Wedding Attire FAQ

Q: Can I wear a sleeveless gown for a fall or winter wedding?

A: Of course! Year round, today's most popular styles include strapless and sleeveless gowns. If you are planning a cold weather wedding, it is likely that most of your day will be spent indoors. And with the help of the season's hottest accessories, you can also stay fashionably warm for your outdoor travels, events, or photo ops. Some designers suggest adding a satin or faux fur wrap, bolero jacket, or glamorous gloves. Then you have the option of removing the outerwear at your reception, creating a whole new look!

Q: I always envisioned that I would get married in a white wedding dress; however the color doesn't flatter my skin tone. What are my options?

A: Today there are many alternatives to the traditional white wedding gown. Elegant bridal gowns are available in a range of beautiful hues, from ivory to champagne to light gold. If you really have your heart set on white, choose a white gown that features a touch of color. You'll look great in your favorite color, while also looking fashionable in the hottest bridal trend. Get the look of the season with a gown featuring beautiful color embroidery or trim, or select your favorite white gown and add a colorful ribbon or sash. Complete your wedding look by coordinating your accent color with your accessories, bridal party, and groomsmen attire.

Q: What are the best gown styles for full figured brides?

A: Your options are virtually endless. Show off your curves in a sexy corset bodice and flowing pick-up skirt, add a color sash to a sleek silhouette for a modern chic look, or go for sheer elegance with a gown that boasts brilliant beading and lace. The most important consideration is the fit and construction. If you select a strapless or sleeveless gown and would like additional coverage, add a wrap or bolero jacket.

Q: This is my second wedding, can I wear white?

A: This is your day to wear whatever style and color gown you want. Rest assured that while white was once reserved for first-time brides, the modern interpretation is that white is a symbol of celebration. Furthermore, there are many color options available today. We offer a selection of beautiful gowns in a variety of shades from ivory to champagne to light gold. The latest bridal trend may be perfect for you: gowns featuring colorful embroidery or trim, or the addition of a color ribbon or sash. It will be easy to carry the look throughout your wedding with color-coordinating accessories and bridal party fashions.

Q: When should I start shopping for a gown?

A: It is never too early to start looking for your bridal gown. Many brides start shopping right after they get engaged (some even earlier!). It is a good idea to plan ahead (six months to one year) in order to allow time for ordering (if necessary) and alterations.

Q: Do I have to select the same dress for each bridesmaid?

A: The choice is up to you. Some brides like the tradition of matching bridesmaid dresses. Increasingly popular is the modern look of mix and match dresses and/or separates. Not only will you create a chic bridal party look, but your bridesmaids will be happy! To maintain a coordinated wedding look, we suggest that the bride choose the color (or two complementary colors) and let each bridesmaid choose the dress or skirt and top combination that she likes best. Another option is to let your bridesmaids personalize their look with sashes, ribbons or other coordinated accessories.

Q: My bridesmaids are all different sizes, what is the best dress to choose?

A: Bridesmaids come in all shapes and sizes, so you'll want a lot of options. Some retailers offer an extensive selection of dresses and separates in sizes 2-26, with select bridesmaid dresses (and bridal gown styles) in sizes 28 & 30. With such an amazing assortment of styles, colors, and accessories, your options are endless.

Q: Does my mom's dress have to match my bridesmaids?

A: Your mother, as well as your groom's mother, can select from a variety of special occasion dresses that coordinate with your bridesmaid style. They do not need to be a perfect match, however we suggest choosing a similar formality and complementary color scheme.

Q: How can I include my 11 year old niece in our wedding - she is too big to be a flower girl and too small to be a bridesmaid?

A: Consider including a Junior Bridesmaid in your wedding party. You can find Junior Bridesmaid dresses in an array of colors and styles to complement your entire wedding party.

Q: Help! One of my bridesmaids is expecting a baby the month before our wedding.

A: Moms-to-be can be a part of your bridal party with coordinating maternity dresses that will make her look and feel beautiful... and comfortable!

Q: I have two young nieces and a nephew - how can I include them all in the wedding?

A: You can certainly have more than one Flower Girl or Ring Bearer. Another adorable option is to ask one of them to walk down the aisle ringing a bell.

Q: Do I have to wear a veil?

A: A veil will truly make you look and feel like a bride, so try on several different lengths, styles and combinations to find a look that's right for you. You might not realize that you can mix and match up to 4 pieces to get the right headpiece look! If you decide not to wear a veil, there are plenty of headpiece alternatives such as tiaras, headbands, bun wraps, hair jewelry or flowers.

Q: How do I decide how to wear my hair?

A: Consider the style that makes you feel most confident and let your preference guide you. Wear your hair up if your gown has a neckline or bodice you want to highlight. Long flowing locks create an air of romance and up-do's evoke a sleek, sophisticated look. Schedule a pre-wedding hair "trial" to see how which hairstyles look best with your veil and tiara or other headpiece. If you plan to remove your veil after the ceremony, select a style that allows for a quick and easy transformation.

Q: Do I have to send Thank You Notes or will an email suffice?

A: You should always send a hand-written Thank You Note for each wedding gift you receive. You can customize your notes with color printing and your new return address!

Q: What undergarments should I wear under my gown?

A: The right foundation is the key to looking great in your gown. Lingerie can enhance your shape and transform your silhouette, so choose undergarments specially designed for your wedding style. Select from a variety of slips (A-line, full, control) and bras (strapless bustiers, backless, long-line) to find the right combination for your dress and style.

Q: When are gloves appropriate for brides and bridesmaids?

A: Designers and magazine editors everywhere love the look of gloves this season. Add a touch of glamour with long, elbow length gloves or go for the chic, ladylike sophistication of shorter versions.

Q: How can I find comfortable heels for my wedding day?

A:Try on a variety of shoe styles, heights and widths to find the most stylish and comfortable option. If you're not used to high heels and you want to dance at your reception, try a medium to high heel for the ceremony and bring an extra pair of ballet flats for later. Make sure to walk around in them a few days before the wedding.

Q: How do I manage a long train and veil at my reception?

A: Start by asking your alterations specialist for suggestions on how to elegantly gather and attach your train to the back of your dress, also known as bustling. Enlist your maid of honor or attendant to help you get dressed, ensure your train is properly displayed during the ceremony and help with bustle transformation for the reception. For your part, take care when moving around, especially on stairs, and getting in and out of your wedding day transportation. Once your train is bustled at the reception, you should be able to move around and dance with ease!

Q: How do I select the right tuxedo style for my wedding?

A: Historically wedding attire has been classified by the time of day and level of formality, however today's guidelines are much more flexible. The current trend is for weddings to feature a high level of personalization, which allows the bride and groom the opportunity to choose from a variety of tuxedo styles, regardless of time of day or setting. Achieve a modern wedding look by setting the formalwear style you prefer, from traditional to contemporary, and including vests that match or complement the color(s) of the bridesmaids' dresses.

Q: How do I go about selecting formalwear for all the men in my wedding party?

A: Tuxedos are usually selected to coordinate with the overall wedding style and bridal party colors. Your groom and groomsmen may choose to wear the same tuxedo and color-coordinated accessories. Another popular look is for the groom to wear neutral accessories (vest, tie, cummerbund) and the groomsmen to wear colors that coordinate with the bridal party.

Q: Should I coordinate my father's formalwear with the rest of the wedding party?

A: Why not dress your dad in style. Whether or not he's walking you down the aisle, this is an important day for him as well. He doesn't have to wear the exact tuxedos as the groom and groomsmen, however the style and accent colors should be complementary. And if you're planning family photographs, coordinate a tuxedo for the father of the groom too.

Submitted by: Precious Moments Weddings and Events