George Boyle
Wedding dress shopping can be a daunting experience, with the pressure to find the perfect dress, manage expectations, and navigate the frustration of trying on clothes. Many brides opt for ornate and intricately designed gowns, but there is a certain charm and elegance in the simplicity of a plain wedding dress. However, you might want to add a touch of glamour to a simple dress. This can be achieved through embellishments, accessories, alterations, and creative DIY solutions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Embellishments | Beads, appliqués, crystals, embroidery, lace, ribbon, sequins |
| Accessories | Veil, hair jewellery, statement earrings, jewellery, heels |
| Silhouette | Add tulle, chiffon, crinoline or petticoat |
| Sleeves | Add lace or sheer fabric |
| Neckline | Change the detail, add a bridal bow |
| Length | Hem the dress to gently graze the ground |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Add beads, appliqués, crystals, embroidery, lace, ribbon, or sequins
Beads, appliqués, crystals, embroidery, lace, ribbon, and sequins are all popular ways to enhance a wedding dress.
Beads can be woven into the fabric of a wedding dress to add a touch of sparkle and glamour. They can be used to bring attention to specific parts of the dress, such as the bodice, or to add subtle glamour.
Appliqués can be used to cover certain parts of a wedding dress, such as a satin belt, or to add colour. For example, a bride could choose colourful appliqués that match their wedding palette. Lace appliqués can also be purchased and sewn onto a dress to add a delicate and romantic touch.
Crystals are a popular way to add shine and glamour to a wedding dress. They can be glued or sewn onto the dress, depending on the dress material. Crystals can also be matched to the wedding theme colour or the flowers used in the wedding.
Embroidery can be used to add sparkle to a wedding dress, especially when shimmering thread is used.
Lace can be added to a wedding dress to create sleeves or change the neckline. When adding lace sleeves, it is important to match the lace pattern to the dress and to consider factors such as fabric sensitivity, dress structure, timeframe, and budget.
Sequins can be glued or sewn onto a wedding dress to add shimmer.
Long Dresses: Cocktail Wedding-Appropriate or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Choose statement accessories
Accessories can make or break your wedding dress look. The right accessories will complement your dress and enhance your overall bridal look.
If your wedding dress is simple, you can opt for bolder accessories without getting swallowed by your outfit. For instance, if you wear a big necklace, go for small earrings or no earrings at all.
Consider your wedding venue when choosing accessories. For outdoor weddings, wedges or flats are more practical than stilettos. For indoor or formal settings, high heels or embellished pumps add sophistication and glamour. If coordination is a concern, match your shoe embellishments to your dress details. For instance, if your dress has pearls, look for shoes with pearl accents.
If you want to add a touch of tradition and elegance to your wedding outfit, a veil is a great accessory. The length and style of the veil should complement your gown. For instance, a cathedral-length veil goes well with a formal, full-length dress, while a birdcage veil is perfect for a vintage-style dress.
You can also add a unique touch to your wedding ensemble with sashes, bows, and gloves. A sash tied around the waist can accentuate your figure and add colour or texture to a simple wedding dress. Bows can bring a whimsical or romantic feel to your outfit, while gloves can add elegance and grace, especially for formal weddings.
Other statement accessories to consider include hair ornaments, tiaras, crowns, and belts. These accessories can add sparkle and serve as a focal point or a subtle accent, depending on their design and how they complement your dress.
Donating Your Wedding Dress to Create Baby Keepsakes
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$10.91 $12.68
Wear a veil
Wearing a veil is a romantic and traditional choice for a bride. It is a highly personal decision, and many brides choose to wear a veil based on their preferences and the aesthetic of their wedding dress.
The right veil can elevate your wedding ensemble, adding a layer of elegance and drama. When choosing a veil, it is essential to consider the style and shape of your dress. For instance, if you opt for a wedding dress with a low neckline, a short veil can enhance your look, while a longer veil can provide more coverage if you desire it.
The length of your veil is also determined by the silhouette of your dress. A fitted silhouette, like a mermaid or fit-and-flare, pairs well with a longer veil like a chapel or cathedral-length style. Conversely, an A-line gown suits a fingertip-length veil, as it ends around the widest part of the dress, drawing attention to the skirt.
The fabric of your veil is another important consideration. Tulle and lace veils are popular choices, offering a soft and delicate look. For a touch of luxury, a silk veil adds softness and fluidity to your ensemble. Additionally, the edging of your veil can make a statement—a raw-cut edge offers a modern twist, while lace or ribbon edging lends a traditional, romantic feel.
Embellishments on your veil can also enhance your overall look. If your dress is simple, consider a veil with embellishments like lace, beading, or floral details. On the other hand, if your dress is already intricate, a plain veil will ensure your dress remains the focal point.
Lastly, your hairstyle will influence how your veil is secured. Updos, such as chignons, buns, and French twists, provide a secure base for dramatic veils and create an elegant backdrop for your veil and dress to shine. Half-up hairstyles offer a versatile option, combining security with the beauty of loose waves. If you prefer wearing your hair down, loose waves can be softly complemented with bobby pins to secure the veil in place.
Renting a Wedding Dress in Calgary: Is It Possible?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Add layers
Adding layers to a wedding dress can enhance its volume, shape, and overall appearance. Here are some ways to achieve this:
Tulle or Net Layers
If you want to add volume to your wedding dress, consider adding layers of tulle or net underneath the skirt. The number of layers will depend on the desired volume. Tulle is a lightweight and soft fabric that will give your dress a flowing, dreamy appearance. If you prefer a stiffer look, you can opt for a firmer net with a larger hexagonal knit. The tulle or net layers should sit between the outer dress fabric and a lining fabric, with the lining fabric protecting your legs from the feel of the net.
Bustle
A bustle is a structural feature that lifts the back of the dress off the ground, preventing it from getting dirty or causing you to trip. It also adds volume and shape to the skirt. You can choose from various bustle styles, such as the standard bustle, French bustle (also known as a Victorian bustle), or American bustle. The standard bustle tucks the train's end under the dress's back, creating a fuller skirt. The French bustle uses hooks to catch the train and tuck it under, often with ribbons for added flair.
Sequined Underlayer or Shimmer Tulle
For a touch of glamour, consider adding a sequined underlayer or a layer of shimmer tulle to the bodice. This can be easily done with a gem setter tool and some Jewel Bond glue.
Embellishments
Embellishments such as beads, appliqués, crystals, embroidery, lace, ribbon, and sequins can be added to your dress for extra sparkle and dimension. However, it's important to find a balance to avoid a cluttered look. Research different embellished gowns, create an inspiration board, and decide on the specific details you prefer to ensure your dress remains elegant and sophisticated.
Waist Definition
If you want to enhance your waistline, consider adding a built-in corset, boning, a sash, or a belt to provide support and visually emphasise your waist. Adjusting the skirt volume by reducing fabric or modifying the skirt shape to an A-line or mermaid silhouette can also improve balance and proportion, creating a more defined waist.
Addressing Wedding Announcements: Envelope Etiquette for Your Big Day
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Hem the dress
Hemming a wedding dress is a common alteration to ensure the gown doesn't drag on the floor. Rita Ertl, Monique Lhuillier's former director of alterations, advises brides to aim for a hemline that gently grazes the ground.
If you're planning to hem a wedding dress, it is recommended to use a professional seamstress, especially if the dress has multiple layers, a train, or intricate details such as lace or other embellishments. Hemming a wedding dress often involves deconstructing the dress at the waist, and hand-removing any lace or other details before reattaching them after hemming. A professional will ensure that the alterations are done correctly and that the final result looks flawless.
Before hemming, it is important to have the bride try on the dress with the shoes they plan to wear on their wedding day. This will ensure that the hem is the correct length. You can use pins to mark the desired length, but be aware that the weight of the fabric and pins can affect the length, so it's important to cut a bit longer than needed and then reassess.
If you are determined to hem the dress yourself, it is crucial to be extremely careful and precise. Mark the final hem cut line with basting thread and cut it with a serger without needles to avoid any permanent damage to the dress. You can also use thread tacks or tailor tacks to mark the hem, which involves slipping a few loose stitches in a bright or dark colour thread to mark important spots.
Overall, hemming a wedding dress is a detailed process that can be complex, so it is generally recommended to seek professional help to ensure the best results.
Addressing Wedding Envelopes: A Guide to Response Etiquette
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Embellishments are a great way to add some sparkle to your dress. Beads, crystals, embroidery, lace, and sequins are all popular options. You can also add 3D flowers, bows, or other details for a high-fashion look.
Research various embellished gowns online and create an inspiration board. Note what you like and don't like about each style, and then decide on the type and placement of your embellishments.
If your dress is simple, you can be more adventurous with your accessories. Go for a statement veil, hair jewellery, or a big necklace.
Wear your hair down and keep your accessories minimal. You can also try wearing flat shoes or sandals to make your look more relaxed.
Streamline and lighten your dress by removing any extra layers. Many expensive dresses are surprisingly light, so a minimalist approach can make your dress look classy and stylish. You can also add some volume with extra tulle or chiffon, or invest in a crinoline or petticoat for a better silhouette.
