Your wedding dress is the focal point of your day, and the first thing that guests will notice. It’s a symbolic representation of the love you share with your husband and a glimpse into how happy you felt on that special day.
As such, it’s no surprise that many brides want their gown to reflect their personality, style and overall vibe. Whether you’re giggling with your girls while getting your hair done or gracefully walking down the aisle, your dress will carry memories with it long after the big day has passed.
Aside from the shape and size of your skirt, the fabric you choose for your wedding dress can have a huge impact on how it looks and feels. Different materials are designed to produce different effects, with some clinging to your body while others are light and airy. Each of these factors can help you determine the best choice for your personal aesthetic and wedding season.
One of the most noticeable things about a wedding dress is the neckline, which frames the neck and upper body. There are a variety of neckline options to choose from, including bateau, jewel, off-the-shoulder and halter, which all sit high on the neck and offer coverage for your shoulders and collarbones. Other types of necklines, such as square, boat, sweetheart and v-neck, are plunging and reveal more of your cleavage.
The waistline is the line that runs down from your neckline to your waist and defines your figure. It can be defined by a belt that cinches your waist, a sash that creates a smooth silhouette or a bow that adds a touch of drama. Many bridal dresses also feature a waistline with its own design details, from a sheer lace overlay to a beaded cinch at the front or a sexy side cutout for a little extra sexiness.
Some wedding dress styles don’t even have a waistline at all. Column, sheath and slip dresses fall straight down from the bodice, loosely skimming your body without a clear definition of the waist. Other waistline shapes include empire, which offers a traditional effect, and drop, which was popular during the 1920s and helps slim the hips.
In addition to deciding on the type of fabric you want, you’ll need to decide what kind of embellishments or adornments you want. Some dresses are simply embellished with beading and illusion lace while others are covered in intricate appliques or embroidery. Whatever you choose, it’s important to consider how the dress will be cared for in the future so it’s preserved and able to be worn again.
A wedding dress requires a lot of love and care to maintain. It’s also a highly visible garment, meaning it’s likely to get dirty. To prepare for this, every bride should have a plan for how she’ll get her dress cleaned and preserved so it’s in tip-top shape come the big day.