Texas Tech University

Not the Bride: Wedding Party Garments

June 1-August 26, 2018

Bridesmaid Dress Ensemble – Orange Crepe Tunic, Culottes, Belt

It's not always about the bride.

Contrary to typical wedding exhibitions that focus on the bride's dress, Not the Bride: Wedding Party Garments showcases the garments worn by bridesmaids, grooms and mothers of the bride.  

Popular lore says that everyone should dress so that they don't upstage the bride. There is even a rumor that brides select bridesmaids' gowns that are not flattering so that the attendants do not outshine the bride on her big day.  

Men’s 3-piece Wedding Suit with Swallowtail Coat

Not the Bride: Wedding Party Garments showcases six bridesmaid's outfits, seven mother of the bride ensembles, two 19th century groom's suits and maybe a wedding gown or two. Come and see if these fashions would out shine the bride.

Mother of the Bride Dress of Pale Rose Lace

Items in Not the Bride: Wedding Party Garments are drawn from the extensive clothing and textiles collection of the Museum of Texas Tech University.