Category: Dress Shopping

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Dress Shopping

Expert Wedding Dress Shopping Tips

Ever since childhood, we have loved weddings; the big white dress, the flowers, people in a celebratory mood; we were hooked. When the reality TV craze started, our PVR was set to tape them all: Say Yes to the Dress (Kleinfeld’s, Atlanta, Bridesmaids, and Canada), I Found the Gown, My Fair Wedding with David Tutera, Rich Bride/Groom Poor Bride/Groom, and Four Weddings to name just a few. So, when we started to think of where to start with our blog, we thought about what are some key wedding dress shopping tips.

So, we thought we would start with the basics, Wedding Dress Shopping Tips: Advice from Our Experts 

After speaking with many of our expert stylists, some who have been assisting brides for many years, we have got the scoop on what brides should know/do to have the best wedding dress shopping experience possible.

  1. Bring a small entourage

    Brides tend to want to bring a large number of people with them; parent(s), siblings, cousins, aunts, grandmas, friends etc. However, the more people you bring the more opinions there are going to be, good and bad. Trying to find a dress to please that many people is a near impossible task, especially if you are a people pleaser like me. You can likely end up getting stressed out and confused on which direction to go with so many different thoughts and opinions being shared.

    Appointments with small parties tend to be more successful. You are able to receive a couple other opinions, but won’t become overwhelmed trying to find a dress that you and 8 other people will love. With fewer people shopping for the dress, it means more people to surprise with your beautiful choice. If you really want to show those special people your dress you can bring a few of them to your fittings.
  2. Wear proper undergarments

    Remember to wear proper undergarments to your appointment. Many dresses are strapless (with the option of adding straps or sleeves if desired) so we recommend a strapless bra. Undergarments are mandatory when trying on dresses for hygienic reasons (experience has shown stylists that some brides need reminding of this). Stylist are not able to allow you to try on any dresses without underwear. And remember, the stylist will need to assist you in doing-up the dress. So, if you’re not comfortable sharing your “rear assets” with her, skip the thong that day.
  3. Have an idea of what you’re looking for, but be open-minded to suggestions

    It helps to have ideas of what you’re interested in at your appointment (the cut, fabric, lace/no lace, bling/no bling, etc.). So, do some research before you come to your appointment. And, don’t be afraid to show your stylist some pictures of what you like. Just remember that pictures in magazines are photo-shopped and not always 100% realistic. We have links to all the designers we carry on our website. Interested in a specific style? Call or email Sinders to inquire about it!

    While having an idea of what you’re interested in is helpful, you should still come with an open mind to try other styles. Your stylist spends her days putting women into dresses; she knows how to read you, find out what you like, and what will work with your body type. Listening to the stylist’s suggestions can really surprise you. All our stylists have had countless brides come in with one idea and yet purchased something completely different.
  4. Shop early enough, but not too early

    Shopping for a wedding dress is not the same as shopping for any other dress. Unless you’re purchasing your gown off the rack, you will just be trying on samples at the store. Then the store will order your choice, in your size, from the designer.  Depending on the designer and time of year, dresses can take up to 9 months to be shipped to the bridal shop. It is important to keep this in mind to have the widest selection available to you.

    Shopping too early for your dress can also be a problem. Purchasing your dress with over a year before your wedding day may result in buyer’s regret. Designers usually release two collections per year. Between your purchase date and your big day current wedding dress styles may change, and you may discover a dress you love more than the one you purchased.
  5. Stay within budget

    Wedding dresses come in a large range of prices from the higher hundreds to tens of thousands. It’s so easy to walk into a store and see many dresses you like without considering the price.  Before coming to your appointment you should know what you (or whoever is paying for the dress) are able and willing to spend. Tell your stylist what your budget is at the beginning of the appointment. It is a big mistake to try on a dress that is above your budget. Especially if you’re not willing to spend the extra money. If you end up falling in love with the dress but can’t afford it you will end up comparing all the other dresses to it. And, warning, it’s very unlikely any of them will be able to match those feelings. There are beautiful dresses for any budget, our stylists can show you.
  6. Don’t try on too many dresses

    Wanting to see all your options, and continuing to play “dress up” can make you want to try on the hundreds of options available. However, this will likely result in you becoming confused on what you like, not knowing which dress is your dress, and having to settle on one you may regret. Most brides try on an average of 4-7 dresses. To prevent you from becoming confused, you should plan to try no more than approximately 10 gowns.
  7. Don’t worry about the size of the dress

    Bridal sizing runs smaller than street sizing. So, you will likely end up with a dress size larger than your regularly wear. Don’t worry about this, it’s just a number and it doesn’t define you. You will look better and enjoy your day much more if you’re in a dress that fits properly and you’re comfortable in! Don’t try to squeeze into a dress you will be pulling at all day. Especially because it’s a smaller size (no one needs to know the size of your dress anyway).
  8. You don’t have to cry

    Lots of brides have the idea that they will cry when they find “the dress”. While this can happen, it doesn’t always, and it’s not a requirement. Not all brides have an outward display of emotion, and that is perfectly acceptable. When you have found “the dress” you’ll know, no matter what your reaction is.

So there they are; the top tips from Sinders expert bridal stylist so you can have the best wedding dress shopping experience possible.

If you have any other questions regarding wedding dress shopping, please let us know. We’ll find the answer for you!

Don’t forget to book your appointment to find your perfect dress with us. Here at Sinders, we focus on providing the best customer service, so you can have the best experience finding your dress.

Categories
Dress Shopping Wedding Dresses

Top 10 tips for beautiful beach wedding dresses

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING BEACH WEDDING DRESSES FOR YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING

Destination weddings are a fun, relaxed alternative to traditional weddings. They combine the best of wedding celebrations and beach vacations, all with your most cherished loved ones. And like destination weddings, the choices for beach wedding dresses are more fun and laid back. Since you won’t be in a church, there are no rules with how much skin you can show. It’s also too hot on the beach to wear a formal wedding dress anyway.

While beach wedding dresses aren’t always traditional, they are still elegant. So choose to stay cool and comfortable on your big day in a beautiful beach wedding dress.

Here are the top 10 things to look for when choosing beach wedding dresses.

A COMFORTABLE FIT

The fit of a wedding dress is an important consideration, no matter where you’re getting married. But for beach weddings, you have to take the heat into consideration as well.

To enjoy your special day without feeling sticky in the heat, find a dress that fits comfortably. Consider looser fits that won’t stick to your skin.

Flattering styles that will be comfortable even in the heat and humidity include:

  • A-line fit and flares;
  • Above-the-knee flounce designs;
  • Loose tea-length pencil shapes; and,
  • Short sheathes.

LIGHTWEIGHT & BREATHABLE FABRIC

A comfortable beach wedding dress will also need flowy, breathable fabric. Traditional wedding dresses have heavier fabrics, such as polyester-silk or satin-silk. But beach wedding dressers will have looser fits and lightweight fabrics such as:

  • Chiffon;
  • Crêpe;
  • Cotton blends;
  • Organza; and,
  • Mesh or lace details.

MOISTURE-FRIENDLY FABRIC

There’s a good chance that your destination wedding will be in a hot, humid place by the ocean. So you have to take the high humidity into account when choosing fabrics for your wedding dress. The oceanfront humidity is not kind to some fabrics. Certain fabrics will result in a dress that becomes damaged, wrinkled, or flattened.

Comfortable, breathable fabrics that can handle moisture are ideal. And if you decide to take a stroll into the ocean for wedding photos, then you won’t cringe at the thought of ruining your beloved dress.

A SHORTER LENGTH

Shorter dresses are also ideal for wading in the ocean, walking in the sand, and feeling cooler in the heat. Full skirts and floor-length dresses are elegant. But they may impede on your fun in the sun, getting dirty or damaged in the sand and water. Shorter-length styles include streamlined, tea-length, and above-the-knee designs.

DISCOVER WHAT STACEY & MEGHAN ARE UP TO

and get a sneak preview of Sinder’s Bridal Guide for free!

By completing this form and clicking on the Submit button, I expressly consent and agree to receive e-mails from Sinders Bridal to the e-mail address provided.

TRAIN ALTERNATIVES

As with long skirts, trains will also face problems on the beach. Trains don’t allow for free-flowing movement and may get muddied on the beach. They also add weight to the dress, making them seem heavier in the heat and humidity. Even when bustled, the weight is still there. So opt for another accessory for your outfit that won’t get in the way. Consider a short veil, mesh or lace details, or other lightweight-fabric details.

BEACH-FRIENDLY ADD-ONS

Even a veil may be too much for a windy oceanfront. But there are accessories that will work well both with your dress and the beach environment. Maintain comfort and convenience throughout your big day with these beach-friendly add-ons:

  • Flower crowns;
  • Headbands;
  • Jewellery; and,
  • Lace gloves.

BARE SHOULDERS

In the tropical heat, you will want to expose as much skin as possible to cool down in the ocean breeze. Popular beach wedding dresses expose the shoulders and arms for added comfort. In the heat and humidity, the less fabric you have on, the more comfortable you’ll be.

Consider beach wedding dresses with the following styles to stay cool:

  • Halter;
  • Keyhole;
  • One shoulder;
  • Short-sleeves;
  • Strapless; and,
  • Spaghetti straps.

EASY TO TRANSPORT

When travelling to your destination, make sure your dress makes it on time and in pristine condition. Do not check it with your luggage at the airport. Either carry it on the plane with you, or arrange to ship it registered and expedited to your wedding destination.

Either way, you will want a lightweight dress that is easy to ship or carry. If you choose to ship your dress, you will end up saving on shipping costs if it’s lightweight. And if you choose to travel with your dress, you will want to carry it on the plane.

EASY TO STORE

After your wedding, you will may want to have your dress dry cleaned and packaged for proper storage. The cleaning and prep for storage is expensive for big dresses with delicate fabrics. But lightweight dresses with moisture-friendly materials will be easier to clean and store.

MAKES YOU FEEL CONFIDENT

As with a comfortable fit, how confident you feel in a dress is a priority when choosing wedding dresses. You will want a dress that makes you feel beautiful so that you’ll be happy to wear it throughout your wedding day.

Destination weddings are all about feeling good, relaxed, and happy. Choose a dress that will make you feel great so you can have fun in the sun without worries on your wedding day.

Download the Sinders Bridal Guide to Plan the Wedding of Your Dreams

Categories
Customizations & Alterations Dress Shopping In-House Alterations

6 tips for wedding dress fittings and alterations

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN GETTING YOUR WEDDING DRESS READY FOR THE BIG DAY

In a perfect world, finding your wedding dress would mean a perfect fit right off the hanger. But more often than not, the dress of your dreams needs a few dress fittings and alterations to perfectly suit your body and style.

That’s where fitting comes in! Once you’ve found your dream wedding dress, you will need to have it fitted. Fittings are the perfect opportunity to add special details and personalize your dress.

Whether you prefer long sleeved wedding dresses or sleeveless gowns, there’s something perfect for your size and style to ensure you can shine on your wedding day. Seamstress work and tailoring can make your dress look and feel even better.

If you’re not sure where to start with fittings and alterations, don’t worry – we’re here to help! We’ve covered everything from first fittings to who to bring, and we’ve included some tips for sizing and alterations.

First things first:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DRESS FITTING

Your first fitting should take about an hour. When you try on the dress, your seamstress will pin it properly to give you a sense of how alterations will look. This will also give you a sense of how your dress will fit once it’s fully fitted. If your dress has a train, this is also an opportunity to look at bustle options.

After the first fitting, each fitting onward should take less time since the alterations will be closer to completion. This initial fitting is usually the longest, and future fittings will generally take much less time.

WHEN TO SCHEDULE DRESS FITTINGS

The sooner you schedule, the better. The further out you schedule, the more time you’ll have to ensure your dress is perfect for your wedding day. Try to schedule your first fitting when you buy your dress, or at least 8 to 10 weeks before your wedding.

Brides typically have three or four fittings, depending on the number of alterations. With each fitting, your dress will become more sculpted to your body. And after the second fitting, you should have a better idea of how the dress will fit.

Your seamstress will help you set a fitting schedule based on the date of your wedding. At the very minimum, expect your final pickup fitting to be scheduled a month after your first fitting.

Ideally, you’d have two to three months between the first and final fittings. Keep in mind that if you ask for a greater number of alterations (or if the alterations are more time-consuming), it’s going to take more time. Remember, your seamstress is the expert – when in doubt trust in their skills and instincts!

WHAT TO BRING

Since you want your dress to fit perfectly on your wedding day, bring everything you plan to wear on your big day to your fittings. This includes undergarments (bra, slip, shapewear), bridal shoes, a veil, hair accessories, and jewellery. With everything on, you will have a better idea of how each piece fits together for your final look.

Undergarments affect how a dress fits, and shoes will change how the dress’ length looks. If you don’t have your wedding shoes yet, bring a pair with similar heels so your dress won’t look too short or too long.

DISCOVER WHAT STACEY & MEGHAN ARE UP TO

and get a sneak preview of Sinder’s Bridal Guide for free!

By completing this form and clicking on the Submit button, I expressly consent and agree to receive e-mails from Sinders Bridal to the e-mail address provided.

WHO TO BRING

Remember, fittings aren’t the White Dress Experience. By the time you’re getting fitted for your dress, you’ve already made your choice. That said, it’s worth bringing a few people to your fittings, especially if they’re part of the wedding party. Consider your maid of honour and perhaps another close friend.

You want people who know your style and what you’re looking for, but who aren’t afraid to be honest and tell you if it’s not quite perfect. Plus, if you plan to make your train a bustle, your maid of honour should be present at the final fitting so she can learn how to bustle your gown.

SIZING

The rule of thumb for choosing a dress size is to opt for comfort. In short, pick the larger size! It’s far easier to take in a dress during fittings than it is to make the dress bigger. Nevertheless, it is possible to bring a dress up in sizes, in some cases. Don’t worry if your size changes throughout the fittings. That’s what fittings are for!

STYLE & ALTERATIONS

The style of your wedding dress should suit your individual preferences. And if you can make it suit the style of your wedding location, theme, and décor as well, that’s even better.

Your seamstress will help you decide which alterations will work best without compromising the style of your dress. Along with the length and fit, you can choose alterations to make your dress more like you, such as:

  • Necklines – For example, if you want to change the neckline from straight to sweetheart.
  • Sleeves – You can add sleeves to a strapless wedding dress to create a cap-, short-, or long-sleeved wedding dress.
  • Corset Backs – You can switch out a zipper back with one that laces up. This might give you more room to breathe as well.
  • Bustles – If your dress has a train, you can opt to lift up your train after the ceremony. This bustle will change your look for the reception, giving you more mobility to dance.

Most bridal shops have experienced seamstresses who will work with you and your dress leading up to the big day. So if you have any concerns, or want alteration advice, your seamstress will be there for you, making sure your dress fits perfectly, and just how you imagined for your wedding day.

Categories
Customizations & Alterations Dress Shopping

Custom Wedding Gowns from Jolicoeur

A LOOK INTO MEGHAN AND STACEY’S JOURNEY FROM DESIGNER DREAM TO RUNWAY REALITY

After decades of making their brides’ dreams come true, it’s time to finally make their own dreams a reality with their latest project: Jolicoeur.

If you haven’t already heard, the Sinders Bridal powerhouse sisters, Meghan and Stacey, have taken the plunge and launched their very own Canadian-inspired custom line of designer wedding gowns.

Immersing themselves in the bridal industry has helped them understand what exactly their brides are looking for. It has also enabled them to take to the drawing board and come up with masterpieces. Their custom wedding gowns are flawlessly designed with the female body in mind, and backed behind decades of experience in fashion, design, and sewing.

KEEP READING FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT JOLICOEUR, WHAT INSPIRED THE SISTERS TO START THIS LINE, AND WHAT THEY BOTH DISCOVERED ALONG THE WAY.

WHAT SPARKED THE IDEA?

It all started when we were searching for gowns to carry in our shop. We were often met with dresses that were just shy of perfect for our standards. Time and time again, we encountered gorgeous pieces, but something was always missing. We knew that if certain characteristics of the gown were altered, or a seam was shifted, that it would make it a perfect dress that our brides would fall in love with. Over the years we started to realize – we know what our brides are looking for better than the designers we carry. So, why not design custom wedding gowns we know our brides want! And that’s exactly what we set out to do.

WHAT INSPIRED THE NAME AND HOW DOES IT TIE INTO THE BRAND?

The name Jolicoeur is our grandmother’s name. She grew up in the Ottawa area and raised her family there, and though we grew up in the Ottawa valley, this area is our home. We’re proud to start our own brand here. We wanted a name that represented our heritage. So we could bring our family on this journey with us and remain connected to our roots. Plus, while it might not be a perfect translation, we love what the name means in French. How could you not love the sweetness behind falling in love with a Jolie Cœur; a Pretty Heart!

HOW LONG HAS JOLICOEUR BEEN IN THE MAKING?

It feels like yesterday! We finally sat down, planned our strategy, and committed to creating our line in late 2018. We dabbled with the idea of starting our custom line of gowns several years earlier, however, the project didn’t have our full commitment behind it at the time. Though our reasons were the same, and we had many years of wedding industry experience behind us, we didn’t have the backing of a bridal shop that could show our gowns to their greatest potential. Both Sinders Bridal House and Jolicoeur have grown and flourished from the same love of fashion and design. Now both names are ready to work together to make your dreams come true.

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION?

Since our infancy, we’ve been in love with fashion and design. So being able to craft works of art for our brides was an extremely attractive endeavour for both of us. 

Having a hand in how the gown would look and feel excited us. Especially after spending so many years doing what we love to do and having a background in weddings, design, and sewing. We know what our brides want. We want nothing more than to deliver that to them through the best styles and designs. It’s not uncommon that our brides tell us that they were looking for something specific but couldn’t find it in Canada as it was a European style. Or, that they had a vision for their dress but can’t seem to make it come to life. Our goal was to provide our brides with stunning, affordable custom wedding gowns they would see on the runway.

Beyond our struggles with finding beautiful gowns that were missing that “je-ne-sais-quoi,” we also discovered that Canadian design houses were few and far between. Europe had dominated the fashion and bridal world, and we felt that they shouldn’t be the only players in the game. We wanted to bring home some credit for our industry and show the world that Canada has a lot to offer brides.

On a more personal note, Stacey always aspired to become a designer, so Jolicoeur is now a little girl’s dream surfacing into a reality.

DISCOVER WHAT STACEY & MEGHAN ARE UP TO

and get a sneak preview of Sinder’s Bridal Guide for free!

By completing this form and clicking on the Submit button, I expressly consent and agree to receive e-mails from Sinders Bridal to the e-mail address provided.

WHAT WAS THE PROCESS LIKE? EXPLAIN THE JOURNEY.

When we embarked upon this journey, we took inspiration from the female body. With 25 years of experience helping brides find the dress of their dreams, we know which styles flatter which body types. How gowns are supposed to fit on the body, how to customize dresses from head–to–toe, and what features and adornments add that extra oomph. Lace should flow in the right direction, seams should both enhance and diminish curves, and although this sounds impossible to achieve simultaneously, I assure you it is the basis for a perfect fit when it comes to wedding gowns!

First, we sketch the rough outline of how the gown should fit, then work with high-quality fabrics and choose the best ones for each individual gown. 

Every gown has a bride’s name on it before it’s even created. It’s as though the gown is destined to be hers. This idea is exhilarating and terrifying at the same time because we know she’ll come visit us in our boutique and fall in love with the dress. So it needs to hold up the Sinders quality standards. The design, fabric, shape, style – everything needs to be just right, otherwise, it won’t feel like ‘the one.’

When we go through the process for each gown and make decisions and support each other’s ideas, we know we’re creating something incredible!

We live for the moment our brides look in the mirror and just know, ‘that’s the one’. We design gorgeous gowns that are not only expertly crafted, but are comfortable to wear. Plus they make our brides feel confident, beautiful, and proud.

WHAT SURPRISED YOU MOST THROUGHOUT THIS EXPERIENCE?

How seamlessly everything just falls into place when you design a gown with purpose. The fabric sits perfectly, the lines glide down beautifully along the body, and the whole thing suddenly comes together almost effortlessly. When we completed our sample design, and finally got the gown on our model for the first time, it was an absolutely magical moment I will cherish forever.

Meghan

More humbling than surprising, but the level of support we received from our friends, family, and Sinders team of experts! From the moment we committed to designing this line of gowns to finally receiving them, we’ve received so much positivity and support from everyone. We couldn’t be happier to have them by our side throughout this experience.

Stacey

WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU DISCOVERED ABOUT YOURSELF?

I learned that it takes a village to achieve what seems like the impossible. We create a powerhouse team when every person contributes their strengths. Even though we both had this dream and planned to bring our dream to fruition, it takes every person in our shop. To keep us on the journey moving forward, until that dream becomes a reality.

Meghan

I learned that it has taken 25 years of ups, downs, and massive challenges to get me to this point. The designs and ideas are from working with hundreds of brides and really listening to their wants and needs, and educating myself on women’s bodies to know what looks good on certain shapes and sizes. That allows me to create gowns for all women. Gowns designed to make you feel like you are realizing the dream you’ve always desired.

Stacey

WHAT IS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT LIFE-LESSON YOU BOTH LEARNED?

The most significant life lesson we learned both individually and separately was that for us to truly achieve our goals–professional and personal–it all starts with believing in ourselves and harnessing that confidence to make things happen.

From running a business to designing our custom line staying connected to one another, taking care of our families, and trying to juggle all the challenges life throws at us, having faith in ourselves and each other separates the thoughts of ‘I can’t’ to ‘I can’. We are overwhelmed some days with daunting tasks, trying to keep all the pieces in the air moving together. But it pushes us outside of our comfort zone, and in the end, we are incredibly proud and blessed to have each other and our incredibly supportive family behind us. And our amazing Sinders family has been by our side every step of the way, which we are eternally grateful for.

SINDERS BRIDAL HOUSE AND THE MISS UNIVERSE CANADA COMPETITION

HOW DID SINDERS GET INVOLVED?

An incredible woman with whom we’d worked with for several years in bridal shows in the Ottawa area had approached us. We had no idea she had been a Miss Canada contestant and even beyond that, a winner in the Miss Grand Canada competition. When Grace modelled for us each year, we got along so well, and she loved the fit and style of the gowns we chose for her. She was a natural on the runway – graceful and elegant – and she looked stunning in everything we put on her. It was hard to choose just one or two gowns!

WHAT WAS THE PROCESS LIKE?

We were just starting the creation process for one of our very first Joliceour designs, Sophia, when Grace approached us about sponsoring her path through Miss Universe Canada. She has such a presence and a confidence about her. We knew she would be a perfect fit for such a one-of-a-kind gown. We designed Sophia to be a statement piece, one you need to be able to pull off, or it will overpower you. When we had our sample ready for Grace to try on, it was like witnessing magic. The fit was perfect, she was jaw-dropping, and we knew she’d excel in the competition.

WHICH DESIGNERS DID YOU USE, AND HOW MANY GOWNS WERE IN THE MIX?

Miss Universe Canada has several phases and requires a gown for each phase. Along with our Joliceour gown, Grace also chose several of our pieces from Eva Lendel and WONÀ Concept (formally known as Crystal Design). Based in Ukraine, WONÀ is one of our favourite designers. We were fortunate enough to have met the designer/owner and established a great relationship with their team. One person is responsible for making each every one of their gowns, from start to finish. It’s such a rare thing these days in the fashion industry. Everything has been so commercialized. We really admire their creativity, and we were so grateful to have them partner with us in dressing Grace.

Throughout the competition, Grace needed one evening gown, six cocktail gowns, and one formal piece for the interview portion for which she chose an incredible ivory pantsuit we carry from Eva Lendel. It’s a showstopper, and she absolutely rocked it! She knew what looks she wanted to embody and was confident about how to portray herself in the garment. We felt so privileged to be able to provide Grace with every one of the pieces she needed, with the help of our amazing designers Crystal and Eva.

WHAT WAS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT THING YOU’VE TAKEN AWAY FROM THIS EXPERIENCE?

The best part of working with Grace for Miss Universe Canada was that she taught us so much about her work in sociology and the competition itself. It’s no surprise that these types of competitions get a bad reputation. We even heard comments like ‘…ew, those things still happen?’. But what’s amazing is that every woman involved in these competitions has a voice and is finding her platform to use it to help others. Grace stands for many tough subjects like police brutality, violence against women, and racial profiling, to name a few. Every woman there is trying to grow personally, philanthropically, and in their career in order to help others. So, why should society look down on that? A portion of these competitions might be based on fashion and aesthetics, but we ourselves are guilty of taking our love of fashion to the extremes sometimes!

What if we were to use our love of fashion to help educate and bring light to certain subjects, isn’t that worth it? We stood behind a woman who stood for confidence and empowering other women, and we are very proud of that.

“Empowering each other in life is something we think everyone should do more of these days.”

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT OUR NEW CUSTOM LINE, JOLICOEUR!
Categories
Dress Shopping Wedding Dresses

How to Choose a Second Wedding Dress for your Reception

TIPS FOR FINDING YOUR SECOND WEDDING DRESS SO YOU CAN HAVE YOUR DREAM GOWN FOR YOUR CEREMONY AND YOUR RECEPTION

Many brides dream of walking down the aisle wearing a big princess-style ball gown, but by the end of the evening, it can become extremely cumbersome and uncomfortable to move in, making it difficult to enjoy your wedding reception and dance the night away.

Or, maybe you love the idea of having both a ball gown and a sexy, mermaid dress and are struggling to choose just one. For either reason, more and more brides are choosing to purchase a second (or third or fourth) dress just for their wedding reception.

But while planning an outfit change will ensure you get the best of both worlds, finding not one, but two or more dream wedding dresses can be a bit of a challenge.

READ MORE: HOW TO SHOP FOR WEDDING DRESSES IN OTTAWA

HISTORY BEHIND THE TWO DRESS TREND

While nowadays, it seems like the majority of brides are opting for an outfit change during their wedding reception, the trend has been around for longer than you might think.

Going all the way back to the 1930s, it was common for brides to change towards the end of their wedding reception into a “Going Away Dress” for their grand exit, where they would be whisked off to their honeymoon.

This “Going Away” ensemble typically consisted of a bridal-inspired skirt and jacket.

Now fast forward to 2019, and the trend has slightly shifted, with many brides purchasing two or more vastly different gowns for both their wedding ceremony and reception.

REASONS TO BUY A SECOND WEDDING DRESS

So, you’ve already found your dream bridal gown that makes you feel your most beautiful. You might be wondering – why would you want to wear anything else on your most special day?

Here are some of the most common reasons why brides are ditching their ceremony gowns before the reception.

COMFORT

Just like you may want to change out of your high heels as the night wears on, you may find yourself uncomfortable during the reception if your dress is a large, ball gown silhouette with lots of heavy fabric and beading.

Or maybe you went with a slinkier silhouette with a corset back that looks beautiful, but is difficult to sit and move in.

READ MORE: 10 EXPERT TIPS FOR PLUS-SIZED WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING

DANCING

Even if you don’t find yourself uncomfortable in your ball gown by the end of the night, dancing can still be a challenge in a big poufy gown. While dancing and twirling the night away in a sea of tulle can sound like a dream, in actuality, having so much fabric can increase your risk of people – including your groom! – stepping on the hem of your gown and tripping while out on the dance floor.

WEATHER

Getting married outdoors in the summertime has lots of advantages, but unless the temperature starts to dip after your ceremony, wearing a heavy gown with many layers of fabric and beading can leave you feeling sweaty and uncomfortable throughout your reception. By switching to a lighter, airier gown, you will feel so much cooler and not run the risk of overheating.

DIFFICULTY CHOOSING JUST ONE STYLE

Ball gowns, and a-lines, and fit and flares, oh my! With so many options for bridal gowns these days, finding your dream dress can be overwhelming and make your head spin.

Further adding to the stress is the fact that many brides struggle to decide what they want to look like on their wedding day and whether they should go with a sexy or princessy look.

If you find yourself in this predicament, purchasing a more fitted, sexier gown for the reception will help ease any indecision you are experiencing.

MODESTY

If you are getting married in a church, there are often some modesty rules you have to follow. This means you will likely need to stay a bit more covered up during your ceremony by having your shoulders or arms covered and concealing cleavage.

But after your ceremony, you may want to let loose and show off your sexier side. In this case, having a second dress is a good compromise.

TIPS FOR FINDING YOUR RECEPTION DRESS

Now that you’ve established the fact that you’d like to purchase a second wedding dress for your reception, how do you choose which one?

Here are a few tips for finding your dream wedding dress….again.

READ MORE: WEDDING DRESS SILHOUETTES – FINDING WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU

MAKE COMFORT A TOP PRIORITY

When picking your first gown, the one thing at the top of your mind is usually finding something that makes you feel absolutely beautiful, no matter how uncomfortable it may be.

So, when searching for dress #2, you should be aiming for something you feel comfortable AND beautiful in.

BUDGET FOR TWO DRESSES

Before you even start shopping for your first wedding dress, it’s important to decide early on whether or not you feel you will want a second dress for your reception to help determine your budget.

If you’ve been dreaming of huge ball gowns or a skin-tight, corseted fit and flare, you may want to search for a ceremony dress that leaves enough room in your budget for a second gown. You can also consider increasing your budget in order to afford both gowns, or find a budget-friendly reception gown that will allow you to afford your dream ceremony dress.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX AND HAVE FUN

Your wedding day is a once in a lifetime experience, so why play it safe?

If you’re a fun bride who likes taking fashion risks, your reception dress is the perfect opportunity to show off your personality.

Don’t confine yourself to the traditional long, white gown. Try playing around with some colour and go with a blush, pale blue, silver, gold, or lavender dress, or even something more daring like black or red.

READ MORE: SINDERS TIPS FOR CUSTOMIZING YOUR WEDDING DRESS

A short and sassy dress, a jumpsuit, or romper are also great options that are super trendy right now.

If you chose to remain modest for your church ceremony or to avoid offending any older family members, also don’t be afraid to unleash your sexier side for your reception. At the end of the day, your wedding is all about you and your new spouse. So, don’t hold back, and wear what makes you feel your most confident.

MAKE SURE YOU CAN DANCE IN IT

The highlight of any wedding reception is dancing, so if you know that you will be getting down and boogieing the night away, it’s important to have a dress that you can move in.

To make sure you actually enjoy your reception and don’t spend most of it sitting down and feeling uncomfortable, find a dress with fewer bells and whistles that will help you focus on having fun, rather than trying to maneuver in your gown.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO CHANGE

Now that you’ve found both dresses for your wedding, the next step is to determine when you will make your outfit change. There is no set rule for this, so the decision is completely up to you.

However, a good rule of thumb for when to change from your ceremony dress into your second dress is during the cocktail hour, after you’ve finished taking photos.

But if you’d prefer to have your first dance in your ceremony gown, changing immediately after that is a good time as well.

Whether you can’t decide between two or more completely different bridal looks or you just want to feel more comfortable during your reception, choosing more than one dress is a great option to ensure you are 100% satisfied with how you look and feel on your wedding day. And when you do decide to go shopping, refer back to these tips to help find your dream bridal gowns.

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Dress Shopping News

What to expect from your dress shopping experience during a pandemic

HOW COVID-19 IS AFFECTING DRESS SHOPPING AND THE BRIDAL INDUSTRY

Between cancelled or postponed weddings and bridal shops closing their doors, dress shopping has halted. The bridal industry has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic this past spring. However, with fewer cases being reported every day, governments allowing bridal boutiques to reopen, and smaller weddings forging ahead – things are looking more and more positive for brides every single day.

With that being said, we will explore all the ways COVID-19 has affected the wedding dress industry. So, you can begin your journey knowing exactly what to expect over the next several months and get you back to dress shopping.

WAYS COVID-19 HAS AFFECTED THE WEDDING DRESS INDUSTRY

DELAYED DELIVERIES

When the virus began spreading rapidly around the world back in February and March, manufacturers, including wedding dress designers, had to adapt to COVID-19 health and safety regulations, resulting in delays getting shipments out. Fortunately, though, these delays were minor. Most brides currently shopping for their wedding dress can expect their gown to arrive on time. However, this may not be the case for all designers. Be sure to ask your bridal boutique about any delays that will affect when your dress arrives.

POSTPONED NUPTIALS

One of the most significant effects COVID-19 had on the wedding industry was the cancellation or postponement of weddings scheduled to take place in 2020 due to restrictions on large gatherings.

While some couples chose to forge ahead with elopements and intimate micro weddings with only their witnesses and immediate family present, others made the tough decision to postpone until the fall of 2020 or push to 2021.

While this was understandably heartbreaking for many couples, the good news is that the Ontario provincial government has slowly begun allowing weddings to take place again, but with some restrictions. We’ll get more into that later.

INNOVATION (VIRTUAL DRESS SHOPPING)

One positive thing out of this pandemic is that many bridal shops and other vendors put their creativity to work. This creativity has kept their businesses afloat and helped brides continue to plan their weddings.

Many bridal boutiques introduced the concept of virtual shopping appointments. Where brides would be shown wedding gowns by a bridal stylist over a virtual chat like FaceTime or Zoom. Once a bride had narrowed down their selections, dresses would be shipped to their home for them to try on.

BRIDAL COLLECTIONS BEING DELAYED

Another side effect of the pandemic is that some bridal designers had to postpone the release of their latest collections. However, this hasn’t been the case with all designers. Be sure to ask your bridal stylist about whether certain styles and collections will be available. Especially if you are looking for a brand new style from a particular designer.

THE OVERALL DRESS SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

For brides that are able to continue dress shopping during the pandemic, the dress shopping experience will look a bit different than pre-COVID-19. Rest assured that your bridal stylist will do everything in their power to make your shopping experience as magical as possible.

Keep in mind that policies vary from shop to shop. Different cities and provinces have their own rules and regulations for retail businesses operating during the pandemic. However, most shops are limiting the size of brides’ entourages and requiring all visitors to wear masks.

Contact your bridal shop to learn more about how they are handling things during the pandemic.

WHERE THINGS ARE AT NOW

Now that Ontario is in Phase Three of the province’s official reopening, businesses are able to conduct business as usual, as long as sanitation and physical distancing protocols are followed and masks are worn (in certain towns and cities). This means that brides planning weddings for late 2020 or 2021 can resume the planning process without hurdles.

Even more good news is that smaller sized weddings are able to proceed again both indoors and outdoors.

For indoor wedding ceremonies and receptions, you can have up to 50 people in attendance, as long as they physically distance and don’t fill up more than 30 percent of your venue’s capacity.

For outdoor weddings, you can have up to 100 people in attendance, as long as they are able to physically distance from one another.

THE SILVER LINING

While these past few months have been challenging for everyone, it’s important to stay positive and focus on what is most important. Marrying the love of your life when the time comes. This pandemic has completely changed the way we go about our day to day lives. One thing that it cannot change is the love you have for one another.

Also keep in mind that delaying nuptials can give you more time to plan and save up. Or, allow you to scale back your wedding in favour of a smaller, more romantic, and intimate affair with only those closest to you. No matter what avenue you choose to take, just know that we won’t let this affect your dress shopping experience. We want you to find your perfect wedding gown and that will never change – pandemic or not.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR APPOINTMENT AT SINDERS

At Sinders, we are closely following the health and safety guidelines set out by the Ontario Provincial government. As such, we require all Sinders staff and visitors to wear masks and keep a distance between each other as much as possible. We are also currently accepting fewer bookings to give us enough time to sanitize the shop in between appointments. We are also not allowing more than 3 party members to accompany brides to their appointments.

However, one thing that will not change is our dedication to making all our brides’ dreams come true. We will always find you the perfect gown to wear down the aisle. Contact us to learn more or book an appointment to start dress shopping with Sinders.

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Dress Shopping Trends

Unconventional bridal trends for the unique, modern bride

UNCONVENTIONAL WEDDING DRESS STYLES THAT ARE STILL BRIDAL

Every bride is unique and has her own personality that should be reflected in her bridal gown. But quite often, brides that have a rebellious take on fashion and march to the beat of their own drum get overlooked in the bridal industry. If you’re the type of bride that loves fashion and has your sights set on a daring and amazingly unconventional bridal look for your big day but are unsure of where to start, we’ve got you covered.

We’ll list some of the hottest unconventional bridal trends and offer up tips for finding your bridal style and shopping for a unique dress.

FINDING YOUR BRIDAL STYLE

Think long and hard on what makes youfeel most comfortable or beautiful. Don’t let the opinions of others sway you into choosing something that just isn’t you.

Scour the internet and Pinterest for bridal looks that resonate with you and keep tabs on designers that stand out to you. When it comes time to shop, look for bridal boutiques that have gowns from the designers on your list and don’t be afraid to ask if they carry particular style beforehand. Some bridal boutiques may not carry as many unique, fashion-forward gowns, so it’s important to ask around until you find a boutique that is a good fit for what you are looking for.

STAND OUT WITH THESE UNIQUE BRIDAL TRENDS THAT CELEBRITIES LOVE

SHORT DRESSES

Nothing screams life of the party like a stunning short dress. If gowns just aren’t your cup of tea and you’d like a more laid back bridal style, look at the idea of a short or even a high-low bridal dress.

If a bridal boutique doesn’t have a wide selection of shorter options, keep in mind that most gowns can be altered into a short and sassy dress.

Celebrity Inspo: Natalie Portman, Kiera Knightly, Maren Morris, Whitney Port

A POP OF COLOUR

Whether it’s a soft accent of colour on your dress like blush or pale blue, or you want to go full out in a bright pink or red hue, a coloured dress will ensure your personality truly shines.

Celebrity Inspo: Jessica Biel, Gwen Stefani, Mandy Moore

OUT OF THE BOX ACCESSORIES

Whether it’s an extravagant, ornate headpiece, flower crown, or a statement necklace, accessories add tons of personality. They have the power to completely transform your bridal gown into a look that’s all your own.

Celebrity Inspo: Anne Hathaway, Miranda Kerr, Dianna Agron

JUMPSUITS

If you’ve never really been a dress person and feel way more comfortable in pants than anything else, why not try a bridal jumpsuit? A jumpsuit is still very feminine and bridal while being incredibly chic and modern.

Celebrity Inspo: Solange, Sophie Turner, Kaley Cuoco

TWO-PIECE GOWNS

If you’re going for a more chill, laid back vibe but still want to look fashion-forward and sexy, two-piece gowns can be a great option.

Celebrity Inspo: Olivia Palermo, Samira Wiley, Hayley Paige

CAPES

Oh so dramatic and fashion-forward, a stunning cape will ensure your grand entrance is truly show-stopping. While still considered ‘untraditional,’ capes have surged in popularity and have made a mark on red carpets and at weddings in recent years.

If you’ve already found your gown but are interested in adding a cape, talk to your seamstress to see if it’s possible to custom make a cape to match your gown.

Celebrity Inspo: Kaley Cuoco, Serena Williams, Chanel Iman

BOLD FLORALS

If a pop of colour isn’t bold enough, why not push the envelope even further? Try a vivid floral print or stunning three-dimensional floral detailing. Florals are one trend that never goes out of style and is perfect for a spring wedding.

Celebrity Inspo: Poppy Delevingne, Miranda Kerr, Kaley Cuoco

DRAMATIC SLEEVES

Looking to feel a bit more covered but aren’t interested in anything conservative? A gown with statement sleeves that have tons of volume or stunning details will ensure you stand out and bring plenty of drama.

Celebrity Inspo: Ciara, Heidi Klum, Sophie Turner

OTHER OPTIONS TO CONSIDER

Besides the styles mentioned above, gowns that have the following features are also great options if you are looking for a unique, dramatic gown without straying too far outside of the box:

  • Feathers
  • Tiered ruffles
  • Unexpected details
  • Dramatic beading
  • One-shoulder necklines
  • Unique back detailing
  • High-low hemline
  • High necklines
  • Plunging necklines
  • Unique bead pattern
  • Fringe

SHOPPING TIPS FOR FINDING AN UNCONVENTIONAL BRIDAL GOWN

BRING AN ENTOURAGE THAT SHARES YOUR VISION

If you have friends or family that you know are strongly team tradition, consider bringing a smaller entourage with you that you know are fully supportive of your vision. You may have an amazing relationship with your grandmother, but if you know that she wouldn’t be thrilled by dress choices, it could get in the way of your ability to commit to the dress of your dreams. Keeping your entourage as small as possible helps ensure your opinions don’t get lost and overshadowed.

CALL THE BRIDAL SHOP AHEAD OF TIME

While most bridal shops will have lots of different options for you to try, if you have your heart set on a particular style that you know isn’t very popular, call the boutique ahead of your appointment and ask what their selection is like for more unconventional bridal gowns.

BE OPEN TO CUSTOMIZATION

Can’t seem to find a dress that meets your exact vision? Remember that alterations are your best friend! There are so many different ways a dress can be transformed with alterations. So don’t fret if you’re struggling to find the perfect gown. Ask your bridal stylist if certain gowns can be altered.

STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF

At the end of the day, the only opinion that matters is your own. Your wedding day is one of the most special days of your life. So it’s important that you not only feel beautiful, but comfortable in your own skin. If a dress that is more dramatic and fashion-forward than soft and traditional makes you feel this way, then that is the dress you should have.

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Advice Dress Shopping Wedding Dresses

The different types of undergarments to wear under your wedding dress

SOLVING COMMON BRIDAL UNDERGARMENT DILEMMAS

With so much focus on finding your dream wedding gown, we often forget about what we need to wear underneath the dress – which is almost as important! To help you you choose the right bridal undergarments that will give you the perfect silhouette on your wedding day, we’ll provide solutions to common undergarment dilemmas and offer tips for finding the perfect bridal undergarments.

THE IMPORTANCE OF WEARING THE RIGHT BRIDAL UNDERGARMENTS UNDER YOUR GOWN

Undergarments may seem like an afterthought, but they really are important. They have the power to completely alter your silhouette, provide support when needed, and help you look your absolute best in your gown.

Most brides imagine themselves wearing a beautiful lingerie set under their wedding dress, however, something more comfortable and practical that will give you a streamlined silhouette and won’t show under your gown is often a better way to go.

COMMON UNDERGARMENT DILEMMAS

DO I NEED TO WEAR A BRA?

We hear this question a lot. Whether there are concerns of modesty or needing support, the question of whether to wear a bra with your wedding dress is an incredibly common dilemma for brides.

The beauty of wedding dresses is that in most cases, you do not need to wear a bra. Many dresses are designed with built-in cups or can be customized during alterations to add more support. This is great for dresses that are low cut and/or backless that would not be able to hide a bra.

However, that’s not to say that you can’t wear a bra under your gown. If you feel you need the extra support and your dress will conceal a bra, then you can absolutely wear one. It’s all about finding what makes you feel most comfortable.

YOU WANT A SMOOTHER SILHOUETTE IN A FITTED GOWN

While many fitted gowns are structured to create a beautiful silhouette, you may find that you’d like things smoothed out a bit more. In this case, shapewear or seamless nude underwear can help smooth everything out so there are no bumps or visible panty lines.

TYPES OF BRIDAL UNDERGARMENTS TO CONSIDER

SHAPEWEAR

If you’ve chosen a fitted gown, shapewear is a great way to ensure everything is smooth and seamless.

If your dress is snug around your hips and thighs, look for shapewear that starts at your natural waist and extends just above the knees.

Just remember that if you do decide to wear shapewear under your gown, you will need to bring it with you to every fitting as it can have a significant impact on the fit of your dress.

SLIP

If your dress is slightly sheer or slinky, a slip will provide a smooth canvas and ensure no undergarments are showing.

CORSET

If your dress doesn’t have a built-in corset, but you’d like to get the cinched in effect that one provides, a custom-fitted corset is a great way to achieve the silhouette that you want. However, also keep in mind that comfort is incredibly important on your wedding day and that you don’t want anything standing in the way of enjoying your wedding and dancing the night away.

LINGERIE

If you’ve had your heart set on a beautiful piece of lingerie for your wedding night, that’s okay too. Just be sure that it’s in a lighter colour so that it won’t be visible and detract away from your beautiful dress. Try to stay away from black, red, or bright colours unless you’ve gone with a non-traditional coloured gown.

BACKLESS BRA

If you’re wearing a backless dress but need more support than just cups alone can offer, there are backless bras on the market that can help.

SEAMLESS NUDE UNDERWEAR

Every bride needs a great pair of seamless nude underwear that will appear invisible under your wedding dress. We promise you’ll thank us later.

TIPS FOR FINDING THE RIGHT UNDERGARMENTS

ASK YOUR BRIDAL STYLIST

When shopping for your wedding dress, don’t be afraid to ask your bridal stylist what types of undergarments you may need for a particular dress. Your stylist will know which dresses have elements like built-in corsets or cups, and which ones can be customized during alterations.

BRING YOUR UNDERGARMENTS TO DRESS SHOPPING AND FITTINGS

If you have a good idea of the style of dresses you’ll be trying on and know what type of undergarments you will need, bring these to your initial shopping appointment and all subsequent fittings. This includes nude underwear, a strapless nude bra, or shapewear if you plan to wear it.

GET PROFESSIONALLY FITTED

Around 80% of women wear the incorrect bra size, so if you do plan to wear a bra under your wedding dress, be sure to get properly fitted at a lingerie store so that it not only fits perfectly but is comfortable and looks great under your dress.

FACTOR IN COMFORT

While every bride wants to look beautiful on their wedding day, it’s also important that you are comfortable as well. Throughout your wedding day, you will be on your feet a lot, from walking down the aisle to greeting guests, dancing, and eating. So, you want to make sure that you are going to enjoy the festivities, and not spend the whole night feeling miserable and uncomfortable. Make sure that your undergarments aren’t too tight and constricting and allow you to sit and move around comfortably.

The takeaway here is that wedding dresses and undergarments go hand in hand, so it’s important to factor this in when shopping for gowns and planning your head-to-toe bridal look. When in doubt, plan for comfort and practicality. And of course, ask your bridal stylist for recommendations. Because with the right pair of undergarments, your bridal look will come together flawlessly, so you can feel nothing but confident while walking down the aisle.

Categories
Dress Shopping Wedding Dresses

Understanding the most common wedding dress styles and silhouettes

 

HOW TO DETERMINE WHICH WEDDING DRESS STYLES BEST SUIT YOU

Wedding dress shopping is tricky enough, but when you aren’t sure of what dress styles or silhouettes you want for your big day, it can start to make your head spin.

From romantic to vintage, boho, and classic, there are so many styles of bridal gowns on the market, but what do they all mean, and how do you know which one lines up with your personal style?

To help give you a better understanding of wedding dress styles and silhouettes, we’ll explain the most common bridal styles and provide tips to help you determine what your bridal style is.

THE MOST COMMON WEDDING DRESS STYLES DEFINED

BOHEMIAN

Relaxed and flowy, and a little bit sexy, boho gowns are a perfect fit for carefree brides looking for something airy and comfortable yet funky and non-traditional.

Recommended Designers: All Who Wander, Essence of Australia

ROMANTIC

Do you dream of lace, sweetheart necklines and flowy tulle skirts? A romantic style gown may be perfect for you. Romantic gowns are sweet and elegant while still being princessy and glamourous, without too much sparkle and drama.

Recommended Designers: Essence of Australia, Stella York, and Christina Wu

PRINCESS

Whether it’s a huge ball gown or a fitted dress with a dramatic overskirt, princess gowns have one thing in common: luxurious fabrics, big skirts, intricate beading, and romantic glamour. With a big, glittering ball gown, you can make all your fairy tale dreams come true.

Recommended Designers: Eddy K, Stella York, Christina Wu

CLASSIC & ELEGANT

Classic gowns are simple and elegant, with clean, crisp silhouettes, and buttery fabrics like satin and silk. Rather than beaded, shimmering fabrics and big skirts, a classic style favours more understated, elegant silhouettes so that all eyes are on you, and not just your gown. Think old Hollywood glamour and timeless beauty.

Recommended Designers: Stella York, Eva Lendel

SEXY

Show off your curves in a daring, sexy wedding dress with sheer fabric, a figure-hugging silhouette, and plunging neckline. Whether you decide to go all out with a sparkling beaded number or choose a more understated style, you’re bound to turn heads and feel unbelievably confident in a sexier gown.

Recommended Designers: Essence of Australia, Wonà Concept

VINTAGE

Do you feel like you were born in the wrong era and dream of open keyhole backs, soft lace, pearls, and classic sleeves? A vintage-inspired gown may be for you.

Vintage style gowns are typically lace and come in a flowy A-line or more fitted silhouette. Think of them as a modern take on your grandmother’s wedding dress.

Recommended Designers: Eddy K, Essence of Australia

EDGY

The opposite of a princess gown, edgy dresses are fashion-forward styles that are anything but traditional. More reminiscent of a red carpet gown than your traditional white wedding dress, an edgy style is perfect for a bride who likes to take risks and doesn’t play by the rules.

From unique beading, funky patterns, and even coloured fabrics, don’t be afraid to take risks and stay true to yourself on your wedding day.

Recommended Designers: Tesoro, Eva Lendel

MODEST

While there’s nothing wrong with showing off your curves and rocking a sexy gown on your wedding day, if you’re more of a traditional bride and would rather keep things under wraps for your future spouse, you may want to consider some more modest dress styles.

Whether it’s choosing an already modest gown or making some changes through alterations, there are plenty of modest options available to help bring your vision to life.

Recommended Designers: Christina Wu, Stella York

EXTRAVAGANT/GLAMOUROUS

Similar to princess, but a bit less traditional, extravagant gowns can come in any silhouette, but tend to have one thing in common: sparkle, sparkle, and more sparkle!

With luxurious beading, shimmering fabrics, and extra-long trains, you’ll be the center of attention on your big day.

Recommended Designers: Wonà Concept, Tesoro, Eva Lendel

NON-TRADITIONAL/FASHION-FORWARD

Similar to edgy, but with little to no semblance of a traditional bride, a non-traditional bridal look is completely out of the box. From coloured fabrics and dramatic sleeves to short dresses, capes, or even a jumpsuit or romper, the possibilities are endless.

Recommended Designers: Tesoro, Eva Lendel

BEACHY

Planning a small, intimate destination wedding and don’t want to feel weighed down on the beach? A simple and flowy beachy gown might be the perfect fit.

Whether it’s a light and airy lace and tulle boho dress or a dreamy Grecian goddess inspired gown, you’ll look stunning and feel comfortable in whatever beachy style you choose.

Recommended Designers: All Who Wander

WEDDING DRESS SILHOUETTES

Besides wedding dress styles, there are many different silhouettes to consider. Here are some of the most common silhouettes you will come across when shopping for your bridal gown.

MERMAID/FIT AND FLARE

One of the most popular silhouettes, mermaid and fit and flare gowns hug your body and flare out at the bottom. They can either be simple at the bottom or have plenty of drama.

This type of silhouette is incredibly flattering on many body types, whether you are looking for a gown to flatter your curves or give the illusion of an hourglass shape.

TRUMPET

If a mermaid or fit and flare are too figure-hugging for your taste, but you still want something fitted with a bit of drama, a trumpet silhouette may be the perfect solution.

Fitted through the bust, waist, and hips and flaring out between your hips and knees, a trumpet silhouette highlights your figure without being too fitted and dramatic.

COLUMN

A column gown is sleek and streamlined, skimming straight down your body to create a fitted yet flowy silhouette.

SHEATH

Similar to column, a sheath gown allows you to show off your figure without any bells and whistles. With a slim silhouette that gently hugs your body and falls straight to the floor, a sheath gown is a great way to rock a fitted gown without showing off too much.

BALL GOWN

Fitted until your natural waist or hips and then flaring out dramatically into a large, full skirt, a ball gown allows you to feel like a true princess for a day.

A-LINE

Similar to a ball gown but with less volume in the skirt, an A-line dress is dreamy and airy. Allowing you to float down the aisle and move around comfortably, while still feeling like a princess.

Now that you have an understanding of the different dress styles and silhouettes, you’re well on your way to solidifying your bridal vision and start shopping for your perfect gown. Just remember to stay true to yourself, because no matter what gown you choose, you are going to look stunning as you walk down the aisle.

Categories
Dress Shopping Wedding Dresses

Wedding dress shopping tips for moms-to-be!

HOW YOU CAN FIND YOUR PERFECT BRIDAL GOWN WHILE PREGNANT

First comes love then comes…baby? For brides who are pregnant leading up to their wedding day, this can be such an incredibly exciting time as you are accomplishing two major milestones at once. If you’re looking for wedding dress shopping tips for moms-to-be, you’ve come to the right place!

Because at the same time, wedding dress shopping for your dream gown to wear on your big day can be a bit of a challenge. Not only is your body is constantly changing, but dresses typically need to be ordered months in advance, which requires a bit of guesswork when it comes to imagining how the dress will look closer to your wedding day.

Fortunately, our bridal experts are highly experienced in working with all kinds of brides and can help you find the perfect dress that accommodates your baby bump while still making you feel like your most beautiful self. With that being said, here are our wedding dress shopping tips for moms-to-be that will help you find your perfect gown with ease.

DRESS SHOPPING TIPS FOR MOMS-TO-BE

START YOUR SEARCH EARLY

Whether you are planning to tie the knot before or after you give birth, it’s important to start your search as early as possible.

The standard recommendation is to start looking for dresses eight to 12 months before your wedding. Since most gowns will need to be special ordered and often take up to 6 months to arrive, this will give you enough time to not only find a gown, but ensure it arrives before your wedding day with enough time for alterations.

And if you are planning on waiting until after you give birth to get married, try to schedule your appointment earlier in your pregnancy if you can, so you can best envision how you will look in the gown on your big day.

TELL THE BRIDAL SHOP YOU ARE PREGNANT WHEN BOOKING YOUR APPOINTMENT

When booking an appointment to shop for wedding dresses, we tend to ask lots of questions to learn more about you, so we can best prepare for your appointment and find your perfect gown. Which is why it’s important that you let us know if you are pregnant, so we can give you lots of options when it comes to flattering fabrics and silhouettes that will accommodate your growing bump.

TIME YOUR ALTERATIONS

It’s no secret that your body changes throughout pregnancy, which means your dress will have to as well. Fortunately, you have lots of options when it comes to alterations, from a corset back to side seam or panel.

The general rule of thumb is to add one inch for each remaining month of pregnancy until your wedding day.

But because nothing is certain, time your alterations closer to your big day. Then the seamstress can alter your gown to your body to best ensure a perfect fit on your wedding day.

DECIDE WHETHER YOU WANT TO CONCEAL OR SHOW OFF YOUR BUMP

For any bride, it’s important to have a vision of what you want to look like. Plus have an idea of what kind of silhouette you want on your wedding day.

When you are pregnant, this means deciding early. Do you want a flowy gown that will cleverly conceal your bump? Or a more fitted dress that shows off your figure and your bump.

Deciding on what look you are hoping to achieve will help you immensely when shopping. Plus it will help you and your bridal stylist find your perfect gown more easily.

DON’T LIMIT YOURSELF TO CERTAIN STYLES – TRY ON DIFFERENT SILHOUETTES

Often, we feel we need to conceal a baby bump, but that doesn’t always need to be the case.

If you’ve always dreamed of a sexier fit and flare gown, don’t feel you need to avoid this style because you are pregnant. At the end of the day, it’s important to find a gown that makes you feel most confident and beautiful. So, don’t be afraid to break the mold and wear something that highlights your bump. Just be sure to avoid stiffer fabrics like satin or taffeta, and instead look for a fabric that has a bit of stretch to it.

Your bridal stylist can recommend fabrics that will be the most comfortable.

Because contrary to what you may have heard, pregnancy doesn’t limit you to drapey goddess style dresses or poufy ball gowns that hide your figure.

WHEN IN DOUBT, SIZE UP!

If you are on the fence about which size will best fit your body in 6+ months, it’s best to follow the golden rule by always, always, ALWAYS sizing up.

Remember, it’s much easier to alter a larger gown to fit smaller than it is to make a too-small gown larger.

FACTOR IN COMFORT

It’s no secret that women’s bodies go through a lot during pregnancy. We’re basically superheroes! But that doesn’t mean you need to tough it out on your wedding day and sacrifice comfort to look beautiful.

Remember that you will be wearing your bridal gown for many hours. It’s important that you not only look your best, but you feel it too.

Be sure to ask your bridal stylist about which fabrics and silhouettes will be most comfortable. Or, consider purchasing a second, more comfortable gown to change into for the reception.

No matter what style or silhouette you go with, and what stage of pregnancy (or postpartum) you’re in when you get married, the most important thing is that you look and feel like your most beautiful self and that you radiate joy and beauty.

So, don’t worry about finding a gown you feel is appropriate. Focus on wearing what makes you happy and will help create perfect memories of your big day.

That’s a wrap! Thanks for checking in on our wedding dress shopping tips for moms-to-be!