More than ever, brides are looking for ways to bring an element of individuality to their wedding day. We have lots of brides come in with fun, fresh ideas that ask us, “Can I do that?” Almost always, the answer is “yes!” The old rules are no longer the gold standard for modern weddings. Here are a few fashion ideas and trends seen over the last several months.
Wear one look for the ceremony and another for the reception.
We have sold two gowns to countless brides – one more traditional for the ceremony and another more avant-garde gown for the reception. Have you ever tried on a gown that was super sassy and you loved it, but you could not imagine actually wearing it for the wedding? Instead, it could be a great option for a reception gown. Generally, these gowns tend to have elements that reflect the personal style you display in your day-to-day life – ruffles, a low-cut back, deep-V in the front, lots of sparkles, a killer slit up the side – you name it. The reception dress is definitely a party gown and a great way to show your personal sense of style. With lots of designers pushing the envelope right now, there are lots of choices available.
Another second dress option is to look at some of the tea-length gowns available in bridal stores. You can even find some darling options in the bridesmaid section. There are many companies who offer beautiful, well-made bridesmaids gowns in silk or lace. Many of these companies make these gowns in white or ivory (they are usually a bit more expensive than their colored counterparts). We have seen brides change into an ivory tea length gown and pair it with fun shoes, a sash, bow, or over-the-top jewelry that matches the color of the bridesmaids’ gowns. It's always very cute in pictures. Whichever style you choose, long or short, the reception gown is usually easier to move and dance in.
If wearing two dresses is not for you, you can also achieve this effect by changing up some key elements of your look from wedding to reception. Perhaps your ceremony look is classic: subtle makeup, simple jewelry and a veil. For the reception, swap out the classic jewelry and go for something with a little drama, like a set of chandelier earrings and a big gemstone bracelet. You could add smoky makeup to your eyes, wear a deeper shade of lipstick, or switch your veil for a silk flower or feather comb placed behind your ear. In an instant, you're a party bride!
Choose different gown-styles in the same color for bridesmaids.
Every bride hopes to choose a style of bridesmaids dress that her attendants would love to wear again. Why not choose three to five styles of gowns from a designer that you would like to see in your wedding and let your bridesmaids choose which one suits them best. It is often win-win: You've picked the styles that reflect your day, and your bridesmaids have a little say in how they will look that day, too. Varieties of styles offer a visual interest while the color creates continuity in your wedding-party's appearance.
Match flower girls to the bridesmaids' apparel.
Another trend we are seeing is having the flower girls wear dresses that match the bridesmaids’ gowns and not the bridal gown. There are many bridesmaid companies that offer these tiny dresses. They are a darling way to mix up the status quo.
