HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT WEDDING DRESS
Choosing the perfect wedding dress is one of the most exciting aspects of a bride’s wedding planning. This crucial item of clothing is something that she dreamt about a lot over the years – even more than the groom himself! Award-winning designer, Karen Couturier, gives us some insight into the most important dress a woman will ever wear.
HOW SHOULD A BRIDE CHOOSE HER WEDING DRESS SILHOUETTE?
“When choosing her wedding dress, it is important for a bride to decide which features of her body she wants to emphasize, and which ones she wants to hide.
If she wants to emphasize the bust line, a low-cut V with translucent net between the breasts, with soft layers running over, is usually a good way to enhance the cleavage. A V-line also elongates the torso, so if a bride is looking to add the illusion of length, this is a good option for her. She could even have some lace details that run down to the middle of the dress towards the hem line, so that it draws the eye down.
To accentuate the waistline, it is best to choose a dress with a belt. Depending on whether a bride has a curvy or slinky body type, the shape of the dress can impact her body shape quite drastically. Slender brides could choose a mermaid style to add some curves, and curvy brides could opt for a tulip style to complement their shape. The tulip style is also a good alternative to the ballgown.”
IS THE TRADITIONAL WHITE DRESS STILL A MUST FOR BRIDES?
“It is definitely not a must anymore. Overseas trends show that pinks and blushes are very popular among brides.”
WHAT WEDDING DRESS TRENDS DO YOU OBSERVE FOR 2022?
“Brides are going back to the big, white ballgowns with opulent sleeves and large trains. Also, styles that are plainer and more classical are accessorized with large earrings and jewelry. It also depends on a bride’s personal taste: I always say that trends are good to have, but that it is more important for a bride to wear a dress that she feels the most comfortable in.
Another trend for 2022 are see-through corsets that show the stomach, but if a bride doesn’t feel comfortable in these trends, she won’t be happy on her wedding day.”
HOW LONG IN ADVANCE SHOULD A BRIDE ORDER HER CUSTOM WEDDING DRESS?
“When a bride orders a custom dress, I really prefer to start at least six months prior to the wedding, so that we have ample time to shop for lace and materials. I always take my bride with me when we go shop for lace, because I feel that lace, specifically, is a very personal choice – another person may not like what I like. We also need to schedule at least three to four fittings. My minimum starting time for a custom dress is three months.
At the first consultation, brides bring pictures of what they have in mind, and we sit together and decide on what works, and what doesn’t. We also try on a few dresses, after which I give my advice. Thereafter I do the quotation and then we can get to the most fun part – shopping!”
WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU GIVE BRIDES?
“A bride should try on a couple different silhouettes before making the final call. She should also choose a designer with whom she can feel comfortable enough to have open discussions.”
Karen says that brides should not invite a big group of people when trying on dresses at Karen Couturier, as this can overwhelm and confuse a bride. When going for fittings, remember to take along the correct underwear, as well as your shoes. If your dress doesn’t have enough bust support – take some boob tape along as well.
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