Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Bridal & Bridesmaid Fashion Tips: Part I

Coordinating a wedding is not a skill that women are born with. It's a learning process, and somewhat of an adventure. When many brides come in, and find their dress, the next thing on their minds is what kind of bridesmaids to pick. I'm no expert, but I have studied bridal/bridesmaid dress relations first hand, and here is what I have learned:
The fabrics do not have to match. If the wedding gown is satin, and you find a taffeta bridesmaid dress that you love, go for it. No one is going to critique your choice. Second is that being a bridesmaid is an honor given to a select few. As the bride, you have prime pick over what dresses that they wear. If they don't like it, they can return the favor at their wedding. As an upcoming bridesmaid, I'm honoring that last statement, and there will be payback for the dress I'm going to wear. Last, necklines are like fabrics; they don't have to match. Most of the time when they don't match, it's better picture wise. It doesn't look like you have a bunch of little brides running around.
Now I understand that some people really want to match, and that's fine. It's just that I have learned through time, that nothing is set in stone in the bridal fashion world. Right now is the perfect time to experiment and have fun. There are so many different options, that sticking to one for both bridal and bridesmaids is very limiting and takes out a whole other range of fun.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

I agree. Contrast in fabrics and necklines look wonderful in photos and add depth to the whole look of the wedding party.
Also if you, the bride, are overloaded with decisions and do not want to take on the job of deciding on bridesmaids, make sure you choose someone else to be in charge. This could be a trusted friend that is not in the party, or the maid of honor. It is just so important that someone be the leader and decision maker to be sure the dresses get ordered in time! :)

Top 10 Advice on finding the DRESS!

  • Number One Rule: Be open minded! What you think reminds you of your grandmother's dress on the hanger, may in fact be the dress of your dreams.
  • Bring someone that knows your style better than their own. I'm sure the groom doesn't want to see you in something that your bestfriend would wear on her wedding day
  • DON'T PURCHASE YOUR DRESS ONLINE! You miss out on the whole experience.
  • Don't worry what the groom will think. If he loves you, he will love what you pick.
  • Have fun! Remember that you have been dreaming of this day since you were five. Don't let the decision put a cloud over your head
  • If you hate the little bow on the dress, ask the consultant if you can order it without.it. Chances are you can. Keep in mind (contrary to what the magazines always say) there might be a charge for it. It won't lower the cost of the dress.
  • Price vs. Love: If you love the dress, GO FOR IT! Don't settle for less on what your wearing for your big day. You can always take some of the budget from the centerpieces and so on. No one will know and we won't tell.
  • Research designers online and make a scrap book of styles that you like. Do keep in mind, that it may all change when you start trying on.
  • Save the group shopping for the mall. This should be a personal experience that you should only share with one or two.
  • When you find it, you find it. Don't second guess yourself or you will pick your second favorite.