A wedding dress is a special-occasion gown worn by brides during their marriage ceremony. It is typically white, or other shades of pure white, and has historically been associated with symbolism of purity and virginity. In addition, the dress has often been imbued with cultural or traditional significance. For example, some brides may wear a veil with an embroidered pattern to honor their parents or grandparents. Others might choose a dress with lace to symbolize their mother’s love for them.
The wedding dress is also a major milestone for many women, as it marks the start of a new chapter in life. The bride is usually financially responsible for the purchase, and the dress is often a substantial financial commitment. However, brides today also frequently split the cost of a wedding dress with their partner or family.
As bridal styles have shifted from the traditional full-skirted “once-in-a-lifetime” white gown to less extravagant styles and colors, designers have experimented with using textured fabrics and adding color in various hues. In particular, blush and pastel blue dresses have been seen on the runway for several seasons, but it’s recently become more common to see brides choosing a true statement-making dress by selecting a gown that features a bold floral print.
In addition to style and design, wedding dresses can be embellished with various beads, lace, sequins, and crystals to create visual interest and highlight a woman’s beauty. Designers like Katherine Feiel use a blend of new and vintage fabric to craft each gown as a one-of-a-kind piece that is designed to complement the bride’s individuality.
Silhouettes refer to the shape and structure of a wedding dress, how it drapes, and what features it highlights or accentuates. Some silhouettes are fitted and others are flowy. Some have sleeves while others are sleeveless. The neckline is another significant part of a wedding dress, as it sits right below the face and can be adorned with a variety of shapes and details.
Sleeves can be sleeveless, cap, or off-the-shoulder, and each adds a different look to the gown. For example, cap sleeves “rest just above the shoulders, exposing a bride’s collarbones and upper arms,” explain Wong and Menosky, while off-the-shoulder sleeves rest just below the shoulder blades and offer coverage for a more whimsical or boho aesthetic.
The type of fabric a wedding dress is made from can affect its overall appearance, as some materials feel heavier and crisp while others cling to the body more closely. Lace is a classic, romantic choice that has been around for centuries and adds a soft, feminine touch to any gown. Beads and embroidered patterns can also create a bold look to any wedding dress by drawing attention to specific areas of the gown.