Franklin Dean
Choosing a wedding dress can be an overwhelming task for brides-to-be. There are many factors to consider, such as body type, comfort, style, and budget. It is important to choose a dress that reflects your personality and makes you feel confident and beautiful. To narrow down the options, it is helpful to start with a clear vision and be open-minded when trying on different styles. The abundance of options can make decision-making harder, but with the right tips and tricks, you can find the perfect dress to complete your special day.
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What You'll Learn
Wedding dress codes: black-tie, white-tie, semi-formal, etc
Wedding dress codes can be confusing, with an infinite number of codes and many couples making up their own. However, here is a guide to help you navigate the most common wedding dress codes.
White-Tie
White-tie is the most formal of all wedding dress codes, reserved for the most luxurious of weddings. It is often used for state dinners, royal banquets, and other very formal events. For men, this means a long, dark tuxedo tailcoat with fabric extensions (known as "tails") that reach to the back of the knee, a white shirt, a white waistcoat, and a bow tie. For women, it is customary to wear a full-length gown in a luxurious fabric, with elegant gloves, fine jewellery, and formal hairstyling.
Black-Tie
Black-tie is the next most formal dress code, usually indicating a formal, evening event. It is a staple in luxury weddings, often held in the evening, and is a sign that the couple is hosting a formal and traditional ceremony. For men, this means a tuxedo, a white formal shirt, a black bow tie, and black leather shoes. Women typically wear a formal floor-length gown, although a sophisticated cocktail dress or an elegant pantsuit may also be acceptable.
Black-Tie Optional
This dress code gives guests two options: to adhere to the traditional black-tie dress code or opt for slightly less formal attire. Men can choose to wear a tuxedo or a dark suit with a conservative tie and a white dress shirt. Women can choose between a formal evening gown, a sophisticated cocktail dress, or a chic dressy ensemble.
Cocktail Attire
Cocktail attire is less formal than black-tie and black-tie optional. It is a popular choice for weddings, striking a balance between elegance and comfort. For men, a suit and tie are appropriate, and the tie is optional. Most dress lengths are acceptable for women, as long as the outfit is still smart and dressy. A short cocktail dress or a skirt and top combination are good options.
Semi-Formal
Semi-formal, or dressy casual, is a tricky dress code to navigate. It is often used interchangeably with cocktail attire. For men, a suit and tie are appropriate, and for women, below-the-knee dresses, slip dresses, dressy skirts, or an elegant pantsuit are good options. It is important to pay attention to the time of day the ceremony will take place, with darker, more formal colours being best for evening events and light hues and airy fabrics preferred for daytime affairs.
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Wedding dress styles: A-line, empire, drop-waist, etc
The waistline of a wedding dress is an important element in achieving a flattering fit. Here are some of the most common waistlines and silhouettes:
Natural Waistline
The natural waistline is the most common waistline for wedding dresses. It sits between the rib cage and hip bones, usually at the smallest part of the bride's body, giving a balanced and proportionate look. It is often paired with an A-line silhouette to create an hourglass silhouette.
Empire Waistline
Empire waistlines are characterised by a high waistline that begins just under the bust. This waistline is often paired with an A-line silhouette and is typically best suited for those with a smaller bust. The style is reminiscent of the Regency Era and is known for its romantic and ethereal aesthetic. It is also a good option for camouflaging the waist and hips.
Dropped Waistline
Dropped waistlines are commonly found on trumpet gowns, A-line dresses, and some types of ball gowns. This waistline tends to elongate the torso and shorten the appearance of the legs. It can add a touch of vintage elegance to the overall look.
Asymmetrical Waistline
An asymmetrical waistline can sit anywhere on the bodice but usually slants diagonally from the waist to the hips. It adds a modern flair to the silhouette and can be found on mermaid, trumpet, or A-line gowns. Asymmetrical waistlines draw attention to curves or create the illusion of curves.
The choice of waistline and silhouette depends on the bride's body type and personal style preferences. It is important to try on different options to find the most flattering and comfortable fit.
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Wedding dress accessories: veils, capes, jewellery, etc
Wedding dresses can be accessorised in a variety of ways, from veils and capes to jewellery and hair accessories.
Veils
A veil is a traditional bridal accessory that can elevate your look and make it memorable. When choosing a veil, consider its length. Shorter veils, such as birdcages and waist-length veils, can add personality and an informal, retro edge to your look. Longer veils, such as chapel-length or cathedral veils, create a timeless and dramatic look. If your dress is heavily embellished, opt for a simple veil with clean lines. If your dress is simple, you can be more adventurous, but ensure that the embellishments complement the style and colour of your dress.
Capes
Capes are a trendy bridal accessory, offering visual interest, extra coverage, and sweeping effects. They can be a stylish alternative to a veil, adding drama and glamour to your look. Capes can be paired with various silhouettes, particularly fitted silhouettes with open backs, accentuating the beauty of the backless style. Capes can be made from different fabrics, such as charmeuse, crepe, chiffon, or lace, and can be detachable.
Jewellery
Bridal jewellery can elevate your wedding day look, with pieces like earrings, anklets, necklaces, bracelets, rings, and backpieces. You can choose from a variety of materials, including gold, silver, and pearls, to find timeless and elegant pieces that complement your dress and personal style.
Hair Accessories
Hair accessories can also enhance your wedding day look. You can choose from a range of options, such as hairpins, combs, headbands, or tiaras, to add extra sparkle or elegance to your hairstyle.
These accessories can help you create your unique and memorable wedding day look, allowing you to feel confident and beautiful as you walk down the aisle.
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Wedding dress colours: white, ivory, light colours, etc
Wedding dresses come in a variety of colours, with white and ivory being two of the most popular choices. When deciding between these two colours, there are a few things to consider.
Firstly, it's important to think about your skin tone. While pure white tends to complement cooler or fair skin tones, ivory, with its warm, creamy undertones, is generally considered more flattering for those with lighter skin tones as it provides a nice contrast. That being said, white can look stunning on darker skin tones, making the classic wedding gown into a striking statement piece. Ivory, on the other hand, can sometimes wash out paler skin tones. However, some shades of ivory, such as cream ivory, have deeper, warmer undertones that can exude a vintage feel and flatter a wider range of skin tones.
The lighting and venue of your wedding should also be considered when choosing between white and ivory. White tends to stand out more in controlled lighting, such as candlelight or ambient lighting, and can offer more contrast, helping the bride stand out. Ivory, on the other hand, may appear duller in certain lighting conditions, such as yellow lighting, and may not provide the same level of contrast. For outdoor weddings in soft, natural light, ivory might be a better choice, while indoor or contemporary events may benefit from the crispness of white.
In addition to white and ivory, there are several other light-coloured options for wedding dresses. These include champagne, which has gold undertones, and blush, which has a hint of pink. These colours are often considered romantic and can complement a variety of fabrics such as lace, tulle, chiffon, and organza. Another option is pearl, which has light gold undertones and can add a luxurious glow to the fabric. For those who want something even lighter, there are shades like eggshell, vanilla, or beige.
Ultimately, the colour of your wedding dress is a personal choice and should be something that you love and that reflects your style and personality. While factors like skin tone and traditional etiquette can be considered, they are not steadfast rules, and you should feel empowered to wear whatever shade you desire.
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Wedding dress destinations: beach, country, garden, etc
Wedding Dress Destinations
Beach
If you're planning a beach wedding, it's important to choose a dress that is both comfortable and elegant. Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as chiffon, lace, tulle, and silk are ideal for keeping cool in warm climates. Simple silhouettes like sheath, A-line, and empire waist dresses offer a flattering fit without being too overwhelming. For a more casual look, opt for flowy skirts and relaxed necklines, which can be perfect for barefoot ceremonies in the sand. Boho styles with intricate lace details or off-the-shoulder designs are also popular choices for beach brides. If you're looking for a shorter hemline, go for a playful and practical option that allows for easy movement.
Country
Country weddings often take place outdoors or in rustic settings, so outfits tend to be slightly more casual than traditional weddings. For female guests, sundresses, chic jumpsuits, or pantsuits are great options. Floaty silhouettes, floral prints, and light fabrics like lace, cotton, and linen are popular choices. Midi dresses are a smart and comfortable choice, while wide-legged jumpsuits offer a roomy alternative. For cooler temperatures, a blazer in a contrasting print or colour can be a modern and effortless addition. Male guests can opt for suits in earthy colours like browns and greens, or patterns like tweed.
Garden
Garden weddings evoke a romantic and relaxed vibe, and the dress code is usually more laid-back. Female guests can opt for cute sundresses, flowy maxi dresses, or knee-length dresses in chic fabrics like chiffon, lace, or satin. Feminine, romantic ruffles, and lace details fit in perfectly with the garden setting. For a more elegant look, a floor-length dress made of silk or tulle can be paired with statement jewellery. As for colours, soft pinks, florals, and pastel hues are popular choices for garden weddings.
Whether you're attending a beach, country, or garden wedding, it's important to consider the setting and dress code to ensure your outfit is both comfortable and stylish.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to start looking for your wedding dress at least 12 months before your wedding day. Wedding dresses are custom orders and can take up to six months to arrive.
The price of a wedding dress varies depending on the designer, fabric, and details. On average, brides spend between $2,500 and $3,500 on their dress. The quality of fabric and craftsmanship play a big role in pricing. There are also additional costs to consider, such as alterations, veils, shoes, jewellery, and undergarments.
Most designers are willing to work with you to make changes to the dress, such as adding straps or embellishments. It is important to ask about the possibilities for alterations so that you can either make the changes or consider another dress that better suits your needs.
