Beautiful Bride’s Dress
Is this not the most beautiful bride’s dress you have ever seen?! I love everything about it, and here’s why! Textured looks, like the one in this photo, have been a solid trend in mainstream fashion for a while now. Texture gives dresses a three-dimensional look, making flowers and ruffles stand out. Simple ways to add texture to your dress include incorporating pleats (and not the kind in pants, hehe, Anchorman joke!). Pleats can enhance the texture of the dress beautifully.
You can also add texture with embroidered fabric or by layering a skirt. However, the easiest way to introduce texture is through the fabric itself. For an open-back dress like the one in this photo, I recommend reducing the amount of accessories and possibly putting your hair up (if it suits your style) to ensure nothing distracts from how the dress accents you.
As a photographer, textured dresses are a dream to capture. Texture is a technique we use often, placing couples next to brick walls, old staircases, and lush green grass. The irregularities of an old brick wall can complement a beautiful moment, and so does a wedding dress with rich texture. Textured dresses give brides a surface that draws the eye to its ruffles and ridges, contrasting elegantly with smooth skin.
Other texture ideas include wearing gloves that match your dress, adding ruffles to the bottom, or incorporating a colorful sash. If you choose to wear accessories, ensure they match your dress to maintain a cohesive look.
Exploring Different Styles of Wedding Dresses
Choosing the perfect wedding dress is one of the most exciting and memorable parts of wedding planning. With so many styles to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the dress that best reflects your personality and vision for your special day. Let’s explore some of the most popular wedding dress styles to help you find your dream dress.
1. Ball Gown
The ball gown is the epitome of fairy tale romance. With its fitted bodice and full, voluminous skirt, this style creates a dramatic and timeless silhouette. Ideal for traditional and formal weddings, the ball gown flatters most body types, especially those with a pear-shaped figure, by highlighting the waist and creating an hourglass shape.
2. A-Line
The A-line dress is universally flattering and versatile. This style features a fitted bodice that gradually flares out to the hem, resembling the shape of an “A.” It’s perfect for any wedding setting, from a casual beach ceremony to a grand ballroom affair. The A-line dress suits all body types, providing a balanced and elegant look.
3. Mermaid
The mermaid dress is designed to showcase your curves. This style is fitted through the bodice, waist, and hips, then flares out at the knees, resembling the shape of a mermaid’s tail. It’s a glamorous choice for confident brides who want to make a statement. Best suited for hourglass and slender figures, the mermaid dress accentuates the natural shape of the body.
4. Sheath
The sheath dress, also known as a column dress, offers a sleek and modern silhouette. It’s fitted closely to the body, falling straight from the neckline to the hem. This style is perfect for minimalist brides and works well for beach or destination weddings. The sheath dress is ideal for petite and athletic body types, creating a long, lean look.
5. Tea-Length
For a vintage-inspired or less formal look, the tea-length dress is a charming option. This style features a skirt that falls between the knee and ankle, offering a playful and retro vibe. Tea-length dresses are perfect for garden or daytime weddings and suit a variety of body types, especially those who want to show off their legs and shoes.
6. Bohemian
The bohemian, or boho, dress is perfect for free-spirited brides. This style often features flowing fabrics, lace, and unique details like bell sleeves or off-the-shoulder necklines. Boho dresses are ideal for outdoor or rustic weddings and complement a relaxed, natural beauty. They work well with a variety of body types, offering a comfortable and effortlessly chic look.
7. Fit and Flare
The fit and flare dress is a more subtle version of the mermaid style. It’s fitted through the bodice and waist, then gradually flares out at the hips. This style is perfect for brides who want to highlight their curves without the dramatic flair of a mermaid dress. It suits hourglass, pear-shaped, and petite figures, providing a balanced and elegant silhouette.
Choosing the Right Dress for You
When choosing your wedding dress, consider the following tips:
- Body Shape: Select a style that flatters your body type and accentuates your best features.
- Wedding Theme: Match your dress to the overall theme and formality of your wedding.
- Comfort: Ensure the dress is comfortable and allows you to move freely, so you can fully enjoy your special day.
- Personal Style: Choose a dress that reflects your personality and makes you feel confident and beautiful.
No matter what style you choose, the most important thing is that you feel amazing on your wedding day. Take your time, try on different styles, and trust your instincts to find the dress that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
For more inspiration and to see how I can capture the beauty of your wedding dress on your special day, visit Boxcar Photography.
If you’d like to see more of my work or learn how I can help you get beautiful portraits, please visit Boxcar Photography.