their wedding day. The white color of the pikake flower is said to represent the purity and innocence of the bride.

The white color of Hawaiian wedding dresses may also have been influenced by Western culture. In many Western cultures, white is the traditional color for wedding dresses. This is because white is seen as a symbol of purity and innocence.

Today, many Hawaiian brides choose to wear white wedding dresses. However, some brides may also choose to wear other colors, such as pink, blue, or green. Ultimately, the color of the wedding dress is up to the bride's personal preference.

Lightweight fabric

The fabric of a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress is typically lightweight and airy. This is because Hawaiian weddings are often held outdoors in warm weather. A lightweight fabric will help the bride to stay cool and comfortable on her wedding day.

Some of the most popular fabrics used for Hawaiian wedding dresses include silk, cotton, and linen. Silk is a luxurious fabric that is known for its drape and sheen. Cotton is a more affordable option that is also breathable and comfortable. Linen is a durable fabric that is perfect for outdoor weddings.

In addition to the type of fabric, the weight of the fabric is also important. A heavier fabric will be more formal and structured, while a lighter fabric will be more casual and flowy. The bride should choose a fabric weight that is appropriate for the style of her wedding.

Here are some of the benefits of choosing a lightweight fabric for a Hawaiian wedding dress:

• Lightweight fabrics are breathable and comfortable, which is important for outdoor weddings in warm weather.
• Lightweight fabrics are easy to move in, which is important for dancing and other wedding activities.
• Lightweight fabrics can be draped and styled in a variety of ways, which gives the bride more options for her wedding dress.

Overall, a lightweight fabric is a good choice for a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress. It is comfortable, stylish, and versatile.

Lace and intricate details

Lace and intricate details are often used to embellish traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses. Lace is a delicate fabric that is made from fine threads. It can be used to create a variety of patterns and designs. Intricate details can also be added to a wedding dress using embroidery, beading, or other techniques.

Lace and intricate details can add a touch of femininity to a wedding dress. This is appropriate for a Hawaiian wedding, as Hawaiian culture values femininity and beauty.

Lace and intricate details can also add a touch of elegance to a wedding dress. This is important for a Hawaiian wedding, as Hawaiian weddings are often formal occasions.

Lace and intricate details can be used to personalize a wedding dress. The bride can choose the type of lace, the pattern of the lace, and the placement of the lace on the dress. This allows her to create a wedding dress that is unique and special to her.

Lace and intricate details can also have cultural significance in a Hawaiian wedding. For example, some Hawaiian wedding dresses are adorned with lace that is made from the bark of the hau tree. The hau tree is a sacred tree in Hawaiian culture, and its bark is said to bring good luck and happiness to the couple.

Overall, lace and intricate details can be a beautiful and meaningful addition to a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress.

Long and flowing

Traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses are often long and flowing. This is because Hawaiian weddings are often held outdoors in a tropical climate. A long, flowing dress will help to keep the bride cool and comfortable on her wedding day. It will also create a beautiful and elegant silhouette.

The length of the dress can vary depending on the bride's personal preference. Some brides may choose to wear a dress that is floor-length, while others may choose to wear a dress that is tea-length or even shorter. The bride should choose a dress length that she is comfortable with and that will allow her to move around easily.

The flow of the dress can also vary depending on the type of fabric that is used. A lightweight fabric, such as silk or chiffon, will create a more fluid and flowing dress. A heavier fabric, such as satin or taffeta, will create a more structured and formal dress.

Here are some of the benefits of choosing a long and flowing dress for a Hawaiian wedding:

• Long and flowing dresses are涼しい and comfortable, which is important for outdoor weddings in warm weather.
• Long and flowing dresses can help to create a beautiful and elegant silhouette.
• Long and flowing dresses can be worn with a variety of accessories, such as veils, headpieces, and jewelry.

Overall, a long and flowing dress is a good choice for a traditional Hawaiian wedding. It is comfortable, stylish, and versatile.

Open shoulders

Open shoulders are a common feature of traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses. This is because Hawaiian weddings are often held outdoors in a warm climate. Open shoulders will help the bride to stay cool and comfortable on her wedding day. They will also create a beautiful and elegant silhouette.

Open shoulders will help the bride to stay涼しい and comfortable on her wedding day. This is important for outdoor weddings in warm weather.

Open shoulders can create a beautiful and elegant silhouette. This is appropriate for a Hawaiian wedding, as Hawaiian culture values beauty and style.

Open shoulders can be worn with a variety of accessories, such as veils, headpieces, and jewelry. This allows the bride to create a unique and personalized look for her wedding day.

Open shoulders may also have cultural significance in a Hawaiian wedding. In Hawaiian culture, the shoulders are considered to be a sacred part of the body. By exposing her shoulders, the bride is showing her respect for Hawaiian culture and her willingness to embrace her Hawaiian heritage.

Overall, open shoulders are a beautiful and meaningful addition to a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress.

Floral accents

Floral accents are a common feature of traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses. This is because flowers play an important role in Hawaiian culture. Flowers are used to decorate homes, temples, and other sacred places. They are also used to make leis, which are given as gifts to show love and respect.

The type of flowers used in a Hawaiian wedding dress will vary depending on the bride's personal preference. Some popular choices include orchids, plumerias, and pikake. Orchids are known for their beauty and elegance, while plumerias are known for their sweet fragrance. Pikake is the traditional Hawaiian wedding flower, and it is often used to make leis for the bride and groom.

Floral accents can be added to a wedding dress in a variety of ways. Some brides may choose to have flowers embroidered or beaded onto their dress. Others may choose to wear a flower crown or hairpiece. Still others may choose to carry a bouquet of flowers.

Here are some of the benefits of adding floral accents to a Hawaiian wedding dress:

• Floral accents can add a touch of beauty and elegance to a wedding dress.
• Floral accents can help to create a more personalized and unique wedding dress.
• Floral accents can be used to incorporate Hawaiian culture into the wedding ceremony.

Overall, floral accents are a beautiful and meaningful addition to a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress.

Train or bustle

Many traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses have a train or bustle. A train is a long piece of fabric that extends from the back of the dress. A bustle is a shorter piece of fabric that is gathered up at the back of the dress. Both trains and bustles can add a touch of drama and elegance to a wedding dress.

A train or bustle can add a touch of drama and elegance to a wedding dress. This is appropriate for a Hawaiian wedding, as Hawaiian culture values beauty and style.

A train or bustle can be worn in a variety of ways. The bride can choose to wear the train down for a more formal look, or she can bustle it up for a more casual look.

A train or bustle may also have cultural significance in a Hawaiian wedding. In Hawaiian culture, the train or bustle is said to represent the bride's journey from her father's house to her husband's house.

A train or bustle can also be practical. It can help to keep the bride's dress clean and free of wrinkles.

Overall, a train or bustle is a beautiful and meaningful addition to a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress.

Veil or headpiece

Many traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses are worn with a veil or headpiece. A veil is a piece of fabric that covers the bride's face and head. A headpiece is a decorative piece of jewelry that is worn on the bride's head.

A veil can be worn to cover the bride's face and head as a symbol of modesty. This is appropriate for a Hawaiian wedding, as Hawaiian culture values modesty and humility.

A veil or headpiece can add a touch of beauty and elegance to a wedding dress. This is important for a Hawaiian wedding, as Hawaiian culture values beauty and style.

A veil or headpiece may also have cultural significance in a Hawaiian wedding. In Hawaiian culture, the veil or headpiece is said to represent the bride's transition from girlhood to womanhood.

A veil or headpiece can be worn in a variety of ways. The bride can choose to wear the veil over her face, or she can wear it over her head like a hood. She can also choose to wear the headpiece alone.

Overall, a veil or headpiece is a beautiful and meaningful addition to a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress.

Jewelry and accessories

Jewelry and accessories can be used to complete the look of a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress. Some popular choices for jewelry include necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings. For accessories, many brides choose to wear a veil or headpiece, as well as a bouquet of flowers.

The type of jewelry and accessories that a bride chooses will depend on her personal style and the overall look that she is trying to achieve. For a more formal look, she may choose to wear a pearl necklace and earrings, as well as a veil. For a more casual look, she may choose to wear a flower crown or hairpiece, as well as a bouquet of tropical flowers.

Here are some tips for choosing jewelry and accessories for a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress:

• Choose jewelry and accessories that complement the style of your dress.
• Choose jewelry and accessories that are made from natural materials, such as shells, pearls, or flowers.
• Choose jewelry and accessories that have a Hawaiian flair, such as pieces that incorporate Hawaiian symbols or motifs.

Overall, jewelry and accessories can be a beautiful and meaningful addition to a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses:

Question 1: What is the most important element of a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress?
Answer: The most important element of a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress is the color white. White is a symbol of purity and innocence, and it is also the color of the traditional Hawaiian wedding flower, the pikake.

Question 2: What are some other common elements of traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses?
Answer: Other common elements of traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses include lightweight fabrics, lace and intricate details, long and flowing silhouettes, open shoulders, floral accents, trains or bustles, veils or headpieces, and jewelry and accessories.

Question 3: What type of fabric is best for a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress?
Answer: The best type of fabric for a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress is a lightweight fabric, such as silk, cotton, or linen. These fabrics are breathable and comfortable, which is important for outdoor weddings in warm weather.

Question 4: What are some popular choices for jewelry and accessories to wear with a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress?
Answer: Some popular choices for jewelry and accessories to wear with a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress include necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, veils or headpieces, and bouquets of flowers. The type of jewelry and accessories that a bride chooses will depend on her personal style and the overall look that she is trying to achieve.

Question 5: Where can I find a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress?
Answer: Traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses can be found at a variety of bridal salons and online retailers. You can also find a seamstress to custom-make a dress for you.

Question 6: How much does a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress cost?
Answer: The cost of a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress will vary depending on the style of the dress, the type of fabric used, and the designer. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 for a dress.

Question 7: What is the best way to care for a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress?
Answer: The best way to care for a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress is to dry clean it. You should also store the dress in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact a bridal consultant or a seamstress.

Now that you know more about traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses, here are a few tips for choosing the perfect dress for your big day:

Tips

Here are a few tips for choosing the perfect traditional Hawaiian wedding dress:

Tip 1: Start your search early. Traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses can be custom-made, so it is important to start your search early to give yourself enough time to find the perfect dress and have it made.

Tip 2: Do your research. There are many different styles of traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses, so it is important to do your research to find a style that you love. Look at pictures of dresses online and in magazines, and talk to other brides who have worn traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses.

Tip 3: Consider your body type. Not all styles of traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses are flattering on all body types. When choosing a dress, it is important to consider your body type and choose a dress that will accentuate your best features.

Tip 4: Set a budget. Traditional Hawaiian wedding dresses can be expensive, so it is important to set a budget before you start your search. This will help you to narrow down your choices and find a dress that you can afford.

By following these tips, you can find the perfect traditional Hawaiian wedding dress for your big day.

Once you have found the perfect dress, it is important to take good care of it. Be sure to dry clean the dress after each use and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Conclusion

A traditional Hawaiian wedding dress is a beautiful and unique garment that is steeped in tradition. The dress is typically made from a lightweight fabric, such as silk, cotton, or linen, and is often adorned with lace and other intricate details. The dress is usually long and flowing, with a train or bustle. The bride may also choose to wear a veil or headpiece, as well as a bouquet of flowers.

The traditional Hawaiian wedding dress is a symbol of the bride's purity and innocence. It is also a symbol of her commitment to her husband and her desire to start their new life together with a clean slate. The dress is a beautiful and meaningful part of a traditional Hawaiian wedding ceremony.

If you are planning a traditional Hawaiian wedding, be sure to choose a dress that is both beautiful and meaningful to you. Your dress should reflect your personal style and your commitment to your Hawaiian heritage.