Looks like what’s old is new again in the bridal world as brides seek out gowns that aren’t white. White wedding dresses became the norm after Queen Victoria wore hers in 1840. Prior to the shift, brides stuck to opulent colorful gowns in rich, sumptuous fabrics to symbolize their wealth.

Brides with some fashion derring-do are choosing gowns in colors that can work back to their wedding themes, seasons and even their heritage. That may mean they’ll choose pastels in shades of pink or ice blue that can also coordinate with spring weddings. The winter holidays give her license to go for something bolder such as gowns in metallic hues or even gemstone shades. Gold and shades of orange are ideal options for fall ceremonies. Culture can also dictate a color. In Indian weddings, brides often stick to bolder options such as red since white is a symbol of mourning.

For brides who don’t want to take the total color plunge, there’s always room to accessorize in color. Contrasting sashes have been the hottest trend in the last couple of years. Designers are playing up the use of black sashes for fall 2010, such as Cymbeline and Vera Wang who dolls up her frothy gowns with black ribbon sashes. And, blue is another popular color among brides as a wardrobe accent, serving the dual purpose of fulfilling the wedding tradition of wearing “something blue.”