Vera Wang Reimagines the Bridal Gown in Black — and Makes It Unforgettable

American fashion designer Vera Wang’s Fall 2012 bridal collection, released in October 2011, marked one of her boldest creative turns.

More than a decade after her trailblazing black bridal collection, Vera Wang continues to favor the drama and sophistication of black.

At the 2022 CFDA Fashion Awards in New York City, she wore a custom Vera Wang Haute creation — a sculptural black ensemble styled with sleek braids, oversized sunglasses, and platform heels.

Her glam team included makeup artist Marla Belt, hairstylist Jon DeFranc, nail artist Gina Edwards, and eyewear from the Vera Wang x Kenmark Eyewear collaboration.

Vera Wang exuded avant-garde edge at the CFDA Fashion Awards in New York City on November 8, 2022, wearing an architectural black ensemble with thigh-high stockings and platform heels — a modern reflection of her fearless approach to design (Credit: Charles Guerin / ABACA / INSTARimages / Cover Images)

The collection was noteworthy for featuring bridal gowns entirely in black, accented with hints of nude — a daring departure from the traditional palette of white, cream, and ivory.

Critics described the line as both “haunting” and “goth,” yet undeniably “refreshing” for its fearless break from convention.

In essence, it was Wang’s statement to modern brides: embrace individuality and consider the allure of a non-traditional black wedding dress.

It’s worth noting that Wang’s dramatic black gowns are long, layered, and deliberately sculptural — their sweeping hems often conceal the heels beneath, adding to the sense of mystery and allure.

That detail is especially fitting, considering that Vera Wang is not only a bridal and ready-to-wear visionary but also a footwear designer in her own right.

Her namesake collections have included elegant heels and evening shoes crafted to complement her couture gowns, while her Simply Vera Vera Wang line at Kohl’s and the former Vera Wang Lavender Label have made her signature aesthetic accessible through a range of boots, pumps, flats, and bridal-ready heels.

So even if the shoes are hidden beneath layers of tulle and organza, Wang’s influence extends from head to toe — and yes, we’ll revisit the importance of the right pair of bridal shoes in our final section.

The complete line is a little haunting to look at, maybe even a little goth, but it is also very refreshing to see bridal gowns not painted in stark white, cream, or ivory.

Vera Wang’s black bridal gowns for fall

I wouldn’t mind wearing one of these dramatic black gowns myself—they’re deconstructed, elegant, and unmistakably Vera Wang.

Would you dare to wear black on your wedding day? For brides ready to break tradition, Wang’s collection proves that individuality can be just as timeless as white satin.

Bridal Shoe & Style Guides on Your Next Shoes

Vera Wang’s black bridal gowns redefined what a wedding dress could look like—bold, emotional, and unapologetically personal. But no bridal look is complete without the right pair of shoes. Whether you’re drawn to Wang’s avant-garde drama or prefer classic lace and satin, the perfect heels (or flats) can transform your entire silhouette.

From designer wedding shoes to comfort-first bridal picks, Your Next Shoes covers every style journey a bride could take. Explore our most-loved wedding and bridal fashion features below: