The "Cool Girl" Wedding: A New Wave in Modern Nuptials
Written by: Gracie Gillis
Recently, the wedding industry has seen a shift from traditional and formal affairs to something a little more effortless, inclusive, and cool. Enter the “cool girl” wedding - the latest trend that’s been steadily gaining momentum and redefining what it means to have a stylish, memorable wedding day. What exactly does a “cool girl” wedding look like, and how can you achieve this laid-back yet undeniably chic vibe? Let’s dive in!
What is the "Cool Girl" Wedding?
The “cool girl” wedding prioritizes effortless elegance and personalized touches and moves away from traditional wedding norms towards a chic, modern, and individual style. This trend is for the bride who doesn’t necessarily want to wear the most elaborate gown or follow every traditional rule. Instead, it’s a celebration of individuality, modern style, and the idea that a wedding can be both beautiful and authentic without feeling overly curated.
1. The Dress: Effortlessly Stylish
Gone are the days of stiff, overly-structured bridal gowns that require excessive tailoring and have little room for comfort. The “cool girl” bride might choose something unconventional, like a sleek jumpsuit, a vintage-inspired mini dress, or a simple, flowy gown that’s chic and comfortable. Think off-the-shoulder silhouettes, silk fabric, or something with a hint of edge - maybe with a plunging neckline or a surprise back detail.
The overall vibe is easygoing yet sophisticated. It’s not about impressing others with grandeur but about feeling amazing in your own skin, radiating confidence and style.
2. The Venue: Unconventional Locations
Why settle for a formal ballroom or church when you can get married in an unexpected setting? “Cool girl” weddings often take place in venues that don’t scream “wedding.” From trendy rooftop spaces to rustic warehouses, art galleries, or even a cozy backyard, the venue should reflect the bride’s unique style and personal taste.
Nature also plays a huge role - think forest settings or mountain landscapes where the scenery serves as an effortlessly stunning backdrop. The idea is to choose a space that enhances the intimate, personal feeling of the event.
3. The Aesthetic: Chic, Minimal, and Personal
A “cool girl” wedding isn’t about following the latest Pinterest trends. It’s about creating an atmosphere that feels uniquely you. Think minimalistic but with a personal twist - neutral colors like whites, blushes, and nudes, with pops of bold, contrasting hues. Another common feature to incorporate is natural elements like greenery or wildflower bouquets to set the tone.
Personal touches are key in these weddings. This might include custom signage or unique decor items that reflect the couple’s personalities. Maybe it’s a collection of vintage vinyl records playing during cocktail hour or a curated list of favorite foods and drinks on the menu.
4. The Vibe: Laid-Back but Memorable
A “cool girl” wedding is all about feeling at ease and enjoying the day without the usual stress and perfectionism associated with more traditional events. The ceremony is short, sweet, and meaningful, while the reception feels like a celebration partying with friends and family.
Brides opting for this style often choose to skip the traditional “first dance” or go for a fun, crowd-pleasing track instead of a slow ballad. It’s not about following a script but letting things unfold naturally.
5. The Ceremony: Breaking Tradition
A “cool girl” wedding often includes a departure from traditional wedding rituals, starting with how the ceremony is conducted. One popular shift we’ve seen is having the bride and groom face their guests during the ceremony, rather than the traditional setup where the bride faces the officiant. This creates a more inclusive and intimate atmosphere, allowing the couple to engage with their loved ones throughout the ceremony.
Whether it’s a circle of friends and family gathered around or a relaxed, informal setting with the couple standing side-by-side, this shift in how the ceremony unfolds reflects the laid-back, authentic vibe of the “cool girl” wedding. It’s less about performing for tradition and more about creating a meaningful, connected experience.
How to Achieve the "Cool Girl" Wedding Vibe
The most important thing is to stay true to who you are as a couple. Whether it’s ditching traditional customs or creating a celebration that reflects your shared passions and personalities, the key is to make sure everything feels authentic to you. The “cool girl” wedding is all about fun. The goal is for everyone, especially the bride and groom, to enjoy the celebration without stress or overthinking. Play the music you love, eat the food you adore, and most importantly, celebrate the love you share in a way that feels true to you. After all, your wedding day is yours—make it as unforgettable as you are!
Photos from @karabrookephoto