• Category

    Fashion

    Category

    Trends are ever-changing in the wedding world. If you’re looking for inspiration or maybe want to avoid what’s being overdone, then have a look at what’s trending in the wedding world of fashion and beauty. Whatever the reason, these trends are great ideas or additions to your wedding repertoire.

    Fashion

    Wearable flowers

    Greenery shouldn’t have to be reserved for your decor alone. Sure we all know about flower crowns, but what about incorporating some florals in your wedding outfit as well?

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Floral bandeaus make us this happy too. We’re serious when we say bridal portraits with them need to be a thing!! • • Photo: @melissamarshallx // Style and Design: @maeandco_creative // Muah: @styledbymal_bridal // Model: @officiallyquigley // Pants: @chosenbyoneday // Earrings: @in.the.company.of • • • • • • • • • • #gypsybride #elopementcollective #bohobride #weddingphotomag #junebugweddings #oregonbride #austinbride #austinflorist #portlandflorist #pdxbride #portlandbride #texasbride #indiewedding #pnwedding #florist #weddingflorist #adventurebrides #radlovestories #justalittleloveinspo #goodseedfloral #floralinspo #flowerstagram #floralclothes #wearableflowers

    A post shared by Wedding Florist (@goodseedfloral) on

    Statement headpieces

    The 2018 Met Gala’s theme was Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination, so it’s no surprise that statement headpieces are still in!

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    This headpiece + embroidered dress combo is SLAYING: on the blog today! ✨⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠・・・⁠ Photography: @emswanphotos⁠ Bride/Planner: @chels_mcewen⁠ Venue: @409southmain⁠ Flowers: @lynndoyleflowers⁠ Dress: @nataliewynndesign⁠ Bridesmaids Dresses: @modcloth⁠ Alterations: #greenneedlealterations ⁠ Hair: @cwacked⁠ Crown: @batcakes_couture⁠ Tux: @itailor⁠ Cake: @frostbakeshop⁠ Day-of Coordination: #aaronjones ⁠ Linens: @whitedoorevent⁠ Live Music: @weezypage ⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠・・・⁠ #embroidereddress #celestialwedding #weddingheadpiece #nontraditionalwedding #alternativewedding #offbeatwedding #weddinginspo #weddings #weddingplanning #wedding #authenticwedding #weddingfashion #edgywedding⁠

    A post shared by Offbeat Bride (@offbeatbride) on

    – Sleeves

    The style may not be for everyone but wedding dresses featuring statement sleeves are trending. Strapless wedding gowns just seem so boring now.

    Royal wedding inspo

    Who doesn’t want to be a princess? With the recent royal weddings, it’s understandable that the regal influence has made its way to the wedding world.

    Wedding jumpsuits

    Who said brides have to wear a dress? Jumpsuits are so hot right now. They can be dressed up or down as much as you’d like.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    New blog post about the Open House last week. Link in bio. The Love Warrior is bohemian romance with hidden deep satin pockets, a sexy sheer bodice, wide 70s waistband and bell bottoms, bandana inspired lace, and a button back. Accesorized with my custom Flower Headband. @algawlik @lustrebella @thevineyardsatchappellodge @longg_livethequeen @thephotobusatx #indiebride #bohobride #bridalfashion #bridaljumpsuit #weddingjumpsuit #desireemariedesign #desireemariebride #southwestbride #southwesternstyle #austinbridaldesigner #austinbride #bespokedesigner #custommade #vintageinspired #sheer #vwbus #bellbottoms #lacejumpsuit #madeinatx #madeintexas #couturebridal #bridalcouture #couturefashion

    A post shared by Desireé Marie Design (@desireemariedesign) on

    Beauty

    Natural make-up

    At the end of the day, it’s your big day and it’s your choice to go bold or not. With that said, many brides are opting for a more natural make-up look. It’s not as heavy and emphasises your natural beauty.


    Red lips

    The passionate colour is in. It makes for a bold statement and really stands out well if you opt for wearing white on your wedding day.


    Sun-kissed

    Keeping with the more natural make-up look, instead of going with a ‘Kardashian contour’ brides are choosing a more ‘bronzed goddess’ feel. The sun-kissed look is achieved by bronzing the high points and making use of subtle shimmer.

    Sleek hair styles

    What’s great about this style is that it works for any length of hair. The sleek look will also allow your gorgeous face to stand out and be on display!

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    I often get asked what do I do on the weekends I don’t have weddings. I’m not sure if I ever told you but I help other photographers capture beautiful wedding days as a second photographer! It’s a lot of fun! ? This weekend I will be helping @erin_brennan_photography and I am so excited! . . HOST: @styledshootsacrossamerica PLANNING & DESIGN: @heatherbengeevents VENUE: @2400ontheriver GOWNS: @enaurabridal FLORALS: @intrigue_designs, @cecedesignsllc, @thorneandthistle HAIR: @bilgahmoka MAKEUP: @makeupbysarah.lord MODELS: @clickatl #georgiaweddings #filmphotography #ishootfilm #virginiaphotographer #dcweddingphotographer #weddingphotography #weddings #filmweddings #bridalportraits #bridaldetails #bridalhairstyle #sleekbride #sleekbridalupdo #bridalmakeup #virginiaweddingphotographer

    A post shared by Hana Gonzalez (@weddingsbyhana) on

    Windswept style

    If having your face on full display doesn’t appeal to you, then going with a windswept look is a great option! Some brides prefer a neat and more put-together look, but if you’re looking for that ‘they must’ve used a fan to get this shot’ kinda vibe, then opt for a windswept style.

    Image: Unsplash

    Brides visualise the big day and walking down the aisle. One of the main elements for a bride on their wedding day is, ofcourse, the gown. Whether you’ve grown up gathering tips from celebs or looking for ideas now, here are some iconic brides and what they wore on their wedding day.

    Céline Dion

    The Canadian singer married Rene Angelil in December, 1994. She wore a beautiful Mirella and Steve Gentile ball gown. The dress featured a 20 foot train and took over 1000 hours to make.

    Priyanka Chopra

    The Indian actress wed Nick Jonas in December, 2018. Her traditional white gown was a custom Ralph Lauren. It featured a 75 foot long tulle veil and took over 1800 hours to make.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    And forever starts now… ❤️ @nickjonas

    A post shared by Priyanka Chopra Jonas (@priyankachopra) on

    Chiara Ferragni

    The Italian blogger married singer Fedez in September, 2018. Chiara wore two stunning haute couture Dior dresses. Her outfits consisted of 400 metres of material and took a total of 1600 hours to make.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Better than my dreams ✨ Love our custom made wedding bands designed by @pomellato ? #SuppliedByPomellato

    A post shared by Chiara Ferragni (@chiaraferragni) on

    Meghan Markle

    The royal wedding took place in May, 2018. The Duchess of Sussex wore a silk Givenchy gown, complete with a 16 foot long veil and one of Queen Mary’s diamond tiaras.

    Amal Clooney

    The Lebanese-British barrister married George Clooney in September, 2014. Amal wore a powerhouse Stella McCartney suit.

    Solange Knowles

    Keeping with the pantsuits, Solange married director Alan Ferguson in November, 2014. They arrived at their ceremony by bicycle with Solange rocking a Stéphane Rolland jumpsuit.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Oldie but Goodie It was in the twentieth century that women began to wear trousers as leisurewear, and eventually trousers became symbolic of female emancipation and empowerment. Bridal trousers and jumpsuits are therefore the perfect way to infuse the traditions of a wedding with more contemporary values surrounding gender equality – all while exuding an incomparable level of sophistication. You can opt for trousers that have a layer of organza or lace overlaying them to pay homage to the styles of more conventional wedding dresses. Jumpsuits are all about the beauty of the silhouette. No matter which design you choose, bridal trousers and jumpsuits always come with the added benefit of being comfortable so that you can fully enjoy every aspect of your big day.

    A post shared by Creative Planners (@perfectlyplanned4you) on

    Kate Middleton

    She wed Princess William in April, 2011. A vision in white, Kate wore an Alexander McQueen ivory and white satin dress. The gown featured a couture lace bodice and long sleeves.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Prince William married Catherine Middleton on April 29th 2011 at Westminster Abbey. On their wedding day, the Queen granted them the titles the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Earl and Countess of Strathearn and Baron and Baroness Carrickfergus. The best man was Prince William’s brother Prince Harry, and the maid of honour was Catherine’s sister Pippa. The four bridesmaids were – Lady Louise Windsor, Margarita Armstrong-Jones, Grace van Custem and Eliza Lopes. The two page boys were – William Lowther-Pinkerton and Tom Pettifer. Catherine’s dress was designed by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen. After the ceremony, the couple made the traditional appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. Prince Charles hosted a private dinner, followed by dancing, for close friends and family of the couple at Buckingham Palace.

    A post shared by Duchess Of Cambridge (@catherine.cambridge_) on

    Charlene Wittstock

    The Zimbabwean-South African former Olympic swimmer married Albert II, Prince of Monaco in July, 2011. Charlene wore a custom Giorgio Armani dress. The gown took 2500 hours to make and consisted of 40 000 Swarovski crystals.

    Elizabeth Taylor

    She married eight times and made a beautiful bride every time. Here a few of her gorgeous bridal looks.

    Grace Kelly

    The American actress wed Rainier III, Prince of Monaco in 1956. Her gown was made by MGM costume designer Helen Rose. This iconic dress took six weeks to make and featured 90 metres of silk net and hundreds of seed pearls. Her dress has inspired many bridal dresses over the years including Nicky Hilton and Miranda Kerr.

    Image: Instagram/Kensington Palace

    Long-sleeved wedding dresses are no longer considered conservative but are a fashionable addition to any wedding dress. Brides are able to incorporate different fabrics and styles within the sleeves and will also be kept somewhat warm if they are having a winter wedding.

    Here are some of the latest long-sleeved wedding dresses that are available locally:

    Timeless Bridal Couture

    A detailed lace bodice that extends to the sleeves.

    Elbeth Gillis

    A simple and elegant long sleeve dress with button detail.

    Cindy Bam

    A long-sleeved lace bodice paired with a simple skirt for a simple and classic look.

    Chanelle Cindy Bridal

    An embellished long-sleeved bodice for that wow-factor.

    Veil Bridal Couture

    A body-hugging simple full length sleeved dress with lace detail.

    Bo and Luca

    Hand-embroidered and featuring balloon sleeves.

    Vonvé Bridal Couture

    An off-the-shoulder long sleeve with an intricate lace design.

    Olivelli

    A simple dress with lace sleeves for a classic and feminine look.

    Feature Image: Visual Poetry Photography

    All eyes don’t have to be on the bride only – the groom can turn a few heads too! But how do you bring that same ‘wow’ factor with something as simple as a suit and tie? Here’s how to ensure that you and your mates are looking dapper on the big day.

    Classic

    A classic black suit and tie paired with a crisp white shirt is a definite crowd-pleaser.

    Grey

    Grey is a great option as it’s available in many variations. Try and pick a shade of grey that will suit your venue and colour scheme. For example, if it’s a beach or rustic wedding you’d usually opt for a light shade of grey.

    Blue

    It’s a great colour that suits all skin tones. It’s simple enough to be timeless, but a bit more daring than the classic black and white.

    View this post on Instagram

     

    What a dashing group of gentlemen ? #groomsmen #herecomesthegroom #groomsmenstyle #dashing

    A post shared by Magdachapel Photography (@magdachapel4488) on

    Tailor it!

    No matter which colour or option you choose, tailoring will be your best friend. A tailored suit is already a statement, no matter the colour scheme. It looks put together, well-fitted and smart.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    2 years today. Peter and his groomsmen dressed head to toe in #AdrianJules ? #HappyAnniversary❤️

    A post shared by Adrian Jules Custom Clothier (@ajcustomsuits) on

    Casual

    Again, this depends on your venue and the vibe of your big day, but deciding on a causal outfit has never looked this good. An added bonus is the reusable factor – you can dress it up or down as much as you’d like, for any occasion.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    We’re totally here for this jean jacket groomsmen style! And we have plenty of men’s fashion inspo where this came from! Stop on by the blog today for 17 easy-to-recreate groomsmen outfit ideas for every wedding style from ultra-classy ? to cool and casual ? Link in bio ? // ? @indiaearl ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #groom #groomsmen #mensfashion #jeanjackets #weddingfashion #weddinginspo #weddingideas #weddingplanning #weddingtips #junebugweddings #groomsmenstyle #groomstyle #floraltie #casualwedding #bohowedding

    A post shared by Junebug Weddings (@junebugweddings) on

    Statement ties

    Opt for a plain suit and a bold tie for that unexpected bit of detail.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    The groomsmen looking good at @hotelsancristobal featured today on @greenweddingshoes suit by @paulsmithdesign swipe ??

    A post shared by Wedding Photographer (@byamylynn) on

    A bit of matching

    Who doesn’t love a good match? While uniformity is great among you and your groomsmen, you (and your partner) are the star of the show. You don’t have to all wear the same outfit in order to have a bit of matching.

    Image: Unsplash

    After binging the wedding movie watch list there are a few wedding dresses we just simply can’t forget. Even though none of the marriages are real, we can’t help but fall in love with these nuptial gowns. The list is endless, but have a look at a few of our favourites:

    Funny Face (1957)

    Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire star in this musical romantic comedy. Audrey wore a Givenchy dropped-waist gown. It consisted of a tight bodice and full skirt.

    The Sound of Music (1965)

    This classic film followed a postulant that eventually becomes a governess for a family of seven children and a widowed naval captain. Julie Andrews wore a beautiful A-line dress consisting of a V-neck and button-up bodice.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Wedding ?

    A post shared by The Sound of Music (@thesoundofmusicfans) on

    Ever After (1998)

    This movie was inspired by the Cinderella fairytale. Drew Barrymore wears a Renaissance inspired wedding dress. It featured a pair of wings, beaded bodice, detailed sleeves and is often referred to as the ‘breathe gown’.


    Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002)

    Natalie Portman starred as Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars prequels. When she wed Anakin Skywalker she wore a dress made by film costumer designer Trisha Biggar. The gown was very intricate and featured a lot of beads, pearls and lace detail.


    Sex and the City (2008)

    Set after the series that took place from 1998-2004, the movie sees Sarah Jessica Parker finally marrying Mr Big. Unfortunately, the wedding didn’t happen, but Carrie still looked as fashionable as always in her Vivienne Westwood dress.

    The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 (2011)

    After three movies and the constant frustration of the famous Twilight love triangle, Bella finally chose Edward. Kristen Stewart looked beautiful in her simple and elegant Carolina Herrera gown. The back of the dress consisted of intricate lace and an open back cut.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    #thetwilightsagabreakingdaw #twilightwedding#bellasweddingdress #foreveralways

    A post shared by R26 (@robertpattinson26) on

    Image: Pexels

    Picture the moment your mom pulled out her wedding dress for the first time in years and your little-girl-heart fluttered with awe and excitement. That was your first chance to be a real princess. Could your mom’s dress transform to its former glamour-giving glory? Most certainly.

    Repurposing your mom’s wedding gown has become a sentimental trend that we can’t get enough of. It’s an opportunity not only to breathe life into ”something old” but to carry a piece of your mom and your childhood with you down the aisle. Not everyone is on board the vintage train and your first play-dress might be a far cry from what you envision wearing on your Big Day. Fortunately there are a plethora of ways that your mom’s dress could make the cut.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Thanks to the amazing @katierobertsphotos for capturing the journey of the dress ???? #momsweddingdress #beforeandafter

    A post shared by Shelby Dickerson Gray (@shelbydgray) on

    Don’t make the mistake of assuming there to be only one way of reusing your mom’s gown (merely wearing it). The scope of alterations varies greatly: use the fabric to make your wedding shoes, cover your wedding album or wrap your bouquets. You can also incorporate your favorite parts of the original dress in more subtle ways such as adding snippets of lace onto your bodice, create delicate sleeves or adding trimmings to your veil.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Jackie Fogartie (@jackiefogartieevents) on

    Other than altering the original dress and wearing it as is, something else to consider is combining old and new fabrics. Don’t be afraid to create layers – if the colour and style of your mom’s dress is too far of a stylistic stretch, disguise the gap under a layer or two (keeping mom even closer to your heart). If you are completely sold on your own design, making yourself a going away dress is also an idea to keep in mind.

    Nostalgic and personal motivations aside remodeling a dress that’s been ready and waiting for you all your life is a budget-savvy move. Wedding dresses tend to come with hefty price tags, so getting creative with an old canvas is both a fun and touching way to ease pressure on the bank.

    Whether you decide to embrace the retro trend wholeheartedly or transform the best parts of your moms dress into something entirely new, kicking off a possible family heirloom is an added bonus to what is already the most important dress you’ll ever wear.

    Picture: Pixabay

    After the joy of getting engaged comes the wedding planning. It’s time to start figuring out your budget. Weddings can be quite costly and dresses are not cheap. Especially when you’ve had your eye on something elaborate. As lovely as it may be to have something custom made or ‘fresh out the box’ have you considered buying or renting a second-hand wedding dress?

    Google is everyones best friend but if you’re looking for places to find a second hand wedding gown, have a look at some of these options.

    1. Dejavu Dresses

    This online service offers pre-loved wedding dresses. You are able to select your province and city. There are various styles and prices.

    2. The Wedding Boutique

    Not just your average wedding shop. This store offers the option to buy or hire a wedding dress.

    3. House of silk bridal studio

    Offering a massive collection of gowns to hire. This store ensures that previously owned wedding dresses are still in great condition.

    4. Innovine

    Have a look at all their previously loved wedding dresses. Offering various styles and sizes.

    5. Vintage Lace

    This online wedding dress directory helps brides to be find their perfect gown. Have a look at all the second-hand dresses.

    6. Sell My Wedding Dress

    Purchase your dream dress for a fraction of the price. Find second-hand wedding dresses on this online wedding directory.

    Image: Pexels

    Your wedding is over and you’re about to come back from your honeymoon. There’s one question that may cross your mind, “what do I do with my wedding dress?”

    It’s important to keep in mind that you probably spent a lot of time, effort and money on your wedding gown. Some people like to keep their dress as a reminder of the happy day, for sentimental value or to pass down to their daughter.

    If that doesn’t appeal to you and you have no interest in selling it, how about giving ‘trash the dress’ a go.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    This was probably one of the most peaceful minutes of my life. ..till a huge wave hit me! ? . . Ever think of doing a “Trash the Dress session”? You could do it years later, right away or perhaps you just want to make room in the closet and want some good photos out of it! Maybe your marriage didn’t end up happily ever after and you literally want to trash your dress…make light of it and let us get creative behind the camera! . . This was me the day after our Wedding Day! I did it for fun as we were in such a beautiful spot down in Bahamas! Surprisingly, I didn’t end up ruining my dress at the end of it! . . It was fun and spontaneous and have wicked pictures to show for it! . . Interested in the idea? Messsge me or comment below! . . #trashyourdress #trashthedress #trashtheweddingdress #weddingdress #creative #creativephotography #photography #fun #spontaneous #bahamas #greatexumabahamas #sandalsbahamas #weddingday #offcenterphotography #weddingphotography #weddingphotographers #cambridgephotographer #cambridgeweddingphotography #love #oceanpictures #peaceful #husbandandwifeteam #beautiful #bride #bahamasbride #trashdress #weddingdress

    A post shared by Off Center Photography (@offcenterphotography) on

    Trash the dress is a photography activity in which the bride wears her wedding dress and ‘trashes’ it. It usually comes as a juxtaposition of the beautiful, elegant and dainty wedding gown with the backdrop of a garbage dump, forest or messing up the dress.

    The location can be anything from a beach to an eerie abandoned building.

    If you’re not jumping in the ocean, a popular option is colour bombs or powder. Throwing it on the dress or having the colour bombs set off around you makes for a great picture.

    Trash the dress can be a lot of fun and that really shines through the pictures. It’s also important to remember that you don’t have to go overboard. If you don’t want to completely destroy the dress there are options for less permanent trash the dress shoots. You don’t have to physically trash the dress in order for it to pass as the odd-seeming photo shoot. An out of place setting is enough to pass.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Our behind the scenes footage of the Trash The Wedding Dress has been viewed over 600 times since being uploaded in the October of last year. If you haven’t watched it yet, head over to our YouTube Channel, JackRabbits Paintball and Airsoft. It was such a great experience. We have some ideas and themes currently floating around in our brain boxes of what we would like to do next, so if you fancy getting involved, get in touch. Don’t forget to like our pages ?? Instagram: @jackrabbitspa Facebook: www.facebook.com/jackrabbitspa/ People to follow ?? @keithfusco @fuscomedia @rara140280 @victoriageldard32 @autumnwiccan @misssparklegem @creaturesofxix @mummababydoll @cjlock_ @francescaharding @mr__kn1ght @andrews.tales @z8_photography @miss_cnancy @mrs666suicide @lola_lucious @taskforcem4 @grs_uk #jackrabbitspa #paintball #airsoft #pyrotechnics #photography #photoideas #photoop #photoopportunity #weddingdress #weddingphotography #trashtheweddingdress #filming #filmmaking #modelling #modellife #creativity #youtube #youtubechannel

    A post shared by JackRabbits PA (@jackrabbitspa) on

    The trendy photo shoots has been credited to wedding photographer John Michael Cooper from Las Vegas. It has been said that he became bored with the traditional wedding shoots and decided to mix it up.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    #throwbackthursday When I was flying on the @todayshow This memory popped in my feed and made me so happy. @johnmichaelcooper the INCREDIBLE photographer and artist of @altfphotography called me up and was like hey.. you can jump in the air and get your #melissasweet future wedding dress dirty right? Haha I was like umm YES So we drove to the dry lake bed and shot these pictures of me jumping in the air after my hubby drove by to kick the dust up. So many people thought this was photoshopped…ummm no…my ankle and John could attest to that haha We later appeared on an episode of The Today Show such an incredible experience! I wonder if I can find the episode. Thank you John for making this experience a possibility! You are an incredible artist! #altf #johnmichaelcooper #thetodayshow #trashthedressepisode #shanaemily #iam1stphorm #Jump #SayYes #vegas #nextlevelshit #neversettle #photography

    A post shared by Ⓢhana Ⓔmily (@shanaemily_) on

    Picture: Pixabay

    Lace is a beautiful and delicate fabric and it also brings a sense of romance to a wedding dress, so it’s easy to see why it is incorporated into many wedding gowns.

    Here are some of the latest gorgeous dresses with lace detail from the top wedding dress designers.

    Vera Wang

    An enchanting gown that incorporates lace from head to toe.

    Reem Acra

    A plunging neckline paired with lace makes for a subtly-sexy bride.

    Rosa Clara

    A stunning take on the mermaid style dress with beaded lace.

    Zuhair Murad

    A show-stopping gown covered in lace with a tulle sleeve detail.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Combining contemporary and classic into the most romantic of forms – #ZuhairMuradRTW Bridal Fall 2019 #ZMbride #ZMrealm

    A post shared by Zuhair Murad Official (@zuhairmuradofficial) on

    Marchesa

    A delicate lace for a breathtaking look.

    Naeem Khan

    An elegant dress with laced sleeves.

    Elbeth Gillis

    A simple and classic gown with a laced sleeve detail.

    Janita Toerien

    Beautiful laced bodice paired with a soft skirt for a sultry, yet sophisticated, look.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Our NINA dress, a soft fitted bodice with a crochet like lace, exposed boning casings and a flowing chiffon skirt. Part of our COUTURE 2019 Collection and available to purchase. Email for booking information and custom made options. ————————————————— Photo @debbielourens_photographer | MUH @marnelmakeup | Model @chanelirene_ ————————————————— #janitatoerien #janitatoerien2019 #weddingdress #weddingdressideas #weddingdressinspo #weddingdressinspiration #bride #bridalinspo #bridalinspiration #southafricandesigner #capetowndesigner #stellenboschdesigner #bohoweddingdress #modernweddingdress #laceweddingdress #flowyweddingdress

    A post shared by Janita Toerien (@janitatoerien) on

    Feature image: Unsplash

    First things first, don’t ever wear white to a Christian wedding. Besides this rule, all other colours and styles are fair game. Here are some guidelines from black tie to garden party weddings.

    Black Tie

    This is the most formal dress code you’ll be asked to comply with, and will most likely take place in the evening. Women have the option of wearing either floor-length gowns with high heels, or shorter cocktail dresses with heels as well. It’s best to keep it as formal as possible, so choose dressier fabrics and prints rather than something more casual side – like daytime florals.

    Men absolutely have to wear a tuxedo – which means a classic black bow tie, a black vest, a black or white shirt and well-fitted suit pants and jacket. The option of a white jacket is also suitable, but shoes should always be neat and black.

    Formal

    This means one step down from black tie, but still fully within the parameters of being formal. Women could still wear either floor-length gowns or shorter cocktail dresses, but your choice of fabric will be a little less limiting. High heels are preferable.

    Men still have the option of wearing a classic tuxedo, but could also go for a tie, rather than a bow tie, and lose the vest altogether. You could go with a dark coloured suit like grey or navy, instead of black, which means you have more options in terms of shoe colour as well.

    Semi-Formal

    What you choose to wear will depend greatly on the time of day the wedding is taking place. Darker colours are better for night, and lighter colours for day, but the rules are slightly more bendable for this one, so use your discretion.

    Women have more freedom and can wear long dresses, cocktail dresses or dressy skirts/pants with a top. Men should still wear a proper suit, but quirky ties and bow ties are suitable, along with slightly more casual shoe and sock options.

    Smart-Casual

    This is where it gets confusing for some. Smart-casual is almost like semi-formal, but just a little more towards the casual side. Think along the lines of going out for a nice dinner, a first date or a launch party. Women can wear anything, as long as it’s still classy and smart, and high heels are optional.

    Men don’t have to wear a tie, or a fancy suit for that matter. Keep in mind that it’s a formal event, and ‘smart’ is still the key word, so avoid shorts, t-shirts and anything with big branded prints. Instead, opt for chinos or suit pants, paired with a more casual buttoned shirt, and comfortable shoes. If done right, even a nice pair of (clean) sneakers work well with an otherwise more formal suit.

    Garden Party

    Instantly, you’ll be able to tell two things for sure – it will be outside on grass and will take place during the day, or late afternoon. This means your shoes will be a major part of the rest of your outfit. Women should opt for wedges or flats and avoid stilettos completely, unless you want to sink into the ground with every step. Men could go for more casual shoes, like brown leather or suede loafers, or dressy sneakers.

    In terms of clothing, opt for linen, breathable cotton and lightly-coloured fabrics as it will most likely be hot outside – think light summer dresses for women, and linen pants paired with buttoned-down shirts for men.

    Beach Soiree

    Almost like a garden party, but without the shoes. Or, just make sure your shoes are suitable for walking on sand. Other than that, shorts are appropriate for men, but as always, keep in mind it’s still a wedding. It’s best to stay away from t-shirts and denim in general, so rather opt for linen or cotton. And although it says ‘beach’, it goes without saying that swimwear is a no-go.

    Image: Unsplash