gwilliams@lewistownsentinel.com
LEWISTOWN –
When it comes to bridal gowns, there are certainly trends with bling and high-neck dresses topping this year’s list.
But, the bottom line is, as bridal shop owners are finding out, almost anything goes.
At The Paisley Bride, 145 E. Market St. Suite A, Lewistown, owner Morgan Messerman enjoys finding unique styles and designs to carry in her shop, and she brings her background in fashion to help forecast upcoming bridal trends that local bridges will be looking for.
Messerman prides herself “on listening to what each bride is looking for in their dress,” she said. “We carry a wide variety of bridal gowns ranging from classic to trendy and unique that can be orderedor purchased
Messerman said a lot of soon-to-be brides are looking for dresses with accessories that make them suitable for their wedding as well as their reception.
“They want a two-forone dress,” she explained. “People want elements that might not be super comfortable to wear for their ceremony or photo sessions, but they can take them off at the reception and dance around.”
This makes it the year of the ornate embellishment. Embellished wedding dresses are making a comeback after several seasons of minimalist and pared-back designs, with designers and brides opting for styles that feature jewels, diamonds, crystals and all-over beading.
Experts say what separates this trend from the styles of year’s past, though, is the
are being incorporated throughout each gown.
“There are lots of glitter elements,” Messerman said. “With underlies, very-detailed trains and cutouts with lacy appliques.”
For instance, there has been a recent surge in art-deco-inspired beaded ensembles and designs that feature
a dress.
Oh, and if you think the fashion statement ends with the wedding dress, think again. The accessories, or detachable elements, are also extra:
See Trends | Page 7
Continued from Page 3 sleeves, embellished veils, weddingcapes, trains and bridal gloves are taking ensembles to a whole new level, Messerman said.
The Paisley Bride offers bridal gowns from Enchanting, Sincerity, Sweetheart and Lillian West. Messerman said she tries to keep prices “budget friendly” when considering what lines to feature.
Experts say if you’re a constant follower of
“Say Yes to the Dress,” then you’re likely dreaming of being dressed in white for your big day. Uniquely, the traditional dress is expected to see a revamp this year.
Streamlined styles are taking a backseat to textural details – think feathers, fringe, bows and 3-D applique –and bold silhouettes like ball gowns and cathedral-length trains are showing up on runaways and wedding aisles alike. Colored and printed gowns are also on the rise, experts say, with brides opting for a truly unique look.
“There’s more of a transition away from darker tones,” Messerman said. “Right now, most brides are going with white or ivory dresses.”
Along with higher necklines, Messerman added.
“Girls are looking for modest styles and raised necklines,” she explained. “There are different styles of necklines. Plunging necklines are popular, but now square or scoop necks are trending back from the ’90s.”
408 N. Market St., Selinsgrove, also sees some very distinct trends for this year.
“BoHo lace dresses are still very nice for outdoor, barn or vineyard weddings,” Chappell said. “The newest trend is the return of the satin ballgown. Ivory, champagne and blush gowns are still the most popular.”
The biggest trend, Chappell said, “In 2023, almost anything goes. Personal taste is the most important.”
Local Wedding Photos begin Next Page. Enjoy a selection of contest photos as submitted by entrants.
First Dance Song Options from the Nineties
There are many “tried and true” songs that a couple may use for the traditional first dance. The first dance is a song couples will remember the rest of their lives, and many opt for something that is a popular choice or was cherished while the couple dated. But some couples
are looking for something unique, and right now, the 1990’s are having a moment in nostalgic music culture. Here are eight “first dance” options curated from 1993 or 1994 alone. If a couple already has their first dance picked, these songs can be considered for the walk down the aisle or in the rotation of slow dance songs during the reception.
“Only Love” by Wynonna (1993) Simply beautiful
lyrics and deeply emotive vocals from Ms. Judd. A can’t miss slow dance song. Lyrics that Inspire: Only love sails straight from the harbor/And only love will lead us to the other shore/And out of all the flags I’ve flown/One flies high and stands alone/Only love
“I Swear” by John Michael Montgomery (1993) or All-4-One (1994)
This mega-hit was a staple of mid-nine-
ties weddings, but there’s no reason it can’t still be a part of a 2023 wedding playlist. Choose your own adventure- do you want to hear a pop/country ballad or a boy band R&B-tinged hit?
It’s your choice!
Lyrics that Inspire: I swear/By the moon and stars in the sky/I’ll be there/I swear
“Fade into You” by Mazzy Star (1993)
From the moody, dream-like guitars and piano, to Hope
Sandoval’s plaintive vocals, this ballad is a favorite for the 90’s alt-rock crowd. You’ve likely heard this song in any number of shows or movies.
Lyrics that Inspire: I want to hold the hand inside you/ I want to take the breath that’s true/I look to you, and I see nothing/ I look to you to see the truth
“No Doubt About It” by Neal McCoy (1994)
McCoy is known to be a friend and mentor of Blake Shelton, and with lyrics like this hit from 1994, you can understand why McCoy became an influence on Shelton.
Lyrics that Inspire: Just like every lock’s got to have a key/ Every river flows looking for the sea / And when you plant a seed, it reaches for the sky/ That’s just the way it is, nobody wonders why/ Like coffee needs a cup you know that
it ain’t much good without it We were meant to be together, no doubt about it
“Forever” by Ben Harper (1994)
Best known for the radio hit “Steal My Kisses,” Harper has crafted many soulful love songs over the years. This song is a strippeddown acoustic number that focuses on Harper’s plaintive voice.
Lyrics that Inspire: Forever always seems to be around when it begins/but forever never seems to be around when it ends/So give me your forever/Please your forever Not a day less will do/ From you
with as a choice. Lyrics that Inspire: The smile on your face/Lets me know/That you need me/There’s a truth/In your eyes/ Saying you’ll never leave me/ The touch of your hand says/ You’ll catch me/ Whenever I fall/You say it best/When you say Nothing at all
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” covered by Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole (1993)
You” by The Pretenders (1994)
From the symbolism of standing with your mate for the wedding vows, to the obstacles that a couple may have to overcome, this song’s lyrics have rich meaning. Chrissie Hynde’s vocals have inspired many and serve as testament to the vow “to love and cherish, ‘til death do us part.”
Lyrics that Inspire: Well I’m a lot like you/When you’re standing at the crossroads/And don’t know which path to choose/ Let me come along/’Cause even if you’re wrong/ I’ll stand by you
You Say Nothing At
“When
All” covered by Alison Krauss (1994)
Bluegrass and country star Krauss recorded this cover of the late Keith Whitley’s hit. Both versions are beautifully sung versions that you can’t go wrong
For a tropical or beach-inspired wedding reception, this lovely cover of the Judy Garland classic features ukulele and the vocals of the late Hawaiian singer Kamakawiwo’ole. This is also a great choice if the bride is wearing ruby red shoes. Lyrics that Inspire: Somewhere over that rainbow/All skies are blue, oh/ And where dreams/ That you dare to dream/Really do come true “I’ll
Perfect
Laurel
Our venue is perfect for all your event needs. Whether you’re looking for a wedding venue or a banquet hall we can accommodate your guests comfortably.
Please check us out on Facebook for information and more pictures of the venue.
Our older barn has the rustic feel that includes an altar, outside for those looking for an outdoor wedding. There is also a babbling brook that runs through the property.
Under New Ownership
