10 STEPS TO THE OH-SO PERFECT DRESS

10 STEPS TO FINDING YOUR WEDDING DRESS

1

THE SALON

You may wonder why bridal salons require an appointment to try on gowns. Here’s the reason why—bridal salons offer a wide selection of gown styles all in one size. Limiting the number of dresses to one size per style allows them to carry a larger selection. Because the salon has only one gown from each style, they take special care to keep the dresses in good condition. For this reason, salon consultants always assist brides in trying on the gowns.

INFLUENCES Before you get your heart set on a gown you 2 simply can’t live without, ask if the house of worship where you’ll marry, has any restrictions. Some will not permit a bride to show bare shoulders or her back. It’s certainly worth a call to confirm before your first bridal salon appointment. Another factor is your reception

location and the

time of year and day you’ll wed. An outdoor, afternoon garden wedding calls for a totally different gown than an evening wedding at the St. Regis’ Gallery Ballroom.

YOUR APPOINTMENT During your first appointment try on different styles, even 3 those you normally wouldn’t consider. Trust your bridal salon consultant to lead you in the right direction. An experienced salon consultant will be invaluable in helping you select styles that flatter your best features and camouflage the flaws. Of course that in no way means you should ignore your own preferences. Be absolutely forthcoming with your comfort level and reactions to each gown you try on. Is the fabric too heavy, the neckline too low? Don’t be afraid to speak up. If an off-theshoulder gown has you fidgeting now, girlfriend, just think of the discomfort on your wedding day. No, thank you! The absolute last thing you want to be doing is tugging self-consciously at your dress all day. Your wedding day mantra should be, ‘beautiful,

4

SILHOUETTES + STYLES

There are eight basic silhouettes that make up almost all wedding gowns, plus a few less traditional options that are rapidly becoming mainstream. Chances are, at least one will be flattering on your body type. Being well versed in wedding gown vocabulary is vital. Here are a few key terms-of-art to get you on your way.

BALL GOWN This silhouette incorporates a natural or dropped waist, set off with a full skirt. Think Cinderella, waltzing with your prince at the reception. It’s extremely flattering around the waist. The volume of this dress might overtake the petite bride but it’s a good choice for an average height bride with very romantic taste.

THE A-LINE Flattering to most figures. The secret? A slim fitting narrow top that skims the rib cage and hips, extending out in an “A” triangle along the body. Look in your closet; chances are you’ll find many of your skirts have an A-line cut. There’s a reason after all; A-lines add height, minimize curvy hips, and create an overall slimming profile.

BALLERINA

Inspired by the costumes of classical ballet, made of ultrafine fabrics with a fitted waistline and classic full skirt, this silhouette can court a formal event while still being relaxed and easy to move in. It’s quite flattering on medium to tall frames, but tends to shorten the appearance of petite brides.

COLUMN OR SHEATH

Ah, the timeless style and sophistication of Audrey Hepburn. Desire her dresses? She’s all about the sheath. This is the cut for the sexy yet understated bride. With its slim profile, strategically placed darts and seams, the sheath shows your body without an overwhelming display of skin. Flattering to the petite, slim, tall or thin bride. Also flattering for slender but broad shouldered athletic builds.

EMPIRE

It’s time to release your inner queen. Napoleon’s Josephine made this style all the rage. Here’s why—the empire waist has a seam that falls right below the bust, elongating the petite bride and flattering the smaller busted. It enhances the waist while flattering the hips. If you have a long neck and want to wear big jewelry, the empire is a cut above the rest.

MERMAID

This silhouette, contours the body from chest to knee then flares out close to the hem. It accentuates your curves, creating that coveted hour glass shape.

TRUMPET It’s somewhat of a hybrid between the mermaid and modified A-line, but flairs out higher on the skirt at about mid-thigh. Ideal for frames with small waists, such as the hourglass, banana and petites.

COCKTAIL LENGTH + MINIS These leg-baring options are perfect for a more casual or destination wedding. The cocktail length falls below or just above the knee, as where the mini shows a little more sass with a bit more thigh.

PANTSUITS + JUMPSUITS

A popular option for less traditional; same-sex; destination; or civil ceremony brides, pantsuits and jumpsuits are taking the bridal fashion world by storm. With designers like Lela Rose, Naeem Khan and Carolina Herrera elevating the look, this trend is definitely here to stay.

TRENDING NOW • Floral Prints and Watercolor • Shades of Buff and Ginger • Black Details–Bodice, Belt, Trim • Ruffles • Airy–Sheer Tulle and Organza Skirts • Puffy Sleeves • Full Coverage–Mock Necklines, Sleeves • Pants, Statement Suits • One Shoulder Necklines • Lace–Floral, Macrame, Asymmetric • Sparkle–Sequins, Beading, Metallic • Tiered • Legs–High-Low Hemlines, Slits

A COUTURE BRIDAL SALON

KINSLEYJAMES.COM 925.330.9228 1623 MT DIABLO BLVD WALNUT CREEK

AN ELEVATED BRIDAL EXPERIENCE Designers include Hayley Paige, Pronovias, Nouvelle Amsale, Rosa Clara, Watters, Willowby by Watters and more.

ROSA CLARA ROSA CLARA

865 MARKET STREET, SAN FRANCISCO | (415) 977-5029 SHOP.NORDSTROM.COM/CONTENT/WEDDING-SHOP

JULIE VINO BRIDAL

650.347.3444 BY APPOINTMENT 27 NORTH SAN MATEO DRIVE, SAN MATEO PRESTIGIOUS INTERNATIONAL DESIGNERS NOUVELLEVOGUEBRIDAL.COM

415-409-0217 | ANDSOMETHINGBLUE.COM 3326 SACRAMENTO ST, SAN FRANCISCO

ANNA CAMPBELL

GESINEE’S BRIDAL

BRIDAL BRIDESMAIDS MOTHERS FLOWER GIRLS TUXEDOS

925-686-6444 GESINEESBRIDAL.COM 2368 CONCORD BLVD, CONCORD

3569 MT. DIABLO BLVD, SUITE E, LAFAYETTE 925.298.4100 | LACEANDBUSTLE.COM

MAYA LORA PHOTOGRAPHY

5

VEIL OR NOT

Yo ur dre s s will m o s t like ly h ave

some

influence over what veil or headpiece you ultimately choose. As for rules, there are none. If you feel romantic and gorgeous in a veil, wear it. If your heart’s set on a tiara, you go girl. If you’re opting for a loose braid and don’t want to cover it up, sprinkle in a little bling with rhinestone pins. Feel like donning a sassy bird cage veil? Do it. What’s our wedding day mantra? That’s right, girlfriend...”be beautiful, comfortable and confident.”

6

WHEN TO SHOP

Realistically, you should start shopping for your gown at least six months prior to the wedding, especially if you’re considering a custom made gown. Allow plenty of time for alterations.

7

THE COST

Wedding gowns range from $1,000 to $10,000 or more, plus alterations and the appropriate lingerie. Determine your budget before you begin the search, and tell your salon consultant what it is so she can direct you towards gorgeous gowns in your price range.

While it is only natural to want the best price possible, keep in mind that the cost not only covers the material and labor involved in creating a gown, it also covers the time invested by your salon consultant. Looking for your wedding gown can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of planning a wedding.... trying on beautiful gowns, being pampered and waited on by your own personal consultant. Push too hard for a lesser price and you may lose the special service and attention to detail you would have received with the original price.

8

ALTERATIONS

The bridal salon will take measurements to assist you in ordering the correct gown size based on the manufacturer ’s size chart. However, unless you’re as fit as a swimsuit model, expect at least minimal alterations. Especially if your

upper and lower body proportions are

two

different sizes. Of course there are some salons that offer gown styles to choose from, but custom make the gown to your body measurements. In which case, you can check one more item off your to-do list.

TRUNK SHOWS Most bridal salons carry a few gowns 9 from each of their select group of designers. Trunk shows provide the opportunity for you to see and try on an even larger selection from these designers. In addition, it’s an opportunity to meet the designer, or company representative, in person. Appointments are highly recommended. Visit the bridal event calendar on TodaysBrideSF.com for a list of upcoming trunk shows.

10

LINGERIE

Once you’ve selected the gown, ask your salon consultant for recommendations on the appropriate lingerie. Make sure these garments supply the perfect amount of support and fit. Do you slouch? Discover a corset with boning. Wearing shimmering silk? Seamless lingerie is your secret. Heart set on strapless? A seam-free strapless bustier or three-quarter-length convertible bra will do the trick. The tendency is to select white lingerie. However, something closer to your skin tone, like nude, will be less noticable under a white gown. Bring these items to your dress fittings. You’ll see and feel the difference.

SELECTING YOUR BRIDESMAIDS

If there’s anyone who truly understands the meaning of “for better or for worse” it’s a best friend. Whether you played dress-up as little girls, were cheerleaders together in high school, met in college or at the office, chances are you’ve had your share of good times and bad. And through it all—diets and boyfriends, jobs and joys—you’ve remained tried-and-true best friends. Who better to share this exciting time with than those with whom you’ve already shared so many of life’s memorable moments?

HAYLEY PAIGE

MONICA VARGAS

JANENESBRIDAL.COM | 510-217-8076 2226 SOUTH SHORE CENTER, ALAMEDA

422 HARTZ AVE, DANVILLE 925.406.4061 | BRIDESONHARTZ.COM

C H I N K E V I N

Atelier des Modistes COUTURE BRIDAL EVENING LINGERIE

Elegant Lace

BRIDAL & TUXEDO

ATELIERDESMODISTES.COM 1 903 Hyde Street | San Francisco | 41 5.775.0545

SAN FRANCISCO | BY APPOINTMENT | JINWANG.NET | 415.397.9111

BRUCE DAMONTE

542 LAWRENCE EXPRESSWAY, SUNNYVALE 408.774.9242 | BOLEEBRIDAL.COM

EST 1984

Rin’s Bridal

R I N S B R I D A L . C O M 616 EL CAMINO REAL, SAN CARLOS | 650.595.3404

With all the blissful anticipation and expectations that will surround the wedding, you’ll undoubtedly experience your portion of aggravation and frustration. That’s why it’s so important to surround yourself with the girlfriends and family who love and know you best (for better or for worse), who can lend support, patience, and a little assistance with the myriad of tasks ahead.

HOW MANY

The number of bridesmaids and groomsmen in your entourage will greatly depend on the size and style of your wedding. Large, formal weddings call for larger bridal parties, while small, informal ceremonies are fine with simply a maid-of-honor and best man. While you’ll certainly want each of your bridesmaids to be escorted down the aisle by a dapperly dressed gent, there’s no rule that says you have to have an equal number of male and female attendants.

Being part of a wedding can be a costly endeavor, so provide at least six months notice for everyone involved. They’ll need the time for potential alterations as well as making travel arrangements.

BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES

If you really want to keep your girls happy, let them choose their own dresses. Select a manufacturer and color, then let your girls choose the style they feel most flatters their figure. This is a great option if one of your bridesmaids is pregnant or if you have a variety of body sizes and shapes to contend with. Another option is to select a two-piece ensemble, which naturally adjusts itself to different body types. Alterations are often easier with just a top, or just a skirt. when dealing

In

addition to bridal salons, visit several department stores for ready-wear gowns. They carry various sizes of the same style, affording your bridesmaids the opportunity to try on a few different sizes to find the most flattering fit. It’s also convenient for your

the most appropriate size and ship it. If the dress doesn’t fit, you can take it back and exchange it for the proper size.

And whatever you do, don’t forget to announce at your bridal luncheon, that you’re so excited about finding bridesmaids dresses “they’ll be able to wear again.” Bridesmaids love that! (wink-wink)

FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS Before falling in love with the perfect bridesmaid dress, put some thought into the variety of budgets you’ll be dealing with. Most likely your bridal party will consist of friends at different stages of life with dramatically different incomes and financial obligations. Be clear about what you will pay for and what items will be their responsibility. The bridal party typically pays for their own wedding attire and accommodations. However, you can certainly offer to pay for their dresses and accessories, or split the cost. The price for a bridesmaid dress can range from $150 to $350. If budgets are lean, consider preowned (think eBay or Poshmark), or rental options (check-out Rent the Runway)..

HAIR & MAKEUP

The first decision is whether to use a professional makeup artist, hair stylist or both. Will you hire these services for just yourself, or your entire bridal party? The benefits of hiring pros are many. From the convenience of on-location service, to the reassurance that each of your attendants will look their very best, enlisting the help of an expert is one simple way to shorten the list of wedding day worries.

MAKEUP STYLIST A professional makeup artist is experienced in creating many different looks. A true artist will know trade secrets for not only fashioning a longer lasting look, but for accentuating your finer features. Whether you prefer the barely there look with luminous skin and thick brows, or a retro 60’s look with faux lashes, dramatic liner and pale, porcelain skin, your stylist will help you look and feel your camera-ready best. LUXURY, ONSITE BEAUTY SERVICES

L O O K GOOD FEEL GOOD

HELLO@APRILFOSTERBRIDAL.COM 2308 UNION STREET | SAN FRANCISCO A P R I L F O S T E R B R I D A L . C O M

High Fashion Hair + Makeup f o r t h e M o d e r n B r i d e .

MONIFIED.COM 408.679.7600 | Los Gatos | Serving the Bay Area

PMASTYLE.COM | 415.300.0559 | SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA | DESTINATION WEDDINGS

LARISSA CLEVELAND

bracelets | earrings | necklaces hair accessories | sashes + belts | straps

HAUTEBRIDE.COM | 408.656.8799

VIC BONVICINI HAIR STYLIST An initial consultation is generally recommended one to two months prior to the wedding. Be sure to check-out some of these bridal hairstyle trends before your consultation.

Fall fashion week debuted a bold and undeniably romantic new look for 2020–hair bouquets. Envision an entire bouquet’s worth of flowers woven through your tresses.

The sleek center part is fashion forward and ideal for those who struggle to keep their curls.

Padded pearl and bejeweled headbands are as functional as they are glamorous–just what you need to keep those flyaways under control while you’re slaying it on the dancefloor.

Big bows and silky or velvet ribbons lend a classic yet modern aesthetic, and with bridal ponytails trending, they’re the perfect finishing touch.

This trend is definitely for those ladies with long locks–braids. Bold and structured or loose and dreamy, they’re a stylish way of keeping your hair out of your face from the aisle to the last dance.

60’s Glam with loose curls and plenty of texture and volume is just right for brides that dig that retro look.

Bohemian aka Boho is still trending. Whether soft flowing waves, a loose knot or disheveled braid, the slightly unkempt look with a flower crown or even a 20’s headpiece is definitely in style.

Chic and Sleek for brides who prefer a more classic, minimalist look. Hair scraped back into a smooth, low-hung bun can be dramatic and striking, allowing your face and dress to take center stage.

Bring your headpiece or veil to the first visit with your stylist and take photos from several angles to assist the stylist in recreating the same look on your wedding day.

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