Are you a bride-to-be looking for the perfect dress to fit your style and personality? Shopping for a wedding dress can be an overwhelming experience, but it doesn't have to be! Finding the right gown is all about understanding what suits you best – from classic silhouettes like A-lines or ballgowns to modern trends such as detachable skirts and twinkle lights. This blog will walk you through everything that needs considering when finding your dream wedding dress and give tips on how to hone in on the exact style that speaks to who you are as a person. So before heading off shopping, take some time to reflect and prepare so that you leave with a piece that perfectly reflects your magical day.
Think about how you want to look
When it comes to choosing your wedding dress style, start by reflecting on your personal or everyday style. This can be a great starting point in identifying the high-level style that suits you best. Here are six primary styles to consider:
Romantic: Romantic wedding dresses often feature soft fabrics like tulle and lace, with delicate details such as ruffles or floral appliques. These dresses usually have a feminine and dreamy aesthetic. Think of an enchanting garden wedding or a fairy tale come true. If you lean towards flowing dresses and floral patterns in your daily life, a romantic wedding dress with delicate lace detailing might be right up your alley.
Classic: Classic wedding dresses are all about timeless elegance. They usually feature clean lines, well-fitted silhouettes like the ball gown or A-line, and traditional elements like satin fabric and long trains. Perfect for a grand church wedding or a black-tie event. If you appreciate timeless elegance then this could be your perfect match.
Boho: Bohemian wedding dresses are ideal for the free-spirited bride. They often come in relaxed silhouettes with unique elements like fringe, bell sleeves, or intricate embroidery. Ideal for a beach wedding or a rustic barn ceremony.
Modern: Modern wedding dresses are characterized by sleek lines, minimalistic designs, and contemporary elements such as geometric cutouts or unusual fabric combinations. They're perfect for the bride who loves to keep up with the latest fashion trends.
Glamorous: Glamorous wedding dresses are all about making a statement. They often feature luxurious fabrics, dramatic silhouettes, and plenty of sparkle, such as sequins, crystals, or beadwork. Ideal for a lavish ballroom or city rooftop wedding. If you love all things luxurious and opulent then a dress adorned with sequins or crystals could be the one for you.
Non-traditional: Non-traditional wedding dresses are for the bride who wants to break the mold. This could mean opting for a jumpsuit instead of a dress, choosing a bold color over white, or selecting a short dress instead of a long one. The sky's the limit!
Think about how you want to move/feel
The feel and movement of your wedding dress are just as crucial as its style. After all, you'll be wearing it for several hours, possibly dancing, walking down the aisle, and mingling with guests. A beautiful dress that restricts your movement or feels uncomfortable can put a damper on your big day.
For instance, heavily beaded dresses, while stunning, can be quite heavy. If you plan to dance the night away, such a dress might not be the best choice. Similarly, tight mermaid gowns may look gorgeous but could restrict your stride.
So, when trying on dresses, take a walk around, sit down, stand up, and even try a few dance steps. Pay attention to how the dress feels on you. Is it comfortable? Can you move freely? These considerations will help ensure you not only look fabulous on your wedding day but also feel great. Remember, comfort and style can go hand in hand!
Take an online quiz
Taking an online quiz can be a fun and insightful way to explore your wedding dress style. There are numerous quizzes available that ask about your personal preferences, lifestyle, and even your dream wedding venue to help pinpoint your ideal bridal look.
For instance, you might enjoy the "Find Your Wedding Dress Style" quiz from The Knot. It's comprehensive and takes into account various aspects of your wedding and personal style. Another great option is the "What Type of Wedding Dress Should You Get?" quiz on Buzzfeed, which incorporates fun, lifestyle-based questions for a light-hearted approach.
While these quizzes are primarily for entertainment, they can indeed prompt you to consider aspects of your style you hadn't thought about before. So, take a break, have some fun with these quizzes, and who knows? You might just stumble upon your dream wedding dress style in the process. Just remember, these are suggestions and should align with what makes you feel most beautiful and comfortable!
And there you have it! Embarking on the journey to discover your perfect wedding dress style is an exciting part of your wedding planning process. It's a wonderful opportunity to express your personality and style in a way that makes you feel absolutely beautiful on your big day.
Whether you're drawn to romantic lace, sleek modern lines, boho chic, or non-traditional styles, remember that the best dress for you is one that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
If you're looking for a personalized shopping experience, I highly recommend boutiques such as Astra Bridal or Bluebell Bridal or Hera Couture. They offer a wide range of styles and their stylists are excellent at helping brides find their dream dress.
Remember, choosing your wedding dress is a personal journey, and these boutiques, among others in New Zealand, are there to guide and support you in finding your dream wedding dress style.
So, get ready to embrace this exciting adventure of finding your dream wedding dress. Happy shopping!