Choosing your wedding dress is such an exciting experience. One of those 'once in a lifetime' memories. And while the engagement ring is still super sparkly, trying on wedding gowns is pretty much next on the top of the wish list.
So what should you look for? There are so many different influences from fashion trends, Pinterest, friends, bridal websites, parents, Instagram.. we could go on! It can make your head spin a little so lets break it down with some pointers to help you when you find THE dress.
Body Shape
We are all different shapes and sizes, with different skin tone and hair colour and of course, different personal taste but there is, a without doubt, the most perfect dress out there for each one of us.
Looking at dresses that enhance your body shape is vital to finding that perfect dress. The one that sits exactly right and makes you feel like a princess. This diagram from Caroline Bailey and is really useful as a starter for dress shapes. It's not compulsory to stick to the rules (it's your wedding after all) but it's a guide of where to begin.
Right Place, Right Dress
This will sound a little crazy, but it's a good idea to take into account the venue you have chosen. Is it a grand castle, a country barn, a beach? Is the venue formal, very relaxed or somewhere in between? The venue plays a part in your dress choice too. We have all been to a party where we completely got the dress code wrong. Remember that feeling!? We've all been there!
So just bear in mind the type of venue to make sure you feel relaxed in your dress while you are there. You want to feel wonderful all day long and although you can wear whatever dress you choose just bear in mind the surroundings of the venue. A huge layered organza gown, fully beaded with long train may be a little at odds with an outdoor festival themed wedding. A bit like wearing stilettos to a beach wedding!
Stay True To You
Before you begin your search for the perfect dress or succumb to the influences around you, take a moment to think about your own style. In your day to day life are you extrovert or introvert? Plain or frilly? Neutral or colourful? These will be key to help with your choice to make sure you look like 'you' in your wedding dress.
That's not to say you can't be daring or push all the boundaries but it's to make sure you can still see yourself in the mirror. And when you do see your reflection in that stunningly beautiful wedding dress, you know in your heart this is the one for you because you can just FEEL it ... that's the million dollar moment! And if you haven't felt it, the search might not be over.
Let's look at some dresses.
Left Image - This Modeca design is effortlessly chic and hopelessly feminine with volumes of fabric and distinct prints and patterns from florals to butterflies. The ultimate princess dress with plenty of drama.
Centre Image - A showstopping Pronovias mermaid shape with lace bodice. The back is pure glamour.
Right Image - This Mira Zwillinger design has a low v-neck, silk tulle gown adorned with scattered sparkling leaf appliques. The floral accents create a magical yet stunningly simple dress
Left Image - A beautiful moscato nude fit and flare wedding dress with ivory lace applique bodice. The relaxed sweetheart neckline introduces a delicate but sexy decolletage, flattering on several body shapes.
Centre Image- If sustainability is your passion there are some amazing bridal designers whose mission is to create gowns with eco-friendly fabrics and zero waste. Vintage bridal gowns are another popular option for sustainability and the styles are so varied that there is definitely something for everyone
Right Image - Ladybird create classical and stylish gowns with a hint of sexiness. This delicate neckline with lace sleeves compliments the silhouette of this mermaid shape. The fine lace overlay is gorgeous!
Where To Shop
Most of the above dresses are from bridal boutiques local to us. We recommend shopping at independent boutiques, you may even have one local to where you live. Most independent boutiques will stock a number of designers and different styles. The first step is to book an appointment to view and try the dresses. Trust the bridal consultant as they really do know their stuff and may make suggestions you hadn't considered. They can also give you all the inside tips and tricks for a perfect fit.
Lots of boutiques stock sample sale dresses and Preloved gowns which can be more cost effective. These dresses are still fabulous and wearable, and may save you hundreds (even thousands) of pounds.
You may have a few fittings of your dress in the lead up to your big day, so an easy journey can help you here too. It's a dreamy thought to fly to New York and head to the iconic Kleinfeld, but less practical in hindsight!
We Love Accessories
On your special day we suggest choosing carefully what you add to create your bridal style. There are lots of wedding accessories out there and it's getting the right balance is key. You want to compliment the gown, not overshadow it.
A bridal belts like the one pictured below by Rachel Sokhal can be a lovely addition to your gown adding a little bit of sparkle; while an elegant faux fur shrug can be the perfect accessory for a winter wedding.
Once you have chosen your dress, your wedding planner or dress consultant can help with suggestions. The wedding garter is fun but non essential part of wedding attire if your prefer not to wear one. The tradition dates back to the dark ages and in those days it was the garter that was thrown to the guests and not a bridal bouquet heralding who was to be married next!
Left Image- A stunning diamante and pearl wedding belt from Rachel Sokhal. Understated but perfectly sparkly
Centre Top Image - Beautiful Swarovski pear shaped crystal earrings to compliment your hair
Centre Bottom Image - Pretty lace garter is handmade with the soft scalloped ivory lace and pearl detail
Right Image - Faux fur wrap to keep out the winter chills
The Moral Of The Story
You will have your moment when you see yourself in the mirror for the first time. It's an amazing, emotional feeling. And remember your future spouse will have that moment too when they see you for the first time. Secret fact.. that's our number 1 favourite moment of the day! These memories last forever.
Wear what makes you feel a million dollars and enjoy every minute of the most wonderful day with all the people you love. Whether that's the image you've had in your mind of your dream dress, or the surprise dress in the shop you never thought you'd love, but gave you THE feeling.
You can find out more about our range of wedding planning services our floral design work here.