Finding your dream wedding dress can be a daunting, but ultimately exhilarating, journey. From price points and silhouettes to fabric, lace, and embellishments, there are many factors to consider when choosing the perfect dress for your big day. The ultimate bridal fashion guide can help you navigate this complex, but ultimately rewarding process.
To get started, it’s helpful to break down the different silhouettes that are available. While there are no right or wrong options, each silhouette has its own aesthetic that can complement various body types and wedding themes. The following are some of the most common wedding gown silhouettes to choose from:
A-Line: Fitted through the bodice and slightly flares www.thedevinestyle.com/the-radiant-romance-of-halo-engagement-rings-in-downtown-calgary out from the waist, this classic wedding gown is ideal for almost all body types. It’s also more modest than a ball gown and is often paired with a veil.
Mermaid: Similar to an A-line but with a more dramatic hemline, this dress is fitted through the chest and hips and then flares out around the knee for a flattering effect. It’s a great option for brides who want to show off their legs and is especially suitable for pear-shaped women.
Ball Gown: This princess-like style is a showstopper with a full skirt that is the height of femininity. The fitted bodice gives a sleek look to the figure while the volume of the skirt makes it flattering for most body shapes.
Trumpet/Fit-and-Flare: Fitted through the bodice and flaring out mid-thigh, this silhouette is a blend of an a-line and a mermaid cut and is most appropriate for petite frames. Its feminine, yet streamlined shape can be accentuated by adding delicate embellishments like lace or embroidery.
If you’re not a fan of the voluminous, long-train look, you can still achieve a dramatic bridal silhouette by adding an overskirt to your dress for formal photos. Several designers including Enaura and Monique Lhuillier this season offered this elegant solution, which allows brides to take their tulle dresses from ceremony to cocktail without changing attire.
Another option is to skip the long train altogether, as it can quickly eat up valuable real estate on a photoshoot and may not work well for outdoor venues with windy conditions. Many brides prefer the subtle elegance of a short train that still projects a regal air.
One last consideration is to consider whether or not you’d like to shop with an ethical or sustainable label. Though eco fashion used to have a reputation of being boring or itchy, there are now many bridal brands that prioritize environmentally-friendly thinking and practices without compromising on style.
Once you’ve found your dream dress, don’t forget to stock up on the other wedding accessories necessary for a complete bridal look. You’ll need shoes, a veil or hair accessories, jewelry, perfume, and possibly a cover-up to wear over your gown while getting ready for the big day. A gorgeous bridal bag and robe can also be an excellent addition for your special night.