Wedding Dresses: What to Consider

What to Consider When Choosing Wedding Dresses

Of all the wedding errands to be run and decisions to be made, finding just the right bridal gown is one of the most important. Is it any wonder that it can also be the most time consuming and, at times, overwhelming part of the wedding planning process?

Lace or beadwork, taffeta or chiffon, A-line or flowing skirt — the choices are endless. Before you decide to run off and elope just to avoid the deluge of dress decisions, read these easy tips on what to consider when choosing wedding dresses .

Wedding Dress Color

While it may seem like the last issue to arise when selecting a wedding a dress, color is the first question every bride should consider. Will you wear traditional white or ivory or is champagne or silver more your color? Traditionally, nearly every bride wore stark white, but the modern wedding warrants a twist on conventional colors.

 Color is a vital part of today’s weddings and it extends beyond the cake and bridesmaid dresses. Rather than letting the old conventions choose your dress for you, think about what looks best against your natural skin tone. Does white tend to wash you out? Does your complexion need a little bit of color to look its best? These questions should be at the front of your mind when shopping for a bridal gown. 

Below is a video that provides useful tips for finding your perfect wedding dress:

Wedding Dress Skirt Style

The style of skirt is another important element that must be considered when choosing your wedding dress. Although there is no right or wrong style, personal preference and body shape will play key roles in the final selection. For instance, if you’re a bride with a short stature and petite frame, it may be best to choose a more streamline skirt. Otherwise, you may end up looking too young or girlish.

Modern brides have a vast array of skirt options at their disposal. Ball gown styles with long, flowing trains tend to be the most traditional; however, that does not mean they are the only option. Loose skirts of flowing chiffon can be designed to hit at the ankle, as can any A-line satin skirt. If showing a little leg is not a look you are against, consider a shorter skirt and strappy heeled sandals — especially if this is an outdoor spring or summer wedding.

Wedding Dress Bodice Style

The bodice, or part of the dress covering the torso, is another crucial element of any bridal gown. The neckline and sleeves are a big part of this, but there are several other important considerations too. Appliqués, sashes and waistline style are other things to keep in mind.

For example, even the most basic of dresses can be made elegant with the right additions up top. A simple satin tank can become extraordinary when a lace and beadwork appliqué is added. For the bolder bride, the addition of an appliqué with threading in apple or ocean colors is the definitive way to make a statement in any season.

Of course, this is not to say that sleeves and necklines are of no importance. These elements can be used to complement curves or provide extra coverage. Brides with a large bust may want to avoid strapless dresses, and instead opt for a classic halter style for more support. Body shape is still a consideration. The most beautiful of bridal gowns is meaningless if the bride is uncomfortable wearing it throughout the ceremony and reception. With all of these options, it’s easy for brides to use combinations of sleeve styles, necklines and skirt lengths to showcase their best features.

Wedding Dress Reality

Despite the fact that the wedding is supposed to be a dream come true, reality does have its place in choosing wedding dresses.

It may well be that the fresh, hot designer out of France is creating stunning bridal gowns that fuel your wedding day fantasies, but if you live in Des Moines, Iowa then a quick trip down to his or her salon may not be within your wedding budget.

It’s important to set realistic expectations for your budget. Regardless of where you’re shopping for your gown, try on as many dresses as you can. You never know where you’ll find your dream dress.

Rather than devoting your time to imagining how you would look in your wedding photos wearing a dress that costs more than your first car, instead set your sights on the gorgeous designer original offerings from bridal boutiques in a more local setting. Who knows? You may even be surprised when they can create something that’s just as stunning as your fantasy French designer dress.