{guest blogger: Busbee Style} Bridal Gown Lingo

Before you embark on one of the most important fashion journeys of your life, you might want to take a minute to brush up on your bridal gown lingo.

The following are the important words used to describe dress necklines, styles and fabrics.

NECKLINES

Strapless:  This is perhaps the most common trait among bridal dresses. It means quite literally that the dress has no straps. The neckline varies. It can be straight across or sweetheart (see below)

Sweetheart:  A sweetheart neckline is one of the most popular among brides. It looks like the top half of a heart (slight v dip in the middle). A dress featuring this neckline is also usually strapless.

Halter:  This dress has a deep v in the front and straps that tie high around your neck much like a halter-top.

Bateau or Boat:   Scooped in the front and back. This style follows the collarbone from one shoulder to the other. (Think shape of a half moon).

One-Shoulder:  This style kinda speaks for itself. The dress has one shoulder strap only.

Portrait:  It looks like there is a shawl wrapped around the top of your dress. It really frames your face.

Deep V:  The plunging V is great for the bride who wants to be sexy on her wedding day. I wouldn’t recommend this neckline for well-endowed ladies.

There are several other necklines, but they are pretty obscure so I won’t overcomplicate things.

STYLES

Princess:  This is a type of dress that brides who want to go all out… gravitate towards. The princess dress has a fitted bodice and a very full skirt. Often a petticoat is worn under the skirt to add even more oomph. Think Cinderella.

A-Line:  Like the princess dress, the A-line is fitted through the body and has a fuller skirt. But, the skirt is usually a lot LESS full than the princess dress. This is a universally flattering silhouette and is great for covering up the hips and thighs.

Mermaid:  This is a great silhouette for a skinny bride who wants to create curves. The dress is fitted through the body, waist and hips. At the knee or slightly above, the skirt becomes full like a fish tail (hence, mermaid).

Sheath:  This is a simple dress with no fullness. It is usually fitted and therefore unforgiving. The simplicity of the silhouette makes it ideal for the beach or a more casual setting.

Empire:  Often the narrowest part of a woman is not her waist, but several inches higher just below her breasts. The empire waist highlights that area. This style is elegant and flattering on most women. It’s also a must for the expectant bride.

FABRICS

You’ll also see bridal gowns in a variety of fabrics from lace to silk to taffeta to tulle. Tulle and organza are hugely popular right now. They are the fabrics that remind you of your old ballet tutu.

After learning more about the silhouettes and necklines, it’s helpful visualize which styles will be the most flattering on your body. That way, you won’t be clueless when you start shopping. Good luck!

ooo, la-la!! thanks Erin! xoxo - brandi, country sugar

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