The Wedding Gown - From Chic To Elegant

There are literally hundreds of options for the wedding gown. Different styles, materials, lace and veil combinations mean any bride can have the dress of her dreams. The empire waist is typically understood to be a style that gathers just below the breasts, often with a ribbon or other trim to set off the graceful gathering at that point. The style has been very popular during several historical periods and lends itself well to several kinds of fabrics. The dress is frequently associated with the traditional dress style of the Grecian period. If made of a lightweight fabric, the dress has a "gauzy" appearance. The cut is often used with short puffed sleeves, shoulder straps or a strapless design. The style is usually viewed as less formal than most wedding gown styles, but can be "dressed up" with ribbon rosebuds, lace or other trim. A shirred empire waist is a similar cut, but the high waistline is curved with the shape of the breasts. There are also several options for the sleeves. Off the shoulder is generally considered to be a very elegant look, but off the shoulder doesn't have to mean sleeveless. Tightly fit sleeves have long been popular and offer several options. The sleeves can be three-quarter or full length. Either length can be trimmed in a lace similar to the trim used on the wedding gown's bodice and hem. Many traditional wedding gowns are complete with a train, though most are detachable, making the dress more versatile. For many brides, the wedding gown isn't complete without a veil and the options for veils are almost as versatile as for the wedding gown. Long flowing veils will likely continue to be popular, simply for their elegance and traditional value. But there are other options, equally as appealing to some. Shorter veils, hairpieces, updos and hats can be a wonderful accessory to any wedding gown.

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