SAY YES TO THE DRESS

Say Yes

TO THE DRESS

By Kathy Fox

Shopping for your wedding dress has probably been a dream since childhood and one of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding. Yet understandably it can be a bit overwhelming with so many wedding dress silhouettes to choose from, A-line, ballgown, empire, mermaid, or sheath, finding the perfect wedding dress can take some time. With that in mind, it is important to start shopping seven to nine months out from your wedding date to allow for alterations especially if the dress ends up being ordered.

So before you say yes to the dress, check out what is trending in the 2022 wedding fashion world. The experience should be fun, memorable, and meaningful because all eyes will be on YOU as you walk down the aisle.

Having a budget for your dress is a must have, but don’t let that prevent you finding the gorgeous dress of your dreams locally. “No matter what your budget, every bride deserves the gown of her dreams,” says TerriJane Siega, owner of Brides on a Budget in Spring Hill. “We carry all the same designers that can be found elsewhere, the difference is we sell them for a much more affordable price.” Brides on a Budget features all brand new dresses and a range of bridal and formal wear dresses including accessories, shoes, and lingerie.

Lace and Co. Gown

Bride's On A Budget Gown

Lace and Co. Gown

Bride's On A Budget Gown

Another local formal wear store, located in Columbia, is Lace and Co. offering an experience like no other. “Our goal with each bride is to make her feel at home and genuinely comfortable during her time spent with us. We feel our job as consultants is so much more than selling a dress, it’s educating our brides on the entire process from why certain body types look great in certain styles, how the ordering process works, alterations and so much more! Step by step we keep the appointment personal, meaningful and fun,” explains owner Brittney Redden Poynor. In additional to formal wear dresses, Lace and Co. also has a tuxedo rental service for weddings and special events.

Stylish Cutouts

Stylish cutouts have made their way to bridal gown designs and seem to be available in most new collections. Dresses with plunging necklines, super high slits, and open back and side cutouts are definitely trending and add impeccable detailing. But don’t worry, there are plenty of design options so you can be as daring or modest as you choose to be with your dress.

Square Necklines

Popular in the Renaissance and then Regency eras, square necklines have made a trendy comeback and are a true throwback. This 2022 wedding dress fashion works with almost every wedding style and is flattering for both large and small bustlines.

Ruffles Return

They say it’s all in the details and romantic ruffles are back. A ruffled Cinderella skirt adds that princess inspired look with a full skirt of cascading ruffles perfect for a serious fashion statement. If you love this fairytale gown then tulle ruffle, organza, or chiffon ruffles will please on both the sleeves and skirt.

Corsets

If you are a fan of Bridgerton, then the fitted bodice will be appealing as they are slimming and still show off your curves. Adding beautiful detailed accents to the bodice, these corsets are nothing like the ones from the 1500s. Like square necklines, corsets have that stylish European appeal and if you are looking for a wedding gown with a silhouette that's functional and sultry, consider a wedding dress with the trendy lingerie-inspired bodice.

Oversized Accessories and Bows

Purchasing bridal accessories is a wonderful memory of your special day but can also be an investment for the future. Since bridal gowns are typically only worn once, splurging on a gorgeous piece of jewelry that can be worn for years to come makes complete sense. A pair of statement earrings or necklace can also be a fabulous complement to a minimalist gown allowing the accessories to grab the spotlight. Another trend for 2022 are bows and headbands giving brides many affordable options for accessories.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MULEHOUSE. GOWN FROM LACE & CO.

Don't Forget the Groom! Tux Tip

For the groom light colors work well in the spring, but a black or navy tuxedo is always fashionable year-round.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MULEHOUSE. GOWN FROM LACE & CO.

Don’t forget the sendoff dress. This trend from the 40s and 50s is back and allows brides to swap out their wedding dress for a chic cocktail dress or a comfortable boho maxi dress for the after party and the couple’s getaway.