Dressing for Your Wedding -Bride and Groom
Veils
As one of the more traditional elements of a wedding dress, a veil can also seem to some a little outdated. If you decide upon one, it should not be an afterthought but a well-considered compliment to the wedding dress and overall theme. There are three main types of veil. The first if the full-length veil; ending at floor-level, it is also known as the Cathedral veil. The medium length-veil ends at the elbow or fingertips and is more understated, yet still traditional. For a more informal wedding the “Blusher” ends at the shoulder line. Shorter veils are often more popular as they are lower maintenance-wise. Most importantly, shop around for this item as it can be easy to get wrong.
The Dress
There are several tips for picking the perfect dress that you won’t come to regret. Firstly, don’t be swayed by other’s opinions and influences. This is, after all, your day and no-one else’s so please yourself first and foremost. Another mistake is to settle for second best because of your budget. And lastly, don’t become too set on one particular style of dress: be open to new ideas to make sure you get the best fit and style to suit you.
The most popular dress types:
A-line – a shape with seams running from the shoulders or neck-line to the hem. This is more flattering for the pear-shaped body.
Empire – the main seam is right under the bust so enhances the chest.
Sheath – a simple, body-hugging shape for leaner brides.
Ball gown - the most traditional type of wedding dress, made up of a bodice and long skirt. Suits most body types although it does often have a flared skirt which can make petite women look even shorter.
Mermaid – this is tight to the knee where it flares out into a fishtail style. A popular style for creating curves.
Make sure the fabric isn’t uncomfortable, as you will have to be in it all day and it will show if you’re not happy.
The Groom
A quick guide to the traditional suit:
Black tie – this is traditionally worn for late afternoon and evening weddings. The main aspects of clothing are: black dinner jacket, ribbed silk lapels, tapered trousers, cotton or silk shirt with pleated front, turn-down collar, bow tie, waistcoat, pocket handkerchief and black shoes.
Morning suit – normally worn by grooms at weddings before 3pm, this suit contains a blue, black or grey tailcoat with matching or contrasting trousers, plain or pinstriped, white wing-collar shirt, waistcoat, cravat and sometimes a top hat.
White tie – for formal occasions. Usually the same as a morning suit but with a white waistcoat and tie instead.
