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In Celebs

Nadia Jaftha announces her engagement

December 1, 2025 No Comments

South African content creator and entrepreneur Nadia Jaftha announced her engagement on the morning of 1 December, sharing a moment that immediately lit up social media with excitement and support.

Jaftha is known for keeping her personal life intentionally private, so for many followers, news of her relationship — and now engagement — to Reece Meyer came as a genuine surprise. The reveal, however, was met with an outpouring of joy, with fans celebrating a milestone they hadn’t anticipated but wholeheartedly embraced.

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Nadia and Reece are long-time collaborators, working together as co-founders of ACE Labs and co-owners of The Smile Bar.

A heartfelt congratulations to Nadia and Reece as they begin this new chapter together.

ALSO SEE: The pocket guide for announcing your engagement on social media

The pocket guide for announcing your engagement on social media

Featured image: Nadia Jaftha/Instagram

In Advice

Busted! 5 Common engagement ring myths debunked

November 27, 2025 No Comments

Similar to coconut water and good skin, tradition and weddings go hand-in-hand, and there’s nothing more traditional than forking out thousands for a jaw-dropping engagement ring. We’ve been conditioned to believe that the perfect wedding or engagement ring should look a particular way, but that isn’t necessarily the case.

We’re busting five myths that may soothe your anxious heart and help inspire you to break away from tradition:

The bigger the diamond, the better the ring

Incredible marketing in the 1980s epitomised the luxury status that came with owning a giant diamond ring, and celebrities such as the Kardashians haven’t helped dissuade this sentiment either. However, picking out something quaint and delicate can be just as beautiful and can still make a statement.

There are also plenty of advantages to choosing a ring that doesn’t weigh as much as a small gerbil, which includes affordability and everyday wear and tear. If your sparkler is 1 carat or under, try choosing a design where the diamond is front and centre while exploring various shapes that suit your style.

Engagement rings should be bland

Who said your engagement ring shouldn’t have a pop of colour? A recent trend we’ve been seeing lately is a move away from the traditional clear precious gemstones and towards blues, reds and greens.

Traditionally, coloured gemstones are often associated with royals. Think, the late Princess Diana’s gorgeous blue sapphire engagement ring. However, more brides-to-be are indulging in a little colour when it comes to their wedding rings with vibrant blood-red rubies and shimmering green emeralds at the top of the list. Just make sure that when you’re picking out your favourite precious gemstone, you stick with stones that are 7-10 on the MOHs hardness scale to ensure it doesn’t get damaged.

Any stone will work well for an engagement ring

We know that the affordable moonstone engagement ring you saw online looks fantastic, but you’ll need to consider the durability of the stone you’ll be purchasing. Your engagement ring is going to take a beating, and between doing the dishes every evening to exercising, certain stones are just not durable enough. Stones such as opal and pearls can be a great alternative to the traditional engagement ring, but these precious stones are often considered “soft,” especially when compared to the MOHs hardness scale.

For example, pearls are ranked 2.5 on MOHs hardness scale, so care will need to be taken to avoid scratching or damaging this precious gem. However, diamonds are ranked 10 on this hardness scale, so they can be quite durable.

There are no ethical engagement rings out there

Times have certainly changed, and so have consumer habits. It’s the age of the conscious shopper and shopping ethically and sustainably has become a top priority as people around the world attempt to contribute to a sustainable future for all. While you may think that finding an ethically sourced engagement ring might be tough, more jewellers have shifted their focus to one that conserves the resources of the planet and caters to those looking to ensure a greener future.

Traceable gemstones, recycled gemstones, lab-grown gemstones and recycled gold are just a few options for the sustainable wedding couple.

The jeweller isn’t always right

Oftentimes, you’re buying an engagement ring for the first time, so what could you possibly know. Jewellers are there to give you advice when it comes to a few important details, including a diamond’s 4 C’s, price comparisons, durability and craftsmanship. Be wary of jewellers who are steering you towards a ring that you may not feel comfortable with, only you know your future fiance’s style and wants, so keep that in mind when browsing. And don’t forget to take your time!

ALSO SEE: Sweet inscriptions to have engraved in your ring

Sweet inscriptions to have engraved in your ring

Picture: Unsplash

In Advice

Things you should know about premarital counselling

November 27, 2025 No Comments

In the past, premarital counselling was mainly carried out in religious institutions. These days, however, it has become more popular with non-religious couples too. Couples go to seek guidance and advice in the hopes of preventing divorce.

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Premarital counseling is a type of therapy that helps couples prepare for marriage. Premarital counseling can help ensure that you and your partner have a strong, healthy relationship — giving you a better chance for a stable and satisfying marriage”. They add that the sessions will assist you in identifying weaknesses that could result in trouble for you as a couple further down the road.

What to expect from premarital counselling:

The counselling is usually carried out by a licensed therapist. You’ll sit in the therapists office with your partner by your side discussing a variety of topics related to marriage. Some of these topics include: Money, quality time together, sex, roles in marriage, children, extended family, beliefs and values, and goals.

Some therapists may have you fill out questionnaires separately. The questionnaire will have you answer questions about each other. Thereafter, the therapist will help you to work through the results together.

Benefits of premarital counselling:

– Helps guide the conversation

Discussing heavy topics such as religion, sex, or kids, can result in both partners getting emotional and therefore losing focus of the topic at hand. A counsellor will help to guide the conversation. They also ensure you don’t get angry or misinterpret each other.

– Teaches communication

An important thing to know is that different people respond in different ways to tones and speech patterns. You must be aware of how your partner needs to be spoken to, in order to feel understood, supported, and heard. Premarital counselling also teaches you how to communicate in a healthy and productive way.

– Helps you prepare for your future together

You will be made aware of which expectations are realistic and which are not. You will also get an idea of your timing and goals as a couple, for example when you both want to have kids, or when you want to move to a bigger house. Additionally, your anxieties and fears will be lessened as a result of how well counselling demystifies marriage. It also ensure’s that you avoid many potential conflicts in the future.

– You’ll learn more about yourself and your partner

Often, counselling is an eye opening experience. You discover things about yourself you’ve never known because the mental health professional is guiding you towards these realisations. When you and your partner have these experiences together, it also becomes a sort of bonding experience.

Tips for successful premarital counselling:

– Know that it will be tough

You’ll be dealing with very touchy subjects. Be sure to be as open as you can and don’t be scared to be vulnerable. Most importantly, don’t give up because it’s uncomfortable! Remember that in the end, this will only grow and strengthen your relationship.

– Don’t say what you think they want to hear

Avoid saying things that downplay your emotions or opinions, don’t answer in a way that you think is correct (there are no right or wrong answers). You should also avoid saying things just because it makes you seem more compatible with your significant other. If you do that, there will be no real progress.

– It’s not a competition

There is no winner or loser, and there should be no “I told you so” at the end of the session.

Be open to listening and accepting that you are both capable of being better.

ALSO SEE: The pocket guide for announcing your engagement on social media

The pocket guide for announcing your engagement on social media

Image: Pexels

In Accessories

Sweet inscriptions to have engraved in your ring

November 25, 2025 No Comments

Having your ring engraved is an excellent way to personalise your engagement ring. It allows couples to write sweet messages of devotion to one another, and keep it close to their hearts.

But what do you inscribe on such an important piece of jewellery? Considering you will (hopefully) wear your ring forever, you’ll want something meaningful to look back on.

You don’t have that much space on a ring, so a shorter phrase is ideal. Here are some cute words to have permanently written on your ring.

Dates and symbols

Your wedding date
The date you met
Your initials
Co-ordinates to where you first met

Words and phrases

I Love You
Always and forever
Until eternity
Never to part
Perfect fit
Finders keepers
Je t’aime
Better together
Till death
I do

ALSO SEE: Buying vs. Hiring Groom & Groomsmen Suits: Costs & Considerations

Buying vs. Hiring Groom & Groomsmen Suits: Costs & Considerations

Feature image: Pexels

In Advice

Everything you need to know about wedding dress alterations

November 25, 2025 No Comments

You’ve found your dream dress but it doesn’t sit quite the way you were expecting. While most brides spend hours dreaming about the perfect gown that they’ll walk down the aisle in, what’s not often talked about (or dreamt about) is the logistics of wedding dress alterations.

The fit of your wedding dress is oh-so-important, which makes understanding wedding alterations just as important – but what to know?

Types of wedding dress alterations:

Adding details

If you have the time and the budget, customising your dress to include a range of details that suit your fancy – sleeves, train length, shoulder straps or beading – can be done by a reliable seamstress.

Basic hemming

This is probably the most common type of alteration and can range from hemming the length of the gown to adjusting the fit of the dress. These basic adjustments are a great way to make sure your wedding gown is comfy, looks spectacular on you and leaves you feeling beautiful.

Keep in mind that most wedding gowns will need alterations, which leads us to the next tip: budget.

Planning is everything

Add wedding dress alterations to your budget:

You want to look amazing on your big day and it’s important to remember that you may need wedding dress alterations to ensure that the dress fits you like a glove. Now, some wedding boutiques are heaven-sent and offer free alterations (depending on what you want to be done), however, you may need to add alterations to your budget.

So, how much will it cost? Another important note is that all wedding dress seamstresses are different and will charge their own rate, but you can expect to pay around R2500 (or more) for alterations, so make sure that you add this into your wedding budget. Another aspect to keep in mind – more expensive is always better, so make sure that you shop around.

Timing is everything

No bride needs the extra stress and stressing about whether you’ll receive your wedding gown before you walk down the aisle is stressful. Timing is everything when it comes to alterations, so make sure that you create a timeline that ensures you won’t be pulling your hair from the stress.

If it’s possible, purchase your wedding dress at least 10 months before your date as buying your dress early allows you to have an abundance of time for fittings. Schedule a fitting at least eight to 12 weeks before the wedding and then a second fitting at least two weeks before you walk down the aisle.

Fitting tricks

Bring along your wedding shoes, accessories and undergarments

Bring along your wedding day essentials in order to ensure that you get a proper fit. There’s no question that shoe length, your favourite shapewear and a strapless bra can make all the difference when trying on clothes, and the same goes for your wedding dress. You want to know exactly how it’s going to fit and during your fitting appointments, you’ll get a sense of what you’ll look like on the day.

An extra tip: Your wedding dress is usually altered according to the length of your shoe, so if you’re looking to change into a pair of sneakers during the reception, it’s going to be a bit long and you may find yourself tripping all over the place. To avoid this, make sure that you purchase a shoe that you love and will keep you nice and comfy.

Bring a friend

This may be an unspoken wedding dress shopping rule, but it’s something that is always a good idea to say again. Bring along a supportive friend or family member to help keep your spirits up and help give you a different (but positive) perspective when shopping around or going for fittings. It’s also really nice to have someone to document those memories with a selfie or two before clinking your glass in celebration of finding “the one.”

Happy wedding dress shopping!

ALSO SEE: A Complete Guide to Wedding Dress Styles Every Bride Should Know

A Complete Guide to Wedding Dress Styles Every Bride Should Know

Feature Image: Unsplash

In Venue

The Most Breathtaking Wedding Venues in Stellenbosch: Where Love Meets the Cape Winelands

November 20, 2025 No Comments

Few places in South Africa can match the romantic allure of Stellenbosch. With its rolling vineyards, mountain views and old-world charm, the Cape Winelands town has become one of the country’s most sought-after wedding destinations. Whether you dream of exchanging vows in a centuries-old chapel, under a canopy of oak trees, or beside a sleek glass pavilion, Stellenbosch offers a venue for every kind of love story.

Here are some of the most enchanting wedding venues that promise a perfect blend of luxury, nature and South African warmth.

Zorgvliet Wines: Romance in the Valley

Hidden in the Banghoek Valley, Zorgvliet Wines feels like a fairytale come to life. Framed by the Simonsberg and Drakenstein Mountains, this wine estate pairs breathtaking views with understated elegance. Couples can say their “I dos” in a charming chapel before moving to The Oak Room for a refined reception, complete with vineyard views and soft candlelight.

The nearby Country Lodge sleeps 36 guests, making it easy for loved ones to linger for a weekend of celebration. From picnics on the lawns to sunset braais under the stars, Zorgvliet knows how to turn a wedding into an experience.Image Sources: Zorgvliet Wines

Eikenhof Estate: Where Nature Meets Style

Situated just off Bottelary Road, Eikenhof Estate offers a tranquil escape while remaining close to Stellenbosch, Brackenfell and Kuilsriver. The venue’s Cap Classique Hall combines rustic charm with modern touches—wooden pergolas, natural stone walls, chandeliers and a warm indoor fireplace.

The lawn and patio area are perfect for cocktails or a marquee-style celebration, while the on-site manor and guest villa make it ideal for multi-day festivities. As locals say, Eikenhof blends “nature and perfection” in the most effortless way.Image Source: Eikenhof Estate on Instagram

Landtscap: A Modern Canvas in the Winelands

For couples craving a contemporary touch, Landtscap offers a light-filled venue overlooking the vineyards and mountains. The floor-to-ceiling glass windows frame 180-degree views, ensuring nature remains part of the décor.

The venue can host up to 190 guests and provides stylish designer tables, crystal glassware, and oak furnishings. With multiple spaces—including ceremony lawns and decks—it’s an adaptable venue for couples who want a bespoke celebration. The on-site accommodation, Fransmanshuijs and Fransmans Cottage, add a touch of luxury with wood-fired hot tubs and panoramic patios—perfect for pre-wedding relaxation.
Image Source: Landscapt on Instagram

Highberry Vineyards: For Lovers of Privacy and Beauty

At Highberry Vineyards, nature takes centre stage. The 60-hectare farm sits among lakes, paddocks and the Hottentots Holland Mountains, offering endless backdrops for photos. Known for restoring 12 hectares of indigenous Renosterveld, Highberry radiates a sense of peace and authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Couples love the venue’s intimacy, with its elegant farmhouse and manicured gardens serving as the perfect bridal prep space. It’s a favourite among nature-loving couples who want an eco-conscious yet luxurious wedding.Source: Highberry on Instagram

Middelvlei Wine Estate: Authentic Stellenbosch Charm

Family-owned since 1919, Middelvlei Wine Estate brings a timeless warmth to any celebration. Just 4km from Stellenbosch town, this working wine farm exudes old-world charm with its rustic Wine Barn that accommodates up to 120 guests.

Known for hearty South African dishes, fine wine, and genuine hospitality, Middelvlei’s relaxed atmosphere captures the heart of the Winelands. For smaller weddings, the Barrel Cellar offers an intimate space that feels both romantic and real—a place where stories are made to last generations.

Cultivar Guest Lodge: Elegant Simplicity

Nestled in the heart of the Winelands, Cultivar Guest Lodge offers couples the flexibility of hosting both ceremony and reception on-site. Whether you choose a garden ceremony by the pool or a reception in the elegant Napoleon Hall, every detail is curated to suit your style and budget.

With a focus on stress-free planning, Cultivar’s in-house team can handle everything from décor and catering to sound and photography. The panoramic mountain views from the balcony seal the deal for couples seeking an intimate yet unforgettable setting.

Hazendal Wine Estate: Grandeur Meets Modern Design

Blending history with innovation, Hazendal Wine Estate is one of Stellenbosch’s most versatile wedding venues. Each space offers its own character—from the ethereal Floating Pavilion set on a pond to the sophisticated Grand Hall that can host 250 guests.

Couples can also exchange vows in The Glasshouse or celebrate outdoors on The Lawn with mountain views. The estate’s boutique hotel, The Hazendal, adds a luxurious stay for guests, while the estate’s mix of architecture, art, and fine dining creates a truly world-class experience.

A Winelands Fairytale Awaits

Whether your heart leans toward modern minimalism, rustic romance, or classic elegance, Stellenbosch’s wedding venues promise something unforgettable. Each estate tells its own story—a story of heritage, landscape and love.

As one recent bride shared on social media, “There’s something magical about saying ‘I do’ where the vines meet the mountains—it’s the kind of beauty that stays with you forever.”

So, as you plan your special day, remember: in Stellenbosch, love isn’t just celebrated—it’s beautifully cultivated.

Featured Image Source: Matthias Wesselmann on Unsplash

In Advice

7 Core Values Every Couple Should Agree On Before Saying “I Do”

November 12, 2025 No Comments

Before the wedding bells ring and the vows are exchanged, it’s worth asking: are you and your partner truly aligned on what matters most? Beyond flowers, venues, and guest lists, it’s the invisible glue of shared values that determines whether your marriage will thrive long after the honeymoon phase ends.

In South Africa, where diverse cultures meet and marriage often brings two families together, shared principles aren’t just about personal happiness — they shape how you grow as a unit, navigate challenges, and even raise future generations.

Let’s explore the seven non-negotiable values every couple should talk about before saying “I do.”

Communication

Every strong marriage begins with communication. Being able to speak honestly, listen actively, and understand one another prevents small misunderstandings from turning into big issues. Healthy communication means saying what you mean — and meaning what you say — without blame or judgment.

Couples who talk openly about their worries, goals, and expectations tend to feel more connected and respected. Remember, communication isn’t just about solving problems; it’s about staying emotionally in tune.

Respect

Respect is what keeps love grounded. It’s found in everyday acts — listening when your partner speaks, supporting their dreams, and valuing their opinions even when you disagree. Without respect, affection fades and resentment takes its place.

When couples treat each other as equals, they create an environment where both can thrive. Mutual respect keeps your marriage balanced, especially when life throws challenges your way.

Trust

Trust is the quiet assurance that your partner has your back, no matter the distance or the doubt. It’s the foundation of emotional security, allowing both people to show up as their authentic selves.

If trust breaks down, everything else starts to crumble. Building and maintaining trust takes consistency and transparency — it’s a daily choice to believe in your partner and in the bond you share.

Forgiveness

Every couple fights, but the healthiest ones know how to forgive. Letting go of grudges doesn’t erase the hurt; it allows both of you to heal and move forward. Holding onto resentment only creates emotional distance.

Forgiveness means prioritizing love over pride and choosing to grow together rather than apart. It’s an act of courage and compassion that keeps relationships alive through even the hardest seasons.

Boundaries

In love, boundaries aren’t barriers — they’re protection. They remind you that it’s okay to say no, to ask for space, and to nurture your individuality within the relationship. Without boundaries, it’s easy to lose yourself in trying to please your partner.

Setting healthy limits builds respect and trust. It shows that you value your wellbeing and your partner’s too. When both people know where they stand, the relationship becomes a space of freedom instead of pressure.

Honesty

Honesty is more than telling the truth — it’s about being authentic. When you’re honest with your partner, you create a bond rooted in transparency and emotional intimacy. There’s no second-guessing, no pretending, just real connection.

Of course, honesty can be uncomfortable, especially when tough conversations arise. But facing truth with empathy builds strength and deepens mutual understanding. In marriage, that’s priceless.

Religion

Faith often shapes family traditions, holidays, and daily routines — especially in South Africa, where spiritual diversity runs deep. Whether you share the same religion or come from different beliefs, conversations about faith are vital before marriage.

Discuss how you’ll celebrate religious holidays, raise children, or attend services. These discussions don’t have to divide you; they can help you create a shared spiritual foundation that reflects both your worlds.

Moving Forward

Marriage isn’t just about love — it’s about alignment. When two people share core values, they create a partnership that can weather any storm. Before walking down the aisle, take the time to talk deeply about what truly matters. Because when your values match, your love only grows stronger.

Featured Image: Foto Petinne on Unsplash

In Advice

What to Wear to a Wedding Rehearsal Dinner: Your Complete Guest Style Guide

October 29, 2025 No Comments

The wedding rehearsal dinner may not be the main event, but it’s often where the love, laughter, and nerves of the big day first come together. It’s a night reserved for close family and friends — a moment to toast the couple before the aisle walk. And while the focus is on the celebration, guests often face one burning question: What should I wear?

From venue cues to dress code dos and don’ts, here’s how to show up in style without stealing the spotlight.

Understanding The Rehearsal Dinner

Traditionally, the rehearsal dinner happens after the wedding rehearsal itself, bringing together those closest to the couple — the bridal party, parents, and loved ones who’ve been part of the journey. It’s a little more formal than your average dinner, but it doesn’t have to mean stiff fashion choices. Think elevated comfort: something that feels special without looking overdone.

The tone of the evening often mirrors the couple’s personality. A candlelit dinner at a wine estate might call for cocktail attire, while a backyard braai or seaside soiree invites a more relaxed, stylish ease.

Follow The Dress Code

If the invitation lists a dress code, consider that your ultimate guide. Whether it’s “cocktail chic,” “garden party,” or “mountain casual,” the couple’s vision will tell you everything you need to know.

A tailored suit or a fun, flowy dress is perfect for cocktail attire, while a themed dinner (like “coastal elegance”) might welcome lighter fabrics and softer tones. If no dress code is mentioned, it’s always safe to check in discreetly with a member of the wedding party rather than the couple themselves — they’ll appreciate your thoughtfulness in wanting to blend in with their aesthetic.

Dress For The Season And Location

One of the most overlooked details is the weather. South African weddings, for instance, can swing from blazing afternoon heat to cool evening breezes. A summer rehearsal dinner in Durban might call for a sleeveless jumpsuit or linen dress, while a winter soirée in the Cape Winelands pairs beautifully with a velvet wrap dress or structured blazer.

Always check the forecast a few days before the event — and if you’re traveling, pack a backup outfit just in case the weather pulls a surprise.

Consider The Venue

The setting says a lot about what to wear. An intimate restaurant dinner may lean formal, while an outdoor gathering on a wine farm or coastal deck invites lighter, more practical fabrics.

If the event takes place on grass or sand, skip the stilettos for block heels or elegant flats. Pack a shawl, blazer, or pashmina for outdoor or evening events — it’s not only functional but adds a layer of sophistication to your look.

What Not To Wear

A general rule? Avoid anything that clashes with the dress code or draws unnecessary attention. That means steering clear of white, cream, or ivory — those shades are reserved for the bride. Jeans are a no-go unless the invitation says otherwise, and overly casual pieces (like sneakers or T-shirts) should stay home.

When in doubt, lean toward understated elegance. You want to look like part of the couple’s celebration, not a distraction from it.

What Will You Wear?

A rehearsal dinner may be a smaller affair, but it’s no less meaningful. It’s where toasts are made, laughter flows, and the anticipation of the wedding day begins to build. Dressing thoughtfully for this occasion shows respect for the couple’s journey — and ensures you feel just as special as the evening itself.

Whether it’s a sunset dinner on a vineyard or a modern urban gathering, the golden rule remains the same: dress with intention, confidence, and care.

Featured Image Source: Pinterest

In Celebs

Inside Carly Rae Jepsen’s Intimate Chelsea Hotel Wedding to Music Producer Cole M.G.N.

October 28, 2025 No Comments

Carly Rae Jepsen has officially entered her next era — as a married woman. The “Call Me Maybe” hitmaker, who became a global pop phenomenon in the 2010s, tied the knot with longtime partner and collaborator Cole M.G.N. (real name Cole Marsden Greif-Neill) in a private ceremony at New York City’s iconic Chelsea Hotel earlier this month.

A Love Story Rooted in Music

Source: Carly Rae Jepsen on Instagram

Jepsen and Cole’s relationship began in the studio while working on her 2023 album The Loveliest Time. What started as creative chemistry blossomed into something much deeper. Their collaboration produced the song “So Right,” which Jepsen later described as their “meet-cute.”

“You have to get to a certain level of comfort with somebody before you can get to those playful, experimental places,” she told People at the time. It seems that comfort soon turned into love — and now, marriage.

A Wedding with Artistic Soul

Source: Carly Rae Jepsen on Instagram

On October 4, Jepsen and Cole exchanged vows in the Bard Room of the Chelsea Hotel — a venue rich with artistic history, once home to icons like Leonard Cohen, Patti Smith, and Bob Dylan. The space, known for its bohemian charm, perfectly reflected the couple’s creative spirits.

“We knew we wanted a location that meant something to us,” Jepsen told Vogue. “The Chelsea Hotel had become a home away from home every time we were in New York.”

Her wedding day style was equally thoughtful. She wore a strapless corseted gown with a draped skirt by Australian designer Toni Maticevski for the ceremony, later changing into a dreamy tiered dress from New York designer Danielle Frankel. In a sentimental touch, she accessorized with pearl earrings handmade by her mother, Alexandra Lanzarott.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime New York Moment

Source: Carly Rae Jepsen on Instagram

The evening’s standout moment came when musician Rufus Wainwright surprised the guests with an a cappella rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Chelsea Hotel #2.” For Jepsen — a longtime admirer of the hotel’s artistic legacy — it was a serendipitous full-circle moment. “This felt like a once-in-a-lifetime New York moment,” she said.

From Engagement to “I Do”

Jepsen first announced her engagement to Cole in September 2024, sharing a series of photos on Instagram with the caption, “Very engaged over here .” Fans flooded the comments with excitement, celebrating the couple’s low-key yet heartfelt reveal.

In the months that followed, Jepsen gave glimpses of her wedding preparations — from taste-testing cakes (“Mostly fighting about cake,” she joked) to celebrating her bachelorette with friends in colorful wigs. Each post carried her signature humor and warmth, traits fans have long adored.

The Start Of A New Chapter

While Jepsen has yet to share full wedding photos, her fans are already speculating about new music inspired by this next chapter. The Grammy-nominated singer has always channeled her emotions into her work — from heartbreak anthems to euphoric pop bangers.

If her love story with Cole is any indication, her next album might just be her most romantic yet.

In Wedding Gowns

A Complete Guide to Wedding Dress Styles Every Bride Should Know

October 28, 2025 No Comments

Featured Image Source: Thomas Christian on Unsplash

Saying “yes to the dress” is just as defining as saying “yes” to your partner. For many brides, the gown they walk down the aisle in becomes one of the most memorable and photographed moments of their lives. But with rails of lace, satin, tulle, and sequins at every bridal boutique, choosing the right silhouette can feel overwhelming.

Whether you’re dreaming of a princess-style ball gown or something sleek and minimalist, the right wedding dress style can highlight your best features, complement your personality, and set the tone for your celebration. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular wedding dress silhouettes and what makes each one special.

A-Line

Source: Pinterest

Flattering on just about every body type, the A-line gown has earned its place as a bridal classic. Its fitted bodice gently flares from the waist to create a soft “A” shape. This style is particularly kind to petite or pear-shaped brides, creating a slimming effect while elongating the frame.

In South Africa, where many brides mix cultural traditions with modern designs, A-line silhouettes often blend beautifully with layered beadwork or traditional fabrics like shweshwe, creating a contemporary yet rooted look.

Empire Waist

Source: Pinterest

The empire waistline sits just beneath the bust and cascades into a long skirt, giving brides an elongated silhouette. It’s a favourite among vintage enthusiasts, often linked to the Regency era (think Bridgerton chic). For petite brides, the higher waistline adds height, while the flowing skirt adds movement and softness.

Empire waist dresses are also popular for beach weddings along the South African coast, thanks to their light, airy feel.

Drop Waist

Source: Pinterest

A throwback to 1920s glamour, the drop-waist gown sits below the natural waist and hugs the torso before falling into a skirt. Perfect for brides with long legs, this design elongates the body and creates a relaxed yet elegant structure.

It’s less common at traditional church weddings but often seen at Art Deco-themed celebrations or reception after-party looks.

Ball Gown

Source: Pinterest

If you’ve ever dreamt of arriving like royalty, the ball gown is your ticket. With a fitted bodice and dramatic, voluminous skirt, this style is designed to make a statement. It flatters most body types by cinching the waist and skimming the hips, though petite brides may feel swallowed by its size.

In South African culture, the ball gown often surfaces at large family weddings where grandeur is expected, and it pairs perfectly with cathedral-length veils.

Mermaid

Source: Pinterest

The mermaid silhouette is figure-hugging from the bust to the knees, flaring dramatically at the bottom. It’s a bold choice for confident brides who want to celebrate their curves. Because of its structure, movement can be a little restricted, so shapewear and careful fittings are key.

Mermaid gowns have been trending on Instagram and TikTok, where South African brides show off dazzling beadwork or illusion lace versions of this sexy design.

Trumpet

Often mistaken for mermaid styles, trumpet gowns hug the body until mid-thigh before flaring in a subtler curve. It’s a go-to for brides who want drama without the full commitment of a mermaid gown. This silhouette works well for hourglass figures, offering balance and freedom of movement.

Fit-And-Flare

Source: Pinterest

A cousin of the trumpet, fit-and-flare gowns gradually widen from the hips, creating a softer line. They’re ideal for brides who want a curve-hugging look but with comfort and mobility. This style is popular at outdoor weddings where dancing, walking, and mingling are part of the celebration.

Slip

Source: Pinterest

Minimalist brides love the effortless appeal of slip dresses. Think Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s iconic ’90s satin gown: sleek, modern, and timeless. Often made from silk or satin, slip dresses skim the body without much structure, creating a chic and relaxed look.

Sheath

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The sheath gown is a straight, body-skimming style with no defined waistline. It elongates petite brides and defines taller frames, offering a clean and simple silhouette. A sash or belt can add definition for boxier body types.

Brides who don’t want a long train often choose sheath gowns, especially for destination weddings where practicality matters.

Column

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Similar to the sheath, the column gown runs straight down the body but is often made with heavier fabrics like taffeta or brocade for more structure. It’s popular with athletic builds and those who want understated sophistication.

Tea-Length

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Hitting just above the ankle, tea-length gowns are playful, vintage-inspired, and perfect for brides who want to show off their shoes. They work beautifully for daytime ceremonies, garden receptions, or retro-themed weddings.

South African brides are increasingly choosing tea-length dresses for second looks, especially for outdoor summer weddings where comfort and mobility are a priority.

Midi

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Falling mid-calf, the midi dress blends modesty with vintage flair. It first rose to popularity in the 1940s and ’50s and has recently made a comeback for courthouse weddings or small, intimate ceremonies. Tall brides often pull this off best, as the length can shorten the leg line for petite figures.

High-Low

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With a raised hemline in the front and a longer train at the back, high-low gowns are all about movement and fun. They’re perfect for showing off a statement pair of heels and bring a fresh, contemporary twist to bridal fashion.

Brides who want to transition from ceremony to after-party often gravitate to this design for its versatility.

Mini

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Finally, the mini dress: short, playful, and unconventional. Once reserved for after-parties, it has now become a bold choice for civil ceremonies, elopements, and backyard weddings. Petite brides especially love this style because it doesn’t overwhelm their frame.

Which Style Will You Pick?

Your wedding dress is more than fabric and seams; it’s a reflection of your story, your culture, and your celebration of love. Whether you want to look like a queen in a ball gown or keep it understated in a slip dress, remember that comfort and confidence matter most. The best gown is the one that makes you feel like the truest version of yourself.