With 12 official languages, 9 provinces, and a country filled with love, it’s fair to say that South Africa’s diversity is pretty amazing.

Planning and celebrating weddings differ across cultures and religions in South Africa, and it is important for all locals and Internationals to be informed about the unique traditions the country has to offer.

With that being said, Wedding Etc has started an exciting and informing series that will delve into several wedding cultures and traditions in South Africa. The series will primarily focus on the cultural wedding attires of the groom, bride, and guests.

In the first series piece we will be covering the Xhosa wedding attire. Keep an eye out for our future features on others such as the Zulu, Indian and Muslim cultures.

The bride’s attire

The Xhosa ethnic group is the second-largest cultural group in South Africa and their weddings are a huge celebration. The bride, called the umakoti, is traditionally the centre of attention.

On her special day the bride wears a long skirt or dress which is called the Ijermani or isishweshwe, which symbolizes that she is no longer a girl. The skirt is like no other as it is covered in beautiful embroidery and beadwork from top to button.

This part of the outfit is then paired with a tartan blanket that wraps neatly around the bride’s shoulder. The blanket represents the protection and care that the bride-to-be will add to her new family.

The final touches include a woolen scarf around the bride’s waist, a black doek and beaded necklaces, bracelets, necklaces, and a matching handbag.

The groom’s attire

The groom’s outfit is quite a powerful statement as it is usually warrior inspired and also echo’s his bride’s attire. He wears a white wrap around his waist that has the same decorations as the bride. The groom also wears a blanket, called ingwaca, over his shoulders. To finish the look, the groom’s head and neck are showered with beads.

The bridesmaids and groomsmen attire

The family members of the newlyweds dress in similar patterns and fabrics. They are not as extravagant but they complement the couple of the day.

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When considering something old for your wedding, why not look at previous decades for some vintage inspiration? While a whole authentic vintage look is a bit much for a modern wedding, including by-gone accents is often jus the touch your wedding outfit needs to make it stand out.

We’ve pulled together our favourite vintage pieces from across the years which can easily work for a bride in the 2020s. You’ll notice we left out the 1980s, mainly because that era was a bit too much to handle.

1920s flapper veils 

This unique design has the veil sitting almost like a cap around the head. It allows for extra embellishment and frames the face beautifully.

1930s ivory silk 

If you’re not after a white wedding dress, why not consider ivory. The 1930s and 40s were all about this delicate, rich fabric. If you don’t want to go all out, silk buttons down the back or front are a beautiful touch not often seen anymore.

1950s silk pumps 

Heels these days are sky-high, but the 1950s mid-height pump is a classic. You’ll feel dainty and ladylike and not to mention way more comfortable. Often with a small pointed toe and a few embellishments, these are a great addition.

1960s veil hat 

A bit more unconventional, the pillbox hat was all the rage in the 1960s and brides would simply add a light veil to theirs for their wedding day. If you’re a lover of hats, this is a great opportunity to incorporate one without it being overwhelming.

1970s wing sleeves 

The 1970s were a hippy dream for weddings and drew inspiration from medieval dress styles. The big winged sleeves are a showstopper and can compliment a smaller silhouette. If you’re brave enough, they can add that touch of drama to your dress.

Picture/s: Pinterest