The Can-Can Wedding Gown: A Bride's Dream Come True

A can-can wedding gown is a type of dress that is perfect for brides who want to dance the night away at their wedding reception. While most brides dream of a show-stopping gown, it's also important to consider comfort and ease of movement when choosing a wedding dress. A can-can wedding gown offers the best of both worlds, with its full skirt and playful undertones. This style of gown is known for its layers of tulle or netting that create a voluminous silhouette, perfect for twirling on the dance floor.

When it comes to finding a can-can wedding gown that's dance-floor ready, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, avoid fitted skirts and trains, as they can restrict your leg movements. Instead, opt for tea-length skirts, two-piece sets, A-line skirts, or skirts with side slits. These styles will give you the freedom to move and groove without feeling restricted.

Additionally, it's a good idea to choose a dress with a little extra room, especially if you plan on dancing the night away. You can always ask your seamstress to leave a bit of room in the alterations to ensure you're comfortable. So, if you're looking for a wedding dress that's both elegant and fun, a can-can style gown might be the perfect choice for you!

Comfort vs. restriction

When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, there's a lot to consider – and comfort versus restriction is a key factor. While every bride wants to look and feel amazing, it's also important to be able to move around and enjoy your big day without feeling restricted by your gown.

Comfort

For many brides, comfort is a top priority when choosing a wedding dress. After all, you'll be wearing it for several hours – and possibly doing a lot of moving around, from walking down the aisle to dancing the night away. A comfortable wedding dress should be easy to move around in and shouldn't feel too tight or restrictive. It should also be made from breathable fabrics to keep you cool and comfortable all day.

Restriction

On the other hand, some brides may feel restricted by the idea of a comfortable wedding dress, fearing that it won't be formal enough or that it won't create the right silhouette. Fitted skirts, trains, and structured bodices can create a stunning, elegant look, but they can also be restrictive when it comes to movement and comfort.

Finding a Balance

So, how can you find a balance between comfort and restriction? Here are a few tips:

• Opt for a tea-length, knee-length, or midi dress instead of a floor-length gown.
• Choose a dress with a full skirt, A-line skirt, or side slits to allow for more movement.
• Avoid fitted skirts and dresses with a lot of boning or structure.
• Consider a two-piece wedding dress or a bridal jumpsuit, which can offer more comfort and flexibility.
• If you want a fitted look, choose a dress with some stretch or give, so you don't feel too restricted.
• Ask your seamstress to leave a little extra room in the alterations to allow for more comfort and movement.
• Prioritize comfort when choosing your wedding underwear and shapewear.

Ultimately, the decision between comfort and restriction is a personal one. Some brides may feel more confident in a fitted, structured gown, while others may prefer the comfort and freedom of a more relaxed dress. It's important to consider your priorities and choose a dress that makes you feel beautiful, comfortable, and ready to enjoy your special day.

Undergarments

When it comes to choosing undergarments for your wedding day, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you choose the right undergarments for your can-can wedding gown:

Consider the Style of Your Wedding Dress:

The style of your wedding dress will play a crucial role in determining the type of undergarments you need. If you're wearing a strapless dress, for example, a traditional bra with straps won't work. In this case, you might want to consider a strapless bra or a corset. Similarly, if your dress is form-fitting, seamless underwear is a must to avoid visible panty lines.

Comfort is Key:

Comfort is just as important on your wedding day as it is any other day. Choose undergarments that make you feel confident and supported. This might include shaping garments like a bodysuit or high-waisted underwear, or you may prefer to forgo a bra or shapewear altogether. It's important to select undergarments that complement your dress but also allow you to move, breathe, and dance comfortably throughout the day.

Practicality Over Pretty:

While pretty lingerie may be tempting, prioritise practical undergarments that provide the right support and are designed specifically for your dress. This is especially important if you have a larger bust or are wearing a less structured silhouette, such as a slip dress, which may not have built-in cups or support. Save the sexy lingerie for your wedding night and honeymoon!

Choose the Right Colour:

The colour of your undergarments is crucial, especially if you're wearing a white or ivory gown. Opt for nude or skin-toned undergarments that blend in with your skin, rather than bright colours or bold patterns that may show through. If you prefer to wear white undergarments, be sure to try them on in different lighting conditions to ensure they don't show through your dress.

Seek Expert Advice:

Consider visiting a bridal undergarment specialist or your local lingerie store for advice. They can offer recommendations based on your unique dress silhouette and measurements. Bring photos and measurements of your dress to help the experts find the perfect undergarments for your needs.

Test Your Undergarments:

Don't wait until your wedding day to test out your undergarments. Wear them for an entire day to ensure they are comfortable and don't restrict your movement. It's also a good idea to bring your wedding day undergarments to all your dress fittings to ensure they fit well and aren't visible through the gown.

Have a Backup Plan:

It's always a good idea to have a backup set of undergarments in case of any last-minute snafus. This could include a second set of underwear in a different hue or adhesive tape for extra support. However, if you haven't worn sticky tape or a stick-on bra before, your wedding day isn't the time to experiment, as you don't know how your skin will react.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose undergarments that make you feel comfortable and confident. It's your special day, so select undergarments that complement your dress and allow you to shine!

Danceability

When it comes to choosing a wedding dress that you can dance in, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, a fitted skirt or a dress with a long train will restrict your leg movements and make it difficult to move around the dance floor. Similarly, a dress with a lot of boning or a structured bodice will make it tough to shimmy and shake.

So, what should you look for? Tea-length wedding dresses, two-piece wedding dresses, A-line skirts, and skirts with side slits are all great options that will give you more freedom to move. It's also a good idea to ask your seamstress to leave a little extra room in the dress, especially if you're planning on throwing your hands in the air! You may have to compromise on a super-fitted look, but you'll be glad you did when your favourite song comes on.

• A creation by Georgia Young that strikes the perfect balance between floaty and structured.
• A delicate Anna Kara gown with embroidered sheer panels and a generous '70s-inspired cut, perfect for busting a move.
• A timeless Claire Pettibone gown with a sexy lace bodice and a swingy lace-trim skirt.
• A modern and minimal wedding dress from Light and Lace with spaghetti straps and an A-line skirt that proves you can have a pared-back style without feeling restricted.
• A two-piece Grace Loves Lace combo with a relaxed fit, perfect for a destination wedding and for moving with you, not against you!
• A knee or midi-length dress by Whistles Bridal, which will ensure your skirt doesn't get trampled on by your dance partners.

Alterations

Timing is Key

It's crucial to start the alterations process early, but not too early. Plan for alterations to take several months, from the first fitting to the final one. Most seamstresses recommend scheduling your first fitting around three months before the wedding, the second about a month before, and the final fitting two weeks before the big day. This timeline allows for any necessary adjustments and ensures your dress will be ready in time.

Finding a Seamstress or Tailor

If the bridal salon doesn't offer in-house alterations, you may need to find an external seamstress or tailor. It's important to select someone with experience in wedding dresses and formal evening wear. Ask friends for recommendations, check reviews, and meet with the seamstress in person before entrusting them with your gown. Remember, your wedding dress is a significant investment, so choosing a skilled and trusted professional is essential.

Bring the Right Accessories

Don't forget to bring your wedding shoes and undergarments to each fitting. These items can significantly impact the fit of your dress. For example, the height of your heels will determine the ideal hemline to ensure you don't trip on your dress. Additionally, the right undergarments will help the seamstress assess how the dress sits on your body.

Budgeting for Alterations

Complicated alterations can be costly, so it's essential to budget for them when planning your wedding expenses. Simple changes like hemming can cost over $200, while taking a dress down several sizes can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The cost will depend on factors such as the complexity of the alterations, the fabric type, and any additional embellishments.

Enjoy the Process

Getting your wedding dress altered can feel like a tedious task, but it's essential to relax and enjoy the experience. A wedding dress is often the most beautiful and meticulously tailored gown a woman will ever wear. Each alteration appointment brings you closer to that magical moment when you walk down the aisle feeling like a princess.

Preservation

Preserving your wedding gown is essential to keep it in pristine condition, especially if you plan to pass it down as an heirloom or keep it as a memento. Here are some detailed instructions for preserving your can-can wedding gown:

Professional Preservation Service:

It is highly recommended to use a professional preservation service for your gown. These specialists will carefully clean and store your dress to prevent discolouration and ageing. The process involves removing stains, repairing any damage, and packaging the gown with acid-free tissue in an acid-free box. The average cost of this service ranges from $250 to $1000, and it can take around 4 to 6 weeks to complete.

Timing:

The sooner you send your gown for preservation, the better. Untreated stains can set into the fabric, making it harder to remove them later. Ideally, you should arrange for your gown to be sent to the preservationist as soon as possible after your wedding, even if you're jetting off on your honeymoon.

Stains:

Professional preservationists are trained to deal with all kinds of stains, from invisible foundation smudges to visible red wine spills. They will create a treatment plan for each type of stain, as different stains require different chemicals to dissolve them. For example, wet stains like coffee or wine and dry stains like dirt or lipstick require different approaches.

Storage:

Once you receive your preserved gown, it is crucial to store it in a cool, dark, and fresh place. Avoid attics or basements due to temperature and moisture changes, as these can promote mould or dry rot. Instead, choose a location with moderate temperature and humidity, such as a closet shelf or under your bed.

The Preservation Box:

Your wedding gown should be stored in an acid-free box that is not sealed airtight. This type of box helps keep the dress in a stable and predictable environment. It is recommended to open the box at least once a year to inspect the gown, always handling it with clean hands or cotton gloves to prevent discolouration from hand oils.

Frequently asked questions