Brides are loving a departure from traditional white, stepping out of the box with neutrals, blush, and pops of colour. Also, the more details the better. Anything from lace to embroidery to intricate beadwork gowns.
There is a similar shift with accessories – it’s all about layering in colour and texture. Go for mixed-metal accessories or incorporate fresh blooms in unexpected ways.
Brides shouldn’t let the venue dictate the gown. Wear the dress of your dreams and use accessories to make it appropriate to the setting.
A full tulle skirt may not be traditional for a beach wedding, but finishing touches like flat strappy sandals instead of high-heeled pumps will tie everything together.
The new style trends move away from matching bridesmaids and instead, mix-and-match is the moment. You can even take it a step further by having your attendants in varying colours, or have the same colour but different styles.
Tie in a print or swap a dress for separate pieces. Creating variation in your bridal party adds visual interest and feels natural and effortless, not to mention it gives your bridesmaids the freedom to pick dresses that flatter their figures and suit their personal styles.
Pre-wedding events, such as the kitchen tea or bachelorette party are also great opportunities to work in all the facets of your personal style. Choose a super-sweet sheath for your kitchen tea, or a sparkly number or sleek jumpsuit for your bachelorette, to allow different sides of your personality to shine through.
Another styling secret for future brides is that you must keep an open mind during your bridal appointments. Be conscious of trends, but the main objective should be to feel beautiful on your big day. Stay true to your figure, choosing silhouettes that flatter you and dismiss trends that don’t.
Also, think outside the box. You can create a look that’s completely your own with separates: consider pairing a full skirt over a slim gown, or even a cocktail dress for your ceremony. Slip it off to reveal a new look for your reception and dance the night away.
Another tip: consult with a tailor. More likely than not you’ll need one to make a few adjustments to your dress in order to get the perfect fit. A good tailor can also often add supportive elements, such as lined cups to gowns with tricky necklines, so you won’t have to go out of your way to find the right lingerie.
And, pack a mini emergency kit containing dental floss, bobby pins, clear nail polish, clear elastic bands, safety pins, tampons, earbuds, adhesive bandage, facial tissues, an emery board, deodorant towellettes, hairspray, double sided-tape, a mending kit and breath freshener. Don’t forget a lint roller for the groom.
Lastly, remember to enjoy the process and don’t get caught up in other people’s expectations. Your big day should be a reflection of you and your partner and a chance for your nearest and dearest to celebrate your love.
You can visit my website on www.ronelda.com or find me on Facebook: Ronelda Rhode Styling/ Bridal Wear or Instagram: @StylebyRonelda or Twitter: @RoneldaRhode
