Image courtesy of Bridal Collections
Image courtesy of Daniela Fimmano Bridal
Image courtesy of Ervan Woo Designs
Image courtesy of Josephine La Rocca
Image courtesy of Louise Alvarez Couture
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your gown
The garment that you've been dreaming about since you were a little girl! Now it's time to shop till you drop and find the perfect gown that suits your personality and style.
playing dress ups
Stop! Before you rush out and choose the wedding gown of your dreams, you must decide what time of the day you will be married and how formal you want your wedding to be. The style of clothes for your wedding party follows from these decisions. If you want to wear a traditional long white gown then your groom should wear a formal outfit too. The following are guidelines as to what the wedding party should wear. But remember they are guidelines only and if you wish to wear something different, that's fine - there are no set rules. After all, it's your wedding!
what to wear...
formal daytime wedding
Bride
long gown (ankle skimming) with or without train (the longer the gown, the more formal the wedding)
veil (again, the longer the veil, the more formal)
Bridesmaids
long dresses (ankle skimming or mid-calf)
Flower girl
long dress (may be different to bridesmaids)
Groom's Party
morning suits
PageBoy
white suit, or suit to match groomsmen
formal late afternoon wedding (with evening reception)
Bride
same as formal daytime
Bridesmaids & Flower girl
same as formal daytime
Groom's Party
dark dinner suits (three or four button jackets)
PageBoy
white suit or similar suit to the groom
informal wedding
Bride
shorter length dress or suit
Bridesmaids & Flower girl
mid-calf or shorter dresses
Groom's party
lounge suits or other suitable attire
your stunning style
Forget fashion! Choose your gown to suit your style - your proportions, your personality and your colouring. Your height and body shape are important factors to consider. Some styles can be more flattering than others.
Don't forget that it's the back of your dress that the congregation will be focusing on during the service. A gown with extra interest at the back, is a great idea. Trains can also look absolutely beautiful, especially as you walk down the aisle - but they may not be practical if you plan to dance the night away! Maybe look at having a detachable train so your gown is more comfortable once the ceremony is over.
Here are a few handy hints.
Average Weight and Height
You can choose just about any style that suits your personality. You may wish to accentuate a particular feature like a tiny waistline or attractive shoulders.
Full-figured and Average Height
Simple figure-skimming lines and fitted sleeves play down a full figure. Go for elegance rather than fussy details. Avoid tizz. If you're pear shaped, wedding gowns with a fitted bodice and full A-line skirt will beautifully disguise larger hips and thighs.
Full-figured and Short
The most suitable style is a fitted bodice and sleeves with an A-line skirt which falls softly. You may choose an open neckline with some simple jewellery or perhaps as an alternative, look at a higher neck line to accentuate a longer and elegant line.
Full-figured and Tall
Avoid puffy designs, frills and gathers. Choose soft fabrics that fall well. Look for designs where the artistry is in the cut of the dress. A long train would add drama.
Thin and Tall
If you want to add curves, choose a voluminous skirt. Almost any style will suit with the possible exception of a straight close-fitting dress if you are very thin.
Thin and Short
If you have a nice waistline, emphasise it with a close-fitting style which has a full but draped skirt. In a very full skirt you could look swamped. Definitely steer away from busy sleeves or heavy detail as these can look tizzy.
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