Tag: winter

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Fixing the date: The advantages and disadvantages of weddings in each season

Weddings can take place anytime of the year! Today, it is possible to be a winter bride, just as you can be a spring or summer bride. While this flexibility is great for some brides, others may end up being more confused with the availability of more choices.

If you are currently in this situation; having trouble deciding the best time of year to have your wedding, here is some help. Take a look at our list to compare the pros and cons of getting married in any season. Hopefully, this will help you pick the option that is just right for you.

Spring

spring

“Now every field is clothed with grass, and every tree with leaves; now the woods put forth their blossoms, and the year assumes its gay attire.”

The Roman poet, Virgil captures the essence of spring in the above quote. Spring is a season to rejoice, and nature shows us how to. As Mother Nature marks this season with welcome warmth after a chilly winter, pops of color begin to appear everywhere. As flowers bloom and the green grass sprouts in bounty, the air feels fresh and alive. Associated with fresh scents, cool weather and beautiful natural backdrops, many couples find spring the best season to get married. So, here are the advantages and disadvantages of picking a date in this season, for your wedding.

Advantages

  • Just the right temperature: Neither is spring stifling and warm like summer, nor chilly like autumn or winter. The temperature is just perfect to relax and enjoy. So, your guests will look forward to attending a ceremony and not complain about making the trek in bad weather. Plus, the right temperature makes it possible to plan an outdoor wedding
  • Season when colors pop: Take the cue from nature itself. Spring is when fresh buds bloom and create a cascade of beautiful colors in the natural landscape. The lush greenery makes it the right time to plan an equally colorful, warm wedding. So, if you must have bright colors at your wedding, this is the season to choose.
  • Plenty of flowers to choose from: A stunning variety of flowers blossom in spring, making it easy for you to find flowers of every color and texture for your wedding décor, bouquets and more.
  • The season for most vegetables and fruits: If you want to make the most of seasonally available bounty for your wedding, spring is the right choice. This is when most vegetables and fruits are easily available. This will allow you to plan a menu that you fancy, without having to search or arrange for the ingredients at extra cost.

Disadvantages

  • Allergy season is on: With most flowers in bloom, this is the time when allergies are at their worst. Guests with allergies may prefer to stay away from your wedding, especially if it is an outdoor affair, for health reasons.
  • Prices are highest: Since most couples prefer to be married in spring, this is the time when you will be spending most on wedding expenses. Venues will be priced higher during this peak season, so you can either shell out more for your dream venue or settle for a weekday wedding to get a better price.
  • Higher competition for vendors: Just as the prices go up, so does the demand for quality wedding services. Since most vendors can cater to only limited number of weddings at a time, your will have to book your wedding services early to ensure you get the ones you prefer.
  • More holidays this time of the year: Easter and school graduation happens in spring. So, if your guests have holiday plans or other events to attend at the same time, they may be unable to make it to your wedding. Nevertheless, you can always plan your wedding, adjusting for dates that do not clash with these holidays.

Summer

summer

“I almost wish we were butterflies and liv’d but three summer days – three such days with you I could fill with more delight than fifty common years could ever contain.”

John Keats wrote these mesmerizing lines for his beloved Fanny Brawne, and it conveys romance, excitement and joy; all that is Summer!

 

After spring, summer is the next most popular wedding season. Although the weather is usually warmer than in spring, in some parts of the world, this is better as it makes the climate very pleasant. Summer is also the best time to plan a destination wedding. The days become longer and you have plenty of time to party. This makes it perfect for an exciting, fun occasion. Let us look at the pros and cons of this season, for your wedding.

Advantages

  • Flowers still in season: Come summer, and you still have plenty of flowers to choose from. So, you needn’t compromise on having a spectacular bouquet or plenty of floral elements in your décor.
  • You can have a long wedding day: The best thing about summer is that with extended daylight hours, you have plenty of time to party. You could even plan the ceremony later in the day than would be necessary in any other season, if needed.
  • It is holiday season: Summer is the season when schools close for holidays, people take time off work and enjoy a break. So, it is usually convenient, especially for those who have to travel from far for your wedding.
  • Everything is saturated with color: Just as the sun shines brightest, everything in summer looks vibrant and colorful. This is the perfect ambiance for a wedding where you want lots of natural color.
  • Outdoor weddings are still possible: Unless the place you stay is unbearably hot, it is possible to have the outdoor wedding you always wanted.
  • Perfect time for a beach wedding or destination wedding: If you always wanted to get married in an exotic location like a beach in the Bahamas, summer is when you should plan it, to enjoy the best experience.

Disadvantages:

  • Your wedding may clash with your guests’ holiday plans: Like two sides to a coin, having your wedding during the holidays will be convenient for many. However, there may also be others who have planned a vacation at this time, and it may not be possible to reschedule their plans to accommodate your wedding.
  • Chances for rain: Summer showers are nature’s way of surprising everyone, including to-be-married couples. So, if you have an outdoor wedding, you cannot rule out the possibility of rain. Having a back-up plan, like an alternate venue in case of rain, can turn out to be expensive, but necessary.
  • Extra precautions to stay and keep things fresh: When the temperatures soar, flowers wilt quickly and people tend to look tired sooner. From choosing hardy flowers and wearing water-proof makeup, you will have to take more precautions when you get married in summer.
  • The competition for venues and vendors continues: Just like spring, summer is also popular wedding season. So, the competition for quality vendors and great venues continues. The prices are also quite high this time of year, for the same reason.

Autumn

autumn

“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower”—Albert Camus

When the leaves turn color, and the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful with orange, brown and red tones everywhere, when the breeze begins to blow and beckon snow, Autumn is here!

The backdrop of autumn is spectacular, and romantic, making it a great time to get married. Nowadays, autumn weddings are very popular. Temperatures dip, but it is still comfortable. So, weddings in this season are convenient and pleasant.

Advantages:

  • Beautiful nature: The stunning foliage that is fall’s own feature, punctuates the air with romance. This backdrop is unique, perhaps, even more than spring. The refined sophistication of nature during this season makes it a wonderful time for an elegant, classic wedding.
  • Pleasant weather: The weather is comfortable and pleasant during the first half of autumn, making it easy for people to travel or even attend an outdoor wedding if that is what you have planned.
  • A variety of menu options: Fall is associated with pumpkins, squashes, spices like cinnamon, chocolate, apples and berries. These are all treats for the taste buds, and comforting when served at meals. So, hearty meals at your wedding couldn’t get better, than in this season.
  • Interesting décor options: With the scenery so beautiful, it would be a shame to not incorporate the signature elements of fall into your wedding day. Turn to nature itself, and you have plenty of inspiration to set up magnificent centerpieces and attractive décor at your venue.

Disadvantages:

  • Unexpected frost: Autumn is often unpredictable, with some days too chilly to even step outdoors. There is also the risk of frost. So, this can be a damper for your wedding plans.
  • Not holiday season: With the holiday season approaching, people are busy at work and school this time of year. So, it may not be convenient for all guests to make it to your wedding, especially those who have to travel from out-of-town.
  • You will need an indoor venue: Although an outdoor ceremony is possible in fall, dancing into the night may be a problem as temperatures fall drastically, after sunset. So, you’ll have to either find a venue where you can have the rest of the reception indoors, or settle for an indoor venue for the whole function.

Winter

winter

“The color of springtime is in the flowers. The color of winter is in the imagination.” – Terri Guillemets

There was a time when winter weddings were rare. It is not so much now! The cold season is perhaps the most romantic, as this is the time everyone yearns to cozy up and feel warm and loved. Isn’t that just perfect for a wedding?

Advantages

  • Have a memorable wedding: With fewer couples tying the knot in the cold months, it is the best time to plan a memorable wedding that everyone will remember. The scenery is amazing. Not only will your vendors work at a more relaxed pace, you have better chances of getting all that you need to plan your big day, without much competition from other couples.
  • Everything is cheaper and available: Being the off-season, you will not face much trouble getting the venue you desire, or booking vendors you like the most. Also, the prices will be better, as wedding services are ready to slash their prices upon negotiation.
  • Everything will look like it ought to be: With the temperatures being so low, you needn’t worry about your bouquet wilting, or centerpieces looking tired by the end of the day.
  • Most guests can attend: If you plan your wedding around the holidays in winter, like Christmas and Thanksgiving, your guests will find it convenient to attend your wedding. They will mostly be taking time off work or school at this time of year, and so it won’t be a big deal adding your wedding into their holiday plans.

Disadvantages

  • Low temperatures: In this weather, not everyone would be excited about driving to your wedding on a weekend, when they would rather be snug at home. An outdoor wedding is out of question.
  • Shorter days: You will have fewer hours of daylight, and so your wedding would have to be run on a tight schedule, so you can make use of the sunlight while it lasts.
  • Nature’s unpredictability: Unexpected heavy snowfall, blizzards and cold waves are the different ways in which nature can wreak havoc on your carefully thought-out winter plans. It can be very difficult to change plans at short notice.
  • Guests may be on tight budgets: With buying gifts for the holidays and vacationing in summer, your guests may feel the pinch, when getting you a wedding gift or putting aside funds for travel and dressing up to attend your wedding.

So, that wraps it up! Tell us, which of these seasons would you love to get married in?

For more tips, tricks, wedding advice and more, keep visiting us here, at http://www.bestforbride.com/ —your one-stop destination for everything bridal!

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10 cool colors for your winter bridesmaids

Today’s post is on bridesmaids dresses, and is for the bride who has her wedding planned in winter, and seeks inspiration for the colors and patterns suitable for her winter palette.

With your wedding dress, you may have a tough time discerning which fit and style is best for you, but the trouble ends there. We know that it isn’t an easy task. Nevertheless, it is not a task as Herculean as choosing the right color for your winter bridesmaids dresses. There are many factors that affect your choice of bridesmaids dress colors.

  1. It should go with the color palette that you have chosen for your wedding
  2. The color should look good on most, if not all your bridesmaids
  3. As far as possible, you should choose bridesmaids dresses in colors and patterns that can be used again.
  4. Since your bridesmaids will be a major part of the wedding scenery, you should choose their outfits in colors that will contribute to the visual impact of the wedding scene.
  5. You will be sharing space with your bridesmaids in many wedding pictures. So, their dresses should complement your outfit and it should all come together cohesively and look as beautiful as it can possibly be.

Now, we think you know why we say this isn’t easy. We think every bride needs all the inspiration she can get to plan any detail of her wedding. The more options you look at, the more likely you are to have that “Aha!” moment when you know you’ve finally found the right one. So, here are some of the coolest bridesmaids dresses from our latest collections, and we are sure you will find your pick from this splendid list. These beautiful colors are particularly stunning in the winter scene, but you can use them for your wedding any time of the year. So let’s get going!

1.Serene and sexy in gray

A color that is the perfect neutral, this is a fail-safe option for any palette that you may have chosen for your wedding day. For winter weddings, where you want to focus on classic themes, gray is a shade that will do magic in balancing out any color scheme. Not only does it look great with metals like silver and gold, it is also the perfect background for deep, jewel tones and rich shades like navy, green, purples and reds that are perfect for the wintry scene. The biggest advantage of choosing grey for your bridesmaids is that it is one color that allows them to reuse the dress again and again, as it is a color that most women don’t mind wearing.

Here is a stunner from the Alfred Angelo Saphire bridesmaid collection. The 8110L bridesmaid gown features many attractive details including a ruched criss-cross bodice with a wrapped waistline detail and an A-line skirt that flatters almost all body types. The sweetheart neckline of this pretty chiffon gown is supported with embellished straps that add a dose of glamour from their scintillating and sparkling details. Pair this dress with a bouquet of reds, whites or purples, and you have the ideal bridesmaid look for a classic theme wedding.

2.Charismatic and captivating navy

Navy is a regal color, and needs few accessories to look classic and cool. This is a shade that can be carried off by most women, and looks stunning when featured in full-length gowns. Unlike the other blues that are influenced by shades of grey and yellow, this is a sober color that has an almost neutral-like effect. This makes it just right for any color palette, and it can add that balance to a combination, since it can be used in place of black.

Featured here is the 8108L from the Alfred Angelo bridesmaids collection, and it is a dress that is as beautiful as a picture. The halter illusion neckline is accentuated with crystal beading, eliminating the need for an additional necklace. This dress allows your bridesmaids to show off their toned shoulders and arms, making it a beautiful choice for those slender women to look great on your wedding day. From the gathered natural waistline, the fabric flows gently into a floor length pleated A-line skirt that will flatter almost every body type. This is a dress that your bridesmaids will instantly fall in love with, so check it out.

3.Soft but striking salmon

When the rest of the world is bleak and white, small pops of vibrant color can liven up your wedding scene, bringing in gushes of joy and happiness. Add the sprightly happiness of spring into your cool winter wedding, by dressing your bridesmaids in soft but striking salmon colored bridesmaids gowns. These colors look great when paired with grays, blacks, blues and metallics in your wedding palette. The only thing you need to look out for, is the choice of fabric, as it has to be in chiffon or lace for that wispy delicate feminine look.

This bridesmaid dress is the Mori Lee 124 in lace and chiffon, and you can see what a mesmerizing beauty it is. The sleeves and illusion neckline look bewitching, with the finest details etched in lace on the bodice. Separating the skirt, is a waistband fashioned out of chiffon, and from here the soft fabric glides all the way down to full-length. This is a dress with a touch of sophistication, and the pattern, being modest and offering suitable coverage, will ensure that your bridesmaids are warm and cosy on your big day.

4.Captivating champagne

Match your bridesmaids to the winter scene in an elegant and soft color like champagne, and they will look like scintillating divas beside you, on the altar. The lack of color will be a beautiful choice, especially when it features lovely lace work and similar details. Metallic colors have been hot on the wedding scene for several years now, and this is why we think champagne tousled with shimmer in just the right doses can be a trendy choice for your bridesmaids colors. It is also the right choice if you wish to experiment with the mix ‘n’ match look, as champagne goes with almost every other color, creating the right balance necessary when mixing up various styles.

This bridesmaids dress from the Mori Lee Tulle affairs collection, showcases beautiful lace details on a snug sleeveless bodice with a dashing V-neckline. A soft satin waistband separates the bodice from the skirt, and the skirt in itself is a rippling tulle beauty with a texture that contrasts wonderfully with the subtly sparkling bodice. The fact that this dress has two universally flattering features—the V-neckline, and A-line skirt, makes it a great choice for all your bridesmaids, however different they may be in body shape and height. So, if you want one dress for all your girls, you know you have found it already.

5.Merry in berry

Berries, violets and plums are all winter colors, which makes these shades just perfect for your wedding palette. These colors are associated with winter scene, and look magnificent in most indoor settings. The berry color can be acessoried with gold or silver for enhancing it’s charm, and it also works well with neutrals like gray, white and black. Depending on the amount of black in it, the effect can range from serious to soft. It is also a color that looks good on most skin tones. So, your bridesmaids are least likely to complain about your choice of color, when this is what you have in mind.

Here is a chiffon and lace beauty from the Mori Lee Bridesmaid collection. The sweetheart neckline is sexy, as it gently follows the natural curves of the bust. The bodice is embellished with a luxurious spilling of the finest details in lace, further adorned with glitter in just the right doses. This ends at the natural waistline, where it gives rise to a soft exuberance of chiffon, as the texture transforms into one that is simply stunning. The A-line dress style drapes well on most body types, and the dress is slimming in its choice of color and design details. This is a dress that will look beautiful when paired with whites, yellows or reds in bouquets and accessories, and it can be used for both formal and informal ceremonies by choosing the right accessories to dress it up.

6.Pretty in pink

Pink is a color that is eternally a girl’s favorite, and this makes it perfect for a wedding, irrespective of the season that it is held in. Pink can be played up or down, by varying the intensity of white in it. While the softer shades are suitable for the warmer spring and summer months, the darker shades look arresting in the winter scene. It is also a color that can instantly liven up the atmosphere, when everything around is cold and lifeless. Hence it is a perfect color for your pretty bridesmaids to don on your wedding day.

There are many reasons why we love this dress from the After six collection. The single-shoulder drape of the gown gives it a goddess-like appearance, and your bridesmaids will undoubtedly look glamorous in it. The ruched detailing on the bodice and waistline, continue into the skirt, giving it a casual and feminine feel. The fabric is chiffon, which is sheer to the right extent, and this makes it very appealing and pretty, so your girls will feel pampered and stylish when they wear this dress to your big day.

7.Light and lovely lavender

Some colors have the special ability to conjure up whiffs of flowers and fields, and lavender is one of them. This delicate shade of the softest violet is a fantastic color that can add personality to any scene. The soft sheen is luxurious and scintillates with a lovely effect. This is a color that captures the exquisite beauty of winter, and looks stunning with its almost silver-like appearance.

Featured here is a gorgeous bridesmaid dress from the Angelina Faccenda collection from Mori Lee. The sweetheart neckline is supported by sheer straps, and the entire bodice, neckline and straps are adorned by little glittering details that make the dress impressive. The texture of the skirt is entirely different from the bodice, with it flowing softly to full-length, in gentle ripples. The added beauty of this dress is that it also features a keyhole cutout at the back, which makes it a materpiece from not only the front, but from the back as well.

8.Rocking red

Winter is when Christmas and the holidays come, and it is just the right time to use these colors as the inspiration for your big event in life as well. Red as your bridesmaids dress color can instantly make your wedding scenery festive. This is a color that can be mixed with any other, to create dramatically different effects. Red with tropical colors like yellow and orange, transform any scene into a casual and fun-filled ambiance. On the other hand, when paired with black or grays, it has a classic elegance. The only thing to pay attention to, when using red is to keep the palette balanced with plenty of neutrals, as this is a color that can quickly overpower.

This beautiful bridesmaid dress belongs to the Tutto Bene collection at Best for Bride. The halter neckline ends in a V-shaped opening, and continues into a criss-cross ruched bodice with a slender belt that distinctly defines the waistline. The softly pleated A-line skirt continues to glide down towards floor length. The simple design and elegant details complement the rich color of the fabric, and overall this dress is one that will most likely be used many times again by your bridesmaids.

Most of the dresses featured here are available in several shades, and not just the one featured here. Contact our Best for Bride store to learn of the options you can have, if you liked any of the patterns you saw. Also, don’t forget to check out our Bridesmaids dress gallery at Best for Bride to see the thousands of different designs from the various designer collections we carry at our shops. Find all this and anything else you may need for your big wedding day, by checking out our website at Best for Bride.

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A Quick recap: 10 favorite trends from Fall/Winter 2016

Wedding fashion is continuously evolving. What is in today may be entirely out of the scene tomorrow. It is a pity that some trends that rocked the stage on their first appearance tend to die out without a trace soon after. Well, fashion depends on the taste of the onlooker. So, what we may love today may not find favor with the next set of brides who will get married in the coming year.

Nevertheless, it is fun to recap and look back at those trends that had us smitten when they were initially introduced. This is what we will do today. Fall 2016 may have passed by too soon, and winter may already be here. So, all our winter and fall brides would most likely have picked their wedding dresses by now. Even so, we thought it would be nice to take a look at our favorite trends in wedding fashion for fall and winter 2016 and see the best that the year had in store. Why don’t you join us!

Off-the-shoulder neckline

One trend that has been considered high-fashion, and still seems to be going strong is the off-the-shoulder neckline. Sleeves that barely skim the shoulder, leaving the neck and decolletage exposed, have a magical appeal. The unbeatable charm of this design is what makes the off-the-shoulder neckline a dress style that has captured the hearts of brides everywhere. It is seductive and sassy, and is suitable for almost every wedding style. This design is recommended by fashion experts as a universally flattering neckline that almost any type of bride can attempt and get right. Whether the neckline is clubbed with a ball gown or a sheath style dress, it is always has a distinct quality of its own.

Featured here is a Jasmine couture wedding gown with an off-the-shoulder neckline design. The embellished bordering of the neckline is stunning, along the ruffled pleats of the fabric. Don’t you love how it gently grows into a ruched bodice that snugly courses along the model’s figure all the way to the hips? The flare skirt adds the picture-perfect finish to this design, and it is a dress that I think would fit any modern bride’s vision.

Light-as-air wedding dresses

Airy wedding dresses were a welcome change to the rigidly structured ball gown and fit and flare silhouettes that have been trending for a while now. Many brides embraced this loose and breathable look, through dresses that looked breezy and refreshingly new. Layers of fabric that looked as soft as snow were seen everywhere on the runways, and in plenty of weddings. We are sure that this is a trend that we would love to see more in the wedding scenes in the coming seasons as well. Fabrics like chiffon and organza are most suitable for delivering this dreamy effect.

Delicate and dreamy, we love how this Mori Lee wedding gown has a soft and billowy feel. The sheer outer layer stands out against the thicker fabric of the inner layers, making it unusually breezy. A design similar to this couldn’t possibly weigh down a bride, and it is a great choice for the outdoors if you have to maneuver your way through the natural terrain. Finally, we also love the waistline belt detail that accentuates a slender waist and helps you show off a well-toned structure in the best way possible.

Whimsical short butterfly sleeves

If you should have sleeves for your dress, it should be these soft fluttery sleeves. It is so feminine and dainty, you can only look your best wearing them. A welcome change from the cap sleeve style that was all the rage the past year, these fluttery sleeve dresses are a vintage bride’s dream come true. A dress with this single feature will immediately push up the vintage factor and add a charm that is so vintage! Fluttery sleeves can be fashioned out of lace or breathable airy fabric like tulle or organza. It looks best when it is sheer and the skin peeps through. A gown with a simple silhouette will immediately gain a personality with this single style element.

How unusually splendid is this wedding gown from our Alfred Angelo wedding collection? Notice how the fluttery whimsical sleeves add a dash of style to the beautiful sweetheart neckline. It is also sheer genius to have combined it with the asymmetrical high-low layered hemline to add more light weight layers that are float. The layered skirt contrasts elegantly with the fitted bodice in a silky finish, to create a fantastic overall look. A bride in this dress would be perfect for a vintage-inspired or classic wedding. The modesty of the dress also makes it a great choice for a traditional ceremony.

3-D flowers

One of the trends that we saw in 2015 and simply took to immediately, was the 3-D style embellishments of wedding gowns. Lace as the central element contrasted effectively with the layers beneath it to create a 3-D effect that made the floral motifs on these gowns simply stunning. Additional embellishments like rhinestones and metallic beading further enhanced the ethereal beauty of these designs. The 3-D effect has since then been a favorite with brides, and this year was no different.

Mori Lee has crafted this magical element into many of its wedding gowns, but we particularly love this wedding dress with Venice lace appliques creating an obvious 3-dimensional effect against the soft net layer underneath. The sheer lace three-fourth sleeves and fitted bodice strewn with floral motifs look spell-binding. Isn’t this dress simply a masterpiece that is perfect for a vintage-style wedding? Just like the previous gown we saw, the modest neckline and sleeves of this gown make it a good choice for traditional weddings too. Despite this, it is still a glamorous dress which will allow a bride to show-off her beautiful curves with the fit and flare silhouette it sports.

Vintage Boho

The Boho trend has been hot and happening on the casual wedding scene for quite some time now. This 2016, we saw a notable shift towards boutique vintage style in Boho wedding dresses, and this was distinctly more feminine and appealing to a wider audience. The casual, relaxed vibe of Boho chic dresses weren’t lost, even while it focused more on fluidity than form this year. We like the idea of adding more elegance to the Boho style, as this increases the glamour quotient associated with this style of dressing.

Another dazzler from the Alfred Angelo collection, this gown brings together the essence of Bohemian style and combines it with classic features to create a masterpiece. The slender straps and the effortless look of the criss-cross bodice make it casually appealing, while the delicately flowing skirt and the pretty waistband detail add an element of sophistication to this elegant wedding dress. It is a head-turner that is simply perfect for a beach wedding or any wedding held in the outdoors. It is also a great choice for a fun-filled and exciting reception, where the bride would love to shake a leg and not be restricted by a heavy wedding gown. Don’t discount the fact that the light weight and airy fabric make it practical and easy to carry. We’re smitten by its simplicity and functionality. How about you?

Up and down hemline layers

After asymmetrical hemlines, the current trendsetter is up and down hemlines, preferably in more than one layer. They have a distinct personality and are not even remotely boring. The simple addition of the distinct layers to an otherwise unsophisticated silhouette can instantly improve the style and add more glamour to any bride. The fun part about distinct layers in wedding skirts is that it is dramatic and exudes an air of excitement and joy.

Take this dreamy Mori Lee gown for example. The sprightly skirt with evident layers looks distinct from any other design you may have ever seen before. While being lightweight and breezy, it is still powerful and attractive. The ruchings on the criss-cross bodice culminate in a scintillating waistband that marks the beginning of a layered skirt, and the up and down hemlines flutter in the wind to make it a dazzling beauty. If you have ever worried about what dress to choose for your outdoor wedding, so that it is not just practical but strikingly bridal, a dress like this is what you should seek.

Overlay skirts

The truth is that more and more brides today, choose to stay away from ball gown skirts. This is perhaps because they do not favor the structured and rigid form that is associated with ball gowns. Nonetheless, they still want that little layer of pouf to add some drama of their wedding day look. So, it’s basically a case of finding that balance, and this is what overlay skirts in wedding dresses have managed to achieve. It allows brides to look beautiful with just the right amount of layering to highlight their natural curves.

In this Mori Lee gown, you can see a dainty sheer lace layer that beautifully adds an extra dimension to the original fit and flare design. This overlay skirt is the most prominent feature of the remarkable gown, and the pretty floral lace appliques have an almost 3-dimensional quality. What we particularly love about the dress is how the skirt looks very distinct from the bodice, even in the absence of an obvious waistline. This could have been achieved easily with a waistband with some added sparkle, but the designers chose to keep it simple and yet managed to create the effect beautifully with the sheer overlay skirt. The soft overlay may just be an additional layer of fabric, but it still fashions an hourglass effect and can emphasize a slender waistline.

Antique white or parchment white

Unless you are a novice in wedding fashion, you will already know that wedding dresses come in different types of whites! There is a white for every bride, and most wedding dresses are available in more than just one type. This makes it easy for brides to find the white that accentuates their skin tone in the best way and looks great on them. The year 2016 saw a new color rise to fame—antique white. This was not confined to wedding fashion, but antique white dresses were the rage all over the catwalk, even in other fashion circles. The difference in this color is that it looks distressed, but some features look best on this shade of white. Perfect for vintage weddings, wedding gowns created in antique white finish have a distinct quality to their overall look that sets them apart from the regular stark white. Whether this color is used for the entire gown, or it is weaved into the design in certain places only, it definitely adds a noticeable quality to the look.

This stylish Mori Lee gown has antique white coloring in the skirt. This contrasts beautifully with the creamy white bodice, making both halves equally prominent. Everything about this gown is captivating. The smooth strapless neckline and embellished bodice are highlighted by the breezy bouncy skirt. Although there aren’t too many details, the dress is one that impresses. Ball gowns which do not look too crowded are a rarity these days, and this one is perfect for the bride who is very particular about not going overboard with details.

This brings us to the end of our recap on the best wedding dress trends we saw this year. We hope that at least some of them are to stay. Some of the designs, like the 3-D lace effects and overlay skirts are a hot favorite, that we wouldn’t be surprised if they move over into the realm of classics in no time. If you were married this year, or are planning your wedding in the coming year, tell us if your wedding dress featured any of these design features.

And, to continue looking at more lavish wedding dress choices that will have you looking forward to your wedding day, don’t forget to visit our online bridal gallery at Best for Bride. We are sure you will love the experience.

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10 Must-know Survival tips for the Winter bride

Cool wedding accessories for the winter bride

I can think of so many reasons why winter weddings are a good idea. They are budget-friendly, romantic, unique and not to mention, festive. With the holiday season bringing on a merry mood, this is the perfect time to be wed and enjoy the fun and jovial spirit in your own special way. Almost everyone gets married in summer or spring, and so winter weddings have an air of mystery and intrigue to them. This rarity of winter weddings makes it more memorable than weddings in the warmer months.

Nevertheless, winter weddings require a lot of planning, perhaps even more than spring or summer weddings. After all, the chances for the unexpected to happen is several times greater. So, here are ten winter wedding survival tips that are bound to help you when you plan your wedding in the cold weather.

1.Prepare for the dark days

We all know that the days are shorter in winter, and it becomes dark very early. The lighting at your venue plays an important role in contributing to the overall impact of your wedding day. Make sure that you are well-equipped for the dark day, by choosing a well-lit venue which is nicely warmed before it becomes dark. This factor is even more important when you think of how your wedding photographs will turn out. Work with your photographer to find out when and how your photos should be taken, so you achieve the desired effect. Make sure that your photographer will be carrying necessary equipment, like a tripod, that will light up the shots even if the venue may have dim lighting. It may also be better if you can have the wedding ceremony early, so you can make the most of the daylight when taking your pictures.

2.Choose a picturesque venue

When choosing your venue, it is necessary to choose a pretty and picturesque one so you can get good shots even if they are taken indoors. Remember that there is little scope for taking outdoor photos during a winter wedding. Although you may be able to capture a few, you will have to take most of your group photos and portraits indoors. So, make sure your venue will cater to this requirement. An attractive venue with plenty of stylish spots with a variety of interesting backdrop elements would be ideal. You can also customize the spaces to contain interesting elements that can add a special touch to your photographs. A venue with a lot of warm accents and whites would be the perfect choice for your winter wedding, as it will be welcoming and fresh. With the whites working against the naturally dark elements of the weather at the time, your photos will also come out much better.

3.Find the right photographer for the job

When choosing your photographer, make sure he has had good practice shooting photos in winter. If his wedding portfolio doesn’t contain many examples, you can ask to look at the other shots he has taken in winter to get a fair idea of his expertise.

Winter weddings are really not the best time to ask your budding photographer friend to do your wedding photography, for one obvious reason—he won’t have the necessary equipment to handle the lighting requirements for good photographs. A camera with a flashlight is certainly not the right choice, as it can leave long shadows that will make your pictures dark and gloomy. A professional would have the necessary equipment to light up the shots appropriately. If you want warm and glowing photos, discuss this idea with him early, so he can plan the shots accordingly.

4.Keep yourself warm, while looking stylish too

winter bride

As romantic as winter weddings are, there is the definite problem of it getting too cold. Nonetheless, you can always prepare for it, so it doesn’t stand in the way of a fantastic wedding day. Plan your wedding outfit, so it is suitable for the cold weather. Wedding dresses in thick fabrics like velvet or satin will keep you warm. It may also be a good idea to choose a dress with sleeves, so your shoulders and arms aren’t too exposed to the natural elements. If you decide upon a strapless or sleeveless dress, at least get a stole, wrap or bolero to cover up your shoulders when you begin to feel cold. Since you will mostly be taking at least a few outdoor shots, carry a jacket that matches your outfit. It will help you stay warm between photos. To make sure you are entirely comfortable, don’t forget your feet. Either choose closed shoes or else change into a pair of warm boots for your outdoor pictures. Remember that you can find very stylish dress choices, even when your wedding is in winter. Add some extra luster and sparkle to your look by choosing accessories with crystals and bright stones. You can even play with textures by choosing accessories with feather and fur.

5.Make sure your guests are warm and comfortable too

Your guests will also appreciate a little warmth, especially when they come indoors from the bitter cold. Make sure your venue is heated in advance, and you leave some blankets around the seating space, for those who want to cozy up in it. If it has been snowing lately, have the driveway to the venue cleaned and free from ice. Also place a few umbrellas at the venue, just in case it snows or rains at the time. You can consider making arrangements for hot cocoa or coffee for your guests, and this can help them feel warm and settled in no time. Do this and you can be certain that there will be no chattering teeth, and that everyone will be focusing on you during the ceremony, instead of feeling to cold to enjoy it. It doesn’t really hurt to tell your guests that the ceremony is a little earlier than actually planned. This real bride, Robin, on Wedding Wire, tells us how she informed her guests that the wedding would start 30 minutes earlier than the actual plan, just so nobody missed it by arriving late. This also allows them to relax, settle in and be warm by the time the actual function starts.

6.Plan your décor and flowers sensibly

Your venue prices, catering costs and other prices may all come down in winter, but flowers are a definite budget-bomber in the cold winter. Many flowers may even be unavailable or impossible to get in this weather. So, plan your flower choices well in advance, while keeping the weather constraints in mind. It is best to go with what is seasonal, so you can avoid the risk of last-minute cancellations. The holiday favorites like holly, eucalyptus and mistle-toe are do-able options. Consider planning your décor with items that are available all year around. You can work wonders with candles, metal tableware, holiday decorations, branches, twigs, fruits and fabric to create classic wedding decor that will look both festive and welcoming. When choosing candles, throw in some scented ones and your wedding venue will not only look, but also smell great.

7.Make sure your hair and makeup are warm and welcoming

Winter presents a unique set of challenges for every bride, and the last thing you want is to look pale and washed out in an already all-white wedding scene. Both your skin and hair will have to be prepped very well to stay fresh throughout the day. Warm autumnal colors are a favorite in winter, and will warm up your overall look, however white your wedding gown may be. Dress up your eyes and highlight it with defined make-up to look ravishing and to get noticed. This is the time to have smoky eye-makeup done, and use colors like pinks, browns, maroons, blues and purples. Choose a glossy finish for your lips and add a slight touch of shimmer to your makeup. To keep your hair healthy and refreshed, add a serum to your hair before styling it. Also make sure that you feel fresh and glow from the inside, by staying hydrated throughout the day. Moisturize your skin, and make sure you reapply a touch of moisturizing cream to your hands and any exposed skin, any time you are exposed to the chills.

8.Choose your transportation wisely

You obviously aren’t going to choose a horse and carriage for your winter wedding getaway, but the limitations do not end there. Not all vehicles are equipped to travel on icy and slippery roads. So, this may mean that your vintage car choice may not be the best choice, if you want to make it to your venue on time. Although you can always book a classic car and be optimistic that the weather will be favorable, make sure that the car hiring company will be able to provide you with an alternative if it isn’t. Discuss this before you book it, so you don’t have to worry about it on the day if things do not go as per plan. On the day, allow for extra time and start early for the venue. It is better to reach there ahead of time and relax in your chosen vehicle, than run late and start the day off on the wrong note. You can even reel in your guests to be on the safe side, and have your wedding on time by setting the time on your invitations as half-an-hour ahead of the actual planned time.

9.Make the most of what is in-season

dinner

From wedding décor, to flowers and menu options, plan your wedding around what is seasonal and locally available. Trust us, it will make wedding planning so much easier. Since you have no guarantee on what hiccups may arise due to unforeseen weather conditions, it is always best to be on the safe side. And winter does have quite an attractive bounty to choose from, so you needn’t be disappointed. Mulled wines and a variety of cocktails can be created easily and will be appreciated by your guests. Go with the holiday staples in fruits, vegetables and meat, but use them in interesting and different ways in your menu, so it is different from a typical Christmas or thanksgiving feast.

10.Be prepared for every worst-case scenario with an insurance

This is actually a possibility for every wedding, whether in spring, summer, fall or winter. Since you will be planning your wedding several months in advance, and nature is unpredictable in every way, there is only so much you can be certain of. Blizzards and snowstorms can entirely topple your well laid-out plans and leave you lost. While you cannot foresee how things will be on the day, or be entirely optimistic, you can certainly plan for the worst-case scenarios. Make sure that you take out a wedding insurance on your wedding, so you will be able to tide over any such last-minute hassles without too much trouble. You can either opt for a whole package deal that covers every aspect of the wedding in one go, or get separate insurances for the different things that you spend most on. This will at least help you financially if you have to postpone your wedding due to unforeseen circumstances.

With a little organization and foresight, your winter wedding will be over in a breeze, and an experience that will be remembered fondly by all those who attend it.

To transform yourself into a pretty winter bride, who will steal the show and the heart of your Prince Charming, you need a dress that will do part of the magic. Visit our bridal gallery at Best for Bride to make your pick from the extensive collection of designer dresses at the most affordable prices. You can also find your bridesmaids dresses, wedding accessories and dresses for the rest of the wedding party at Best for Bride. Apart from that, also check out our décor options, florists and trusted cake vendors who will help you realize your vision of the perfect wedding. Wait no more, click here to see what awaits you at the one-stop bridal destination: Best for Bride.

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