Musician Charli XCX married her boyfriend, George Daniel, the drummer of The 1975, on July 15, 2023, in a ceremony that defied traditional bridal norms. The couple chose to tie the knot at a town hall in east London, where Charli showcased her signature style, opting for a modern twist on bridal fashion.
Charli’s ensemble featured an ivory mini dress designed by Vivienne Westwood, a choice that reflects both her personal aesthetic and the evolving landscape of wedding attire. To accompany the dress, she wore her iconic blackout bugeye sunglasses, a staple in her public appearances, from performances at events like the Glastonbury Festival to casual outings with friends. Her look was completed with a pair of Jimmy Choo Amita 95 court heels, while she kept accessories minimal, opting for only her engagement ring and small hoop earrings. Her long black hair flowed freely, adorned with a mid-length veil, creating a look that was both unfussy and distinctly her own.
The couple’s low-key celebration quickly garnered attention online, with images circulating widely on social media platforms. One notable post on X captured the newlyweds enjoying orange wine outside the popular neighbourhood restaurant Dalla, with the vibrant backdrop of parked Lime Bikes enhancing the casual atmosphere. A user on X celebrated the pair’s non-traditional approach, stating, “Just married, cig & drink in hand, sat in front of lime bikes. The king and queen of east London. Everything is romantic,” a sentiment that resonated with over 49,000 likes.
Charli’s choice of attire challenges the conventional bridal image often seen in Western culture, where the demure, princess-like gown remains prevalent. In recent years, many celebrities have drawn on classic Hollywood aesthetics for their wedding day looks, often adhering to more traditional styles. For instance, in 2019, Zoë Kravitz opted for an Audrey Hepburn-inspired wedding gown, while Paris Hilton paid homage to Grace Kelly in her 2021 nuptials. In contrast, Charli’s decision to stay true to her individual style marks a significant departure from these trends.
The influence of Vivienne Westwood in bridal fashion has become increasingly prominent, with many fashion-forward brides embracing her designs. Notable figures such as Demi Lovato, Barbara Palvin, and Miley Cyrus have all made Westwood their choice for special occasions. Even the fictional character Carrie Bradshaw from “Sex and the City” famously donned a Westwood gown for her wedding. Charli’s interpretation stands out as a celebration of self-expression rather than conformity, emphasizing the designer’s punk origins.
Andreas Kronthaler, Westwood’s creative director, commented on the allure of the designer’s work, stating, “People are drawn to Vivienne Westwood because she stands for something. She stands for women, and for strength, power and courage.” He further elaborated, “The Vivienne Westwood bride is a heroine,” underscoring the empowering message behind Charli’s unconventional bridal look.
As the wedding landscape continues to evolve, Charli XCX’s bold choice serves as a reminder that personal style can take precedence over tradition, resonating with many who appreciate authenticity in a world where conformity often reigns.
