Rhiannon Hendricks
Planning a wedding is a complex task, and one of the most important aspects is the bride's outfit. From the bachelorette party to the bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, and the big day itself, there are many opportunities to make a statement. The wedding dress is the central element, but it's also crucial to select the right accessories, from veils and headpieces to jewellery and shoes, to create a cohesive look. This guide will explore the key considerations for brides-to-be when crafting their dream wedding wardrobe.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the wedding dress
Before you start shopping, it can be helpful to do some research and gather inspiration. Look through bridal magazines, Pinterest, or Instagram to get a sense of the different styles and silhouettes available. Create a mood board of the wedding attire that you love, and consider the overall aesthetic of your wedding. Do you want a modern, traditional, or romantic look? Having a clear vision will help narrow down the multitude of options available.
When it comes to the dress itself, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, think about your body type and what styles you feel comfortable wearing. Do you want to accentuate a particular part of your body, such as your back or collarbones? Different dress shapes will suit different body types. For example, ball gowns are classic and work for most body types, while sheath or column dresses tend to suit leaner frames. A-line dresses are another popular choice, as they create a slimming effect while accentuating the waist. Don't forget to consider the weather and location of your wedding, as well as the formality of the event.
It's also important to keep an open mind when trying on dresses. Try on a variety of styles, even those you might not initially be drawn to. You may be surprised by what you end up loving! It's also a good idea to bring any accessories or family heirlooms, such as a veil or jewellery, that you plan to wear on your big day. That way, you can ensure they work well with the dress you choose.
Lastly, don't be afraid to step away from the traditional white dress if it doesn't resonate with your personality or vision. Wedding dresses come in a variety of colours, from subtle ivory to bolder shades of blue or pink. Choose a dress that truly expresses who you are as a bride and makes you feel special.
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Accessories: veils, headwear, jewellery
Accessories are a great way to express your individuality and style and can be a fun way to showcase your personality.
Veils
The veil is a traditional bridal accessory, and an easy way to elevate your wedding look. Veils come in a variety of lengths and styles, from the timeless chapel-length veil to the shorter birdcage veil or blusher. When choosing a veil, consider the fabric and length to ensure it complements your dress and the overall feel of your wedding. If you opt for a long veil for the ceremony, you could switch to a feather fascinator for a fun reception look.
Headwear
Headwear is another bridal accessory to consider. Flowers are a natural hair accessory, and you could opt for a single blossom or a boho-chic flower crown. A draped neck sash or a wedding cape are also alternatives to the traditional veil.
Jewellery
When it comes to jewellery, the options are endless. From necklaces and chokers to earrings and bracelets, you can choose pieces that complement your dress neckline and overall style. If you're wearing a strapless dress, a necklace can look great, while a detailed illusion neckline may not work well with a necklace. Dramatic earrings can frame the face, especially if you're wearing your hair up. For a vintage-inspired look, consider a pearl-adorned veil or antique pearl jewellery.
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Shoes
When it comes to choosing wedding shoes, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to think about comfort. You will likely be wearing your wedding shoes for upwards of 12 hours, so choose a pair that you know you can walk and dance in. Opt for a heel height that you are used to and feel comfortable with. If you're someone who usually wears high heels, go for a high heel on your wedding day. If you typically wear lower heels or flats, choose a similar height. You may also want to consider the venue and season of your wedding. For example, if you're having an outdoor wedding, flat bridal shoes or block heels could be a good option to avoid sinking into the ground. For a winter wedding, closed-toe shoes will keep your feet warm, while sandals or peep-toe styles are ideal for summer.
The colour of your wedding shoes can be chosen based on your wedding theme, dress colour and style, and personal preference. Traditionally, ivory, white, or nude shoes are paired with an ivory dress, while pale blue is a playful twist on this custom. For a contemporary wedding, consider metallic tones, bold colours, or shades that match your bridal bouquet or bridesmaids' dresses. You may also want to incorporate your ''something blue' with blue shoes or opt for a statement colour like red or lavender.
When it comes to style, you can choose between closed-toe and open-toe shoes, depending on your preference and the season. If you want your shoes to complement your dress, look for similar elements such as rhinestones, pearls, bows, or lace. For a vintage, traditional, contemporary, or retro wedding, choose shoes that match the vibe. Designer brands like Monique Lhuillier, Galia Lahav, Badgley Mischka, and Jimmy Choo offer elegant options, but affordable shoes can also be a great choice. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and you can decide based on your comfort, style, and budget.
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What to wear when getting ready
There are many options for what to wear when getting ready for your wedding. Some brides opt for comfort, choosing pyjamas, sweatsuits, or jumpsuits. Others go for a more glamorous look, with silk rompers, satin robes, or lace camisole sets. Some brides choose to wear white or soft blush tones to maintain a bridal look, while others opt for colours that complement the wedding party.
If you're looking for something comfortable and practical, consider a button-down shirt and shorts or leggings. This makes it easy to get dressed without disrupting your hair and makeup. You could also wear a casual wrap dress, which can be easily removed without messing up your hair and makeup.
If you want to add a personal touch, you can customise your outfit with your initials or future last name. This can be a meaningful reminder of your new family and make for extra-special photos.
Matching outfits for the bridal party are also a popular choice, creating a stylish and cohesive look for photos. You can choose to match the colour or style of the bridesmaids' dresses or go for a completely different look. Some fun ideas for matching outfits include tie-dye tracksuits, flannel shirts and boxers, or loose tank tops.
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Wedding night attire
There are many options to choose from, and it is important to remember that this is a personal choice for you and your partner. Traditionally, bridal nightwear is white, but this is not a rule, and you can choose any colour that feels right for you. Red is a bold choice, representing passion, while black adds a touch of mystery and sophistication. Pastel colours like blush or soft blue are romantic options, while deep jewel tones like emerald or burgundy can bring a regal feel.
The fabric is also an important consideration. Lace is a classic and romantic option, while silk and satin are luxurious and focus on your natural curves. You could also add some spice with playful first-night dresses that can add passion and a playful mood to the evening. If lingerie is not your style, consider a comfortable pair of personalised pyjamas, or a silk pyjama set for a more demure option.
Don't forget to plan and pack ahead for your wedding night, so you don't have to sleep in your wedding dress!
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Frequently asked questions
You might want to wear something that's easy to remove and won't interfere with your hair and makeup. Popular choices include bridal robes or bridal party button-down shirts.
You might opt for a casual or formal white dress, or a floral dress in your wedding colours. It's important to plan ahead so that you can order your dress or make any necessary alterations.
You might want to wear a sexy dress in white or a more formal frock.
This is your chance to relax, so choose something comfortable. You could wear silky lingerie or a cosy set of pyjamas.
The biggest factors that will determine your bridal gown are the venue, season, formality, and theme of your celebration. You might want to consider a traditional style, such as a ball gown or a sheath dress, or opt for something more modern, such as a boho wedding dress with ruffle accents and a flowing skirt. You could also consider the neckline and hemline of your dress, as well as embellishments and pleating.
