A Timeless Wedding Colour Guide: The Red Edit
Red is the colour of love, confidence, joy, and deep cultural tradition. It’s a shade that tells stories and makes statements. Whether used subtly or in full dramatic flair, red always leaves an impression — and we’re here to show you how to use it beautifully.
A Brief History of Red in Weddings
Red has a long-standing presence in wedding traditions across the globe. In Ancient Rome, brides wore red veils (flammeum) as a symbol of fertility and fidelity. In China and India, red is the quintessential colour of celebration, associated with joy, good luck, and prosperity.
Even in early European ceremonies, red was often worn by royalty and the elite — long before white gowns became the norm. It signified status, wealth, and strength. Red has always been more than a colour — it’s a message.
Curious Facts About Red
Red is the first colour babies can perceive. It stimulates the senses and attracts attention like no other.
It’s been scientifically proven to increase heart rate — perhaps one reason it's so closely linked to love and desire.
Red is often used in ceremonial attire and symbols to ward off negativity and bring protection, especially in Eastern cultures.
Red is a deeply symbolic colour across cultures:
India: Worn by brides as a symbol of purity, strength, and fertility.
China: Represents joy and good fortune. Red is seen throughout weddings — in bridal attire, décor, envelopes, and beyond.
Western cultures: Less common for bridal gowns, but widely used in floral arrangements, lips, nails, and statement décor — symbolising passion and romance.
Middle East & Africa: In some regions, red signifies vitality and prosperity, often worn during special occasions and family ceremonies.
Our Favourite Shades of Red
Red is full of character, and the right shade can completely shift the mood of your wedding palette. Here are a few of our favourites — deep, moody, and endlessly romantic:
Red Wine – Rich and velvety, this shade brings a sense of sophistication and depth.
Dark Ruby – Jewel-toned and luxurious, perfect for an elegant evening celebration.
Mahogany Jam – A warm, earthy red with a vintage feel, ideal for autumn or countryside weddings.
How We’d Use Red
Red is all about balance. Here’s how we’d incorporate it thoughtfully into a wedding:
Red Florals
Lush arrangements of red roses, ranunculus, and dahlias add depth and emotion to bouquets and centrepieces. For a more organic look, pair with blush tones and seasonal greenery.
Decor and Cake
Use red in textured velvet ribbons, candlelight, or layered tablescapes. For the cake: think fresh red florals, delicate hand-painted details, or even a red velvet sponge hidden beneath a classic white exterior.
Makeup
A red lip or subtle red-toned eye can elevate your bridal look with timeless elegance. Perfect for city weddings or winter ceremonies.
Stationery & Website
Red shines when paired with light crème or pure white—use the contrast for striking yet refined stationery. Add bold titles, red wax seals, or touches of calligraphy in a deep cherry hue.
Your wedding website? This is your space to go bright and expressive. We love highlighting romantic quotes in flowing script fonts, like we’ve done in our new Simon Collection — modern, emotional, and full of character.
Red is fearless. It’s for couples who want their wedding to feel alive — with emotion, symbolism, and beauty that lasts. Whether you choose to make red your leading colour or use it as a confident accent, it will always bring richness to your celebration.
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