Something Borrowed, Something...Rust? Millennials and Gen X Say Goodbye to ‘Something Blue’

Wedding season is quickly approaching, and we all know the drill. Something old, something new, something borrowed and something...blue? Not quite, at least this year. In 2023, Millennials and Gen X are bucking tradition in favor of burnt orange hues. Yep. The burnt orange wedding theme is here and taking us right back to the ‘70s, with terracotta bridesmaid dresses and orange wedding centerpieces.

Rust tones are making appearances in every facet of the wedding-planning process, from the invitations and florals to cakes, tablescapes and dresses. Per Pinterest Predicts, the color will come in shades like copper and burnt sienna, with top trending search terms including “burnt orange wedding theme,” “terracotta wedding bridesmaid dresses” and “orange wedding centerpieces.”  

“Orange is associated with optimism, adventure and creativity. As people plan for sentimental moments in their lives—like weddings—it’s no surprise they’re bringing a color with such sentimental significance into the spotlight,” the site says.  

Sure, some may completely buck the traditional white gown (which wasn’t traditional until Queen Victoria’s marriage to Prince Albert), but if you don’t want to commit, there are still plenty of ways to weave burnt orange into your wedding day fashion. For instance, Pinterest reports that there has been a surge in queries for terracotta bridesmaids' dresses. Other ways to incorporate it into the ‘fits? Shoes, ties and even men’s suits litter Pinterest result pages. 

Shop the look: Loeffler Randall Platform Sandal ($450); Lulus Rust Orange Maxi Dress ($69); Eton Silk Tie ($165) 

Of course, another huge element of a wedding day is the blooms, and they were no exception when it came to this color trend. From opulent floral arches to runners, bouquets and boutonnieres, pops of rust orange abound in the form of dahlias, peonies, roses, anemones and dried flowers—just to name a few.  

Shop the look: Rust and Dusty Blue Bouquet ($95); Dark Orange Boutonniere ($10); Faux Burnt Orange Cake Topper ($28)

Burnt-orange napkins? Check. Terracotta table runner? Check. The perfect cantaloupe-colored wedding invite? Check, check. The devil’s in the details when it comes to incorporating these fiery, warm shades into the your wedding décor color palette.  

Shop the look: Rust Orange Cotton Napkins (from $46); Terra Cotta Wedding Invitation (from $34); Rust Rose Candles ($16) 

What can we say? Good (boho) vibes only.