Necklines
The neckline and bodice are integral to the overall design. Together, they define the look of a gown. Whereas a bodice delineates the torso, a neckline emphasizes the bosom. As with every detail of the wedding gown, the appropriate neckline coupled with a perfectly constructed bodice will complement the bride’s proportions.
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Bodices
Each component of a traditional wedding gown relies on the design of the bodice. Like a foundation garment, a bodice is defined by its construction and fit. Every bodice must be tailored precisely to the length of the torso. Strapless bodices require stays for structure and support, so proportions must be exact for maximum comfort.
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Sleeves
Never under-estimate the effect sleeves or armholes have on dress design. The bride’s measurements should determine the shape, volume and length of a sleeve. A perfect sleeve can enhance a gown or downplay difficult arms. A poor sleeve choice can compromise the design of the dress as well as the bride’s entire look.
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Waistlines
While a neckline and bodice frame a bride’s face, neck and shoulders, the shape and positioning of the waistline will determine the overall silhouette of her gown. For many brides, the waist is an appealing focal point of her dress design and deserves receiving great emphasis.
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Skirts
The drape and detail of the skirt defines the final outcome of a dress, whereas shape and fabric contribute to the look. From hand pleating to petal-backs, side-drapes to side-swags, curved seams to layered hems, the skirt provides volume, surface interest and movement, and always affects the style of a gown.
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The Back
As the back of a wedding gown commands its own share of visual importance during the ceremony, it is crucial that the gown be conceived with this perspective in mind. The charm of an artfully designed back lies in a confluence of cut, drape and decoration, with attention to detail and construction.
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Trains And Bustles
There are two categories of trains each with its own advantages. An integrated train is conceived as part of the gown and must be bustled, whereas a detached or removable train comes off after the ceremony. Detachable or not, all trains may be fastened to various point on a dress, starting at the nape of the neck.
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Ornamentation
The amount of adornment on a gown should reflect the tenor of the celebration as well as the shape of the dress. There are two types of ornamentation: decoration that is added on and decorative details that are engineered into the gown. These can be used either separately or in conjunction with one another.
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Wedding Veil
Nothing quite transforms the bride as the wedding veil. Other than the wedding ring, it is perhaps the most symbolic accessory a woman will ever wear. “Donning” it is a custom known to nearly every culture. It is also a ritual with enduring social and religious implications and one to which many brides still subscribe.
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Bridal Headpieces
When selecting a headpiece, consider the style and look of the bride’s veil, gown and hairstyle. Since these elements are related, the wrong hair ornament or headpiece could detract from the bride’s overall appearance. Never underestimate the impact of the headpiece, whether worn with a veil or on its own.
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Coverups And Convertibles
Certain cover-ups and clothing separates provide a clever excuse for a change of attire that can help create a whole new mood from ceremony to reception. They also provide cover when a bride’s gown exposes bareness, which is a significant consideration for a religious or more conservative occasion.
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The Foundation
While the allure of the garter belt, sheer stockings and a thong is irresistible for some brides, sexy undergarments are hardly the most comfortable undergarments for the longest and busiest day of one’s life. The fit and fall of a wedding gown will greatly depend on the choice of underpinnings.
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