Your wedding is a day you will cherish and remember for the rest of your life. It is very likely hundreds of photographs will be taken of you and your future spouse on it. Because of the day’s importance and how many photos will be taken, you both must look your best. Unfortunately for women, dresses are very complicated. Men need suits which are relatively easy to put together. All they have to do is to go and see a bespoke tailor or even buy one off of the rack. Women must spend weeks choosing a dress and then go to countless appointments with sewists to get the fit right.
If you are a woman interested in buying the perfect wedding dress, which you should be, there is likely a lot for you to consider. Something you shouldn’t overlook is the fabric your dress is made out of. The wrong material can make your dress heavy and challenging to walk around in. This post intends to tell you everything you need to know about wedding dress fabrics so that it’s easier for you to choose the right one. When you have the suitable material, your dress will be perfect, just as it’s meant to be. Keep reading to ensure you get the fabric that suits you best.
Every bride has a unique vision and preferences regarding finding the perfect wedding dress. I knew I wanted something classic and timeless but had a modern twist. And that’s when I discovered the beauty of sleeved wedding dresses.
When I tried on my first-sleeved gown, I knew it was the one. The sleeves added a touch of elegance and sophistication, while the modern cut and fabric made it feel fresh and on-trend. And as I continued my search, I realized that sleeved wedding dresses offered the perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
How many of you brides have been searching for inspiration in your mother’s wedding album when choosing your bridesmaids dresses? Not many, I believe!
There is no surprise here, for bridesmaids dresses weren’t always inspiring in the past! We have all heard notorious tales of dresses that resembled cotton candy and fabrics that would be better off as drapes!
Nonetheless, we live in a time when many things from the past seem to reappear on the wedding scene. From heirloom wedding dresses to vintage themes, décor and classic venues, couples have embraced many elements from weddings of the past. While this trend continues, it is only right that we visit bridesmaids dresses inspired by fashions from the past.
Today, we will look at bridesmaids dresses that are suitable for different vintage eras. I found this article on the Bustle extremely helpful with this. It gives us a clear idea of the trends that were most happening during the past, with some really interesting pictures to support it. Let us try to find inspiration in these dress styles and locate dresses from our current bridesmaids collections to reinvent the look. We can assure you that they will not look out of place in the modern wedding scene. So, let’s begin!
The 1850’s
Women’s clothing in this era was rather elaborate, with corsets and wide skirts supported by hoops and crinoline. The ball gown was popular in evening wear and formal dresses. Your bridesmaids may not appreciate being weighed down in a heavy ball gown dress at your wedding, nor is it appropriate. Nonetheless, there are other dress features from the Victorian era that you can easily incorporate into your bridesmaid’s looks. Here they are.
Low-necked and off-the-shoulder styles were big hits during this era. Many designer collections today feature these in their bridesmaid’s dresses. Here are some!
The dress has the opulence and fitted bodice style that is reminiscent of the 1850’s. However, the fitted silhouette continues into the skirt, allowing for easy movement. The off-the-shoulder neckline and details in the bodice are suitable for a Victorian vibe.
The Angelina Faccenda 20453 dress features an off-the-shoulder neckline and has embellishments on the dropped sleeves. The criss-cross bodice results in an empire waistline. The ruchings in the front continue into the back of the dress as well.
Early 19th century
During the Edwardian era, defined waistlines were created using tight-fitting corsets. The ideal female figure resembled a pigeon structure. This was characterized by an upper body that thrust forward, while a thin waistline emphasized the hips and bust. An air of opulence defined most dress styles. Frilly embellishments like ruffles, lace and floral details were very popular. By the year 1910, the empire line was preferred over the corset. Pastels were preferred for daytime dresses, while dark, deep rich colours were chosen for formal evening wear. Here are some dresses that recreate this effect in bridesmaids’ dresses.
Here is a dress from the Mori Lee Bridesmaid collection with a well-defined waistline and structured silhouette. The dress has plenty of lace embellishments strewn throughout the length. These add an air of finesse. The satin waistband defines the waistline and the full-length makes it suitable for a formal wedding ceremony.
This dress from the Jasmine dress collection has full-length sleeves and a defined waistline. Although no corset detail exists, the silhouette is structured and fits tightly against the natural curves. The full-length sleeves are actually a removable shrug. This feature also gives the dress a two-in-one look. The embellished bodice has details that compare with the luxurious finishes of Edwardian dresses.
The 1930’s
Most dress silhouettes had one striking detail in this era—tiered skirts. This is a dress feature that many wedding dress designers have openly embraced and included in wedding gowns. Although there are few bridesmaids dresses with this feature, it is attractive when present. Huge collars were another big fashion feature in this decade. Here are our picks that bring back these styles.
A modern-style tiered A-line dress, this Mori Lee 123 brings tiers to life, albeit in a contemporary style. Gentle tiers are fashioned in chiffon to create an almost rippling effect and a smart silhouette, unlike the over-the-top dress styles that were popular in the 1930s.
Inspired by the elaborate collars that were the highlight of the 1930’s, this After Six bridesmaid dress is a very stylish variation of this style. A ruffled overlay drops off the halter-neckline over the fitted silhouette, making this florentine lace gown a vintage beauty.
Sassy, stylish short dresses in 1950
Short, but voluminous skirts were stylish in the 1950’s. These added a youthful vibe to the overall look. Although short, the dresses usually featured layers of taffeta and net that formed buoyant skirts. Bows were an essentially important detail at this time. This feature, in fact, found its way to not just dresses, but even hats. Let’s take a look at some of the dresses from our collection which bring back the memories of this era.
Here is a tulle dress with a bouncy skirt that was a favorite in the 1950’s. Perhaps a tad shorter than was the norm, this dress has a thick voluminous skirt that is still acceptable to the modern woman.
This dress from the After Six Bridesmaid collection features a bodice that has a different color than in the skirt. This was an essentially common feature in the dress styles of the years we discussed about. The defined waistline and smart silhouette with the halter neck are smart and will suit women today, as they did back then.
1960’s poufy dresses and sheath silhouettes
At the beginning of the decade, many brides chose to dress their bridesmaids in shiny dresses with voluminous skirts. Silky sateen finishes were popular, so the look reflected opulence and luxury. As the decade progressed, the silhouettes slimmed and the sheath was the chosen style for most women. The white glove was an accessory that rendered itself to any dress style.
This dress from the Mori Lee Bridesmaid collection has a layered net skirt and is in a rich color that was popular in the 1960’s. Even so, the dress has the poufy look that characterized formal dress styles at the time. Imagine this dress when worn with a pair of pristine white gloves. That should give you a clear idea of what we mean.
As women stepped out of corsets and stiffly structured dress silhouettes, the sheath became the favorite. Here is a sheath silhouette from the Angelina Faccenda collection, with all the glitz and glamour that reflects the style of the 1960’s. The cap sleeve and accessories like hats and white gloves worked well with this design.
Vibrant and colorful 1970s
Patterns and prints in big and bold proportions entered the fashion scene in the 1970s. Appliques and patchworks as well as vibrant, colorful designs were trendy at this time. Dresses flowed to full length and loosely draped around the natural silhouette.
This dress from the Alfred Sung collection could easily pass off as an original from the 1970s. With bright floral prints on a loose silhouette, the colors on the dress stand out. While it would look good at a garden wedding today, you would have seen it any type of wedding in those days.
The After Six Bridesmaids 6556 is a dress with a variety of colors that recreate the 1970s vibe. Despite a fitted waistband, the dress is loose flowing and comfortable with its soft fabric and drape.
The rich and flamboyant style of the 1980s
With the 1980’s the entire fashion scene underwent significant change. Everything was done in bigger and bolder proportions. As hairstyles grew bigger and shine and shimmer was seen in the makeup and accessories, outfits were generally colorful, lively and unusually interesting.
Everything about this dress from the Jasmine Bridal collection, including the color, fit, ruffles, drape and even the sleeves are signature features. This is a style that is typical of the 1980’s. The interesting part is that the dress is interesting in the back as well, with a V-neck formed of bell sleeves.
Here’s another dress from the Dessy Bridesmaid collection that would pass off as a suitable choice for the 1980’s. The dress has loose sleeves which were a characteristic feature of those days. The silhouette, although fitted, is one that flows loosely without too much structure. The criss-cross detail in the bodice and the shimmering waistband are toned-down versions of popular dress details that added to the 1980’s appeal.
Fashion in the 2000’s
With the new century, fashion began diverging in different directions. Unpredictability reigned high, as everyone sought unique styles. No longer did brides choose cookie-cutter weddings or bridal parties similar to those seen at other weddings. There was a general mash-up of styles, adding to the appeal of bridesmaids outfits. Metallics, neutrals and casual styles became part of mainstream fashion.
Stylish, elegant and figure-flattering, this is a dress that the women in 2000’s would quickly approve of. The sweetheart neckline is delightfully feminine and has a romantic appeal. The neckline drapes to one side and pinches at the side, with a layered look. The shimmering color is attractive, but distinct from the typical shiny dresses seen in the years leading up to the 21st century.
This dress is from the Alfred Sung Collection and is a sateen twill dress. Tastefully designed with a gentle sheer scoop neckline over a sweetheart bodice, the dress has an A-line shape. The length gives it a smart look. Despite its simplicity, this beautiful dress will appeal to almost anyone. Another good thing about this dress is that it doesn’t need many accessories.
And finally this decade
Fashion has grown by leaps and bounds in the second decade of this century. Every year brings in it’s wake new and interesting changes on the fashion scene. With the evolution of wedding fashion, changes have arrived in the world of bridesmaids dresses too. Brides now recognize the individuality of the women in their bridal party and consider matching bridesmaids outfits boring and unnecessary.
Hence few rules define bridesmaids fashion these days. It is as unique as the wedding, woman and theme itself. Mix-and-match bridesmaids dresses is no longer just a trend, but is considered an essential part of a wedding. Over the last few years we have seen everything from color-block prints to rich jewel colors and pastels rule the scene at different points of time.
The revival of traditional elements like lace, vintage elements like ruffles and accessories have all arrived and stayed on.
Bridesmaids dresses with bold elements like 3-d florals, geometric patterns and oversize embellishments add a modern effect to unconventional wedding themes.
Both loose drapes that resemble masculine styles, as well as soft, feminine romantic styles have appeared on the wedding scene. So, it is hard to predict what a bride expects when shopping for her bridal party outfits.
At Best for Bride, you can find dresses of every style, fitting every era and matching the uniqueness of your bridesmaids. To take a closer look at any of the dresses featured here and check out more options, visit our bridesmaid dress collections here. Please find all the inspiration and information you need to make your wedding vision a reality through our bridesmaids collections.
Style is a sophisticated concept, and each woman has her own definition for it. The general fashion style dictates a woman’s wedding dress choice as well, as wedding dresses are supposed to reflect the bride’s personality. This is why we see that the dresses that one bride considers stylish do not find equal favor with another bride. Finding the style that reflects your personality is primary to looking and feeling good, especially on your wedding day.
The fashion world has identified styles based on similarities in patterns, fabrics and color combinations. This article on the enkiVillage website divides Fashion styles into as many as 17 different types based on these factors. We can find wedding dresses that conform to most of these different styles. So, read on to see the dresses that we have identified as perfect for each of them. And, once you’ve gone through these gorgeous wedding dresses, don’t forget to tell us which of these styles best defines you.
1.Bohemian
The Boho style is identified as non-traditional and unusual. In this style, you can expect textures and colors in unexpected combinations creating a characteristic gypsy style. The beauty of the Boho style is that it brings together seemingly unrelated elements and carves out a fashion statement of its own. Despite this, it is attractive in it’s own way.
The Mori Lee 6808 is a dress that will be loved by the Boho-style fan. This dress mixes and matches textures in an obvious way, which is why it is unusually attractive. Light, wispy fabric in tiers forms layers in the skirt, while the bodice features lace over the bust and a draped waistband that is replicated in the straps. Perfect for a destination wedding, this is a dress that is light and perfect for an informal setting.
2.Chic
Chic translates into stylish, and here the look is both fashionable and smart. It is a perfect choice for the modern woman with a strong personality, who knows how to rock fashion the right way. In this style you will see classic and modern elements, with the main feature being that it personifies the woman’s confidence wearing it.
The Mori Lee 5402 features a modern modified A-line silhouette, stylish sweetheart neckline, and artistically placed lace details. The dropped waist is slimming, and the layered skirt has just the right amount of drama. It is stylish while combining traditional elements with modern and trendy features. The silhouette, neckline and hemline are all perfect for a chic bride.
3.Classic
Classic style refers to timeless details that have always been favored. Classic style dresses usually feature flawless tailoring and fine fabric, that make them elegant and perfect as heirlooms. This is because the dress has features that are never called trendy, but are staples that appeal to all generations without looking dated. This style usually stands out without being cluttered or too glitzy, yet is noticed easily for its finesse and quality of details. Every bride who wants a safe choice for her wedding day, should consider a wedding dress with classic style elements, even if her regular wardrobe doesn’t contain many classic staples.
The Mori Lee 2703, an A-line gown in Duchess satin with fine crystal beading is a stunning example of this style. This dress features exquisite embroidery details along the sweetheart neckline and center of the bodice as well as a basque waistline, which is another classic feature. With a wonderful train, and satin buttons that course all the way down to the end of the train at the back, this dress is just perfect for a formal wedding. The elegant bride who glides down the aisle, will enrapture all the onlookers in this timeless gown.
4.Dramatic
Dramatic is energetic, flamboyant style that stands out distinctly. The style is flashy and loud, with more than one element that competes for attention. The dress style is elaborate, and the accessories usually bring out the exciting and wild nature of the dress. It can be overwhelming to some, but the woman who loves dramatic style won’t mind the obvious style of the attires that give her an easy and obvious way to be noticed.
Fairytales are the one place where you are bound to find dramatic looks. The dropped waist bodice is embellished with a unique rhinestone and crystal beaded design never seen before. In striking contrast, thick, wispy flange ruffles recreate the waves of the ocean in the skirt. The sweetheart bodice and chapel train are the other characteristic features of this attractive wedding dress.
5.Glamorous
Dramatic and sexy, with just the right amount of bling, glamorous styles strive to enhance femininity most stylishly. Women who like this style do not hesitate to max up on the style factor and wear big and bold features and accessories that dazzle and stun. Glamour can also be done subtly, but this look cannot be mistaken, and this type of glamorous bride will be remembered for the refined sophistication she sported.
The Y11634 Loraina from the Sophia Tolli collection has several elements that make it glamorous. A striking feature is an off-the-shoulder neckline that allows the bride to show off her décolletage and well-toned shoulders. Apart from this, the dress also features a snug-fitting trumpet silhouette that courses snugly along the natural curves of the bride’s figure. The tasteful artwork in lace and the brilliance of the crystal embroidery give this dress all that is required to make a statement look. Add to it the illusion style back and the magnificent chapel train, there is no stopping this bride!
6.Romantic
Poetic and magnificent, the romantic style features flowers, hearts, ruffles and soft dreamy details that are immensely captivating. Gentle curves, soft lines and details that seamlessly flow from one area to the other, the romantic style is beautiful and appeals to almost everyone. Lace is one detail that is usually associated with romantic styles, and this style emphasizes the feminine features to the maximum extent possible.
The Mori Lee 2724 is an elegant romantic fit and flare gown with luscious lace details and a sparkling heart motif at the bust. The soft details are simply splendid and the soft contrast of lace against the sateen shine of the layers below it make this a stellar design. The sweetheart neckline accentuates the femininity of the bride in this dress, with it softly coursing along the natural curves of the bust. The back details are simple, with a satin button train coursing through the center, all the way to the derriere.
7.Sexy
Sexy styles do not have to always expose a lot of skin, although this is the primary factor associated with this style. This style is associated with deep-cut necklines, daring plunging backs, tight-fitting silhouettes, and bare shoulders or legs. The sexy bride is usually confident and bold, so she is comfortable showing off her best assets.
Lady Almog from the My Lady designer collection is the perfect example for sexy bridal style. The deep sweetheart neckline features a deep plunge in the center, and is accompanied by an illusion style bodice that exposes more than the usual amount of skin. This collection allows brides to mix and match the two pieces that form the wedding dress, so you can achieve the look you desire. Sexy dresses are usually great for informal, high-on-style weddings, where the bride wishes to show off her stylish body and be the center of attention.
8.Traditional
Traditional is often confused with classic, but there is a significant difference between the two. While classic styles focuses on features that are always trendy, traditional styles focus on conventional designs that are sometimes not really relevant. These are usually very modest dresses and comfortable. It can also focus on simplicity and timeless details that are bound to be a favorite with the older generation.
The Mori Lee 5362 has cap-sleeves, a pleated A-line skirt and a defined waistline; all features that make it a traditional favorite. Although the bodice features a sweetheart neckline, the sheer lace overlay that forms a bateau neckline makes this a modest choice. The dress is charming in it’s own way, but it doesn’t expose much skin nor does it fit to snugly to the natural body shape to be uncomfortable. All in all, it is a safe choice.
9.Tomboy
This girl would rather wear jeans and slacks than be found in a gown. She is uncomfortable in anything too frilly and feminine, and wouldn’t really mind sporting a pantsuit on her wedding day. However, plenty of dresses keep the femininity factor to the required minimum and are smart, making it perfect for the tomboy type.
The Y21504 Ricki from the Sophia Tolli collection is a smart dress, with just the right amount of bling on the sleeves and at the gathered waist, to make it interesting. The square neckline is supported with scintillating straps and the fit and flare silhouette is comfortable with the draped layers defining the natural figure but not making it too clingy. The corset back is simple and can be fastened to be comfortably tight or loose, as the bride prefers.
10.Gothic
Considered the dark choice in the fashion world, this style is characterized by pale, dark details. Black is an essential color in this style, and though it isn’t usually associated with wedding dresses, modern designers incorporate this factor to create dresses that appeal to the Gothic style bride. This style is also characterized by bold makeup and accessories that play on the contrast of extreme dark and light effects.
This is a dress that will most likely please the Gothic bride. With ample black lace details coursing all over the bodice to the dropped waist, the dress emphasizes the contrast between the black and white in an obvious way. The skirt is light and wispy, making the powerful effect of the black in the design more pronounced. The closed-up high neckline and cap sleeves are other factors that make this dress dark and mysterious.
11.Sophisticated
This is a style that brings together contemporary and classic elements elegantly and impressively. Sophisticated style is one that can be nailed only by the fashion-conscious, who knows her way around mixing and matching various elements that aren’t usually seen together, to craft a distinctive appeal. Quality is an important factor in the sophisticated fashion style. These brides look polished and perfect and know how to combine their look using the apt mixing of style elements.
The Mori Lee 2789 lace and satin gown is a sophisticated wedding dress that brings together the sheen of satin with the soft flutter of lace harmoniously. The illusion neckline with beaded necklace details and the embellished sweetheart bodice instantly add style to the upper torso. The fit and flare silhouette is figure-flattering, while the lustrous skirt has subtle glamour.
Now that we have taken a close look at what are the various fashion styles, and how it applies to bridal fashion, have you identified your style? Don’t be surprised if you find yourself attracted to a wedding dress style that isn’t the same as what you normally find yourself drawn to. After all, your wedding day is unique in it’s own way, and your vision for this day can be entirely different from how you see yourself on any other occasion.
To check out any of these fabulous dresses, or to browse through our extensive inventory of even more interesting and attractive wedding dresses, visit this link to our online wedding dress gallery on Best for Bride. There is a dress for every bride, and Best for Bride is the perfect place to find yours.
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