A wedding dress is more than a piece of fashion; it’s a symbol of personal expression and cultural traditions. The bridal gown is a focal point of the wedding ceremony and is often decorated with symbolic elements to represent the bride’s love story and the future she hopes for with her partner.
A variety of materials are used to construct bridal gowns, each offering its own unique style and feel. Silk and satin are among the most sought-after fabrics for bridal gowns, but there are many other options to consider as well. Some fabrics are heavier and more formal, while others cling to the body for a sleeker look. When choosing a fabric, it’s important to consider how the gown will fit in its specific silhouette and the season when you plan to get married as certain fabrics are best suited for particular weather conditions.
As society becomes more accepting and diverse, so too has the way in which we celebrate love. From same-sex marriages to civil partnerships, weddings are now an opportunity for couples to create their own ceremonies that reflect their individual personalities. While there are still some traditions that hold strong, the wedding gown continues to evolve to embody modern style.
The Wedding Dress
When it comes to selecting a wedding gown, most brides start by looking at the silhouette of the dress. Silhouettes include A-line, sheath, mermaid, and ball gown. A-line and sheath wedding dresses are fitted and sleek, while mermaid and ball gowns are more pronounced in their structure. A-line and mermaid dresses are similar in that they both hug the body in the waistline before flaring out into an A shape from the waist to the hemline.
Once you’ve narrowed down the silhouette of your dress, you can begin to choose details and features that complement your figure. For example, a V-neck is a classic neckline that flatters the collarbone and showcases the décolletage. A high-low hemline is another feature that’s becoming increasingly popular as it shows off the legs for a more sexy look. Strapless gowns are also a classic option that allow you to show off your shoulders and neckline.
The length of the dress is also a major factor to consider. Longer trains are more formal and create a dramatic appearance as you walk down the aisle. Court trains are shorter and more casual, while detachable trains can be attached to the gown to create a versatile look after the ceremony.
A wedding gown is typically completed with a veil and accessories that suit the overall ambiance of your wedding. A bridal crown or tiara is a traditional wedding accessory that signifies the queen-like stature of the bride, while a bouquet and boutonniere add to the romantic feel of the ceremony.
A white-tie wedding dress code is the most formal attire for a wedding. This type of dress requires a floor-length, white gown with long sleeves or sleeves and an open back. The bride typically wears a veil, and the groom wears a black bow tie, a white shirt, vest, jacket, a pair of long white gloves, and a boutonniere.