When Black is the New White: A Gothic Bridal Love Story

When most people think of bridal fashion, they envision soft whites, delicate pastels, and romantic lace. But what if your wedding aesthetic leans toward the dramatic, the mysterious, and the boldly unconventional? Our latest photoshoot at Plant Gather proves that dark elegance has a powerful place in the bridal world.

A Vision in Black

For this moody editorial, we reimagined bridal beauty through a gothic lens. The star of the shoot was a stunning black redesigned gown that perfectly balanced drama with sophistication. The dress featured intricate lace details that caught the light beautifully against the dark fabric, creating depth and texture in every frame.
The open back design added an element of allure and modern sensibility, while the lace train brought traditional bridal elegance with an edgy twist. This gown proves that you don't need to sacrifice romance or femininity when you choose to walk down the aisle in black.
   



Custom Veils That Command Attention

No bridal look is complete without the perfect veil, and for this shoot, we created custom black veils adorned with delicate lace details. These pieces added an ethereal quality to the overall aesthetic while maintaining the dark, elegant vibe we were after.
The veils featured dramatic black feather accents that created striking silhouettes and added movement to each shot. They're perfect for the bride who wants to make a statement and isn't afraid to break from tradition.    
 

A Showstopping Hair Piece

To further enhance the gothic bridal aesthetic, we designed a custom hairpiece made of lace and feathers that turned into a true work of art. This dramatic accessory featured a stunning combination of black lace, luxurious feathers, and architectural elements, creating height and movement.

The hairpiece complemented the gown's lace detailing perfectly, while adding an extra layer of drama and sophistication. It demonstrates that bridal accessories don't have to be subtle; they can be bold, artistic, and truly unforgettable. For brides seeking a unique look, custom hairpieces like this one offer an excellent opportunity to showcase their personality and style in a way that traditional veils simply can't match.


The Perfect Setting

Plant Gather provided the ideal backdrop for this editorial. The lush greenery and industrial elements of the venue created a beautiful contrast against the dark bridal styling. The combination of natural botanical elements with the gothic aesthetic resulted in images that feel both organic and otherworldly.


The Dream Team

This shoot wouldn't have been possible without an incredible team of talented vendors:
Planning by Sage and Rose Co Weddings brought this entire vision together with flawless coordination and creative direction.
Model Katelyn Girouard embodied the gothic bride aesthetic perfectly, bringing grace and drama to every shot.
Hair by The Hair Den Kelowna created romantic, textured updos adorned with feather accessories that complemented the dramatic styling perfectly.
Makeup by Top Notch Art of Makeup delivered a flawless look with deep, moody tones and perfectly executed smoky eyes that enhanced the gothic theme.
Baked by Cindy (because even dark brides need something sweet!)
Photography by Memorable and Vibrant Okanagan Photography captured every detail with artistry and skill, bringing our vision to life through their lens.


Who Is This Look For?

This editorial is for the bride who:
  • Loves drama and isn't afraid to stand out
  • Appreciates vintage aesthetics with a modern edge
  • Wants to honor tradition while making it her own
  • Sees her wedding as an opportunity for artistic expression
  • Believes that "bridal" doesn't have to mean "conventional"

Custom Upcycled Gowns: Your Story, Your Way

At Xoxo Couture Bridal, we specialize in transforming vintage and thrifted gowns into custom pieces that reflect your unique style. Whether you're drawn to gothic elegance, bohemian romance, or classic sophistication, we can create a one-of-a-kind gown that tells your story.
Our redesign process allows you to have a truly custom bridal experience while embracing sustainable fashion practices. Each gown is thoughtfully reimagined with modern techniques and high-quality materials, resulting in a piece that's both environmentally conscious and absolutely stunning.

Ready to Embrace Your Dark Side?

If this editorial speaks to your bridal vision, we'd love to help bring your dream gown to life. Our custom upcycling projects typically require 3–6 months from initial consultation to final fitting, so reach out early to secure your spot.
Whether you're planning a gothic wedding, a Halloween celebration, or simply want to break from tradition, Xoxo Couture Bridal is here to create something extraordinary for your special day.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation, and let's create something beautifully unconventional together.

Xoxo Couture Bridal specializes in custom bridal design, alterations, and upcycled gown transformations in the Okanagan region of British Columbia. We believe every bride deserves a gown as unique as her love story.

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