There’s something about a wedding that makes many brides favour fairy-tale styles. Maybe it’s because we grew up with Disney’s iconic princesses moulding our idea of what a gorgeous gown should like, or maybe it’s because being mesmerised by royal weddings and their frocks of epic proportions has inspired us to believe in fairy tales once more. Whatever the reason, if ‘Disney princess’ is your idea of the perfect wedding dress, read on for advice from Lieria Marais, head merchandiser of Bride & Co.
3 Style features to look for
1 A sweetheart neckline
Sweetheart-neckline dress by Bride & Co (was R11 800, now R6 999 on sale)
A sweetheart neckline is classic Disney style territory. Plus, not only is it feminine and romantic, it’s also flattering for almost all types of bust lines, from small to fuller figures (provided it has a built-in support structure, which most quality gowns do). “Sweetheart necklines elongate the face and provide proportional balance to your overall silhouette. Petite brides can enjoy the illusion of a curvier top half, while bustier brides can show off their cleavage without risking a wardrobe malfunction or revealing too much,” says Lieria.
2 A full skirt
Full-skirt gown by Bride & Co (was R9 400, now R5 999 on sale)
What did Belle, Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty have in common when they nabbed their Prince Charmings at the ball? Yep: a full-circle skirt that twirled beautifully as the princesses sashayed across the dance floor. So keep a look out for A-line skirts and, if you really want to go all out, layers of tulle or a hooped petticoat to create added volume and drama.
3 Striking embellishment
Embellished gown by Bride & Co (was R6 800, now R999 on sale)
No fairy-tale inspired dress would be complete without a little glitz and glamour, like a crystal-encrusted bodice diamanté detailing or an embellished sash. “Whether it’s via beading on the dress or a versatile, cost-effective belt, embellishments add that special something to a wedding gown,” adds Lieria.
Find the right fairy-tale fabric to suit your shape
If you’re curvy…
Curvier ladies should look for delicate, matte fabrics (shiny fabrics can highlight lumps and bumps) like chiffon or Georgette (crêpe). “Crêpe is especially flattering because it drapes and skims softly over your curves without clinging to them,” explains Lieria. “Chiffon on the other hand is beautiful for summer, as it’s delicate and light but still flows forgivingly over problem areas.” A fitted bodice and ruching are also great figure-fixers, sucking you in and distracting from areas you’d prefer to hide.
Ruched gown by Bride & Co (was R6 200, now R4 999 on sale)
If you’re petite…
Leaner ladies can get away with figure-hugging fabrics, but also look exceptional in light fabrics like satin and silk because they move beautifully and can create the illusion of curves. Details like a ruffled skirt or embellished bodice can also help to make your frame appear more curvaceous.
Ruffle dress by Bride & Co (was R12 800, now R6 999 on sale)
Bride & Co are having a nationwide sale on now until 10 February 2015, which means you can shop fairy-tale sales from as little as R999! Click here for a sneak peak of the pieces on sale, and click here to find your nearest Bride & Co store.
To read more about finding a wedding dress to suit your shape, click here!
