Olga is manager at Best for Bride since 2005. Currently Best for Bride operates 4 bridal stores in Canada (Toronto, Etobicoke, Hamilton and Barrie). Best for Bride sells wedding, bridesmaids, mob dresses and more. http://www.BestForBride.com
Winter weddings may not be standard fare, but they are unique in their own way. When you decide to get married when it is cold, you are set for adventure and excitement. Unlike a summer or spring wedding, when most wedding dresses work, you have to plan your winter look in detail to stand out as a stunning bride.
After all, there are more challenges to overcome; like staying warm in what you wear. Here we shall look at some factors that will help you feel good, without compromising on style when choosing your wedding gown.
Style with sleeves
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Find a wedding dress with sleeves to stay warm. You can choose from stylish cap-sleeves to three-fourth length sleeves, butterfly sleeves or even full sleeves. While these do not have to be thick fabric, even lace or embellishments on sheer fabric can add a touch of drama to your look, making you a perfect winter princess.
Accessorize appropriately
If you have your heart set on a strapless gown, do not despair. You can pair it with a befiting shrug, stole or wrap, so you do not shiver when exposed to the cold. If you have a snow wedding planned, you will be the epitome of style in such accessories. Your outdoor photographs will be splendid, and undoubtedly frame-worthy when you flaunt your style in a stunning cashmere wrap or warm winter jacket. Pay attention to your footwear; a stunning pair of snow boots will not only keep you cozy, it will also be appropriate for the winter theme you are hosting.
Look lovely in layered skirts
Be a snow princess in luxuriously layered ball gown skirts. The cold weather will make this choice perfect, and you will benefit from the added layers that keep you cosy and snug. Don’t hesitate to choose poufy princess gowns in heavy lace or pretty embellished mermaid skirts, as this is the perfect weather to feel comfortable in these patterns.
Choose luxurious silk, satin and velvet
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These fabrics drape well, but can weigh you down in warm weather. Fortunately, they work to your advantage when you wed in winter. Larissa and Duchess Satin gowns look elegant and sophisticated against the natural backdrop of white. Pair it with a fur wrap and you will be a vision in white.
Embellishments and ruffles for drama
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When the natural background is white, your gown should have some special feature to make it stand out. This is what embellishments achieve. Sparkling details in crystal and metal can help you shine and shimmer through the wedding ceremony. Another superb choice for a winter wedding is a mermaid gown with ruffles in the skirt that imitate the grace and splendor of snow – it will make the perfect complement for the beauty of the landscape outside.
Be bold with color
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When everything around you is white, why not choose a wedding gown in a different color? Stunning gowns in plush dark colors will help you stand out, or you can go for subdued colors like baby blue or blush. Make a statement with patterned fabric or gowns with contrasting colors in classic designs to look delicate and dainty.
Now you know what to look for to look romantically delightful on your winter wedding day. To find the perfect wedding dress for the occasion, or for more wedding tips and advice, check dresses on Best for Bride.
We thought we had seen them all: puffy, poufy wedding gowns, bridal pant suits, short wedding frocks and mermaid-inspired beauties. But, it looks like the wedding gown is still evolving, and this time in a daring direction. The newest buzz on the spring runways for 2016 are sheer see-through bridal dresses. The New York Bridal Fashion week in 2016 saw designers like Vera Wang, Marchessa and Naeem Khan bringing this idea to life with their designs. Ranging from lace-adorned wedding gowns to huge sheer cutouts, transparent, shimmery silhouettes rocked the catwalks.
Some dresses may be described as downright shocking. Entirely exposed backs and silhouettes were seen on the ramps in may designer collections. In fact, I am certain of finding many a wedding guest frowning at this unconventional choice, should a bride make this her wedding day choice. The Daily Mail aptly calls these wedding dresses as “Barely There.”
Most of these dresses are inappropriate for a formal church wedding, as the bride would feel overly exposed in the skin clinging and revealing silhouettes. However, they wouldn’t be out of place on a beach, or at a chic destination wedding. In fact, these choices would have the younger generation at your party swooning over your wedding dress selection. If you have always been the bold one, who enjoys revealing more than the modest cleavage, this new style which has found the likes of celebrities like Beyonce and Jennier Lopez may be worth a try.
So, what do you say? Is this style for you?
Check out these two-piece dresses we have at Best for Bride, that fit the bill. They may not be just as see-through as the collections of Vera Wang, but are splendid choices that blend sensuality with style.
Lady Almog
This stunner from the My Lady collection features a see-through bodice and a fit and flare skirt. The sexy bodice has a plunging sweetheart neckline. Vertical lines in silky lace spread all over the bodice and have sparkling embellishments to add that extra touch of finesse to the elliptical pattern. This dress is made of two-pieces, and the skirt is a simpler version of the pattern on the bodice. Perfect for a warm summer wedding, your guests will appreciate your choice.
Ladie Abbie
Now, what if you don’t feel like defying tradition entirely? The Lady Abbie dress from the My Lady collection offers you the balance between a shimmery see-through dress and one that isn’t too daring to offend anyone. This two-piece dress has a strapless bodice with pleated layers that wrap onto one side of the torso. The lighter fabric reveals the midriff in a sexy twist. The skirt then cascades down in layers of pristine white ruffles, completing the masterpiece beautifully. Finest Swarowski crystals embellish the bodice of this pretty couture dress, making it a work of art.
So, what do you say? Is this style that is being called the “sexification” of the wedding gown for you?
While a wedding planner can help you with the planning process, and even reduce the stress associated with the task, she isn’t going to be responsible for everything. After all, it is your wedding, and you should have a role in planning it. A wedding planner can only facilitate your plans and execute them smoothly.
Check out this article on the Huffington Post , where wedding planners share their thoughts on what they wish brides would realize. This will open your eyes to the fact that wedding planners have limitations, and it will be better for both parties if you set reasonable expectations from her.
Having said this, let us come to the three most important things that you are responsible for. Make a mental note of these, do your research and planning on time, and you will make your life (and hers) much easier.
Planning your guest list accurately
The guest list is your decision to make. Unless your wedding planner knows you personally, it is unlikely that she can help you with who should be dropped, or who should be added to your guest list. You should be decisive about the number of people attending, and she will do the bookings and planning for them. While your planner may be able to accommodate a few last-minute changes to plan, she is not a magician who can make arrangements for 50 extra guests, who simply turned up on the day. Similarly, make sure you get those RSVPs on time, and follow up with those who don’t send it. Or else, you will simply lose money on those extra bookings you made, just in case. Your wedding planner cannot do anything about guests not turning up.
Making sure your bridesmaids are where they are and when they should be
While your wedding planner can create a well planned schedule for the day, help to speed things along and fix last-minute hassles, there is no guarantee that she can have your girls ready and in-place, unless they make the effort to do so. So, entrust this task to your maid of honor, and choose your bridesmaids wisely. Make sure they are girls who will be serious with their responsibility of getting their hair and make-up done on time.
Sticking to deadlines
Your wedding planner will put you in touch with the right vendors, caterers, photographers and all other services you require. They will offer options, and also suggest deals with the best value for the money you spend. However, they cannot make your decisions for you. Many wedding tasks are time-sensitive, and unless you inform her of your final decision on time, you run the risk of losing a booking or missing an offer.
Remember that your wedding planner can only help you so much. Have realistic expectations, and follow her instructions. This way, you will be a great client, and she will ensure that your wedding plans progress in the best way that is possible. For more wedding planning tips and advice, visit us on Best for Bride.
Bad hair days are a given evil in our daily lives. So, imagine how your wedding look would go for a toss if your hair decided to act up on the most important day of your life?
You need to look perfect at your wedding, and your hair plays an important role in perfecting your overall bridal look. So, you cannot afford to sit back and just hope it will be alright. So, what do you do?
Fear not, for we are here with help. Follow this list of DO’s and DON’Ts and rest assured, you will be able to tame your mane and sport the fantastic wedding day hair you always dreamed of.
# THE BRIDAL HAIR DO’S
Start pampering and caring for your hair months in advance
Invest time and effort into your hair, if you want it to look great in time for your wedding day. Just as you start with a skin care regimen and plan a workout to get in shape six to eight months in advance,
set aside time to care for your hair. Only then will it be able to heal, grow and glow. Simple steps like replacing your old comb with a good quality brush, disentangling knots with care and never brushing wet hair, will make a huge difference over time. Give your hair extra TLC by applying an extra nourishing hair mask suitable for your hair type, once a week. Find more practical tips on how to take care of your hair in this article at the Feminine women website.
Avoid choosing or parting your hair in a way that makes you look entirely different from how you normally are. If you do, your guests will be figuring out why you look so different, instead of focusing on how beautiful you look in your bridal attire. The best option is to go with a variation of the hairstyle in which you always look pretty. Also pay close attention to the neckline of your dress, when choosing your hairstyle. You should wear your hair up or let it down, depending on what style complements the neckline of your dress. Here are some ideas
Side-swept chignons go well with strapless gowns, single-shoulder gowns, bateau necklines and illusion style dresses
Top knots and high buns are good choices with high necklines
Braided hairstyles are pretty with sweetheart necklines and lace gowns
Retro styles and loose hairdos are the choices for modern glamorous gowns with plunging V-necklines or halter straps
Have a test run before the actual day and nail the perfect hairstyle in advance
Collect pictures of hairstyles that you would like to try before you book your appointment with the hairstylist. You can then discuss all your ideas with her. Make sure you do this well ahead of your wedding day. Be open to her suggestions. Discuss any specific ideas you have, and where pictures are available, use them to help convey a better idea of how you want to look. Once you reach a consensus on the style to try, book a trial where you get to see how it actually looks. If you aren’t satisfied with how this hairstyle looks, you still have time to explore other options. Some articles suggest you attempt three different hairstyles for your wedding day, to settle on the best one. You could schedule your trial appointment for the same day as your bridal dress fitting session, as this will allow you to get a good idea of how the two work together.
Allow enough time for your hair appointment on your wedding day
You will get a fair idea of how long it will take you to style your wedding hairdo at your trial. When planning your wedding day schedule, make sure you add an extra half-hour, just to be safe. You never know what unexpected hiccups can crop up on the day. So, prepare for it in advance, and all will be well. On this note, don’t forget to cross-check and reconfirm your appointment the day before the wedding, so your hairstylist doesn’t forget.
If you will be changing dresses after the wedding, and also changing your hairdo to go with it, make sure you will have sufficient time for it. Choose styling products that will make this easy. Also, make a list and stash everything you need to get dressed into your tote well in advance, so you don’t forget anything at the last minute.
Wear a button-down dress while styling your hair on your wedding day
In the normal scenario, you will wear your wedding gown after you finish your hair and makeup. Choosing a front-open or button-down dress for your hair appointment will allow you to change into your wedding dress without disturbing your hairstyle. Or, if you are doing your hair by yourself at home, a bathrobe works well too. In either case, you should be able to easily get out without having to touch your hairstyle or ruining it.
#THE BRIDAL HAIR DONT’S
Experiment with a new cut or colour too close to the wedding date
As I mentioned earlier, you should be preparing for your wedding day a few months ahead of the wedding. The ideal time to start planning is as soon as you buy your wedding dress. If you plan to try a drastically different haircut or colour your hair a brand new shade, make sure you do it as early as possible, so you have time to grow out of it if it isn’t something you like. The best thing to do is to get the look well in advance, and simply trim, touch up and maintain it during the days leading up to the wedding. This way, you will not be in for any nasty surprises in the hair department, on your big day.
Use heat or curling and straightening irons unless absolutely necessary, till your wedding day
Limit the use of heat and hair styling products, as these can take a toll on the natural bounce and beauty of your tresses. Your hair will have to deal with a lot of stress from curling, crimping, setting and straightening on the wedding day itself. So, minimize the damage by subjecting your hair to minimum hair treatments prior to the wedding. We perfectly understand how you will find it necessary to turn on the heat, to look perfect for all those pre-wedding photo opportunities. After all, you want to look great not just on your wedding day, but in all the pictures that make their way into your collection of wedding memories. But too much heat damage will have you stressing over your hair after you tie the knot. So, take it easy with the chemicals and heat. Don’t forget to use a heat-resistant spray and give your hair the nourishment it requires, so it can cope. Also, do your bit by drinking plenty of water and eating a well-balanced diet that will have your hair in top shape to bear this external damage.
Forget about hair accessories when planning your wedding day hairstyle
When you attend your trial hair appointment, make sure you have all your hair accessories for the day with you. This should include your veil, hair pins, combs, clips, hair extensions, flowers and anything else that you intend to wear in your hair, on an actual day. The veil is very important, as where it is placed will greatly impact your overall look. There are stunning hairstyles that work well with veils. So, if you will be wearing a veil, discuss your options with your hairdresser. Similarly, placing hair accessories like headbands at different positions on your crown can alter your look drastically. Sort this out at your trial appointment, rather than wait till your wedding day to find out. Look at pictures you find in magazines and on the internet for inspiration, and also listen to your stylist’s suggestions. Once you nail the final look, take pictures of this hairstyle from all angles, and save it for your reference. This will help clear up any confusion on your wedding day, should it happen. You also don’t want to choose a look that will seem dated five years from now. Go with classic and elegant styles and choose hair accessories that will stand the test of time. Check out this article on how to choose the best headpieces for your wedding day for some ideas to plan your wedding day look.
Overdo it; simple can also be stylish
The more you worry about how you will look on your wedding day, the more difficult it will be to find the perfect look. It isn’t necessary to have an elaborate or very complicated hairstyle to look glamorous on your wedding day. Simply polishing up your regular style, or adding a dose of bling with a gorgeous ornament, is all that is sometimes needed to create that impact. To do this easily, we suggest you try to recollect a few occasions when you looked best, and how you wore your hair at the time. Start with something similar and work out a hairstyle with your stylist, so you can enhance it even further. Comfort is also key. If you think you’ll be fiddling with your hair at the altar if you leave it down, go for a style that takes the hair away from your face instead. There are hundreds of great hairstyles that can help you achieve the look you want to while feeling comfortable as well. All you have to do is to figure out which of them will be apt for you.
Forget to pack hairspray and other touch-up essentials into your emergency kit, to keep your curls in place throughout the day
It is not just when you walk down the aisle that you ought to look great, it is all through the day. This means you may have to touch up your hair once in a while. Make sure you stash away all the necessary tools for this, in your bridal emergency kit. This includes your hairbrush, a fine comb, hairspray and bobby pins. Make sure you touch up at regular intervals, so you look fresh and your hair is intact in all your wedding pictures. Also, it is only sensible to plan your hairstyle such that it is suitable for the venue and weather. If your ceremony is held outdoors in a breezy location, allowing your locks to naturally fall may not be the best idea. So, think of all these factors when deciding on your hairstyle. If you will be changing your hairstyle after the ceremony, for the reception, practice, practice, practice! Only then will it be quick and easy to change from the first style to the second, on the day. Choose suitable styling products so this is easy to achieve.
Finally, remember that your wedding day is not all about how you look, but also about how you feel. Everything you wear or dress up in should only complement the happiness you feel in your soul on the day you marry the man you love. Keep this vision in mind, and everything will be sorted out by itself.
At Best for Bride, we are here to help you realize your vision for the perfect wedding day. Beginning with your wedding dress to your ceremony décor, invitations, wedding cake, party favours, jewelry and accessories, we have everything you require for your big day. For an unbeatable collection of beautiful hair accessories, tiaras and veils, visit us today and make your pick. You can also choose to rent your wedding jewelry and hair accessories from us, at a fraction of their original cost. Book your appointment or drop in at your nearest Best for Bride store, and see your wedding dreams come to reality in no time.
For more wedding tips and advice keep visiting us at Best for Bride.
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