Wedding Dress Part 1

Wedding Dress Styles

** There are five major styles to choose from: Romantic, Glamorous, Classic, Beach/Destination and Contemporary.

Romantic These gowns are characterized by billowy princess or A-line skirts as well as fluted or mermaid skirts with dreamy lace, silk netting, or wispy tulle overlays. Sheath gowns also fall in this category and are usually adorned with features such as lace, crystal and pearl beading. Various necklines, waistlines and bodices can be used and will be accented with embroidery, crystal beading, sequined appliqués and lace.

Glamorous These dresses are the “walk-down-the-red-carpet” style of dress with body hugging satin or matte-jersey sheath styles that may, or may not, have trains. Reminiscent of the 20’s and 30’s Nouveau period, these dresses are characterized by long fluted and trumpet style skirts with either tiers, bubble skirts or a slimmer A-line skirt. Feathers may be added for extra flare! This dress style demands dramatic and daring necklines with various waistlines and unusual cuts and panels to the dress. Sequins, beaded overlays, satin roses and appliqués appear on the gown but not in great amounts.

Classic This “belle of the ball” classic style usually has simple and clean lines defining the elegance of the gown. Waistlines and necklines can vary with this style of dress as do the types of skirts (Princess, soft A-line, ball gown or a fluted hem) as well as the length of the train. Limited amounts of beading, lace accents, and embroidery are found on these dresses in order to maintain their simple nature. Additional accents may be found through the use of a satin sash tied at the waist and draping down the back of the gown. Raw silk, satin, and organza are the most common fabrics for this style of dress.

Beach/Destination This flowing and breezy style of dress is best suited for those want that windswept beach wedding baring your sun-kissed shoulders as you say “I do”. Beach/Destination style gowns can come with a casual air or fall under a more dramatic style like a light chiffon gown with a fluted skirt. Destination gowns can also be Glamorous with a body hugging sheath dress with a sexy, plunging back or a more humble version of the Romantic style with a lace overlay. A Destination gown can also have informal Classic tones with simple lines of crystal beading on the waistline or on the straps.

Contemporary This style seems to be very popular either featuring a strapless neckline with a corset bodice and lace-ups at the back. What is nice about this style is that it can accommodate fluctuations in a bride’s weight as the back panel is not only removable but the laces can be loosened or tightened to perfectly fit any bride’s shape. The skirts on this style are usually a full skirt with a sweep train. Crystal beading or lace on the bodice and skirt can lend this style a Classic or Romantic air.