Inspiration: Purple Reign

You probably already know that purple has long been used to denote royalty, but just for fun, here's a brief lesson in costume history. Tyrian purple, used by the Romans to dye and denote royal togas, was a pigment collected from tiny snails found in the Mediterranean and was considered a great luxury. Luxury indeed; purple does always seems to communicate an air of just that. It is a bold color choice and makes a regal statement any time of year. I happen to think that this sort of a look would be most appropriate for a winter wedding, and when paired with gold it becomes even more luxurious, bordering on opulent. Something about the combination feels incredibly rich and warm. But while it appears rather ornate don't let this look fool you- there's plenty of room to incorporate DIYs and save some major money. Because both colors make such a big impact, you can make a statement with just a few well chosen pieces. And to accent your tables with leaves painted gold in lieu of vases teeming with flowers, aside from being incredibly striking, would certainly save you a bundle, especially in the colder months when a lot of the flowers you might be coveting are not to be had locally. Which is money that, you know, you can use to spend on other little luxuries. Perhaps by treating yourself and your partner to some pre-wedding pampering or by spoiling your guests with a few well-chosen details that will make them feel like royalty. Forget playing princess in pastels at your wedding... long live the queen!

clockwise from top left: Golden Branches with Seating Cards by Martha Stewart Weddings; Northern Lights Dress by Njur Designs on Etsy; Victoria Star Bright Hair Comb by KD Design Studio on Etsy; Gothic Lolita Cameo Ring by Ghostlove Jewelry on Etsy; Purple Bouquet by Martha Stewart Weddings; Priscilla of Boston wedding gown; Purple Fabric and Feather Bouquet by Jillians on Etsy; Golden Branch Centerpiece by Martha Stewart Weddings; Candle Arrangement from Elizabeth Anne Designs; Purple Letterpress Invitations by East Six

ORIGINALLY POSTED AT BEANTOWN BRIDE ON JANUARY 29, 2010