The summer is upon us and sometimes you can’t be bothered to get hot and sweaty in a long dress. If you’re opting for a fun, modern look, why not go for a short dress? It does not have to take away from the formality, and is sure to have you strutting your best dance moves till sunrise. Here are some of the hottest trends in short wedding dresses:
Also read: How to handle the heat at summer weddings
Image:Pexels
A bold red lip makes you feel powerful. We know! There’s nothing like a good red lipstick. Dressed up or dressed down, red lipstick can be paired with almost anything, making it the go-to for many.
The only problem: finding the perfect red lipstick is no small task. Your skin tone is a major determinant in which red you should go for. That’s why the red lip that your friend wears (the one you love to death) doesn’t have the same effect on your lips.
We’re of the opinion that your handbag should always have a red lipstick inside it. So, here is a quick and easy guide to finding the perfect one for you.
For a fair complexion
Go for a blue-based or pink-based red lipstick. The cool tones will contrast well with your fair complexion because of its pink-based undertone.
Our pick: Maybelline Made For All Lipstick by Color Sensational in Red-For-Me R139.95
For a medium complexion
Opt for an orange-based red. This will bring a brightening look to your skin tone and remove any pallidness.
Our pick: M A C Matte Lipstick in Lady Danger R260
For an olive complexion
Look for a brick or rust tinted red. You could also go for a coral or orange base. An olive complexion carries a yellow-green undertone. Earthy toned lipsticks will work effortlessly with your skin.
Our pick: NYX Butter Lipstick in Mary Janes R129.95
For a dark complexion
A darker complexion allows for a wider variety of reds. If you want a bold look, opt for a deep, true red. If you want a more natural look, go for blue-based reds.
Our pick: M A C Retro Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo R260
Image: Unsplash
For a fun and flirty finish, consider donning a tea-length gown for your big day. While sweeping trains give an ample dose of drama, a tea length gown is chic and effortless – perfect for the relaxed bride.
From your engagement party, rehearsal dinner to the big day itself, these glamorous gowns will leave you looking lovely.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5pQycijQN8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5m3mkNHc4K/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzv2lmmC4Bg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B47RCIQhA37/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5FOfDChvlh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4X4sm4hfaw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/BbeyXldHyS4/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5N0keLlj3W/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5M1h4aBGxA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4yVCyQjjWD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Feature image: Pexels
A semi-formal dress code is just above cocktail and below formal. The time and location of the wedding should help guide your outfit. If the wedding is in the evening, you should wear more structured clothing in darker shades, if it is in the day, wear light colours and fabrics.
Men
Wear a suit and tie or a smart blazer with a button down shirt. Pair your clothing with a smart pair of leather shoes.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Women
Wear a smart, knee-length dress, jumpsuit, or smart pants or a pencil skirt with a nice blouse. Semi-formal outfits should be form fitting, especially for an evening wedding.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Featured image: Unsplash
For a modern day fairytale dress, look no further than the princess gown. With a full and flowing skirt, this dress style is wonderfully whimsical and romantic.
Princess gowns are the most traditional of the silhouettes, often considered the most romantic and feminine due to its fairytale-esque shape. Join the ranks of famous brides like Mariah Carey, Serena Williams and Diana, Princess of Wales by choosing this style.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5HkMZdnp1C/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B2US156pDOg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4_Dcz4howt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4hmnRyF3G1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B3cK5h7IbrQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4FRNBInqoW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4XkA4dlGpw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/BzEOYyTAY-o/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B1blJRIlr3V/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5AsLrBCnom/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Many brides go for a neutral nail look on their wedding day. We’ve had the French manicure, then we had the plain white or cream. Some even went as far as subtle pinks. Other brides who were not sold on the idea of subtle went for over-the-top glitzy nail art or bright colours. But what about the in-between? Fret not! There are loads of other options that are truly gorgeous, not too extra and far away from boring.
Picture: Instagram/Lolaliner
South Africa’s very own Zozibini Tunzi has just been crowned Miss Universe for 2019. Her beauty, strength and intellect have inspired us all to be a little bit like her. Take some style tips from our reigning queen this upcoming wedding season by taking a page from her fashion diaries.
Wedding dress:
Zozibini strutted down the Miss Universe stage wearing a stunning white caped gown representing her Xhosa heritage, designed by Biji – La Maison de Couture. Modern and structured, this dress makes a powerful statement.
Bridal capes are a great option for brides that are looking for a little something extra and for those that are looking to break away from the norm. If you’re not into the super modern look, you can soften the cape by going for lighter fabrics to give an airy finish.
If you’re daring, why not go for an illusion gown wedding dress? Zozibini wore this Biji – La Maison de Couture to the Fairlady Santam Woman of the Future Awards earlier this year and gave us major #outfitgoals.
This lace applique gown is delicate yet sexy, perfect for the bride wanting to strike a balance. If you’re scared of the full illusion look you can always line certain parts.
Crowns:
Zozibini’s ornate crown, named ‘The Power of Unity’, celebrates the complexity, diversity, unapologetic ambition and strength of women. With more than 1,770 diamonds set in 18-karat gold, the crown features interconnected leaves and flowers. A 62.83 carat golden canary diamond is the stunning centrepiece.
While you might not have the budget to replicate this specific crown, there are so many ways to get the look. Give off regal romance with these stunning crowns.
Feature image: Instagram / Zozibini Tunzi
You’ve seen it, you’ve loved it, but you keep thinking: ‘Can I wear it?’ The answer is yes! Wedding gowns that come with a backlace is the epitome of elegance. The fun part is, if your dress does not come with one, but you have an open back, you can opt for a necklace with a back. That means it will be short at the front and have a backdrop hanging down your back. Here are some inspiration from different kinds of backlaces, suited for different styles.
Dainty
Pearly
Glitzy
Layered
Rustic
Pendant
Picture: Etsy.com
Applique – various fabrics sewn onto netting or other transparent fabric – creates a lovely, romantic appearance for your bridal look. It allows you to show some skin and yet still look classy and tasteful. It suits brides with a feminine style and a love for detail. Applique designs can feature anywhere, like the back, sleeves, neckline or veil. Here are some of our favourites.
Picture: Unsplash
Weddings in 2020 will definitely be featuring something blue. Pantone has just announced their 2020 colour of year, and it’s a brilliant blue loaded with beautiful meaning.
For 2020, Pantone has selected PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue as their Colour of the year.
“A timeless and enduring blue hue, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue is elegant in its simplicity,” explains the company. “Suggestive of the sky at dusk, the reassuring qualities of the thought-provoking PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue highlight our desire for a dependable and stable foundation on which to build as we cross the threshold into a new era.”
“Imprinted in our psyches as a restful colour, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue brings a sense of peace and tranquility to the human spirit, offering refuge. Aiding concentration and bringing laser like clarity, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue re-centres our thoughts. A reflective blue tone, Classic Blue fosters resilience.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5q6iiog1Bv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
With such beautiful symbolism, this hue works perfectly for weddings. Here’s how to bring on the blue on your big day.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4BawbYBAaR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5tOWzlJev-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5t3-PGqpPn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5u4OKgBWne/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B50Wq7LjDTM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5wB1XzFshA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Image: Unsplash