A wedding dress is more than a bridal gown; it is an emblem of tradition, culture and personal expression. In Western cultures, it is commonly white, a fashion inspired by Queen Victoria’s 1840 wedding dress, but brides can wear any color that symbolizes love and commitment.
Bridal dresses are evolving to reflect a more progressive society and the diverse lifestyles of today’s brides. Gone are the days of traditional dresses that exemplify a sense of “wedding day perfection.” As a result, many brides opt for gowns with less formal silhouettes and lace details for a more relaxed and contemporary look.
Choosing the right dress starts with defining your style. You can search by a variety of parameters, such as neckline style (halter, scoop, sweetheart, and more), waist style (empire, basque, natural), dress length and train length, and fabric type (tulle, silk, cotton, and chiffon, among others).
Another way to narrow down your options is to browse by designer. Our selection includes wedding dresses from some of the industry’s best-known names, including Randy Fenoli and Mia Solano. By browsing by designer, you can get a feel for each brand’s distinct style and choose the one that speaks to you.
In addition to style, you can sort by fabric and sleeve type. Fabric is a significant part of the wedding dress, and it’s important to consider how the material will feel on your skin. For example, tulle is a classic material with a soft and light texture, while satin has a smooth sheen that adds glamour to the dress.
Sleeves can also vary in length, with cap sleeves being the shortest and off-the-shoulder sleeves being the longest. These sleeves can be lace or sheer and offer coverage with a delicate look. For a bolder look, you can select a dress with an illusion sleeve that is made of sheer fabric adorned with lace or other elements for a whimsical and bohemian vibe.
For the bride who wants a little bit more protection from the sun or just a little extra warmth, there are stylish boleros and jackets to wear over your gown. These accessories can be pre-made and included with your dress, or they can be custom-designed to either match or contrast the colors in your dress.
Many brides choose to incorporate something blue into their wedding attire, a tradition dating back to the English rhyme: “Something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue.” This traditional element can be as simple as a piece of ribbon or embroidery or as elaborate as a full-length blue gown. Whatever you choose, it will be a lovely and special way to show your commitment to your partner on your big day.