Traditionally meant to help the bride-to-be prepare for her wedding, bridal showers have gone through some major changes over the years. From loosened rules around who can attend to more upscale events, these gatherings are an opportunity for the maid of honor or close friends and family to throw a memorable—and Instagram-worthy—party.
What is Bridal?
A bridal gown, or wedding dress, is a special white garment worn by a bride on her big day. It’s a timeless symbol of purity, love, and marriage—and it doesn’t have to break the bank. The right dress can make the to-be-wed feel both confident and utterly beautiful.
In the United States, there are countless bridal designers who specialize in creating wedding dresses for women of all shapes and sizes. From high-fashion brands with celebrity clientele to bespoke designers that offer customizable options, there’s something for every type of bride-to-be.
The bridal industry is booming, and it’s more important than ever to find a designer who understands your unique shape, personality, and aesthetic. This is especially true if you’re planning a destination wedding, as many bridal boutiques specialize in designing dresses to accommodate a variety of weather conditions.
One of the best ways to narrow down your search is by heading to a bridal shop that offers in-house alterations. Not only will this help streamline the process, but it will also ensure that your dress fits perfectly on your big day. Additionally, it’s a good idea to buy your dress at least six to eight weeks in advance of your wedding. This will allow you to work with a seamstress on minor alterations (such as trimming the train or adding a bustle) and prevent any unexpected surprises.
If you’re looking for a high-fashion, couture wedding dress, consider Vera Wang. Known for her sleek, figure-flattering designs and endless celeb clientele (including everyone from Victoria Beckham to Ariana Grande), this renowned designer combines modern trends with timeless elegance. She’s also a master at creating bridal accessories and has multiple collaborations with iconic fashion houses like Ralph Lauren and Vogue.
For the more laidback bride, a bridal look that reflects her relaxed California lifestyle might be the way to go. The line from Wear Your Love blends bohemian lace and sustainable materials for a look that’s as eco-friendly as it is gorgeous.
Before heading to the bridal salon, take some time to do some couch research — browse wedding websites and bridal collections, and start saving styles you like on Pinterest or Instagram. This will help you get a clear picture of what you’re after, and it’ll also help you determine your budget before venturing out to try on dresses. When you do head to the bridal shop, be sure to bring a trusted friend or relative with you for honest opinions and support. And remember that the dress size you think you’re in may not be the same as your actual wedding dress size, so it’s best to choose a slightly larger style and have it altered down.