Bridal Gowns

(ARA) - When it comes to "Something New" for their wedding day, most brides start with the all-important wedding dress. The latest trend in wedding style is for the bride to seek a look that expresses her special personality and style.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be the belle of the ball; make sure you try a variety of silhouettes in various fabrics to find the dress that's uniquely you," says Diane Forden, editor-in-chief of Bridal Guide. Perusing bridal magazines and surfing bridal Web sites are great ways to get a feel for the latest trends and get you thinking about the styles you like. However, says Forden, "Just because a gown looks great on the model in the photograph, doesn't mean it's the best 'fit' for your figure or your personality." Her advice: Be open-minded about trying different looks, especially those suggested by your bridal consultant.

Choosing a store that offers a varied selection allows you to try on a range of styles, from classic looks to gowns that reflect the newest trends. While many local bridal shops receive new merchandise only once or twice a year, a larger, national chain has a continual stream of new designs, and hence more options for brides and bridesmaids in terms of styles, price and sizes. Since it's essential to see what a gown will actually look like on, go to a store that stocks dresses in a wide range of sizes.

What's New?

"Bridal fashions for 2005 evoke a more romantic feel than previous years," says Jeff Moore, trend expert for David's Bridal. Dressing up and feeling fabulous are back in style, with ladylike silhouettes that are both classic and dreamy. "Brides are looking for affordable luxury," he says. "They want an upscale look without the couture price tag, which is absolutely attainable."

If you read the bridal magazines or surf the internet, you'll see that sweetheart necklines and updated halters are extremely popular; strapless gowns continue to be a bridal mainstay as well. "All of these necklines offer great opportunities for accessorizing, which once again allows you to personalize your look," says Moore.

A-line silhouettes, which complement just about every body type, are a perennial favorite. Ballgowns and sheath style dresses, both in keeping with the romantic trend, are also popular. One of the newest silhouettes, the side-drape dress, is extremely figure-flattering, because it looks graceful and gorgeous while hiding any figure flaws. For more intimate or destination weddings, consider a tea-length dress, in lace or other "packable" fabrics.

You'll also see a bevy of elegant embellishments on bridal gowns in 2005. Traditional decorative elements such as lace, pearls, appliqués and hand-beading adorn many dresses. Embroidery using metallic thread lends a sparkling effect to the latest designs.

If you're wondering how you'll ever find your perfect dress among all the options out there, Moore has two pieces of advice. "First, bring along a friend or relative when you shop so you have someone to help you compare the dresses you try on. Second, trust your bridal consultant. They work with brides every day and have an innate sense about what will look good on you. Plus, they know the store's selection inside and out."

Dressing the Bridal Party

Allow your bridesmaids to showcase their individuality as well. With Make-A-Match separates from David's Bridal, you select the color scheme and your bridesmaids create their own unique combinations from a choice of several styles. Complete the bridal party look by accessorizing with color-coordinated shoes, matching purses and complementing jewelry.

This year, bridesmaid's silhouettes are updated with alternative lengths and asymmetrical hems. With brides leaning toward showcasing more color in their weddings, bridesmaid dresses can now be found in varied shades - from soft pastels to rich jewel tones. In accordance with wedding gown trends, bridal party dresses also include embellishments such as embroidery, flowers, ribbons, bows, sashes and beading.

Today it's common for bridesmaids to be scattered across the country. Brides should take this into consideration when selecting a store at which to purchase their bridal party dresses. With over 240 stores across the county and a state-of-the-art Web site, David's Bridal makes it easy for brides and their bridesmaids to coordinate their dresses, even if they're not in the same area.

To find the David's Bridal nearest you, and to view the latest bridal fashions, visit www.davidsbridal.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content

SIDEBAR:

Accent on Accessories

Bridal accessories go way beyond the veil this year as jewelry, gloves, handbags and other accent pieces all play an important part. The softer look in bridal dresses is reflected in the gentler drape of veils this season. The trend of embellishment is reflected in headpiece collections as well. You'll see tiaras and veils bejeweled with crystals, gold thread, fresh water pearls and rhinestones in addition to classically simple scalloped veils.

The embellishment theme is also reflected in wraps and handbags, for example, with a beautiful floral pattern on a handbag. The sophisticated look of pearls and gold will also be strong, especially in tiara and jewelry collections. The classic string of pearls is always appropriate; for something trendier, consider sparkling rhinestone chandelier earrings.

Gloves are making a comeback this year, in keeping with the romantic direction of bridal fashion. You'll find them from wrist-length to over-the-elbow, in 2-, 12- and 16-button styles, and even gauntlets are making a return.

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