Choosing a wedding dress can be a daunting task. With so many styles and options available, how do you know where to start? And once you’ve found the perfect dress, what about the accessories? How do you know which ones will complete your look without going over budget?
Fear not! This guide is here to help. In it, we’ll explore the different types of wedding dresses and accessories available, as well as some tips on how to find the perfect match for your big day. So whether you’re just starting to browse or you’ve already got a few contenders in mind, read on for some helpful advice.
Haven’t you ever felt that all brides tend to make similar (and safe) choices for their wedding day?
Even fashion forward and daring women tend to play it safe when its time to plan their wedding day look. After all, your wedding album will record your bridal look for generations to come. Why should you take a risk and look dated in just few years?
The good news is that you can still have a remarkable wedding day look that will be truly memorable, without going overboard. You can also adopt certain trends, without taking them to the extreme. It is in fact rather amazing, how just a little attention to detail can help you grab everyone’s attention.
This is what we shall explore in today’s post. So, check out the different ideas we have compiled, and let us know which of these is your favorite.
1.Choose a dress with stunning back details
Certain dresses are prettier from the back than they are from the front. This simple fact is often enough to set a bride apart and make her bridal look truly memorable. So, let this be the surprise element of your wedding day look. From keyhole backs to illusion details, daring low cut backs and even unusual embellishments in this region, there are many options to explore.
The best thing about this option is that you can even cover it up during the ceremony with your veil, only to reveal this interesting element when you take it off for the reception. Here are some dresses with fabulous back details that will wow your guests.
Sophia Tolli Y11730 Fontayne with lace appliques and illusion details
White is a signature color in wedding gowns. So, a pop of color is rather unexpected and interesting in many ways. Not only is it a great way to tie your look to the color theme of your wedding, this singular factor will also make your look instantly unforgettable. Colorful wedding gowns are always a big hit on the runway. Nevertheless, a fully colored gown entirely deviates from the typical expectation we have for brides.
Instead consider a gown with a vibrant dose of color in specific areas. This could be the bodice, as appliques, a colorful trim in the hemline, as a belt, in embellishments or even in the train. Here are some examples.
Cover-ups are always intriguing, as they create an air of mystery and leave the onlooker wondering how the wedding dress underneath is. Whether it is a cape, capelet, jacket, shrug or stole, a pretty cover-up is an interesting addition to the bridal trousseau. It is also a functional accessory, for it will come to your rescue should the evening become chilly.
If you are a winter bride, your options in cover-ups are endless. Try on warm jackets or shrugs or invest in a beautiful pashmina that you can use again after the wedding. If your wedding is in summer or spring, a cover-up is unexpected, and interested. Pick a lightweight, stylish accessory that will enhance your bridal look in an entirely different way.
For more ideas on what you can use to stay warm on your wedding day, while looking stylish take a look at this post on Brit and Co.
4.A fascinator
Fascinators are amazing headpieces with signature appeal. They instantly grab attention, and definitely don’t go unnoticed. Make this the highlight of your bridal look, and it will be remarkable. Choose fascinators with floral details, birdcage veil details or pom poms for a vivid look.
The downside of this bridal accessory is that it is loud and very vivid. So, you should keep the rest of your accessories simple to avoid a cluttered look. Either pair it with understated jewelry or make sure your dress is simple if you want to wear more accessories.
5.Oversize accessories
You do not need too many items to enhance your bridal look. Just one or two bold, statement accessories will help you stand out. Don’t hesitate to experiment with one or two oversize accessories that will make a definite statement and help you nail that first impression. Choose from tiaras, sparkly head bands and big brooches. You can also wear statement earrings that are available in a wide variety of designs like chandelier earrings, large hoops or danglers.
Oversize accessories look best when paired with minimalist wedding dresses. This will enhance the impact of the accessory, as it will stand out against the simplicity of the dress. Plain satin finish dresses and soft chiffon dresses with simple dress elements like cap sleeves, high necklines and few embroidery details will allow the accessories to shine.
6.Bright lip color
Whether your wedding is in summer or winter, a bright lip color is all it takes to bring a bright touch to your bridal look. Let this be the highlight of your makeup, and you will look like a diva. Bright crimson and vivid orange shades are bold. When opting for colors as fiery as these, it is important that you keep the rest of your makeup simple. Do not overdo your eyes, or the entire look will be ruined. Also, keep in mind that different shades of red work are suitable for different complexions. So, make sure you choose the right shade that flatters your complexion for best results.
Apart from red, bright lively shades of pink are also suitable for making a bold statement. Consider bubblegum pink or magenta for the impact you desire. For more tips on how to pull of unusual and statement lip colors, I suggest you visit this post on the Bustle.
7.Switch out the traditional gown for wedding separates
Wedding dress separates are a welcome change from the typical single-piece bridal gown. The best thing about this option is that you can mix and match pieces to create your own style. You can even switch out the typical wedding skirt with something more bold, like a pant suit. Nobody will easily forget the bride who wore pants, that is for sure!
Interesting options include heavily layered tulle skirts with crop tops that show a hint of skin at the waistline. You can even go with an inserted top for the skirt and blouse look of yesteryears. Even vary the length of the skirt to find one that flatters your figure and adds a youthful charm to your overall look.
8.Peep of color beneath the skirt
Pick a petticoat that adds a punch of color as it trims the hemline of your wedding skirt. Otherwise, pick some colored shoes to add a pop of color to your feet. Such doses of color in unexpected places will pep up your look instantly.
This is also a great way to tie your look to the wedding color scheme, without going too far. Your guests are bound to be intrigued by your attention to detail, and find the way you incorporated color into your outfit rather amusing.
9.Wear a flower crown
Flower crowns never lose their charm. So, wear one, especially if your wedding celebrates a natural or vintage theme. It is also the ideal hair accessory if your wedding is on the beach or at a garden. Bigger blooms add more drama. Nonetheless, a bridal flower crown with delicate and wispy flowers are just as charming.
Ensure that you choose the flowers for your crown carefully. Since certain flowers are sturdier than others, it is better to pick such blooms if you will wear the flower crown the entire day. The other option is to wear your flower crown for the ceremony, and replace it with another hair accessory for the reception.
10.Wear boots or sneakers with your wedding dress
Replace your wedding shoes with super-comfortable sneakers and you will not only find it easy to move around, it will also create a unique style. If your wedding dress has a short hemline, choose boots that cover up the exposed part of your legs for a super-stylish look. Remember that you can re-use these boots after the wedding, which makes it a worthwhile investment. For a shorter dress that ends between the knee and ankles, choose knee-length or calf length boots.
Sneakers can be adorable at a casual theme wedding. Pick it in bright, vivid colors that tie to the theme of your wedding for most impact. If you aren’t sure this is right for you, consider getting a pair of heels for the ceremony. Then switch into your sneakers at the reception, and dancing will be so much easier. It will also be an interesting twist to your bridal look, without too much effort.
11.Go barefoot if your wedding is at the beach
Whatever choices you make for your wedding, you should ultimately stay true to your personal style. If the reason you chose a beach venue is your love for the sand and the sea, you will most likely also enjoy the feeling of the sand in your toes. So, don’t hesitate to forego footwear entirely, on your wedding day at the beach.
Instead of a pair of shoes, go barefoot. But don’t forget to dress up your feet with pretty accessories that will make it look attractive. Wear an anklet or toe rings to add a touch of bling to your feet. Or dress it up with glittery tattoos or jewelry with sparkling elements to enhance the beauty.
Image Credits: Alex Lupo, via Flickr
12.Replace your bouquet with something different
The bouquet is an important bridal accessory. However, it is also totally expected. So, if you must add an unusual twist to your wedding day look, replace the bridal bouquet with something unique. Consider replacing the fresh flowers bouquet with a faux flower bouquet. You can make this from felt flowers, silk flowers or even paper flowers.
If this doesn’t satisfy your fancy for the unusual, go with even bolder choices. How about replacing the bouquet entirely with a lantern or feathers? There are many more such ideas for the offbeat bride on this article at the Rock n Roll Bride. So, don’t forget to take a look.
13.Wear a quirky hair accessory
Forget the veil, forget the headband and all other traditional hair accessories. Let your choice add a quirky touch to your wedding day look, when you pick a colorful and fun accessory that stands out.
Go for a fun, feathered piece with colorful accents that add a unique twist to your look. Or you could even replace the hair piece with a cute hat. Now, that is a look that your guests wouldn’t expect in the least. So, it is sure to go down in their memories.
Your wedding day is special, and it deserves to be one-of-a-kind. So, don’t hesitate to explore all the possible options. For it is always better to know than wonder “what-if” in the years to come.
For all your bridal needs, from a spectacular wedding dress to stunning accessories to complete your bridal look, we have all you need at Best for Bride. Visit our website to view our extensive collection of bridal dresses and accessories. You can also find all that you need for your bridal party at our website. So, don’t forget to check out your options today, and come one step closer to making your wedding day visions a reality.
Wedding season falls between spring and fall for a reason – couples adore the clear, blue skies, warm (and mostly consistent) weather, and that laid-back summer feel that stays with people even if they do have to go to work every day.
Summer is nostalgia and swimming pools and catching fireflies after sunset. It’s ice cream and palm trees and sweet peach tea. It’s such a fun season myself. Vincent and my team here at Pixan Photography came up with more than 100 summer wedding ideas to inspire couples to get married then.
And if there’s one place that embodies summer the most, it’s the beach. Balmy breezes toes in the sand, salt-water skin.
The beach is such a perfect place to be during summertime, many couples figure, ‘why not spend one of the biggest days of our life there too?’
If that sounds like you and you’re planning a beach wedding, you might wonder what kind of gown is best.
Undoubtedly, a beach wedding has all kinds of pluses, but it also comes with its negatives. And sometimes, the pluses can also be negatives, so you should put extra time into choosing a wedding gown that will work wonderfully oceanside.
As a Mexico destination photographer, Pixan Photography shoots many beach weddings…a lot. Along the way, the Pixan team and I have made a few keen observations about the top considerations a bride will have when choosing a beach-ready wedding gown, and I’m ready to spill the beans.
So put on your sunshades, slather on the sunblock, and keep reading for how to choose a wedding gown perfect for a beach wedding.
TYPE OF SAND
One of the first things you’ll want to think about while shopping for a beach wedding dress is what kind of beach you’ll call your own (for the wedding day, of course).
Where is the beach, and what kind of sand does it have?
Coarse sand will not do well for long trains and trailing dresses.
Fine sand is easier to walk through, and there’s not as much worry about rips and tears in the bottom of the dress.
STYLE OF VENUE
Take a good look at your overall venue and select a gown that matches the formality of your venue, decor, and theme.
If you’re splitting time between a ceremony by the sea and a reception indoors and don’t plan to squeeze in a costume change, you’ll want to choose a dress that can transition between the two.
What kind of venue is it?
A simple cabana gives off a different feel than a ballroom with an ocean view.
What is the build of the ceremony space?
A wedding on the beach doesn’t necessarily mean a ceremony in the sand. Some venues own beach real estate and have built their custom structure right on the sand.
If the ceremony space is fully tiled, built on a wooden deck or a raised dock to the water, you’ll have fewer concerns about the style of dress because you won’t be walking on sand, except perhaps in a beach photo shoot.
What is the wedding theme?
The same goes for the decorations and wedding theme. If you’re aiming for a laid-back beach vibe and your reception space is decorated in bright colours and bohemian details, you’ll probably want to steer clear from a more formal, sleek silk wedding gown and go with one that embodies the same laid-back chic feel of your wedding.
How far will you need to travel to reach the venue?
Lastly, think about how far your venue is from home and all the little things that come with having a beach wedding.
Will you have to check your dress at the airport or drive it cross country?
Is it easy to pack and move? Will it wrinkle?
Will it cost a fortune to get to your destination? A dress that is lightweight and fold-friendly is your best bet.
Packing Tip: When travelling with skirts and dresses, you’ll minimize wrinkles and creases if you roll the item rather than fold it. Or, if you’re flying with wedding attire, consider packing it in a garment bag.
FABRIC & DETAILS
Now, let’s talk fabric.
Think light and airy fabrics like organza, chiffon, charmeuse, cotton, and crepe, which all provide breathability and movement, not to mention they’ll dreamily billow in the breeze, which makes for stunning wedding photos.
For more lightweight fabric options, as well as heavier ones, check out The Knot’s epic Dress Fabric Glossary.
You can also attain airflow by choosing a dress with a lace bodice and a skirt with slits.
Be mindful of lace trim, as it can easily pick up debris, like sand and everything that has washed up. If you’ve been drooling over lace or highly detailed elements, consider a dress that features these in the bodice, not in the skirt’s trim.
Keep embellishments to a minimum. The more frills you add to your dress, the heavier it will get. If you want to add sparkle, consider a simple draping neckpiece or a garter belt with a little bling that wraps around your waist.
DESIGN
The overall design of the gown will influence your comfort significantly, so it’s probably a factor you don’t want to ignore.
Although you may have fallen in love with a certain style of dress, it might not serve you well on the beach.
Keep the dress volume in mind. Ideally, you want something lightweight, something you can move in, especially during dancing time.
The heavier a dress is, the harder it will be to walk through the sand. Plus, heavy = hot, and with the possible humidity your area might have, hot, sweaty, and sticky is not something you want to endure.
As for silhouettes, A-lines and shift dresses, and shorter lengths are ideal. Short wedding dresses eliminate straggling sand and other debris you might pick up on the beach.
If your heart is set on length, consider a shorter dress with a longer, lightweight veil to bring in that dramatic trailing effect.
Just as it is important to know what to wear, it’s equally important to know what not to wear. Mermaid (I know, it seems so appropriate, but trust us!) silhouettes, ball gowns, and empire dresses should be avoided.
When comparing bodice types, consider that crop tops with a separate skirt, strapless dresses, halter tops, and backless dresses will do wonders for keeping you cool.
Even though that quarter-sleeve dress you may have your eye on seems like a lovely fit, think about how it will feel when you’re under the summer sun. And let’s not even think about sweat stains. No thanks!
COLOR
This decision might seem as easy and breezy as a day at the beach – white, obviously – but keep in mind that there are various shades of white. Even non-white colours can be beautiful, especially in a tropical setting.
A champagne or ivory dress in the bridal salon might look different once you’re strutting it in front of your home mirror. Different light spectrums will change the colour of your dress, even if just slightly.
Since you’ll most likely be spending a lot of time under blue skies and sunshine, take your potential wedding gown into natural light to see what it looks like to the naked eye and in photographs. Better to be safe than sorry.
And if you have a beach nearby with sand the same tone as where you’ll be wed, bring fabric swatches in shades of white, ivory, champagne or whatever other color you’re considering to compare against the sand. Because sand tends to fall in these same shades of neutral colours, your dress could blend in too much in your beach wedding photos. Finding a shade that contrasts well against the sand will enhance your photos drastically.
DECIDING ON YOUR IDEAL BEACH WEDDING GOWN
To recap what we’ve covered: your beach wedding gown should ideally be lightweight, cool, and easy to move around in; should match the formality of your venue and wedding theme; look great under natural light and against a sandy beach backdrop; and most importantly, look and feel beautiful on you!
With all that in mind, in the end, you have to go with your gut and pick the dress you’re gaga about. This is a day you’ve been dreaming of for years, so you may just throw all caution to the wind and get the dress you’ve been pining over, regardless of the drawbacks.
And, you know what? That’s OK! It’s your day to experience as you wish. Hopefully, these tips will simply give you some insight into considerations that can maximize your comfort and enhance your wedding photos too.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vincent owns Pixan Photography, a team of destination wedding photographers in Mexico who are as passionate about their clients as they are about their work. When he’s not shooting destination weddings, Vincent loves travelling the world with his wife and son.
Greek Goddesses have forever been the epitome of elegance and sophistication. Eons after being portrayed in sculpture and art, they continue to inspire designers and dress makers.
unique design elements like the single shoulder drape that can transform any woman into a model of beauty
Romantic designs with elusive elements that add an endearing charm to simplistic fashion
The best part about Goddess inspired gowns is that they are versatile, and can serve as the perfect wedding dress for any type of wedding. Be it summer, winter, fall or spring, these are fabulous choices that help a bride transform into a heavenly beauty. Whether you choose to have a vintage style wedding or a beach soiree, there are Grecian dresses that look just the part.
Let us now take a look at some of our favorite Goddess inspired gowns from our leading designer collections.
Alfred Angelo 2516 Modern Fit bridal gown
This dreamy wedding gown from the Alfred Angelo bridal collection brings together many Grecian outfit features in perfect harmony. The pleated criss-cross bodice ends in a scoop neckline with a delicate cutout at the chest. A scintillating waistband structures the flowing pleats and defines the waist perfectly. The flowing chiffon is delicate and dreamy, and you will be surprised to learn that this is in fact not a wedding gown, but a jumpsuit. Isn’t it the perfect choice for a beach wedding?
Alfred Angelo 2515 draped sweetheart wedding gown
This classic design is Grecian inspired in more than one way. The draped bodice is gathered at the shoulders with slender straps and it elegantly crosses over the bust to end in an embellished waistline. The soft skirt effortlessly glides into layers that end in a splendid chapel length train. Elegant and feminine, it is an amazing dress that is just perfect for your Goddess inspired wedding day look.
Alfred Angelo 2510 single shoulder satin gown
Although a slight deviation from the typical flowing fabric gowns, this one-shouldered satin gown is definitely characterized by the most unique Goddess element—the single shoulder strap. Created in luxurious satin, the neckline is accentuated with a double pleat detail, and at the natural waistline is a crystal belt.
It is not too difficult to complete your Greek Goddess look with the right accessories, makeup and hairstyle. But, to nail the effect, you have to pay close attention to your hairstyle. Easy pinups, finger waves and messy beach hair are all chic and stylish, and these dresses also look great with floral accessories. To check out some of the classic, yet contemporary hairstyles for your big day, take a look at this article on the Fashion Style Mag.
So, did you find a dress in this list, that captured your fancy? We have these and many more contemporary Grecian gowns in our bridal collection at Best for Bride. So, visit us today and make your pick.
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