A wedding gown is a style of dress that is typically worn by brides, maids of honor or other attendees for a special occasion like a wedding. It is usually long, full-length dress that is designed with a bodice and skirt, though gowns can also be knee or midi length depending on the style. A wedding gown can be embellished with lace, pearls, sequins or beads to add extra visual interest.
A variety of different gown styles are available for women who want to look beautiful at a wedding, including A-lines, ball gowns and trumpet or fit-and-flare dresses. The A-line silhouette is perfect for slimming down rounded figures and can create the illusion of height for petite brides. The ball gown silhouette is classic and elegant, ideal for any formal event. And, the trumpet or fit-and-flare silhouette is a cross between a modified A-line and a mermaid cut, and is ideal for showcasing curves.
The wedding dress should be tailored to suit the ambiance of the ceremony and reception, as well as the couple’s personal style. For instance, a wedding held outdoors is likely to have a more casual vibe and a shorter hemline would be appropriate for the occasion. Similarly, a wedding at a church will likely be more formal and will require modesty, so it may not be the right time for a plunging neckline or figure-hugging gown.
Wedding gowns for women can be made with a wide variety of materials, including lace, silk, satin and velvet. Some brides choose to go for a more eco-friendly option with an organic cotton or hemp dress. Others might opt for a vintage-inspired gown with embroidered detailing or beading. And, many brides also opt for a gown with a hint of sparkle by choosing a dress with rhinestones or a glittery material.
Almost every wedding dress will need some alterations to make sure it fits perfectly. If possible, brides should aim to have all first round of alterations completed around three to four months before the wedding. Many bridal shops offer in-house alterations, but brides can also take their wedding gowns for girls to a tailor they trust to save money or to get a more personalized touch.
Gowns can be worn by wedding guests as well as bridesmaids or other attendants, but it’s important to keep in mind that the white wedding dress is reserved for the bride. So, if you’re wearing a gown for a wedding, be sure to leave the space in front of you clear so that the bride doesn’t see you!
