WHO TO BRING ON YOUR VISIT? Now that you are prepared for your visit, the question arises: who should you bring with you? Naturally, at the top of your list should be a parent and your maid-of-honour — the two people who will hold your hand the most during the big day and who will likely give you the most honest opinions. If you have a small group of bridesmaids, bring them along too, but we recommend capping your wedding dress shopping entourage at four people (not including yourself). Siblings can also be included if they’re not already part of the bridal party. “Less is more” is certainly the rule when wedding dress shopping, as too many opinions in one room can easily lead to upset. Keep the group small and full of people you know will be honest but not cruel — it’s entirely possible to tell the truth without being hurtful or theatrical. Some brides choose to go alone for the first couple of appointments and then bring their close ones for the final decision. If you’re concerned that your friends or family may be too blunt, consider doing the initial shopping by yourself. If you’re travelling a distance to your bridal boutique, make a day of it! If you’re visiting a specific boutique or exploring a new area, plan some extra activities. You could shop for dresses at midday and then go out for dinner and a show afterwards, or head to a bar for cocktails with the girls while you brainstorm wedding and hen-do plans. It doesn’t have to be a quick visit to one shop followed by heading home to your pyjamas — make the most of the experience so you can relish the excitement of being a bride. DIFFERENT WEDDING DRESS SILHOUETTES Now that you and your entourage are prepped and ready to go, it’s time to consider the different styles you may encounter at your appointment. The sales advisor won’t expect you to know all the jargon, but having a basic understanding will help you communicate your desires more confidently. A-line. A classic for a reason, this silhouette works well with fabrics like silk, tulle, and jacquard. It features a fitted bodice and a fuller skirt and suits many body types. Ballgown. Similar to the A-line with its fitted bodice, but the skirt is much fuller. This glamorous style lends itself beautifully to theatrical or fairytale settings. Basque. Growing in popularity with shifting fashion trends, this style features a longer bodice that elongates the torso. The waistline typically falls just under the belly button, often coming to a point, and can lead into either a full or fitted skirt. Sheath. A more elegant take on the mermaid silhouette, the sheath is fitted but slightly more relaxed, leaving room for elements such as sleeves or cathedral veils. Drop waist. Similar to the basque, this style also elongates the torso. However, instead of coming to a point, the waistline features a straight seam just below the belly button. Empire. The opposite of the drop waist, the empire waistline sits just under the bust and skims over the rest of the body in a loose, slimline skirt. This style has a period-inspired feel and suits elegant manor house settings. Mermaid. A classic like the A-line and flattering on many body types. It’s fitted from the bodice down to the knees, where it flares into a small but full skirt. Mermaid cuts work well in lace or satin, and the flare can be subtle or dramatic. Princess. Not to be mistaken for a ballgown, this silhouette has no defined waistline. It features a full skirt and is fitted to the wearer’s natural curves. Short. If long dresses aren’t your style, you might gravitate toward a shorter option. Ideal for summer weddings, short dresses allow lots of movement — perfect for a second outfit at the reception when it’s time to slip into your dancing shoes. unsplash.com/@jonathanborba unsplash.com/@jsbco BRIDAL BOUTIQUES 79
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