Trendy Wednesday: You are the Statement

Trendy Wednesday: Jenna Paniccia

You are a statement piece. This is your day to be the center of attention and create a day filled with inspiring, jaw dropping details. Brides are always looking for ways to be different and do something that is unexpected. The creative aspect always falls into place, but the wedding dress is the true attention stealer of the day. With so many designs and silhouettes to choose from, the options can sometimes be a bit overwhelming.

My suggestion is to pick a few simple silhouettes that you gravitate towards. When you have an idea of the type of dress you are looking for finding the details that adorn the dress is the easy part. Also, it’s a smart idea to pick a few designers that tend to capture your attention. By narrowing down types of dresses you like and designers who understand your vision you save a lot of time when trying on dresses at the bridal boutique.

I am guilty of ripping apart magazines with inspirational pictures. This is such a great way to know exactly what you are looking for when wedding dress shopping. If you have a set of pictures that you love as well as some that you are not interested in at all, picking out a selection will be much easier. Once you have narrowed down a few dresses that you could see yourself getting married in make sure to try on a veil or hat. This is really where you can be creative and over-the-top or simple and traditional. Finishing off the look helps to envision what your pictures will look like and will help visualize the mood of your big day.

Remember that this is your big day. Family members, friends, and bridesmaids all tend to have very strong opinions about your wedding dress. Although their opinions are helpful, you have to be the one who looks and feels amazing in the dress. Make sure you can move around easily, you feel comfortable for a long period of time, and most of all make sure the dress takes your breath away.

Photo Credit: etsy.com, blissbookimages.com, lovemydress.net, zonewedding.com, bellethemagazine.com, tbdress.com, designingreations.blogspot.com

The Necklines Have It!

Manic Mondays By Lauren Cooper

Just as there are different silhouettes for the dress of your dreams, there are just as many necklines to choose from.  The most popular, of course, is the strapless, but don’t we all want to stand out?  If you’re stuck on your look, check out these neckline options.

Photo credits clockwise from left Vera Wang, Jim Hjelm, Allure Bridals, Alvina Valenta, Maggie Sottero

Off the shoulder
There is something classic yet sexy about this neckline.  This style is great for women of all sizes and really highlights your arms and collarbones.  If you’re self conscience about your upper arms, I’d try a portrait neckline instead.

Portrait
Very similar to off the should but a bit closer to a boat neck.  This neckline sits right on the tip of your shoulders and covers a bit more of your arms.  Again, this is great for different sized women.  It’s also great for smaller busted women, because you can easily allude to a larger bustline with some extra cush in the dress and show off your great shoulders.

V Neck
This cut can be modest or sexy and is definitely a bold choice, as not many bridal gowns are v-neck.  Beware though, this style is best on B or C cupped women.

Strapless/Sweetheart
While V Neck is reserved for medium sizes, Strapless and Sweetheart are most flattering on women with more decolletage.  😉 Sweetheart necklines often have gauzy material that rises over the heart shape of the neckline, and really gives the torso a longer, leaner line.

Scoop Neck
This is actually one of my favorites.  It flatters everyone and is a little out of the ordinary. Often times the scoop in the front will continue in the back, which can be modest or it can plunge which is super fun and sexy.

Regardless of what you feel will look best on you, don’t forget to go shopping with an open mind.  You never know what might look great unless you try it on.  Happy shopping!