To quote Frank Sinatra, “Orange is the happiest colour”, so it’s no surprise it’s making an appearance in 2023 weddings. Here are some ideas of how to embrace the trend and incorporate this year’s favourite colour into your wedding…
This year it’s all about orange. From terracotta to copper, we’ll be seeing all shades of the warm colour featuring in weddings, according to to Pinterest Predicts.
A bold, burnt sienna might not be the first shade you think of when you visualise your wedding, but there are lots of ways to incorporate the rich colour into your w-day, from subtle touches to bold statements.
Hitched wedding expert Zoe Burke revealed the reason behind the rise in popularity: “As the colour is associated with optimism and creativity, it’s no surprise couples are choosing a colour with such sentimental significance to their big days.
“Orange is such a versatile colour, running right from peppy and citrus shades, through to rusty metallics like copper and gold, couples shouldn’t worry about their weddings looking too novelty, as little touches in various shades can give a real luxe feel.”
From bridesmaids dresses to flowers, as well as décor and drinks, here are some ideas for working the colour of the year into your wedding, with advice from luxury jewellers Austen & Blake.
Orange Bridesmaids’ Dresses
While you can have subtle hints of orange included in your bridesmaids’ look – adding to their bouquet or jewellery – you can also fully embrace the rich hue and choose orange bridesmaid dresses.
Zoe from Hitched says: “We’re seeing lots of interest in burnt oranges and terracotta shades for bridesmaids dresses, which can look super chic and are perfect for a golden summer wedding.”
Darker shades like rust can look really classy, especially in satin and velvet fabrics, with Autsen and Blake adding: “Incorporating the colour rust into bridesmaid dresses can add a warm and sophisticated touch to your wedding palette.”
The Groom and Groomsmen
Whether the groom and groomsmen opt for a kilt or suit, you can add warm tones to their outfits to match the bridesmaids or add a nice contrast to the bride! Fully embrace the colour palette with a tartan that includes orange, or choose a deep orange shade for the suit.
For a more subtle nod, choose an orange pocket square, button hole, or tie.
Bright Orange Wedding Flowers
If your bridal outfit is mostly white, bright orange flowers will really make your bouquet pop! They also work well with shades of pink, yellow and green so you can create a bespoke bouquet that ties in all the colours from your big day.
“Consider adding some complementary colours to the arrangement like ivory or blush pink flowers for a more romantic and delicate look,” Austen & Blake say.
“If you are a fan of the more rustic feel, pair your rustic blooms with earthy greens and creams for a natural look and to reflect nature’s colour palette cohesively.”
You can also use flowers as part of your décor to help incorporate your colour scheme into the venue. A splash of colour works well along the aisle, hanging from the ceiling or as centre pieces.
Whether you’re working with summer or autumn blooms, there are lots of shades to choose from. Austen & Blake suggest: “Rust-coloured blooms, such as ranunculus, dahlias, and chrysanthemums can add a pop of warmth and depth to your floral arrangements.”
While Zoe says you can “choose a citrusy flower like the Bird of Paradise or Ranunculus for something really punchy!”
Terracotta Table Décor
Add a hint of colour to your tables with terracotta-toned napkins or fully embrace the theme with burnt sienna tablecloths. This colour works especially well on wooden tables or in a wood-panelled room or barn.
You can add some lighter shades with peach-toned floral centrepieces, or little pops of colour in the candles, crockery or chair sashes.
Invitations and Signage
If you’re going for a fully orange theme, you’ll need to add a splash of the colour on your invitations! Why not incorporate it into all of your wedding stationery, like place settings and signage around the venue?
Peachy Bridal Make-up
Get a sunkissed, summery look on your wedding day with a glowy bronzer, peachy blush and orange-toned lip. Add some colour to your eyes with a fun pop of orange or a glamorous copper smokey eye to tie into your wedding colour palette.
Bridal Hairstyle
Add some decoration to your hair with orange flowers to match your bouquet or bronze accessories to add some warm sparkle to your hairstyle.
Flower crowns and ribbons add a soft boho vibe to your bridal hair and are perfect for an outdoor ceremony.
Wedding Cake Designs
Add a splash of rich colour to your wedding cake, whether it’s with orange-ombre icing or fresh, bright flowers to decorate your cake.
Bridal Jewellery
Jewellery is a great opportunity to add a touch of colour to your bridal look, especially if you’re going for a more simple gown. Pair some dangly earrings with an updo to make a statement and add some colour around your face.
Austen & Blake are all for orange-toned jewellery, saying: “Incorporating rust-coloured jewellery into your bridal style is a perfect way to add warmth and depth to your look.
“Opt for luxurious gemstones like garnet, amber, or rose gold, whether you choose earrings, a necklace, or other jewellery pieces.”
Wedding Shoes
Short wedding dresses are very in for 2023 weddings, which offers the perfect opportunity to show off your shoes!
You may as well get a pair you’ll use again, and white shoes are a nightmare to keep clean, so don’t be afraid to reach for some colourful footwear.
Drinks Menu
There’s no shortage of orange cocktails and other alcoholic drinks, from a mimosa while you’re getting ready, to a wee dram of whisky to end the night.
When it comes to your drinks menu, there are many tipples that will perfectly fit your theme and look great in photos, from classic cocktails and mocktails to your own creations.
“When it comes to the bar, you can’t go past a classic Aperol Spritz or Negroni for your nod to trendy orange bevvies!”, Zoe says.
Bronze Venue Décor
As well as having orange pops of colour from your flowers and table decor, there are other bits of decoration you can add to bring your venue to life.
Bronze and rose gold tones add some shine to the room, and you can go as big or as small as you like when placing this colour around the venue. These shades really complement wooden furniture and low lighting from candles or fairy lights, so it’s perfect for a rustic wedding.
Warm Lighting
Set the ambiance of your reception by considering the lighting. Austen & Blake advise: “Warm lighting can enhance the richness of the colours and create a cosy, intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for an intimate wedding reception.
“Candles or string lights are the perfect choice, adding a touch of warmth and romance to the ambience. You can use them to create a soft glow around the room or to highlight specific areas you want to accentuate.”
Get inspired on Pinterest
We’re loving this colour so much, we’ve made our own Pinterest board with some of our favourite pieces. Follow us on Pinterest and get inspired to incorporate orange into your wedding day.
