THE GOWN
Finding Your Dream Dress BY CATHERINE LAROSE
A
wedding gown is a dress imbued with powerful meaning,
tradition and symbolism, however the modern bride has evolved. The modern bride is self-aware, unique, and passionate. She seeks to design meaning into her bridal ensemble through a strong sense of her own personal style and values. Although many bridal fashion traditions have persisted for the most part over recent decades; shapes, fabrics and techniques are more creative and daring than ever. Off-theshoulder wedding gowns, dramatically sculptured and tiered skirts, patterned wedding dresses, and plunging necklines dominated the fall 2017 Bridal Fashion Week runways. For most women, a wedding gown is the fashion investment of a lifetime. There are many important things to consider when looking for your gown that go way beyond the latest trends and styles. It is important to do your research so that you feel confident with your choice. There are some simple ways to make sure you are getting the best deal without compromising on quality, such as; setting a budget, shopping sample sales, and trying trunk shows. Be aware that shopping on-line can be very risky, as the internet is rife with cheaply made designer knock-offs and bad business practices, including late delivery and questionable return policies. In the world of designer wedding gowns, keep in mind that fabrics are chosen for more than just aesthetic reasons. They are also chosen according to functionality and the style of the dress. This is because the fabric supports the style, fit and structure of the gown. Once you have found your gown, your salesperson can help you to determine the appropriate underpinnings. Make sure you bring the exact lingerie that you intend to wear on your wedding day to all your fittings. Once you set sail on the shopping voyage of a lifetime, it is easy to get swept away by the current of gorgeous designer labels, and soon find yourself in deep water. Make sure you set a budget and stay within it. Know what you are willing to spend, and find your dream dress within that range. For reference, statistics show that most brides will end up spending about 10% of their entire wedding budget on their dress. Be sure to start your search early, as it can take anywhere from six months to one year for a boutique to order a dress from a design house.
PHOTOGRAPHY: f8 PHOTOGRAPHY BRIDAL FASHION: THE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE HAIR & MAKEUP: VJOSA ASANI MAKEUP ARTIST MODEL: NATURAL TALENT ALLIANCE INC. - TORI
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