As any bride knows, choosing your bridal gown can be one of the most emotional and exciting moments in your life. Whether you are an experienced bride or a first-time shopper, it’s important to take your time and keep an open mind. It can also help to brush up on some of the key components of a wedding dress, so you know what to look for.
The first thing you’ll want to consider is length. There are many options, from short cocktail dresses to floor-length ball gowns. You’ll also need to decide if you’d like to have sleeves, a long train, or no train at all. It can be helpful to compile a visual file of your favorite looks before your first appointment, so you can identify common elements, such as strapless necklines or open backs.
After you’ve narrowed down your choice of silhouettes, it’s time to start considering color and texture. In the past, most bridal gowns were classic white, but runway designers and celebrities have begun to push boundaries, with many brides embracing shades of pink or even blush. If you have a special accessory in mind, such as your grandmother’s veil or the jewelry from a beloved heirloom, it can be helpful to bring it with you to each dress appointment. It’ll ensure that the piece will match with your chosen gown and add to the overall aesthetic of your wedding.
The next component of a wedding dress is the skirt. The length can range from just above the knee to floor-length, with a variety of textures available including silk, satin, and lace. The skirt can be embellished with details, such as embroidered flowers or beading. You can also choose to include a petticoat, which is a layer of undergarment that provides additional weight and structure to the skirt.
Sleeves can be a beautiful addition to any wedding gown. They can accentuate a bride’s arms or shoulder line, or offer coverage and protection from the sun. Cap sleeves are very short, covering only the shoulders, while off-the-shoulder or three-quarter sleeves rest just below the shoulders and expose a bride’s collarbones and upper arms. A more intricate sleeve option is an illusion sleeve, which offers the coverage of a sleeve without the need for seams, and may feature lace or other embellishments.
The waistline is a key element of any wedding gown, with different shapes creating distinct silhouettes. A slender line can create a more hourglass figure, while a basque waist emphasizes the hips and can give a dress a princess-worthy shape. A mermaid waist is tighter along the midriff, with the look of an “A” from the shoulders to the waistline. Finally, a full ball gown can be topped off with an extravagant skirt that is voluminous and dramatic.