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Belles 789-1333
Formals Express 789-6888
Wedding Shoppe & Boutique 789-9415 Dolores
Weddings & Flowers Unlimited 790-4435
Since childhood your wedding gown has been the "stuff of which
dreams are made." Magazines are filled with fantasy gowns,
each designer hoping to be the one who meets your expectations.
Most of the old rules about what you can wear and bare are all but
forgotten, and while bridal silhouettes like the romantic, full-skirted
gown or the princess are still popular, simpler lines seem to be
the most popular right now. Form-fitting gowns with empire waist
and spaghetti straps are high on the list. Many brides still choose
to wear a veil, but opting for fresh flowers as a hairpiece is a
great and popular alternative. Pearls, lace, beading and bows can
add to the romantic look.
White is still in. Sophisticated looks are available in abundance.
While etiquette experts agree that the style of your gown should
match the formality of your wedding, your sense of style is the
first consideration.
Before you shop for your wedding gown, take time to look at the
current bridal magazines. Then you will be familiar with current
styles and the excitement that lies ahead as you choose the gown
and headpiece that says "YOU."
Since this is certainly not an average shopping trip, here are a
few suggestions which will help make it a fun experience.
Shop well in advance of the wedding day. If you want to make sure
to get everything to your liking, start shopping for your wedding
gown as long as six months ahead of time. That way, you can make
sure you get exactly what you want, and have time to get alterations
made for yourself and your attendants. Even if you're a perfect
size whatever, add in the time for alterations in your planning.
Local stores have to order your gown, and while it might get her
quickly, don't bet on it. You know the weather conditions here.
"Sometimes, I can get a dress in less than two weeks,"
said Debbie Augustus, manager at Weddings and Flowers Unlimited.
Augustus said she can call the wedding gown supplier while the bride
is in the store, and if the gown is available in the right size,
it can be ordered right then and there.
Do not invite too many friends to accompany you since each will
have her own preferences. It would certainly be appropriate for
your mother or a close friend to help in the selection.
Select two or three styles, try them on, then make a decision. Be
sure to consider how you will wear your hair, make-up, and most
of all, how "he" likes to see you. Choose a gown that
makes the most of your figure. Princess or A-line styles are slimming
and create the illusion of height. A full skirt hides heavy legs
and hips. Dropped waist styles flatter most figure types. A decorative
bodice highlights the upper body, while a simpler style minimizes
a heavy bust. There are many fabrics and shades from which to choose.
Find the textures and hues that flatter your complexion.
Choose a veil that's appropriate to the style of your wedding. Remember,
your back gets lots of attention during the ceremony -- your dress,
veil and train should look elegant from that angle.
Be prepared to make at least one-half deposit on your gown. Another
reason for careful selection is that most fine stores consider bridal
apparel as "intimate;" therefore, refunds and exchanges
are generally not allowed. This is for your protection as well as
the store's.
When choosing your gown, keep in mind that your choice sets the
tone for the degree of formality for the entire wedding, particularly
the selection of bridesmaids' gowns, the groom's and usher's attire,
as well as that of the mothers. For formal weddings, the bride wears
a long gown with train and veil of her choice. The train is usually
either shorter or eliminated for the small or informal wedding.
Tradition is "something old, something new, something borrowed,
something blue, and a lucky sixpence for your shoe." Wearing
your mother's or grandmother's petticoat, several blue garters (saving
one to pass on to your children), or carrying a handkerchief made
with love by a friend or relative, heirloom jewelry, or a special
piece that someday may become an heirloom can also create special
memories.
A Word of Caution
Your wedding gown is too important to take a chance. History has
proven you usually get what you pay for. Saving a few dollars is
not worth the risk of being disappointed on your wedding day.
BEWARE of anyone who requires more than a 50% deposit on your gown.
BEWARE of anyone who wants to send your gown to you by mail. BEWARE
of anyone who does not have a legitimate store. BEWARE of anyone
who does not offer to coordinate alterations services. BEWARE of
anyone who tells you to try on gowns in a full-service store and
then come back to them to order. |
