Bräute

Bräute is the plural form of Braut, the German word for a woman who is about to be married or has recently become married. The term is used in German-speaking countries to refer to brides collectively or to women designated as brides within a wedding group. The male counterpart is Bräutigam, and together they form das Brautpaar.

In bridal traditions, a central element is the bridal gown, often a white or light-colored dress in Western contexts, though colors and styles vary by region and personal choice. Historically, white wedding attire gained prominence in the 19th century after Queen Victoria popularized a white gown. Other common elements include the bridal veil, bouquet, and sometimes a sash or train; bridesmaids, often wearing coordinated dresses, accompany the bride as part of the bridal party.

Cultural variations are wide: Western-style weddings commonly center on a ceremony with vows and a ring exchange, while in many cultures brides wear traditional garments or red dresses, and ceremonies may include dowry or bride-price rituals. The concept of the bride intersects with legal recognition of marriage and with personal or cultural heritage.

In modern contexts, brides may customize dress, makeup, and rituals to reflect individual preferences. The term Bräute is used mainly in formal or descriptive contexts, while Braut and Bräutigam remain standard in everyday German-language discourse.